I've been doing Pilates with Dondi for a few months to help with lower back pain, and I've seen real improvement. Dondi is knowledgeable, kind, and takes time to explain each movement and the muscles involved. She picked up right where my physical therapy left off, focusing on the areas my doctor recommended. The schedule is flexible, and while the cost is on the higher side, the small class size and personalized instruction make it worth it. Highly recommend for targeted support and steady progress. read more

I love coming to Dondi and her studio. I've been to Pilates classes in the past but have always felt uncomfortable in a large class not knowing if I'm actually doing the moves correctly. This is a lot less intimidating and she really helps you with your form and technique. I've been coming for almost 3 months and have lost almost 20 pounds. My husband and kids have noticed I'm a lot stronger and toned. I used to only be able to do maybe 1 push up and now I can do 30 push ups and I even beat my son at the monkey bars at the park. I look forward to every session with Dondi. I highly recommend you give Core Plus Pilates a try. You won't regret it! read more

I highly recommend Dondi and her studio! She offers a flexible schedule and a variety of challenges to keep workouts engaging. She always ensures we have the right form. The studio, equipment, and mats are always super clean. Her instructions are clear, and she adjusts the equipment for us, making workouts smooth and effective. Dondi is super nice, funny, and knowledgeable. My body is definitely more toned, stronger, and in better shape since I started. Highly recommend Core Plus Pilates! read more

Dondi is super sweet and a really great pilates instructor. The classes helped me get a full body workout in with great form. The equipment and mats are all provided- it's really convenient for those that have busy weekdays like I do. I highly recommend booking a class here! read more

I've always wanted to try Pilates and I somehow found a deal on Groupon, which lead me to Core Plus Pilates. Dondi, the owner, is very knowledgeable, funny and down to earth. Her classes will give you a total body workout that you never knew you needed. She teaches you how to use different equipments and guide you through them. The workouts are fun and quick. You're not doing the same thing over and over. After having two kids back to back, Dondi helped me tone my body and regain my muscles. I highly recommend this studio! read more

I love it here.... It's my first experience with Pilates and I've seen such a change in just five weeks. Dondi takes time to explain the exercises and we work the whole entire body every workout. Definitely a must try! read more

Absolutely love Dondi and how she does Pilates! I am a beginner and had never done Pilates prior to her. She explains everything very well and makes all the adjustments for you on the equipment. Dondi is super sweet and kicks my butt twice a week. The classes are small which I really like because she is able to help you if needed. I have been going for only 2 months now and can already feel myself getting more toned. read more

Pilates is one of my favorite workouts! I've been going to Core Plus with Dondi for several months now and I have to say the small class size is perfect for me and the circuit training really challenges my body! The flexible schedule makes things easy to plan my workouts because we all know life happens. Dondi is fun to train with and she helps me get better each class. My body has felt stronger and stronger. With the combination of working out and eating well, I've toned and lost 7lbs. I highly recommend this Pilates studio. Oh one last thing, I always appreciate the different workouts each class because we all know we need different workouts to see results! read more

Love this place! I've been coming for 4 months now and feel stronger, leaner, and my posture is definitely better! Super clean and owner/instructor offers a great workout with variety, challenge and fun! read more

I've been training twice a week with Dondi for a few months now and I can really feel a difference in my body. I highly recommend!!! Having a stronger core is everything. I used to train heavy weights at the gym, but honestly, focusing on gentle (but still enough to break a sweat!) movements in Pilates has created even better results. Better results while being more gentle on your body... I'd sign up for that any day of the week. Oh and you will feel very clumsy on your first day :) even with a strong background of weight lifting, some of these moves are HARD. But the best part is that after just one month, I was able to do things I previously couldn't. It's very motivating. I am not on a diet and I am the exact same weight since I started, but my waist feels smaller, and my best friend that hasn't seen me in months told me that stomach looks "really flat" lol I don't think I'm thin by any means but my body composition has definitely changed for the better and I fit into my jeans much nicer. Sooooo worth the price, and honestly Dondi charges exceptionally reasonable prices for the value that you get!!! I'm leaving this review because I know it can be intimidating to try a new fitness routine, but Dondi creates a great atmosphere in small group or 1:1 and I highly highly recommend. read more

