Classical Pilates

Experience the Method as it was intended. In small groups of no more than six participants you will experience a new way of movement that is precise, controlled and flowing. Classical Pilates is all about the uniform development of your body from head to toe. Strengthening while increasing flexibility it has stood the test of time and continues to grow in popularity as more people try it, love it and then stay for its wide ranging benefits.

Class Categories	Here you will master
Prep Recommended for all.	Working deeper and with greater concentration Excellent for newcomers and as you progress and rediscover your body you'll no doubt revisit classes in this category to work even deeper
FUNdamentals Recommended for newcomers.	The equipment Pilates breathing Pelvic stability – lower body strength
Core Recommended for all.	The exercises Work from the core Spinal articulation Shoulder girdle stability – upper body strength
Cardio Recommended for when you are ready. Listen to your body.	The transitions Precision and control of every movement Build stamina to flow at a cardio pace
Beyond Cardio When you are ready to snatch the pebble.	Absolute control over every movement Non-stop flow for an hour with ultimate precision and complete mastery of your body

 

 

 

Inside Out

Joe named his Method "Contrology" because he believed fitness started at the cellular level – from the inside. This class demystifies the Method by breaking down various exercises which are aimed at heightening your body awareness and giving you a general understanding of why Pilates is so different than any other form of exercise. Recommended for everyone and most if not all of these exercises can be practiced at home.

MVe® Tower

The Tower is derived from the Trapeze Table or what is often referred to as a Cadillac. The Tower system at Joe & Clara is a convertible system that transforms from a Reformer to Tower and vice versa. The variety of springs, wooden bars and nylon straps provide excellent exterior support thereby enabling you to find your inner strength and core.

FUNDAMENTAL CLASSES

What is a footbar? How do I lower my headrest? Where do I put my Jump Board? I'm over 6 feet, can I even fit ON the reformer? The FUNdamental series is designed to orient you on the equipment, assist you in finding your unique machine settings and walk you through a variety of exercises. You will also be guided through key Pilates concepts such as breathing and pelvic stability (lower body positioning.) These classes are recommended for everyone.

Tower FUNdamentals

Unleash the power of the tower in this Classical workout. In this class you'll be targeting the lower body as you learn 25 exercises at a good but manageable pace. This class is a perfect complement to Reformer Powerhouse.

CORE CLASSES

What is my Core? Isn't it my abdominals? How do I work it? I already do crunches, do I need to do anything else? Pilates has been in the forefront lately as the health and fitness world have been buzzing about the importance of the "Core". Simply put the "Core" is a series of muscles wrapping around your midsection that provide you with support and strength. The nature of the exercises in Pilates as well as the way that it is taught maximizes the use of these muscles.

This series of classes will move through more exercises than the FUNdamental version at a moderate pace. You will continue your understanding of Pilates concepts beyond breathing and pelvic stability including spinal articulation and shoulder girdle stability (upper body strength) and increase your knowledge of the progression of the exercises. The classes are designed to help build specific skills so that you can learn how to not only WORK your core, but to work FROM your core.

The Core series of classes is recommended for those that are proficient with the equipment as laid out in the FUNdamental class series.

Tower Penthouse

If your core is the "powerhouse" then your upper body is the "penthouse". This Tower workout focuses on your upper body as you move through 24 Classical exercises. If you're comfortable with the equipment and have developed your lower body strength then your ready. A fantastic complement to Reformer Penthouse.

Tower Spine Flex

This Tower workout covers over 20 to 30 exercises that will move your spine in all directions – forward/side bending, twisting and inverting while also enhancing your overall flexibility. You want to be able to flow through the workout so knowing your equipment changes is key. It is a great skill-building compliment to Reformer Spine Flex.

CARDIO CLASSES

Pilates isn't cardio, is it? If I do Pilates, do I have to do cardio, too? For those just starting, Pilates isn't cardio. In the beginning, its more about mastering the concepts and developing the skills to tackle the repertoire. As your skills and understanding grow, you are able to do more exercises in a shorter amount of time. This is when it becomes cardio. Just as those entering into Martial Arts spend time mastering each punch and kick, or those in the dance world repeat each turn or jump for perfection, learning the Method of Pilates is a progression.

