Pilates FAQ

Both Mat and Reformer Pilates focus on building core strength, improving flexibility, posture, balance, and body awareness. The main difference is how the exercises are performed. Mat Pilates, offered in Studio B, primarily uses your body weight for resistance. It challenges your core stability, coordination, and control. Reformer Pilates, offered in Studio A, uses specialized equipment with adjustable springs, straps, and a moving carriage. The resistance and support can be adjusted to accommodate different fitness levels and goals. Both are excellent ways to improve strength and mobility. Our instructors can help you determine which is best for you.

Although Pilates, yoga, and barre share some similarities, each offers unique benefits. Pilates focuses on core strength, stability, posture, alignment, and controlled movement. Yoga combines movement, stretching, breathing, and mindfulness to support flexibility, balance, strength, and relaxation. Barre blends elements of ballet-inspired movement, Pilates, and strength training. It uses small, controlled movements to challenge muscles, improve balance, and build endurance. At Ascendance, we offer all three, allowing you to explore different ways to move and create a well-rounded fitness routine. Our Studio B classes also include ballet and TRX suspension training, giving you even more ways to build strength and improve mobility.

Consistency is one of the most important parts of any fitness routine. For many people, attending Pilates two to three times per week is a good starting goal, depending on their experience, fitness level, and overall activity. With regular practice, you may begin noticing improvements in body awareness, posture, flexibility, balance, and strength. Everyone progresses differently, so there’s no set timeline for results. At Ascendance, we encourage clients to build a sustainable routine that supports their long-term health and wellness. Our instructors can help you choose classes that complement your individual goals.

Pilates focuses on strengthening the muscles that support your spine, improving body awareness, and encouraging proper alignment. By developing core strength, stability, and flexibility, Pilates may help improve posture and movement patterns. For some people, an appropriately designed Pilates program may also help manage certain types of back discomfort. At Ascendance, our instructors emphasize proper technique and individualized modifications. Private Reformer sessions are also available for clients who would benefit from more focused attention. If you’re experiencing persistent back pain or recovering from an injury, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before beginning a new exercise program.

Pilates is an excellent way to develop muscular strength, endurance, stability, and flexibility. Reformer Pilates uses adjustable spring resistance to challenge muscles throughout the body, while Mat Pilates relies primarily on body weight and controlled movement. Pilates can be part of a healthy weight-management routine, although weight loss depends on several factors, including nutrition, overall physical activity, and individual health. At Ascendance, we also offer strength-focused classes and PRIME Strength training for adults 50+, giving clients additional opportunities to build strength and support long-term wellness.

Investing in Pilates is an investment in your long-term health and wellness. At Ascendance, we offer individual classes, class packages, memberships, and private sessions to accommodate different schedules and goals. For those new to Reformer Pilates, our website currently lists a $139 introductory package that includes two private sessions and one complimentary group class. Studio B also offers a buy-one-class, get-one-free introductory opportunity. Memberships and packages can be a great option for clients who attend regularly and want to make movement a consistent part of their lifestyle. Our team is always happy to help you explore the options and find what works best for you.

Not all Pilates studios offer the same experience. Instructor qualifications, class sizes, equipment, teaching styles, and the amount of individual attention you receive can make a meaningful difference. At Ascendance, we focus on three things: personalized support, knowledgeable instructors, and a welcoming community. Our Reformer classes have a maximum of 10 participants, allowing instructors to provide individual guidance and help clients focus on proper technique. We also believe your studio experience should feel welcoming from the moment you arrive. From our supportive instructors to the friendships formed between classes, Ascendance is a place where you can feel comfortable, connected, and encouraged.

A knowledgeable instructor can make a significant difference in how safely and effectively you move. Proper alignment, technique, and individualized modifications are important for getting the most from your Pilates practice. At Ascendance, we’re fortunate to have an exceptionally qualified team with extensive experience in Pilates, fitness, and movement education. Our instructors bring a variety of professional backgrounds, including comprehensive Pilates certifications, physical therapy assistant training, personal training certifications, and specialized education. For example, co-founder Diane Cowan has more than 20 years of Pilates teaching experience and a background as a Physical Therapy Assistant. Founder Donna Scott holds certifications across Pilates equipment, yoga, barre, and personal training. This depth of knowledge allows us to provide thoughtful instruction that supports each client’s individual abilities and goals. We believe quality instruction isn’t just about teaching exercises. It’s about understanding how the body moves and helping every client move with confidence.