My favorite Pilates studio in the OC! I'm super lazy when it comes to working out and it's hard for me to stay motivated, but Dondi makes exercising fun and effective. I noticed a difference after just one session and now I'm hooked. No need to fear bikini season anymore! I love how she uses circuit training so every session is different and I never get bored. Her class sizes are super small so I get a lot of personal attention in making sure my form is correct, which is super important! Try it out--you won't regret it. read more

I love the variety of this workout. You never get bored. I also did not dread waking up for it like I did other classes I have taken. The time flew by. Not terribly difficult but fantastic results. Nice small class sizes too. read more

Dondi is the best! I've worked out with Dondi for 10 months and my body has totally changed. It is awesome! :) I used to feel fatigue all day before I met her but now I am super active. Also my shoulder pain's completely gone. Dondi keeps everything clean and always burns scented candles. She also provides flexible schedule so that I can have a makeup class easily. Everything here is perfect! I'd definitely recommend this place. ;) read more

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Awesome fun workouts. Dondi has circuit training style pilates and works on full body muscle. Highly recommend!

My experience so far: Total body workout at every session. Stronger upper and lower body. Lean muscles. Learn to do push-ups properly. Learn "not to hate" push-ups. Actually "do" more than one push-up at a time. Get stronger abs. Do a variety of ab exercises. Flexible schedule, small groups. Very relaxed atmosphere. Dondi is very cool! read more

Core Plus Pilates - Side plank with Dondi - Pilates Near Me - Irvine, California

This is a long overdue review. I have been coming to Core Plus Pilates for about three years. I stopped during CV19 but I am back at it again. Dondi is on top of her game every time I come in. She is so much fun but down to business with making sure you get a total workout in the hour you are with her. I originally came in to get in shape for snowboard season. I did not want to have the leg and muscle pain from starting up after a long summer break and being out of riding shape. For the first year I did not feel any start up pain when the season started. Her workouts improved my flexibility and reduced my back pain. Thanks Dondi for giving me a new lease on life. read more

I will keep my review short and sweet.. If you want to build strength and improve the look of your physique try core plus pilates training sessions. I was a beginner in pilates and really wanted to have a more personal attention in my workouts and Dondi (the owner) delivered just that. She customizes each session to your needs and pushes you with each exercise. Her group classes are really small, usually 3-4 people and you really feel like she pays attention to each student and their performance. She is also a really nice person and makes everyone feel welcome. read more

Core Plus Pilates - Get in one of her classes if you want to improve your body tone. - Pilates Near Me - Irvine, California

I love coming to Pilates here ! Dondi is so knowledgeable and will make sure you are doing everything correctly ! If you want a teacher who will actually teach you and pay close attention to each student in her class she's your girl ! read more

OK...Here is the very brief review. All I can say is that if you are starting Pilate, you definitely want to meet with the instructor, Dondi Hall. When you meet someone, you can tell if the person really cares for her/his job. It is obvious that Dondi knows her stuff and she is passionate about teaching Pilate the right way. She walks you through the Pilate, the process and breaks down what each work out is all about. You rarely find a teacher who is so detailed oriented. I highly recommend Dondi for her deep knowledge and care for the student. And i have tried three different Pilate places and while the other places were all good, this place is step above all of them. read more

I have been coming here for two months now and I see a big difference in my energy level and how toned my muscles are especially my abs and Gluteus Maximus! Dondi genuinely cares about her clients and she is passionate about what she does. She meticulously curates the workout to target every muscle of your body to look tone and lean. Every time you come it's a different routine so you never get bored! She keeps the place super clean and sanitized. read more

I have been suffering from upper back pain for the past few months. I went to see doctors, chiropractors, you name it...I've seen them all. Then I met Dondi. This is my first experience with pilates. I have never taken any lessons before. I am now pain free. No more back pains. Dondi is an amazing teacher! She is so patient and just a joy to be around. I highly recommend her. She is very knowledgeable and well experienced in pilates. If you are looking to get in shape, Dondi's Core Plus Pilates is the way to go. read more

I had a great session with Dondi! She is very knowledgeable about the benefits of Pilates and puts you through the paces for a quality, sustained and intense workout. I exercised the areas of upper and lower body for a more cardiovascular workout than I expected and I left feeling much better physically than when I arrived. I can tell that despite years of running and traditional gym equipment exercises, my core/torso is not strong - and this type of toning and strengthening movements achieves that. Highly recommend the studio, the program and the instructor. read more

