We believe that the mind and body are not only interconnected but also serve as a guide to total wellness and balance. Our approach to our Pilates Reformer sessions through private sessions and group classes inspires the best version of yourself. Each of our instructors will challenge you to grow and achieve your optimal balance of strength, flexibility and overall health. We teach from a place of encouragement, inspiration, and shared knowledge. It is our goal through our several types of sessions and classes to offer something for everyone – whether you’re a beginner or Pilates veteran, a first-time expectant mother, or healing from an injury. Art of Pilates is in the heart of Playa del Rey, just one short block from the beach. Our boutique studio is a relaxing home away from home with vibrant restaurants and stores nearby. We emphasize privacy and individual attention to meet the unique needs of all of our clients and tailor our Pilates programs accordingly.
Our full range of Pilates equipment includes five brand new Allegro 2 Reformers, 2 Tower apparatuses, a fully equipped Cadillac/Reformer Converter, Wunda Chairs, Jumpboards, a ladder barrel, arc barrels, a trampoline for circuit training, rotating discs, foam rollers, Bosu Balance Trainers, magic circles, Therabands, weighted balls, poles, weights, a built-in ballet barre, and an array of stability balls, which will assist in education and strengthening your body. No two classes are the same and incorporate different pieces of equipment each time so your body will be continuously challenged!
Our goal at Art of Pilates is to provide a safe and supportive environment that is conducive to helping increase your body awareness and overall health. Click here to learn a little more about the wonderful instructors who bring our studio to life.
What is the history of Pilates?
Pilates (“puh-LAH-teesâ€), was created by Joseph Pilates who was born in Germany in 1883. He suffered from asthma, rickets, and rheumatic fever as a child. Determined to fight these ailments, Pilates studied anatomy, gymnastics, wrestling and acrobatics. He moved to England where he boxed professionally and taught self-defense techniques to Scotland Yard.
During World War I, Pilates, like many German citizens, was forced into an internment camp. It was here that he began integrating (and teaching other internees) the exercises he had taught himself into a comprehensive fitness method. He called this “Contrology†– the focus on concentration and one’s ability to control the muscles of the body. This sense of control also provided psychological benefits and was vital to maintaining physical and mental health during his internment.
Pilates moved to New York City between the two World Wars where his unique approach to fitness was quickly recognized and adopted by dancers to help with strengthening and combating their own ailments. Pilates devotees included the famous dancers and dance company founders George Balanchine and Martha Graham. Today, people from all walks of life are discovering (and loving!) the benefits of Pilates.