I've been a client at Core Chicago Pilates since 2019 or so. This studio is one of the older Pilates studios in the city, and it makes perfect sense to me why/how it's stood the test of time. Their instructors are excellent. They all carry a 500hour comprehensive certification, while also being so friendly, kind, and helpful. I know group classes can be intimidating at first, but the instructors at Core really make everyone feel comfortable, seen, and safe. My favorite instructor here for the longest time has been April. She's so knowledgeable, sweet, and helpful, taking her classes are the best parts of my week. I've started branching out and taking other instructors' classes and honestly, I can't say enough great things about all of them. I also highly recommend trying all the different types of classes. Pilates is a system and we're supposed to use all the different apparatuses, don't be afraid to try them out! The studio itself has a cozy and inviting vibe. There are 2 floors, the ground level has 4 studio reformers, 5 exo chairs, a barrel, and a Cadillac. Upstairs has 5 allegro 2 reformers. They offer every kind of group class you could want from a Pilates studio, as well as private sessions, if you're looking for one on one learning.If you've been interested in starting Pilates, this would be the studio for you, it's been a haven for me. The studio is located in a neighborhood and there's always easy free parking, which is so convenient. read more

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My FIRST pilates class in the books, and I couldn't have picked a better place to do it! A friend of mine has been going to Core Chicago Pilates classes for about a year, and I was finally able to join her for a class last night! Core Chicago has two floors for classes, and ours took place in the upstairs space. Our class held 4 people, so it's very intimate and makes it easy to get 1:1 attention with the instructor! Reform pilates classes can be super intimidating because the machinery looks like a medieval contraption to those of us newbs! Luckily for me, our instructor Maggie put any nerves I had at ease right away. She was SO welcoming and immediately walked me through the reformer and how we would be using it in this class. She also made a point to ask if I had any injuries or muscle/joint issues to be aware of. The class itself was so much fun, but still challenging. I loved being able to train my body in a new way, while also incorporating stretches and not being completely exhausted and burned out afterwards. Maggie assisted me every step along the way, and never made me feel bad for being new and totally clueless! She also showed me minor tweaks in form that made the BIGGEST difference. I really loved my class here overall and will definitely be back! It's a fun workout that's challenging and a great way to switch things up from the regular gym routine. read more

Very welcoming and friendly. I felt almost immediately comfortable and I rarely like group classes.

This pilates studio offers challenging classes which are also safe. The teachers are great at making modifications for those who need it without making the pace of the class suffer. In these challenging times, the space is immaculate and I feel very safe there. read more

I visited for a small group class this week and found the staff friendly and knowledgeable. The studio is quite small and laid out over two floors. I only visited the downstairs area that was simple, but quite clean and functional. The class I attended was 50/50 class that incorporated 30 minutes of toning, yoga, Pilates, and light weight training I got and 25 minutes of deep stretch with a foam roller. The class consisted of just myself and one other student, which was a very good student to teacher ratio. The class was well taught and left me feeling great. read more

I did the Core and Reform class yesterday for my second workout of the day and it was exactly what I needed. Pedra, the instructor, was able to correct my form while still leading a nice class. I would recommend the Core and Reform class to beginners or anyone who is doing their second workout of the day. Pedra was on tempo the entire class. The class only has 4 reformers, so there's a lot of individual instruction. The studio itself has a very calm and zen vibe. read more

Core is my favorite pilates place in the city! (When they were under construction the past few weeks, I legitimately "missed" my Saturday morning. As much as one can miss their abs hurting to death before 11 am.) Although it is a bit out of the way for me, the entire studio is super welcoming for exercise newbs and experts alike. I had my first class with Christine on Classpass, who went above and beyond in explaining the absolute basics of the reformer. I ended up also buying the Introductory Package which includes 4 reformer classes and 4 mat classes. The instructors are not only incredibly calm, but also super helpful. I learned more about my breathing and posture in a few classes here than full years of other exercise classes. Although I'm definitely not perfect, I can see a real improvement in my skill level between classes. In contrast to some other reviewers, the studio has always been immaculate when I've visited. Also, in contrast to some other studios, the instructors were very strict about cleaning up all equipment (ex. the reformer, box, ball, etc.) Overall, I would definitely recommend for someone new to Pilates, or looking for a welcoming Pilates community in Chicago. read more