I have been working out at Core Plus Pilates for almost 3 years and it is still going strong! Not only my core strength has become much stronger, my balance, body coordination and overall physical ability all improved a lot. Dondi's Pilates class makes it so much more interesting than working out at a regular gym. She introduces new challenges as my strength advances and is always open to incorporate other trainer's moves I found online. I have never been in better shape and I continue to be surprised of room to improve whenever she throws challenges to me. Her flexible schedule is another top reason I'm sticking to her studio. If you work out during week days, you will appreciate this extra advantage! read more

After years of inactivity, "social" drinking, and weekly carne-asada burritos, the aging process finally caught up to me. I started to notice that dreaded stomach pooch, and decided that it was time to do something about it. I've heard great things about pilates and wanted to give it a try. I met Dondi, founder of Core Plus Pilates, and started going to classes twice a week. After only 8 sessions, I noticed a drastic difference. Besides the fact that I saw results almost immediately, what I enjoyed most about Core Plus is that: - The sessions are semi-private, so you get a lot of personal attention - The instructor is knowledgeable and customizes your training - The studio is clean and the equipments are new I can't think of a better to work out than pilates and there's no place better than Core Plus. read more

Found this place on Yelp and let me tell you I'm glad I did. Dondi, the owner, is super nice and flexible in her schedule to accommodate you. I've been going for 1/2 a month twice a week after work for an hour and I can already see the results. With a small class size (1-3 people), Dondi pays special attention to your needs to make sure that the workout isnt too hard but at the same time, still tones your muscles and gives you a great workout. She also shows you the exercises and watches you to make sure that you're doing everything properly. In addition, she changes up the workout exercises on the reformer, mat and other pilates equipment I have yet to familarize the names to to make sure that every muscle gets a workout. And let me tell you, you for sure will feel your muscles ache after workouts. I've been eating Golden Spoon almost everyday since coming here and these workouts must sure work cause I've definitely been losing the weight while enjoying myself with delicious foods. =) read more

I love Pilates and its low-impact workout. For those who believe it's a girls-only sissy workout, beware - Dondi* has been able to make men weak in the knees and shaken in their Nikes. :) (* Dondi = brainchild Core Plus Pilates) After just several weeks of working out with Dondi, J and I went snowboarding and he already commented on how much better my stance and balance was! Pilates helped me fall less! I also could only do like 2 push-ups when I started, but now I can do 10 and have developed tricep muscles for the first time in my life! Why is working out at CPP different than other studios? 1. You have the trainers attention in a semi-private environment (session have 1-3 students at a time). 2. Dondi is very flexible with the schedules. 3. The studio is very clean and new and always has fresh towels and hand sanitizer. 4. Dondi's attention to your form and development is instrumental in bettering your body and practice. She is constantly changing up the workouts. Even after a few months now, I still learn new exercises every week. read more

This is my first EVER yelp review and Dondi deserves it. I've been here for past 7 months twice a week and I am truly satisfied with the results. My body (especially my core) feels stronger than ever. I've done Pilates at other places before but Dondi is one of the best trainers I've had past few years. She incorporates both reformer and mat pilates. I recommend Core Plus Pilates for three main reasons: 1) Flexible Schedule: Not only is she knowledgeable but also she's so accommodating & flexible with scheduling. Most places will charge you for cancellation without 24-hour notice for your lessons but with Dondi, you can cancel even if something comes up at work very last minute. Plus, she will even let you make it up any time during that week/month! Great for working women/men. 2) Cleanliness: Core Plus Pilates studio is immaculate. From the mats to towels, everything is clean. You won't be laying down on a mat that smells like dirty socks. Also all the equipment are clean and new. 3) Fun and Friendly environment: I hate going to the gym because I can't even stay on the treadmill for 30 minutes However, at Core Plus, one hour can fly by. Dondi always makes the class interesting! It definitely helps with creating routines for your workout. I highly recommend Core Plus Pilates if you work/live near Irvine. read more

