I cannot believe I have been going to the studio for 3 years now! Marilyn has helped me improve my strength, balance and overall fitness. I am so grateful her knowledge and ability to adapt exercises to fit my skill level. And, she always mixes it up and keeps it interesting! read more

Good class. I attended Sunday Pilates Equipment class with Sub Kristen. I enjoyed the class. Slightly different from reformer classes that I have been to before. I wasn't expecting to rotate Equipment mid-class. Class had 6 attendees but only 3 reformers. So two people on tower and 1 on Cadillac. Kristen was good at making modifications for each piece of equipment. For this class I did Reformer and Cadillac. I just really enjoy doing feet in straps on the reformer and missed that part because I was on Cadillac and not the same. It was a very nice workout for my core. I felt very stretched out and adjusted after the class. I would come back for another class. I prefer this classic style of Pilates over Mega Reformers. I signed up for this with Class Pass but would explore getting a punchcard with this studio. Plenty of parking nearby plus super close to Aya Pastries. read more

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I have been working with Marilyn for several years. She is very knowledgeable about body mechanics. My sessions with her are personalized to my needs. She is very personable and makes exercise fun!!! read more

I've been going to Sana Vita since 2021 and started seeing specifically Marilyn pretty soon after due to my back issues. She is methodical and makes sure I'm in alignment while also giving me alternative options when I need them. She can be blunt and assertive, but this is because she is making sure your body is correct to prevent injury and work the muscle intended. This can be intimidating if you're not used to her style, but she's honestly one of the nicest and caring people I've ever met. I've tried going elsewhere or to other instructors and they just throw me right back into PT! I have the doctor's notes to prove it. read more

I attended the 45 minute Pilates Equipment class with Terrence on a Sunday morning through ClassPass. There were three other people in the class. Everyone who had been there before was really friendly and chatted with the instructor throughout class, which was nice. Terrence was very friendly and had a good rapport with his clients. The class started with a warm up on the floor (yoga mats provided) then went onto the Pilates reformers. This was more of a classic/traditional Pilates class (not a mega former class). It was a good mix of full body. I parked on the street on the other side (North side) from the studio. I had no problem finding a free spot on a Sunday morning. read more

I have been taking private and group lessons with Marilyn for almost ten years. I just love the small but powerful studio where every corner has a challenging but incredibly powerful routine waiting for you! I did take group classes for a long time but after I while I wanted to challenge myself and see quick results in order to stay at my best during corporate functions, premieres, family events and so on. Marilyn knew exactly what I needed to do in order to hit that spot, work it, follow through with it and I have always seen results in just a few days.. She works you hard but her sense of humor and playlist are the best! Not to mention Nico her baby dog who just watches and gives nothing but love. I LOVE SANA VITA.. Try group lessons, try the massage amenities and that very purified water between the tough exercises. You will feel on top of the world and start wondering where the muscles and flexibility you didn't think you had pops right out of you, instilling confidence in every single aspect of your lifestyle :) Thanks Marilyn for making me work hard but also laugh like nobody is watching read more

I went for my first class with Marilyn yesterday and I'm so glad I did. I was very physically active last year at home during the pandemic and then I had wrist surgery in December and hadn't stepped foot into a pilates studio since recovering. I was nervous I wasn't going to be able to keep up, especially with my lack of strength but Marilyn was incredible. Having been in practice since 2004 she was extremely knowledgeable about the body and most importantly the class flow. I was able to not only follow along but actually feel good while doing it! I have already booked my follow up class and look forward to purchasing a package of classes through her. She mentioned COVID was a tough time for her studio and I'm happy to be supporting local! read more

Kristin is the assolute best! She teaches with a high level of intention and care to ensure my workouts are super challenging while also being safe. I've never gained so much strength in my life. I've been going to her class for some weeks now and I love them! Teachers really make or break the experience for me and Kristin is STELLAR! read more