I really wanted to like this place, but was rather disappointed with the experience, not the instructor. Facility: the studio takes up 2 floors of an old and tired building. Downstairs is the mat and spin area, and upstairs is the pilates equipment. Equipment: I took the reformer group class and was a little put off by the shape of the equipment. It looked old, grungy and in need of a power wash. Doing moves on my stomach gave me prime viewing of all the hair and dirt on and under the reformer. A wash and a vacuum is really in order on and under the machines. Class: calling all Chatty Cathys! Bizarrely I think the women came to socialize and not workout, and I got the impression this is pretty typical for the class. It's not the studio's fault, although they should do more to discourage full conversations throughout the duration of the class- it's quite distracting for those of us who want to challenge ourselves and not listen to how everyone's weekend is going. Instructor: I liked the instructor- although she never introduced herself when I said I was new. That was a little odd. Overall- clean up the studio and equipment (a wash, scrub and new paint can do wonders), get the ladies to zip it at the door, and I wouldn't think twice about coming back! read more

THE GOOD: The reformer class is intimate and very individualized. The instructor is very knowledgeable and focused on form. THE BAD: The studio is divided into two floors. THE UGLY: Prices went up. read more

So I told my wife that I would try Pilates with her after several several previous times telling her no way. I have never done Pilates in my life before, so my expectations going in were low. After a session though, I was pretty impressed. I got a pretty good workout in and worked up a good sweat. The good sweat is probably attributed to the fact that if I do any activity such as lifting a pencil, I break out in a sweat...so disclaimer there. Anyways, to wrap up my experience, the class size was pretty small, which enabled the instructors to be very personalized and helpful (especially for me who I was not familiar with all the movements). That was nice. As far as price goes, I would say the reasonable considering the location of the studio, the small class size and individualized instruction. Would I go back again? Probably...but not on my own...only if my wife forced me. read more

I have taken both private lessons and group Pilates classes at Core Chicago Pilates and absolutely love it there! I had a recent spine surgery and Holly is so nice and so knowledgeable on the muscles/spine and how to modify my routine so I don't hurt myself but to get the most effective workout possible. The group classes only hold 4 people which is a HUGE plus because you still get one on one attention! Most definitely the best Pilates class/private instruction I have taken! Would recommend to anyone...especially those recovering from sports injuries! You will be in great hands :) read more

Core Chicago Pilates - Pilates Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I've been coming here for over 6 months and I absolutely love it! Holly is a great instructor, very knowledgable and personable. There's a good mix of classes so I never get bored with the workout. As others have mentioned, the small class size is great to make sure you get individualized attention. I expect to be coming back here for a long time. read more

I live nearby and like their class selection, but the 24 hour cancellation policy just doesn't work in my career world. I understand you can't have people cancel 10 minutes before, but what about 6 hours? That's still enough time to fill the spot if there is a wait list. read more

I found another one! So, I am all about my pilates reformer classes, but missed working out on the other equipment, like the chair and cadillac. Having only worked out on them a handful of times, I decided to try the CORE 50/50: ExoChair & Reformer class, which is half jumpboard and half chair. Basically, my heaven. The studio takes up two floors, so there's a doorbell to get buzzed in jic the class instructor is upstairs teaching privates. Once inside, just chill downstairs and your instructor will come down and grab everyone when it's time for class to start. I lucked out and had Holly, the studio owner, teach my class. There are four reformers so classes are intimate, and as others have mentioned, filled with regulars, but they were very inclusive and I never felt out of place. The jumpboard class was weighted heavier so the burn was real, and had moves I've never seen before, which to me is the best sign of a great class. We then moved onto the chair section, which I knew would kick my ass. I was worried because I've only worked on it a handful of times, but Holly was there to help me any time I got confused, so I didn't have any problems following along. And most importantly, my abs looked great the next morning. Note: There's no lockers or showers, but a bathroom on the second floor, which you're welcome to run up and use before class. They also offer free towels and bottled water. read more

I love this studio. The class size is controlled, so much individual attention is given to proper form and body alignment. The instructors never shy away from questions or giving modifications for all skill levels. It is great to have group reformer classes- again- it feels like a private lesson. I also like the spin and weight training classes. They're the best way to get a complete workout in a limited amount of time. Finally- how nice to pay per class instead of monthly? I travel for work. With monthly memberships, I was paying for weeks when I wasn't able to get to class. With Core Chicago's set up, I am only charged for the classes I attend. read more

I have been coming to the studio for years and absolutely love the variety of classes and the extremely knowledgeable instructors. The small class sizes allow the instructors to really get to to know the clients personally and help tailor workouts to best suit their needs and fitness goals. read more

i just started going here and i absolutely love it! classes are super small or can be one on one. you do not need to be a member which is awesome for me. each class is around 18 bucks and you can buy packages. promotions for classes change every month. holly was a really great instructor. super easy going and very detailed about each exercise. i bought a package and plan on going back a lot. ive also been telling all my friends. oh and did i mention, when you call to join a class your first time is free! read more