I love Core Plus Pilates because it is easy to add to my already crazy schedule and I've seen results. I go twice a week right after work for a 1 hour class, and well, let's just say that my boyfriend is getting a little tired of me flexing my biceps in the mirror... and in front of store windows... and anything else with even a hint of reflection. I can't help it! I definitely saw changes in my muscle tone within the first 6 classes, but this is different. I am in the middle of my fourth month with CPP and my pants fit better, my chronic neck/shoulder pain (from stress/computer use) has definitely subsided, and with summer coming up, I'm definitely not as worried about what my butt looks like in my swimsuit. SUCCESS! The work out is simple, yet challenging at the same time. Usually there are 2-3 people in a class; I've even had the luxury of being on my own a few times. Dondi (the teacher/owner) creates custom circuit style work outs that incorporates reformer, Cadillac, and mat exercises. Some of the moves were a little tough at first (easier if you have a dance or athletic background or if you've done Pilates before - duh), but you pick it up quick. Every work out is a little different than the day before; Dondi does a great job of switching it up. I love the variety and that I never have to remember exercise is next, like when you work out on your own at the gym. No pressure, no "omg do I look stupid doing this," no big muscle men in the corner grunting as they squat free weights equal to your body weight. If you're like me - never had time to work out, always have an excuse, impatient for actual results - you will like CPP. The work out keeps my attention, the results keep me motivated, and Dondi keeps me accountable. She is a great teacher and a pleasure to see each week. read more

I've been wanting to take pilates classes for a while but felt too self conscious about my COVID weight gain and general lack of coordination. I finally built up the courage to call and I'm so glad I did. Dondi is an amazing instructor! From the first lesson she made me feel at home. She's very personable so the class goes by faster and she's always switching things up to keep things fresh. She is flexible about scheduling, which is a must for someone like me with a variable work schedule. I've been losing weight and feeling more confident. I am really glad I started pilates with Dondi at core plus pilates ! read more

Have wanted to try Pilates for quite some time. Have worked out at a gym forever and have had a personal trainer for several years. Looking to mix things up and get away from the gym/circuit training I thought I'd venture out. I did a fair amount of research of location, reviews and price. I called Dondi at Core Plus Pilates and left a message. She returned my call promptly and we set up a private session for my first class. I really enjoyed the work as she incorporates both mat work with several Pilates specific machines (yes she has the reformer). Since my first session I see Dondi around 2 to 3 times per week. The cost is manageable and I was totally surprised at the total workout that I am getting. Dondi keeps the class at a maximum of 4 people and everyone taking the classes generally have the same goals in mind. I've never had any issues with other students and everyone is very supportive. Dondi is a high energy girl, has a great attitude and keeps the classes fun. Both my husband and I enjoy taking the classes together or in personal sessions if that works best for our schedules. This is a guaranteed great work out and a definite way to feel better about yourself :) read more

With two months left before my wedding and still ten pounds (and inches of flab) away from my goal... I went to Core Plus Pilates hoping for a minor miracle. I signed up to come in three times a week and hoped for the best. Now its been two months since my wedding and my pictures are the best proof of how Dondi helped transform my body from couch potato to pilates princess. Each inch of my body has changed dramatically thanks to her skill and attention in targeting the spots that are so hard to change (hello, saddlebags). I lost more than 10 pounds, shed inches from my body and had to get rid of every pair of pants I owned. But the most suprising part of going to Core Plus Pilates was how it has become the highlight of my day. The classes are tiny with so much personal attention (Dondi will bust you if you are slacking) - filled with great people - you almost forget that you are putting in a tough workout. Trust me, miracles happen at Core Plus Pilates... I have the pictures to prove it. read more

You will love this place. If you're looking for a dynamic workout, a supportive trainer, and an impeccably clean place to exercise, this is it! I worked out at Core Plus Pilates twice a week for about a year. I have since moved away, and I miss it dearly. Dondi, the owner/trainer, customizes workouts to your goals. She has also created workouts to cater to pregnant women, post-birth moms, and people with other special needs. Because of the small class size, you get personal attention. The workouts are challenging, and Dondi always changes up the routines. I came in wanting to maintain my weight but increase my strength, and stronger I am. When I first came in, I had trouble lifting my carry-on into the overhead compartment. (I travel a lot, so this was a constant reminder of my weakness). Now, even months after I stopped training, I can bust through a P90X Ab Ripper workout that would impress the socks off a body builder (my husband). read more

60+ and fighting, my commitment to age with strength and grace is what I get from my workouts at Core Plus Pilates. Pilates is all about core strength and Dondi keeps it interesting with a great mix of reformer, mat, chair, cadillac and barrel work. Every class is different and you're able to go at whatever pace works for you. Commit to a minimum 2-3 times a week for 6 months and you will be amazed at the strength you will develop not to mention improved posture and overall muscle tone. read more