Loved everything about this place as soon as I walked in. I have been to a variety of classes with a number of instructors. All the teachers make you feel so welcome. They are also very well trained and offer their own style which is great. It keeps the classes interesting and challenging. They are also very accommodating to everyone's different fitness level as mine is close to nonexistent. I haven't worked out in quite a long while, and am totally out of shape but dedicated to getting my body back in shape and build up my strength. Think I have found the perfect place to do this. I can't wait to try the Bodhi classes. Will be posting progress read more

Better Posture Pilates - Joining with others enjoying the class - Pilates Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I have been going to Marilyn's pilates equipment classes at Sana Vita for a few years now, and I cannot say enough positive things about her classes and this studio. This is a small, personal studio- class sizes range from 2 to a maximum of 6 students. Marilyn is extremely knowledgeable and experienced, and keeps a close eye on everyone's form and position while leading fluid classes. She mixes it up so that no class is ever exactly the same, but makes sure you get a full body workout every time. Classes include strength and flexibility training on a variety of pilates equipment, including reformers, towers, and chairs. I started going to pilates equipment classes to incorporate resistance and strength training into my workout routine, and I have seen fantastic results over time. In addition to being toned and feeling strong, I am (still) continually surprised by how my balance and flexibility has also significantly improved. I walk out of class feeling worked out, but also so much more loose and flexible than when I went in. I have been dealing with a pretty severe knee injury for two years now, and Marilyn is both understanding and helpful with modifying exercises for me when necessary so that I can work around my knee injury. Strengthening my leg and knee muscles through pilates has also been integral to helping me regain stability and improve range of motion in my knee. I really appreciate the personal attention and support she has provided during this time. Classes accommodate all levels from beginners to the experienced. There is a diverse community of regulars and the studio is friendly and welcoming. Overall I so grateful to have access to this studio. I highly recommend!!! read more

In my quest to find more healthy ways, I stumbled upon this sweet little place. I called ahead to inquire if Pilates would be right for me. The owner answered. I assumed she would describe something that I would never be able to do, but instead she explained that folks usually sign up for a few private sessions and then add group classes. So, I did exactly that. Marilyn D'Andrea is the owner and the only instructor I have worked with so far. I adore her! She is smart and funny and easy to talk with. She is never judgmental. Her instruction is top notch. She never pushes me too far. She explains often that the right alignment and breathing make the exercises are very effective. I highly recommend this place. read more

I walked into a class wanting more information and everyone rolled their eyes at me like I interrupted. The ambience was just off putting ‍

A doctor recommended I try Pilates to recover from a back injury, so I researched options and I decided to try a private session with Marilyn. 3 months later, after weekly sessions, it's not an understatement to say my back and quality of life has greatly improved.I am very inflexible and have improved my flexibility and range of motion over. Grateful I found Sana Vita! read more

I love taking classes here. What is best for me is that the workouts are so varied. You never get bored with the routine! Classes are small and the instructor is able to give that personalized attention. I always have so much more energy when I leave and it makes a great start to the day. 5 star rating. read more

I hope it speaks for itself that I've been going to Sana Vita Studio for 10 years! Like other reviewers, I love the studio, small class size, expert instruction and what Pilates does to keep my body moving and pain free. I do a mix of group classes and private sessions. If you need work on specific body issues, I highly recommend private sessions with Marilyn. She is extremely knowledgeable and intuitive in getting to the root of the problem and developing a program to remediate it. She works non stop, putting you through supervised exercises and uses massage tools and muscle activation techniques as needed. I've been referred to physical therapy twice in the last 10 years, but abandoned treatment to work out a program with Marilyn. The Big Box PT Mills did not relieve my pain and I resented being stuck in a corner to do exercises unsupervised and in bad form while the therapist was on a computer or chatting with other clients or employees. With Marilyn, you never do an exercise without her constantly checking your form. Every session is tailored to how your body is progressing (or backsliding!) and feeling that day. Marilyn has worked relentlessly to resolve some persistent pain issues I've suffered and I will be forever grateful to her! On top of all the good work that is done here, the studio is also a fun place to be that attracts a friendly and generous clientele. read more