This series of classes is recommended for those who've not only mastered the machine settings and are familiar with the exercises but who have developed a strong enough core that they can hold a plank position for a prolonged period of time yet still be flexible enough to elevate their hips off the mat when lying down and move into a jackknife position.

Tower Carve & Chisel

Carve out an hour for the Tower. This challenging workout moves through an array of intermediate exercises aimed at both sculpting and strengthening the body. Recommended once you've mastered Tower Penthouse and Tower Spine Flex classes and the perfect complement to Reformer Cardio, Cardio Boost and High Gear.

Photography courtesy of Peak Pilates®.

MVe® Chair

Joseph Pilates created the Wunda Chair as a compact alternative to his full sized equipment. This versatile apparatus was originally comprised of a wooden box like structure with a hinged pedal attached by springs. The springs could be removed, the pedal lowered and the box inverted to create a functional seat which was considered ideal for home use. The MVe® chairs at Joe & Clara are an updated version of this classic apparatus. Key features are lighter weight material, larger proportions, easier to adjust springs and cushioned surfaces.

FUNDAMENTAL CLASSES

What is a footbar? How do I lower my headrest? Where do I put my Jump Board? I'm over 6 feet, can I even fit ON the reformer? The FUNdamental series is designed to orient you on the equipment, assist you in finding your unique machine settings and walk you through a variety of exercises. You will also be guided through key Pilates concepts such as breathing and pelvic stability (lower body positioning.) These classes are recommended for everyone.

Chair FUNdamentals

Pull up a seat and learn how to safely manipulate the MVe chair then gently move through an array of key exercises reinforcing foundational Pilates skills. Recommended for most and taking some Feet First classes will only make it better.

CARDIO CLASSES

Pilates isn't cardio, is it? If I do Pilates, do I have to do cardio, too? For those just starting, Pilates isn't cardio. In the beginning, its more about mastering the concepts and developing the skills to tackle the repertoire. As your skills and understanding grow, you are able to do more exercises in a shorter amount of time. This is when it becomes cardio. Just as those entering into Martial Arts spend time mastering each punch and kick, or those in the dance world repeat each turn or jump for perfection, learning the Method of Pilates is a progression.

This series of classes is recommended for those who've not only mastered the machine settings and are familiar with the exercises but who have developed a strong enough core that they can hold a plank position for a prolonged period of time yet still be flexible enough to elevate their hips off the mat when lying down and move into a jackknife position.

Chair Cardio

Put your chair into high gear in this challenging, heart pumping workout. In this class you will build on the number of exercises and variations in Chair Core and move at an accelerated pace. You'll want to be able to confidently balance on one leg, hold a push-up position and stand on top of the chair.

Chair Cardio High Gear

Dare the chair in this hour long class. This workout pulls out all the stops in a dynamic routine sure to challenge even the fittest Joe or Clara. Recommended once you have mastered the Chair Cardio Boost and can safely self-correct in any situation. This class is a perfect complement to any of the High Gear classes including Reformer Hardcore and Mach V. Caution: It is not for the weary.

BEYOND CARDIO CLASSES

Pilates is just stretching, right? Even if I do Pilates, I still need to lift weights in order to get stronger, right? The advanced Pilates exercises may resemble something of a circus act. They require not only core strength, but also flexibility and limb strength. These classes are for the advanced practitioner of the Method.

Need a new name for this…Elite?

Chair Beyond Cardio

Dare to chair in this hour long class. This workout pulls out all the stops in a dynamic routine sure to challenge even the fittest Joe or Clara. Recommended once you have mastered all Cardio classes and can safely self-correct in any situation. This class is a perfect compliment to any of the other Beyond Cardio classes. Caution: It is not for the weary.

Photography courtesy of Peak Pilates®.

MVe® Jump Board

The Jump Board is an enhancement to the Reformer and was originally used as a therapeutic device to rehabilitate dancers. Today, the jump board has become popular across the fitness industry as a challenging workout tool. It can elevate the heart rate and provide much needed controlled joint impact.

