GETTING STARTED
For more information regarding private sessions or about our classes, see below.
A STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO GETTING STARTED AT MIND AND BODY PILATES
- Read through the various pages in our website regarding our studio, style, prices, policies and look at our class schedule.
- Look at the various pictures throughout our website to get a 'feel' for the studio.
- If you have specific questions or concerns, email or call our studio at 206-325-3328. Please note, if you call the studio you may not reach a live person immediately, just leave a voice message and someone will get back to you within 24-48 hours. Otherwise:
- Click on 'Client Login' at the top of this page. This will take you to our online system - MindBody online- where you will register and create a 'profile'.
- Once you have created a profile, you can register for classes. The system should take you directly to the schedule page where you can look at the schedule to see what classes you want to register for. See below for some general guidelines or click on the class in the online system for a more accurate description of that particular class.
- Generally, new clients without Pilates experience should consider 1 or more private sessions to get the most out of the classes. All new clients are highly encouraged to take one of our basic level or 'All level' classes in order to get 'acquainted' with Mind and Body Pilates. Level 2 classes expect prior experience in Pilates or at Mind and Body regardless of fitness level.
- Once you have selected a class, click 'sign up now'. You will be asked to register for a single class or a recurring reservation. The recurring reservation is if you know you want to come to a particular class on a regular basis. It is a much faster way to sign up for multiple classes. You can always cancel out of the classes you will be unable to attend.
- You will also be asked, whether registering for a single class or recurring reservation, whether you want to 'register as unpaid' or not. If you register as unpaid, you can pay for your classes at the studio by card or check.
- You can also pay for you class online. If you click 'make a reservation' you will be taken to the 'Online Store' where you can purchase your class card. Remember, that class cards have 4 month expiration date when deciding what size class card to buy.
- If you are a beginner and want to take a private session in addition to your class you are signing up for, click on 'Packages' in the online store for some introductory packages.
- If you are looking for private sessions rather than classes, click on 'Appointments' rather than 'Classes' and follow the prompts that the system gives you.
- Once you are registered, all you have to do is show up. Regular workout clothes are all that is necesary. We don't use shoes but you can choose whether to wear socks or not. If you wear socks, the socks with grippers on the bottom are very helpful.
- Once at the studio, you can leave your coat and shoes in the foyer. There are 2 bathrooms for changing clothes, if needed.
- If you are coming for a class, please let the instructor know that you are new and if you have special concerns or injuries that we should be aware of. It seems obvious but bears repeating, WE CANNOT HELP YOU MODIFY AN EXERCISE IF WE DON'T KNOW YOU HAVE AN INJURY. We want you to have the best experience possible so help us help you.
- You will likely feel somewhat lost and maybe a little overwhelmed in your first class. That is ok. Give yourself permission to feel a little less than your best and don't worry because that is why we are here - for you.
WAYS TO START A PILATES PROGRAM
Classes vs. Private (or Duet/Trio) Sessions
Generally, there are two basic ways of learning Pilates: Classes (usually matwork) and private training (primarily taught on the Universal Reformer). Most studios keep those 2 aspects fairly distinct. At Mind and Body Pilates, our classes do incorporate some of the equipment (in addition to the basic Pilates matwork) to get a safe and more thorough workout, especially using our unique Wall System – designed and developed by the studio owner, Dana Belkholm. But since it is a class setting, the amount of personal attention is obviously somewhat limited.
Private sessions, of course, are completely geared to the goals and needs of the client (or clients in the case of duets and trios). In a private session there is usually more work on the Reformer because the Reformer is especially effective at helping the client understand and move their body more effectively and functionally.
However, a private (or duet/trio) session can be designed around whatever goals you may have. For some, private reformer sessions are the safest and most effective way to rehabilitate an injury. For others, they want to use their private sessions to work on some specific area or issue of strength or flexibility. Many others use the private sessions to help them move more quickly and successfully into the class setting. Private sessions are always scheduled with the same instructor to ensure a quality and consistent Pilates session.