I have been taking private lessons at Sana Vita for over a year now and it has been the BEST decision I have ever made for my mind and body! I have been doing privates with the owner, Marilyn, and started before my wedding to get in shape. I have grown so strong with her help and truly enjoy every class we have together. She is so welcoming and funny - I look forward to our weekly chats and adore her little pup, Nico, who helps me with my workouts! It has such a wonderful atmosphere, is in a great location, and is more affordable than most studios in the area. I highly recommend taking privates or group classes with her or any of her colleagues! read more

I love coming here. My first experience with Pilates was here and I've learned so much and am now obsessed. Kristin and Terrance are the instructors I've taken classes with so far and they're both so knowledgeable and great to be around. No two classes have been the same, you can tell they are experienced teachers with all the variety you get in the class. I've been nothing but impressed. read more

OOOOOOOH EEEEEEEMM GEEEEEEEEE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is the best workout I have ever had. I love this studio! 1. Staff is wonderful! Everyone is very nice, helpful, and full of information. I have come approximately 10 times so far and have yet to have an unpleasant customer service experience. 2. I primarily take my classes with the owner Marilyn. She is AMAZING! She tailors each session and exercise according to the students and abilities in the room. She ALWAYS keeps each student's comfort and safety in mind while also providing options to make the exercises easier or harder. I have observed other instructors as well and they seem to conduct their classes in a similar fashion. 3. The class sizes are always kept to 6 or less people. I appreciate the small class sizes because I know I'm getting a more personalized workout and my patronage is appreciated. She has the space to host more people, but it's not a money grab. There is a true commitment to each and every person who walks through the door. 4. Admittedly, the classes are on the pricier side, but there is so much bang for your buck. If you can pay the money for a package of classes there are savings to be had. Also, as apart of the studio's mailing list there are frequent offering for discounts and freebies. 5. The studio is serene and relaxing. Everything is always clean, smells good, there's a waiting room, and a well appointed restroom. I'm 10 classes in and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon. I can already see the transformation in my body and feel muscles that I have never felt before. I. FEEL. GREAT. If you come to Sana Vista, I promise that you will too! read more

No, no, no, no, no. I came here for a Pilates Equipment class, and at first dug the zen vibe of the studio (they also have yoga classes), however, the equipment here is no bueno, and is the reason I won't be back. There were three of us in class, and we started with the reformers, then moved on to the chair. Unfortunately, they only had two pilates chairs, and the third was one that uses a slider system instead of springs for resistance. Of course, I got that one. We were doing a move where we were side lying, balanced on our hip with our legs stacked, with one arm on the pedal, "flossing" our rib cage up and down. And the pedal gave out on me. Twice. My balance and strength is decent enough that I didn't fall off the chair, but both times my hand def hit the floor hard. At that point I had enough and asked if I could just get some mermaid action on the reformer, and was told no, that wasn't even the same muscle group. Here's the thing...at that point the instructor should've understood my hesitation to use a piece of equipment that had failed twice. I even had to hear about how the instructor didn't want to move the other students off their chairs because she was building towards something. Ya, I know, I'm not an ass who's going to demand a whole class stops because I got hurt. At that point I felt with my back issues it would be best to do some light stretching and leave, but was told to go to the towers and was given random exercises to do. It was just an odd experience, and the headache, neck, and back pain I woke up with the next morning was enough to keep me from giving this place a second try. read more

Marilyn is an exceptional instructor. She intuitively knows just how far to push you. I've had a baby and 2 surgeries and she has helped me recover and get stronger each time. Her workouts have improved my health and my body has never been stronger or looked better despite health struggles and set backs. Marilyn kept me moving forward in the midst of it all and feeling better after each session. read more

i can't say enough good things about marilyn and her pilates classes. everytime i take a class with her i know i'm in good hands. her knowledge in pilates is second to none and i would highly recommend her class to any one at any level, you will not be disapointed!! read more