FUNDAMENTAL CLASSES

What is a footbar? How do I lower my headrest? Where do I put my Jump Board? I'm over 6 feet, can I even fit ON the reformer? The FUNdamental series is designed to orient you on the equipment, assist you in finding your unique machine settings and walk you through a variety of exercises. You will also be guided through key Pilates concepts such as breathing and pelvic stability (lower body positioning.) These classes are recommended for everyone.

Jump Board FUNdamentals

Get "on board" with the jump board in this fundamental class geared toward introducing you to the Reformer Jump Board. You'll learn how to safely install the jump board and the proper body positioning for this series. This class is a great compliment to Feet First as well as Reformer FUNdamentals.. It is recommended for everyone.

CARDIO CLASSES

Pilates isn't cardio, is it? If I do Pilates, do I have to do cardio, too? For those just starting, Pilates isn't cardio. In the beginning, its more about mastering the concepts and developing the skills to tackle the repertoire. As your skills and understanding grow, you are able to do more exercises in a shorter amount of time. This is when it becomes cardio. Just as those entering into Martial Arts spend time mastering each punch and kick, or those in the dance world repeat each turn or jump for perfection, learning the Method of Pilates is a progression.

This series of classes is recommended for those who've not only mastered the machine settings and are familiar with the exercises but who have developed a strong enough core that they can hold a plank position for a prolonged period of time yet still be flexible enough to elevate their hips off the mat when lying down and move into a jackknife position.

Jump Board Cardio

Jump to it with this heart pumping workout. In this session, you'll increase your "hang" time as you flow through 38 exercises. Once you've gotten the hang of all the FUNdamental and Core classes on all the apparatus and your landings on the board are consistent and controlled, jump into this class. Terrific for a weight loss program when paired with a healthy diet and any other Cardio classes.

Jump Board Cardio Boost

Jump to it with this heart pumping workout. In this session, you'll increase your "hang" time as you flow through 38 exercises. Once you've gotten the hang of Jump board Cardio and your landings on the board are consistent and controlled jump into this class. Terrific for a weight loss program when paired with a healthy diet and any other Cardio Boost classes.

Photography courtesy of Peak Pilates®.

Mat Work

The Mat body of work is responsible for bringing the Method to the mainstream. While it is possible to perform authentic Pilates exercises on the mat, the overall Method was designed to start with the equipment first to reinforce the skills required for a successful mat workout. It is our intention here at Joe & Clara to honor this progression. Therefore, we start with "Spring Assisted Mat" (SAM) in order to properly prepare you to fully embrace the power of the Mat Work as Joseph Pilates intended. All Mat Work is performed on the lightly padded surface of the Tower so you can leave your mat at home.

FUNDAMENTAL CLASSES

What is a footbar? How do I lower my headrest? Where do I put my Jump Board? I'm over 6 feet, can I even fit ON the reformer? The FUNdamental series is designed to orient you on the equipment, assist you in finding your unique machine settings and walk you through a variety of exercises. You will also be guided through key Pilates concepts such as breathing and pelvic stability (lower body positioning.) These classes are recommended for everyone.

Mat FUNdamentals - SAM

Let SAM put the FUN back in Mat. Spring Assisted Mat is a great way to ease into the Mat Work. After all, even Joe used the equipment to prepare the body for the rigorous demands of the mat. This routine is performed on the Tower and gently moves through 30 Mat exercises with varying degrees of support. No need to bring your mat. Recommended for everyone. An excellent complement to Reformer Powerhouse.

CORE CLASSES

What is my Core? Isn't it my abdominals? How do I work it? I already do crunches, do I need to do anything else? Pilates has been in the forefront lately as the health and fitness world have been buzzing about the importance of the "Core". Simply put the "Core" is a series of muscles wrapping around your midsection that provide you with support and strength. The nature of the exercises in Pilates as well as the way that it is taught maximizes the use of these muscles.

This series of classes will move through more exercises than the FUNdamental version at a moderate pace. You will continue your understanding of Pilates concepts beyond breathing and pelvic stability including spinal articulation and shoulder girdle stability (upper body strength) and increase your knowledge of the progression of the exercises. The classes are designed to help build specific skills so that you can learn how to not only WORK your core, but to work FROM your core.

