While Pilates was developed in early 20th-century Germany, it did not become an international exercise sensation until the 1990s. Most fitness centers now offer some kind of Pilates training, and private Pilates studios are scattered across the globe. Choosing the best is a difficult task, but those run by teachers with over 10 years of experience and that offer teaching, training and innovative programs have specific advantages.
Polestar Physical Therapy & Pilates
Physical therapist Brent Anderson, founder of Polestar education, began his Pilates practice in 1990. Anderson's doctoral thesis explored the benefits of Pilates for patients with back pain. Polestar now trains Pilates instructors in all parts of the globe. The 12,000 square foot Miami studio boasts a full line of Pilates equipment and offers classes, physical therapy and private sessions.
Polestar Physical Therapy & Pilates
1500 Monza Avenue
Miami, FL 33146-3089
305- 666-0037
The Movement Center of Boston
Former dancer Kathy Van Patten founded the Movement Center of Boston in 1998. Van Patten is an atypical Pilates instructor in that she is trained in almost every method of Pilates instruction, including Stott, Polestar, Physical Mind, Power Pilates and traditional Pilates. The studio also offers Gyrotonic training, which is an exercise method that uses circular movement patterns. Private and group sessions are offered.
The Movement Center of Boston™
38 Newbury Street, 5th floor
Boston, MA 02116
617-247-7270
movementtcenterofboston.com
Pilates on Fifth
Former Rockettes Katherine and Kimberly Corp opened the 5,500-square-foot Pilates on Fifth in August of 2000. The twin sisters are versed in all aspects of Pilates and offer instructor training workshops. In addition to mat and equipment classes, the studio offers innovative Pilates programming, such as Cardilates, and Pilates on the ball and bosu. The sisters also have a website with free Pilates video podcasts.
Pilates on Fifth
501 Fifth Avenue
Suite 2200
New York, NY 10017
212- 687-8885
PilatesonFifth.com
Stott Pilates
Former Toronto Ballet dancer Moira Stott founded Stott Pilates in the 1980s. After studying the traditional Pilates method, Stott consulted physical therapists and sports medicine experts and revised the technique so that it adhered to modern theories about postural alignment and movement sequences. Stott now plays a major in role in international teacher training. The company also manufactures Pilates equipment. Stott's Toronto studio has a full line of equipment, and offers group sessions, private lessons, Pilates equipment circuit classes and Pilates physical therapy.
Stott Pilates
2200 Yonge St., Suite 500
Toronto, ON M4S 2C6
stottpilates.com