I LOVE THIS STUDIO! I found Sana Vita Studio by conducting a simple web search for pre-natal Pilates in Chicago - seems to be one of the best rated studios in the city. I was headstrong on keeping my body functioning at the best level I could while I was pregnant. I did a few private lessons with Marilyn before I started attending Monday night group classes with Erica. All of the staff at the studio are very friendly and helpful. I literally look forward to coming to Erica's class every Monday night to get away and do something good for my body. It's very convenient to sign up and pay for classes online and you do NOT need to be a Pilates expert in order to start attending classes. I am currently 32 weeks pregnant and have yet to experience any discomfort in my hips, legs, etc. I highly recommend the pre-natal Pilates class (or private lessons) to any pregnant woman. read more

I had been a devoted myopatterning pilates (another form of pilates using a modified reformer-like machine) goer for over 4 years when I lived in Colorado. I have been trying out studios in the area to get back into it & took a class at Sana Vita with a friend not too long ago. Pros: Sana Vita studio has a great offer for a first time trial class. The studio is really clean. All the instructors waiting in their office area & greeting us were really friendly & helpful. Cons: There aren't enough reformers for the size of the class. That being said, they have equal amounts of wall units. The frustrating thing about this was that our instructor would have us switch off between reformers & wall units. This wouldn't be so bad if we just rotated the exercises as well but we always did different ones. I got excited seeing others do an exercise only to find out that I would be doing a different one when we switched. Unfortunately, due to the space constraints the studio is a bit awkward. During our class the people coming in for the next class actually have to walk thru the workout area & that can be a bit distracting. Again, the size of the studio can be problematic. There was a private lesson happening at the same time of our class which was very distracting. Finally, in the middle of class my instructor asked me very loudly "have you ever done a pilates reformer class before???" Needless to say, I was a bit embarrassed & thought that was a little rude. The studio has some great reviews & to each his own but I guess this just wasn't the one for me. read more

pregant and uncomfortable from all this weight, I was in search of a yoga class to stretch and relax muscles that I knew I would need to use soon! I do consider my self active, but this class kicked my butt! Terri is a great instructor, the classes are small and allow for interaction between instructor and student. Started with meditation then poses. I was exhausted (in a good way) after the class and now have soreness in the pelvic region (who knew I needed a workout there???) that I'm sure will help when it comes time to delivery. Space is intimate, super clean and the staff are friendly. We got the discounted introduction rate and there is a discount for students! read more

Awesome studio! I started coming to Sana Vita to take private lessons with Pamela. I had a lot of pain from a herniated disc and was apprehensive about how much exercise I could handle. Pamela completely understood the physiology of my injury, and she patiently taught me how to do the exercises correctly and in a way that facilitated healing from the injury; she even gave me tips on posture and movement that help tremendously in preventing re-injury. I was amazed at how quickly I was able to do movements I thought would be off-limits for me! Since then, I've been taking classes regularly and they are really great. The instructors are all so knowledgeable and professional; I always learn something new, not just about pilates but about health and fitness overall. I love that Marilyn is always reading up on research and incorporates the latest findings into what is taught at the studio. It is really top-notch instruction. The classes are small and work well for a variety of fitness levels. Overall, this is a really well managed, professional, and fun place! read more

This is an amazing studio with people who really care about your overall wellness. They make sure that each class is a small number and that they are paying attention to your every need. Jump board was always my favorite because while it can be tough at times, the workout you would get after felt amazing. The teachers are all certified and really know what they are doing. Keeping the motivation up while also being able to adjust to how your body functions with each exercise. Give them a call to reserve some time, they use an online reservation system that is really easy to use and sends you reminders for each class you set up. read more