The Core series of classes is recommended for those that are proficient with the equipment as laid out in the FUNdamental class series.

Mat Powerhouse

Challenge your core and much more in this inventive mat-based workout. You'll continue to build on the exercises in the FUNdamentals Mat, reduce the amount of spring assistance and accelerate the pace so you want to know your equipment changes. Perfect to pair up with both Reformer and Tower Powerhouse classes.

CARDIO CLASSES

Pilates isn't cardio, is it? If I do Pilates, do I have to do cardio, too? For those just starting, Pilates isn't cardio. In the beginning, its more about mastering the concepts and developing the skills to tackle the repertoire. As your skills and understanding grow, you are able to do more exercises in a shorter amount of time. This is when it becomes cardio. Just as those entering into Martial Arts spend time mastering each punch and kick, or those in the dance world repeat each turn or jump for perfection, learning the Method of Pilates is a progression.

This series of classes is recommended for those who've not only mastered the machine settings and are familiar with the exercises but who have developed a strong enough core that they can hold a plank position for a prolonged period of time yet still be flexible enough to elevate their hips off the mat when lying down and move into a jackknife position.

Mat Cardio

Now that you are familiar with SAM, meet Mat. The gloves come off, rather, the springs come off, and it's just you and your Mat (and maybe props as you need them.) This class flows through a solid Mat workout consisting of over 25 exercises. All your previous Mat experience will be called upon and Tower classes are a great way to help build the skills needed here. Reformer Cardio will help with stamina and endurance.

Mat Cardio Boost

Now that you are familiar with SAM, meet Mat. The gloves come off, rather, the springs come off, and it's just you and your Mat (and maybe props as you need them.) This class flows through a solid Mat workout consisting of over 25 exercises. All your previous Mat experience will be called upon and Tower classes are a great way to help build the skills needed here. Reformer Cardio will help with stamina and endurance.

BEYOND CARDIO CLASSES

Pilates is just stretching, right? Even if I do Pilates, I still need to lift weights in order to get stronger, right? The advanced Pilates exercises may resemble something of a circus act. They require not only core strength, but also flexibility and limb strength. These classes are for the advanced practitioner of the Method.

Need a new name for this…Elite?

Mat Cardio High Gear

Mat in the tradition of the Master, this intense Classical Mat workout of 45 exercises in just 55 minutes is recommended for those with extensive Classical Pilates Mat experience. The pace is fast and if you've got the stamina for Reformer Hardcore you should be able to kick this one out.

Photography courtesy of Peak Pilates®.

Pilates Inspired

What is Pilates Inspired? The Pilates "Inspired" curriculum is rooted in the principles of the Method but is performed on more lightweight, portable apparatus that mimic the support and resistance of the traditional equipment. This allows the expansion of the class size from six to ten so that the Method is more accessible; however, careful attention has been paid to the repertoire so that the experience is still robust and you can learn how to adopt the best of Pilates into any cross-training routine.

Pilates Arc®

Leave it to Joe to transform an ordinary beer barrel into a piece of exercise apparatus. Must have been his German influence but he recognized that the barrel's curvature and giving nature was the perfect support for the spine. He eventually refined his barrels by adding upholstery and padding to the wood. The Pilates Arc keeps the original intent of the barrel but rather than bulky wood, it is constructed out of lightweight, closed-cell foam.

Pilates Arc®

Awaken and elongate those tired, overworked muscles in this energizing workout using the Balanced Body Arc system. In this class you will methodically move your spine and limbs and leverage your body weight against gravity to create a natural form of resistance. Recommended for everyone.

 

Pilatesstick®

The Pilates Stick is the contemporary cousin of the traditional Pilates Tower. Its ingenious design attaches to a wall (or a door if used at home) and consists of a roll down bar and both hand and foot springs, a Pilates mat completes the kit.

Pilatesstick®

Get stuck on the stick while you sculpt. Using a slastix based system attached to a wall this class combines healthy movement while you sculpt providing resistance and assistance depending on the exercise. It also improves flexibility, balance and abdominal stabilization. Recommended for everyone.

