Pilates FAQs


Sessions & Scheduling

Most sessions run 50-55 minutes. This allows time to check in, warm up the body, move through a full thoughtfully sequenced Pilates session, and finish with proper alignment and control. Sessions are never rushed. Each one is paced to meet your body's needs that day.

Mat sessions are available at your home, building gym, outdoor space, or virtually via Google Meet. Apparatus sessions — Reformer, Tower, Wunda Chair, Spine corrector, and Semi Barrel — take place exclusively at my private home studio in Inwood, Manhattan. I serve clients in Inwood (10034) and Washington Heights (10033 & 10040). A travel fee may apply outside these areas.

To get started, fill out a short booking request form. I'll follow up within one business day to confirm details. If you need to reschedule, please reach out at least 24 hours in advance to avoid cancellation fee.

Yes. I teach duets and small groups (up to 3 people) for clients who want to train together. Please visit Pricing and Booking or Contact me.

Rates, Packages & Policies

Rates vary based on session type and format. Please visit the Pricing and Booking page for details.

Yes. I offer 8-session packages. You can see options and rates on the Booking & Pricing page.

We accept Zelle, cash, or check. A receipt is provided. Payment is due before the session (or before the first package session) or within 24 hours of booking.

Please reschedule or cancel at least 24 hours in advance to avoid being charged for the session.

There's no travel fee within Inwood (10034) and Washington Heights (10033 & 10040). A fee may apply outside of this area. We'll confirm that before you book.

If you're managing financial hardship, I may be able to offer sliding scale pricing. Contact me to learn more.

Preparation & Equipment

Comfortable, fitted clothing you can move in and that shows alignment. Barefoot or grippy socks.

A Pilates mat, minimum half inch (12 to 15mm). A thick mat is required, not optional. Thin yoga mats are not appropriate for classical Pilates, particularly for rolling and spinal articulation exercises. If you are on a hard floor or have any back sensitivity, three quarter inch or thicker is strongly recommended. Also bring 2 to 3 lb hand weights and a hand towel. For duet and small group sessions, all participants must arrive with matching equipment.

Choose a quiet, well lit space where you can move freely. Place your device so I can see your full body during both standing and floor work. A chair, low shelf or stacked books often works well. If you're unsure, I'm happy to offer guidance during your first session.

You will need a clear space of approximately 6x8 feet, enough to fully extend your arms overhead, out to both sides, and your legs long without obstruction. If you are unsure whether your space works, feel free to send a photo or short video before booking.

Modifications & Adaptations

Yes. I work with clients of all levels from beginners to intermediates. Whether you're new to Pilates, starting again after time away, or looking to refine your practice, sessions are always adapted to your pace and ability.

Absolutely. My background in occupational therapy means I specialize in adapting sessions for injuries, chronic conditions, and different body needs. Just let me know what's going on when you book.

If you have a complex health history, an active diagnosis, limited movement experience, or significant physical considerations, I strongly recommend starting with at least 1 to 2 private sessions before joining a duet or small group. When in doubt, reach out and we will figure out the right starting point together.

Yes. Duet and small group sessions are for clients booking together. Please have your partner or group confirmed before scheduling. I am not able to match or pair clients at this time. Duet, small group, and seasonal Pilates in the Park classes are the most accessible and affordable ways to experience In Pursuit of Pilates.

Approach & Philosophy

Classical Pilates follows the original method and sequencing developed by Joseph Pilates. It progresses systematically from mat to full apparatus — reformer, tower, Wunda chair, spine corrector, and semi barrel — building strength, control, and body awareness across the entire system. It is not a trend or a modified fitness class. It is a complete movement practice.

Every session is grounded in classical Pilates as taught through the Peak Pilates method and informed by 17+ years as a licensed occupational therapist. That combination means I teach the full method with precision while also understanding how the body compensates, adapts, and heals. You are not just doing exercises. You are learning to move with intention and awareness.

Classical Pilates is a progressive system, not a trend and not a maintenance routine. It follows a specific structure, builds on itself session to session, and increases difficulty as your body adapts. You work through a systematic order of exercises designed to build stability, strength, mobility, and coordination. Will you plateau? In theory, yes. But you would need to reach an extraordinarily advanced level to hit a genuine ceiling. Most people find the opposite: the longer they practice, the more they feel and the more they can do. Stability, strength, mobility, flexibility, endurance, coordination, balance, and posture all develop visibly, and you can track that progress from your first session forward. At In Pursuit of Pilates, the work grows with you. Spring resistance works within a recommended range. Progression comes through form refinement, deeper engagement, and the addition of props such as rings, balls, resistance bands, and hand weights. The challenge never disappears. It just changes shape.