Pilates is amazing, and Sana Vita and our teacher, Pamela, help make it so. I've always been a fairly traditional workout guy, balancing between running, elliptical trainers, and lifting free weights. I tried Pilates once in Seattle a few years ago with my brother and sister-in-law and found it to be an interesting workout that worked a number of muscles I tended to ignore. It piqued my interest. When my girlfriend and I were looking for a workout program to do together, we found a studio, Sana Vita, which was close to us and rated really highly here on Yelp. That's where we met Pamela. She took the time to really explore each of our unique body capabilities and shortcomings to develop one-hour training sessions that maximized our time and results. For example, there's a specific exercise in Pilates called a "pull-up," and while I've always been fine knocking out pull-ups the traditional way, these presented a unique challenge. The idea is to stabilize your upper body on a device called a "chair" and use your core to pull-up the lower half of your body...kind of like going into a handstand using just your belly. The first couple of sessions, I couldn't do it...at all. But after a few more sessions with Pamela, where she worked to strengthen the muscle group needed to complete the exercise, I'm able to do it with ease, and have even moved on the doing more advanced forms. My girlfriend and I have now completed 10 sessions, and we've never felt better. Specifically, when doing cardio whether running or on a fitness machine, I feel way more stable and stronger in my legs, glutes and core. There is a lot of legwork in Pilates, which I have woefully neglected for a long time, spending most of my time lifting with a focus on upper body. I now feel WAY more balanced. Lifting has become a lot better, as well, as the core work has helped with stability and ensuring that I'm not wailing on my back too much. Overall, Pilates has been awesome for me. I'm stronger, more focused when I workout, and look forward to whatever challenges Pamela gives me...no matter how sore I know I'll be. I walkout of Sana Vita every time feeling amazing, and the next two days sore in muscles I didn't even know I have. I highly recommend Pamela, and Pilates is an outstanding supplement to any guy's workout routine. read more

Julie I'm addicted! I live in Old town and would drive another Fifty miles to go to Sana Vita Pilate/yoga studio. I started Pilates about 5 yrs ago. I started with privates With Marilyn. I had tendinitis of elbows. Pilates works Wonders! I now enjoy reformer,mat and jump board classes I Great place if you are beginner or advanced. Sana vita is VERY WELCOMING read more

I've never liked working out, and couldn't figure out what workout was best for me - until I took pilates with Marilyn. I've been going to the studio for over a year and I love every visit. She's so personable and goes out of her way to make sure you're comfortable and getting the most out of her class. I'm so thankful for her careful procedures during the pandemic to allow me to workout while being safe. read more

I've been taking private lessons here for a few months, twice per week, and continue to see results from the investment. There are a few teachers here, all with different styles and personalities so there's probably a match for everyone. With that in mind, I tried two different instructors. I've been working exclusively with Jessica M. and her knowledge of kinesiology and pilates is helping me address alignment issues and build strength incrementally. She also understands what physical adjustments to make during the session to ensure I am in proper form vs. just watching me and counting. With Jessica's proactive instruction, I've learned a lot and can work out at home in between our sessions to add momentum to our progress. Scheduling is easy and convenient. There is a variety of group classes available each week at the studio. The studio is spotless. read more

Prenatal yoga with Teri is amazing. For Prenatal Pilates I would recommend Erica over Carmen any day!

I love this pilates studio! I started a few years back by taking a series of weekend equipment classes with Marilyn, who's straightforward approach will challenge you, and now after a few year hiatus went back for a jumpboard class with Annette. So happy to be back at such a welcoming, clean studio with such knowledgeable instructors- not to mention an incredible workout! read more

BE AWARE OF THE RIDICULOUS EXPIRATION DATE POLICY!!! Being a first-time pregnant woman, I thought I needed to adjust my exercise routine the moment I became pregnant. I purchased a pack of 10 prenatal yoga classes in October and attended my first class, which was okay. After talking to the instructor and later my OB, I realized I had jumped the gun. I decided to save my classes until later into my pregnancy. I went to book another prenatal class and low and behold, all 9 of my unused classes had expired only 4 months after purchase. What is the point of this ridiculous policy other than to rob ppl of their money. I have never heard of policy like this. There is no reason why these classes should expire after such a short period of time. read more