I injured my foot, and was looking for a new studio where I could take some spin classes and do Pilates. Ever Core Chicago! Classes were small and individual attention was huge. I loved the vibe and that the instructors got to know so much about you. I'll definitely be back for more! read more

I started going here briefly when it opened and I loved it. Holly is wonderful. I had a few private lessons, and a few mat classes and loved them. I just couldn't afford it anymore so I had to stop going. I was hit by a car late last year and now I am at the point where I NEED some yoga and Pilates to get my back and core a bit stronger, so I just signed up for a yoga class to get back into it. I was excited that they added some vinyasa yoga classes :-) I cant wait to get my back, back into shape! read more

I have taken several classes at the studio including PIloxing, a mat class, a reformer class and spinning. I have also taken private and duo lessons from Holly. All of these have been fantastic! The classes are small so even though there are anywhere from 4-6 people in a class, you still receive specialized attention. Holly is very knowledgeable and is constantly attending different seminars and classes to learn new techniques for her classes. I have gone to classes at other studios, but no one has been as friendly as the instructors at Core Chicago! read more

I stopped into Core Chicago Pilates after the Millenium Park Workout series and I've become a big fan. We have a place nearby and are in town most weekends. I'm new to Pilates and don't have the best form but I really feel like I get personalized instruction because of the small class sizes. The package rates are also reasonable. read more

Just got a monthly membership for the PureMat classes because the first one was so great. I'm not experienced with Pilates but they're helping me learn at my own pace. Can't wait to go back next week. read more

I love doing Pilates at Core Chicago Pilates. All the instructors are wonderful, very friendly and knowledgeable. I particularly like the small class sizes (maximum of 4 people for equipment classes, 8 people for mat classes). The instructors are able to tailor classes to special requests and provide adjustments as needed. Furthermore, the studio is lovely, lots of natural light and newer equipment. I would recommend Core Chicago Pilates to anyone! read more

Tried a Pilates class for the first time and I know I got a good workout. Not intimidating for a beginner and the workout was pretty fun. I thought Holly was great. Will definitely go back. read more

I really love this place. Every time I go back I like it even more. The classes are diverse and fun. I highly reccommend. Plus they have great specials AND you can even get a massage after class. read more

I'm not sure why there are less than five star reviews, as Holly and her practice are wonderful. Holly is extremely knowledgable and makes you feel SO comfortable during your session. I came to Holly to work on my diastasis after pregnancy and she has made such a tremendous difference in my life. I have been able to regain ab strength and am getting back to my old shape! Holly is also extremely accommodating with scheduling. I had a family emergency come up and she not only accommodated the schedule change but also provided me with resources for the medical emergency. Her facility is always clean, up-to-date and convenient. Yelp is a tough place to really discern how accurate reviewers can be, but if you are truly looking for a well-educated, kind pilates instructor, then look no further. Holly is the best around. read more

I love this place! It's just what I look for in a small pilates studio. The instructors are wonderful. They give everyone individual attention. I look forward to class each and every time! read more

Holly is a great instructor and is very knowledgeable. She has helped me gain strength in a short amount of time. I like the small studio feel. read more

I have been taking classes at this studio for a couple of years and it is THE BEST. I have lost weight, and look better than ever - even though I am truly middle aged! The intimate size of the place is a huge plus and I love that the reformer work is going on up on the second floor and separted from the spin and other group classes. read more

I have been to a lot of pilates studios, and I have found a home at Core Chicago Pilates. It is the best studio ever. Holly is truly a phenomenal instructor. She is extremely knowledgeable and so patient and helpful. The classes are small so you get individual attention, and every group class I have been to is filled with the nicest people. I really consider this a community and am so happy to have found such a positive and happy place. I have seen great results working with Holly in both private and group classes. read more

Went to my first spin class and did not know what to expect. What a nice surprise, super instructor that was more than willing to explain and make sure that the students were comfortable. I would definitely recommend and will certainly go back. read more

This studio offers so much more than you would get in a typical studio or large gym. Small and intimate classes, an energetic staff, and above all else, a great community feel. I tend to switch gyms and studios every year or so but I will definitely be sticking with this one for as long as I can. From novice to expert, this place just makes you feel welcome. read more

I have lived in the neighborhood for over 12 years and have walked by the studio with my dogs many, many times. Over the holiday break I decided that doing home yoga tapes wasn't cutting it anymore. I needed help finding my motivation for a tough workout. I found it with Holly at Core. I have attended pilates and cardio barre classes. The classes are small and personal and everyone is friendly. I've been going twice a week for the last month and I love it. read more