 

Photography courtesy of Peak Pilates®.

Foam Roller

The foam roller is a three-foot cylinder constructed out of spongy, dense material. It can be used in a variety of applications from fitness to physical therapy. Like the arc, the roller provides excellent skeletal support and encourages proper alignment. It can also be directly applied to external muscles to provide release.

Thera-Band®

This versatile elastic band provides adjustable support and resistance. It can be utilized to increase flexibility as well as promote muscle development. Like the foam roller, it is used in a variety of settings from fitness facilities to the dance studio to the physical therapists' office.

Magic Circle

Joe's days drinking lager are further evidenced in this creation as his original circles were made out of the metal rings from a barrel. It's often used as a prop for targeted resistance, alignment feedback and a nice addition to Mat Work.

Stability Ball

This therapeutic device is also known as a "gym ball" or "exercise ball"; however, it was in Switzerland that it rose to prominence in the 1960's which is why it is also referred to as a "Swiss Ball". It can be used in a variety of applications from physical therapy to fitness.

Flexy Props

Bringing Flexy Back. Stand taller, feel longer in this workout designed to promote elongation and elasticity. The specially selected props will stretch out those achy, stiff muscles and have you strutting down the catwalk. Recommended for everyone.

Top of the Props

Tone or go home. Using a combination of props to strengthen and tone all over. From head to toe, these props will help create resistance for muscle building, balance training and improve fexibiliy. Recommended for everyone.

Ballance

The unstable surface of this apparatus makes any exercise more challenging as the body reacts to stabilize. This workout may use targeted resistance to strengthen deep, underutilized muscle groups, challenge your balance or both.

Ballgame

This ball is bigger than baseball. This workout uses targeted resistance in order to strengthen deep underutilized muscle groups and at the same time challenging your balance and abdominal stability. Recommended for everyone and a good prep for the Ballance class.

Bosu® Pro Balance Trainer

This relatively new fitness apparatus is a molded plastic and weighted rubber stability ball. It is an acronym for "BOth Sides Utilized". Like the Swiss Ball, it can be used in a variety of applications from strength training to balance support.

Bosu® Ballance

Bos'u? You, that's who! Actually it's BOth Sides Up making it a very versatile prop for its size. This class challenges and develops your balance while building core strength and coordination no matter which side it's used on. It is recommended for everyone. Because one side is flat, it can be used as a stepping stone to the less stable Swiss Ball.

Joe's Bosu®

Joe meets Bo in this strengthening workout that uses the unstable surface of the Bosu to set your core in motion. This workout is not for the faint of heart. Think Mat Pilates on steroids. It recommended for those familiar with the intermediate Classical Mat routine and are looking for a little more "umph".

JumpSport® Trampoline

The trampoline has evolved from being only a recreational device to a full-fledged legitimate fitness apparatus. Less "bouncy" than its backyard counterpart, the personal sized trampoline stimulates your heart rate, challenges balance and coordination and improves your endurance. While it is low impact, it provides enough impact to enhance bone density. It even boosts your lymphatic system. Our favorite benefit? It's guaranteed to make you smile.

Fitness Trampoline

Get the jump on your workout. This class will take you through a series of exercises, some of which you may have done before, but performing them on the trampoline will lessen joint impact, challenge your balance and coordination and make aerobics fun again. You can't help but smile when your on a trampoline.

Circuit

Circuit Playground

Join us on this hour long fitness playground where you may find yourself jumping on the trampoline one minute, bouncing a medicine ball the next and leaping over the Bosu Trainer the next. The possibilities are endless in this invigorating workout that challenges your balance, agility, memorization and cardio stamina. If you haven't played with any of these props before we suggest taking a few specialty classes first to get acquainted because the pace in Circuit Playground is high energy and fun.

Zumba®

Zumba® Gold

Zumba® , the world wide dance phenomenon set to energetic Latin-inspired music. The class is as high energy as you want to make it. No equipment, no props, just you and the rhythm. Zumba® Gold is ideal for newcomers because it's just as much fun yet not as intense.