I took a Saturday morning prenatal class with Terre. As many of you pregnant yogis can attest, it's not easy to find a *great* prenatal class. I'm 36 weeks pregnant, so I'm looking for a good stretch and some poses to bring pain relief and relaxation into the birthing room with me. Terre's style was really good - a mixture of expanding stretches, challenging (but supported) balance poses, and those asanas of sweet relief. It was neither too easy nor too difficult. Clearly, many of the women in the room were repeat attendees. Terre knew over half by name, which is always a good sign in a teacher. Keep 'em coming back! My only complaint is regarding the small space - I overheard one of the regulars say that the weekday classes aren't quite as full as the weekend. read more

My husband found this charm. After we found out that we were expecting he bought me a pre natal Pilates package. This was the BEST gift ever. I've been going for most of my pregnancy and feel great. The instructors are so knowledgeable about any issues your having (back problems) for me. They also will give you exercises that you can do at home is you if you having anything that's bothering you more than normal. Again back for me. I use a Yamuna ball now to release the tension in my bakc and calfs. This place is an absolute must especially for any expecting mothers. I've also met so many neighborhood moms that are expecting and we're all due around the same time. Now not only do I have a Pilates studio forever I've met some friends to walk with on maternity leave. Give this place a try and you'll never leave!!! I will be continuing after Baby is born. I'll start with pre natal for my post natal and then move unit regular classes once the instructors that know me release me to regular classes. Couldn't expect to find a better place read more

As an update....I continued to work with Helena with privates and I was definately feeling/seeing improvements where I didn't expect them - higher butt? I guess that was the biggest change I noticed. Helena left and I moved my privates to Erica. What a difference in teaching for sure. I love working with Erica...I can tell she pre plans sessions for students probably specific to the clients needs / desires. She is so sweet but very challenging! I also ventured out and tried some group classes - jump board and Bodhi suspension - which I love..I love this studio and will continue to come here! read more

Moved to virtual classes and loving them so much I went from twice a week to four times a week! Marilyn is my go to but added Terrance's classes into the mix too. So glad I did he is a wonderful instructor and compliments Marilyn's classes perfectly. This is not only making me feel physically strong in this stressful time but mentally strong too! Can't wait to get back in the studio but really happy I can do from home as we all shelter in place. read more

Love this place, right by my apartment so it's super convenient. I started out with some private lessons with Marilyn who really helped me get started doing pilates which I was only sort of familiar with at the time. She was very patient and very informative, explaining everything and really helping me out. I have had back issues for over a decade, and the workouts here have really helped me out a ton, in maintaining strength through my core and flexibility throughout. I've taken the Pilates Mat class, fun and challenging, and the Pilates Boot Camp class, VERY challenging, and although I felt awkward and clumsy at first, I've stuck with it, and thanks to the top notch instructors, I've really improved. A+, five stars all the way. read more

I have been taking prenatal yoga at Sana Vita once a week since I was 24 weeks. I went to several studios, and this ended up being my favorite. First of all as much as the class is relaxing it is also challenging, which is what I needed. Also, I like the fact that classes are quite small and you get a lot of personal attention from Teri, the instructor. She knows everyone by name and a very nurturing person in nature. Maybe something small, but I love the fact that this studio does not require to put our own mats on the floor, or do any cleanup afterwards. Even during class Teri will provide all the pillows and props you need without you moving an inch. Way to make me feel taken care of. I would highly recommend this class for all pregnant ladies. Especially the ending savasna. So blissful, I truly fall asleep each time:) read more

Nice studio and instructor. They have little dogs walking around which is a nice touch. Yoga mats and props were provided which was nice. Downfall would be that the yoga studio gets alot of outside noise from the pilates area (people talking, walking around, etc.) which didn't necessarily bother me but I can see how others would find that disruptive. The rooms was also just the slightest bit chilly but overall good experience. read more