What are the benefits of Pilates?
Pilates helps you move better, feel stronger, and become more aware of how your body moves.
It can help you:
Build strength — especially through your core, hips, back, and the smaller supporting muscles.
Improve posture — by teaching you how to find better alignment and control.
Move with less pain and stiffness — Pilates focuses on controlled, intentional movement rather than simply pushing through discomfort.
Improve balance and coordination — you learn to control your body instead of just moving it.
Increase flexibility and mobility — strength and mobility work together to help you move more freely.
Improve body awareness — you start noticing how you stand, sit, walk, and move throughout your day.
Support everyday movement — getting stronger isn't just about exercise; it's about making everyday life feel easier.
Challenge your body at any age or fitness level — Pilates can be modified to meet you where you are and progress as you get stronger.
Is Pukka right for me?
If you're looking for a Pilates studio where you'll learn how to move, we might be a really good fit!
At Pukka, we take Pilates seriously, but we don't take ourselves too seriously. We're a small studio, our instructors are highly educated, and we're passionate about teaching the method rather than simply leading you through a workout.
We work with all kinds of people. Different ages, body types, fitness levels, and goals. Some people come to us because they're looking for a new way to exercise. Some want to get stronger. Some want to improve mobility, posture, balance, or body awareness. Others come because something hurts and they're looking for a different way to move. And some simply want to feel better in their bodies.
Our classes are small on purpose. We want to know who is in the room, what they're working toward, and how they're moving. You'll get instruction, feedback, and modifications rather than being left to figure it all out yourself.
We're also a classical Pilates studio, which means we respect the original method and the principles behind it while still meeting you where you are today. Pilates is all we do, and we love helping people understand why they're doing what they're doing.
And if you're brand new to Pilates, don't worry. You don't need to be flexible, strong, coordinated, or "in shape" before you start. That's what we're here for.
If you're looking for a place where you'll be seen, taught, challenged, and encouraged, and where Pilates is more than just another workout, we'd love to meet you!
Not sure where to start? Ask us. We'll help you find the right place to begin.
Is Pilates good for beginners?
Yes! In fact, starting as a beginner is one of the best ways to learn Pilates.
You don't need to be flexible, strong, athletic, or have any previous Pilates experience. You also don't need to know what a Reformer is or have any idea what you're doing when you walk through the door. That's our job.
At Pukka, we believe in learning the method rather than just jumping into a workout. We teach you the fundamentals first; how to breathe, how to find your alignment, how to connect to your center, and how to control your movement. Once you understand those things, you can build from there.
That's why we start new clients with an Explore Session, a one-on-one introductory session. It gives us a chance to learn about you, understand your goals, introduce you to the equipment, and teach you some of the foundations you'll need for classes.
And don't worry if you feel a little awkward at first. Everyone is a beginner at some point.
Our goal isn't to see how much you can do on your first day. It's to help you learn how to move well, build confidence, and get stronger over time.
So, if you've been thinking about trying Pilates but keep telling yourself you need to get in better shape first, just come as you are. That's exactly where you should start.
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a method of movement that teaches you how to move your body with more strength, control, and awareness.
Created by Joseph Pilates, the method combines intentional movement, breathing, alignment, and resistance to build a strong foundation from the inside out. Pilates works your whole body, not just your core, and helps you understand how everything works together.
At Pukka, we believe Pilates is for everybody. Different ages, body types, fitness levels, and abilities can all benefit from learning how to move better.
Whether your goal is to get stronger, improve mobility, decrease aches and pains, improve posture, or simply feel better in your everyday life, Pilates gives you the tools to do just that.
It's not about moving faster or doing the most. It's about learning to move well.
What should I wear to Pilates?
For Pilates, wear comfortable, form-fitting clothes that allow you to move freely and help your instructor see your alignment and posture. Leggings or fitted shorts with a breathable tank top or T-shirt work well. Avoid clothes that are too loose, as they can get in the way during exercises. At Pukka, we recommend going barefoot, but grip socks to are also accepted. Now shoes, though. Keep accessories minimal, and tie back long hair.
What can I expect during my Explore (intro) Session?
During your Explore session, your instructor will start by discussing your goals, any injuries or concerns, and explaining the basic principles of Pilates, such as breath, alignment, and core engagement. You’ll be guided through foundational exercises, either on a mat or using equipment like the Reformer, to help you build awareness of your body and learn proper technique. The pace will be gentle and tailored to your level, with plenty of instruction and hands-on support. It’s a great opportunity to get a feel for the method and ask questions.
Should I try Pilates if I’m strength training?
Absolutely. Pilates and strength training go together like peanut butter and jelly.
Strength training is great for building muscle, power, and strength. Pilates helps you develop the control, mobility, alignment, and body awareness to use that strength well.
The two really complement each other. Pilates challenges your core in ways that support your bigger lifts, and helps you become more aware of how you're moving. Strength training gives you the opportunity to build on that foundation.
In fact, this is exactly how Jen found Pilates. She was already passionate about fitness and strength training, but she discovered that something was missing. Pilates helped her move differently, understand her body better, and ultimately fall in love with the method.
So if you're already lifting, don't think of Pilates as replacing your strength training. Think of it as adding another tool to your toolbox.
Not sure how the two could work together? Just ask Jen. She'd be happy to help you figure out what makes sense for your body and your goals.
Do I need to be flexible to start Pilates?
Not at all. You don’t need to be in shape or flexible to start Pilates. Pilates is designed to meet you where you are, whether you’re a beginner, returning to exercise, or managing limitations. Pilates builds strength, flexibility, and mobility gradually, using controlled, low-impact movements that can be adapted to all fitness levels. In fact, many people start Pilates specifically to become stronger and more flexible. With consistent practice, you’ll notice improvements in posture, body awareness, and overall movement quality.
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Disclaimer
By participating in any class, session, or activity at Pukka Pilates, you acknowledge that Pilates, like all forms of physical exercise, carries a risk of injury. While our instructors are comprehensively trained to provide safe, effective guidance and appropriate modifications, it is your responsibility to inform your instructor of any existing injuries, medical conditions, or physical limitations prior to participation. You agree to listen to your body, work within your capabilities, and consult with a healthcare professional if needed. Pukka Pilates and its instructors are not liable for any injuries sustained during or after your participation. All participation is voluntary and at your own risk.
Fine Print
All services and classes at Pukka Pilates must be prepaid to secure your reservation.
All sales are final.
All sessions/packages expire 6 months after purchase, unless arrangements to extend are made prior to expiration.
All services and classes at Pukka Pilates require a minimum of 24 hours cancellation notice. Failure to provide sufficient notice will result in the forfeiture of the prepaid class or service credit.
In the event you need to cancel outside the 24 hour window, your prepaid class or session will be credited to your account for future use. We are unable to offer refunds.