Core Plus Pilates is the place to go if you're looking for a challenging but enjoyable workout! Dondi goes above and beyond what is expected of a fitness trainer and is extremely knowledgeable and easy & fun to work with. I recommend you sign up as soon as possible for the following reasons: - Great Workout: I used to run and go to the gym at least 4 times a week and considered myself in good shape, but as soon as I started Pilates I knew it was going to be a challenge. Her workouts left me breathless and sore and I felt stronger and more toned after just a few classes - much quicker than when I was only doing strength training at the gym. I also used to suffer from knee and back pain after almost every run but Pilates strengthened my muscles and improved my running performance. - Small Class Size: There are never more than 3 other people in the studio with you and the small class sizes guarantees personal attention from Dondi. It's not easy picking up new exercises and Dondi was so helpful and attentive when teaching us. She made sure our form was correct and spent as much time as we needed to answer our questions and even demonstrate the exercise for us. - Flexible: Dondi was extremely accommodating with schedule changes. I would often have to switch my usual class time due to work conflicts but Dondi always made sure I was able to book a makeup class. She was even able to accommodate some of my last minute requests to switch classes. - Enjoyable! I looked forward to going to class every week. Not only did I get in a great workout, but spending time in the studio with the other clients was always a good time. The hour goes by quickly and there's never a dull moment between exercising and catching up on the week's news, exchanging healthy eating tips, or just chatting about life. The only reason I quit was because I was relocated for work. I miss going to Core Plus Pilates and am afraid I won't be able to find a new studio of the same caliber. read more

I've been doing pilates for a year now and it has truly become an essential part of my life. I've become stronger and far more aware of the muscles in my body since training with Pilates. As with any other forms of exercise, you will still need to eat right while doing pilates to see optimum results but once you begin to see the changes in your body, you will definitely be motivated to further stay on your course. (And your friends will notice the changes, I assure you...) I used to train with Dondi at a different studio but was ecstatic about following her when she pulled the trigger on opening her own studio. Core Plus Pilates is clean with new equipments and reasonable pricing. I look forward to the sessions and I strongly recommend you check it out! read more

I would definitely recommend this place if you're looking for a well-rounded exercise. I've been doing pilates for about 11 years and when I moved here, I was looking for prenatal pilates. I gave a go at Core Plus Pilates and ever since I've been going here (took 2 months off and am back after giving birth). Compared to other pilates studio, let's just say she knows her stuff. She is very knowledgeable, very trustworthy and makes each class fun. Also, flexible scheduling is also a big plus, especially since I have two kids. I am definitely going to continue my exercise here. read more

Dondi is an amazing trainer. She is incredibly knowledgable, fun, and energetic. Her schedule is flexible as well. I highly recommend core plus!!! read more

This is one of the best workout classes I have ever taken. I have been working out for 10 years, and this is by far the best class I have taken. (I have done it all, yoga, cardio, weight lifting, swimming...etc.).First off Dondi is an excellent instructor, she explains things perfectly and makes sure you are always in the correct position. She is always so kind and helpful. This gives you a full body work out,that makes you sweat, and burn them calories, but never makes you feel like you can't walk to the car after. Second I never gotten bored during the work out, Dondi always changes it up and it fun to learn new things to do! Lastly it's great prices for the classes! I absolutely love it, this is the place to go! read more

After years of unsuccessful dieting and work out plans, I decided to give pilates a try. I had debated signing up for years due to the high cost, but let me tell you...its worth every penny! I went in for my free trial session, and knew right away that this would be something I could stick to, and see great results. I signed up for a 6 month contract (2 sessions a week), and just renewed for another 6 months. I have already lost 14lbs and am at my goal weight. I look and feel better than I have in years. I'm in the best shape of my life, and owe it all to Core Plus Pilates. I finally have the arms, abs, butt and thighs that I have been admiring for years. The founder of Core Plus Pilates is a great instructor that gives the right combination of personalized workouts and motivation. She is very organized and is able to accommodate my busy work schedule. I highly recommend Dondi and Core Plus Pilates, if you are ready to take the next step to better your health and body. read more

I bought the yelp deal and went, Dondi was very accommodating with my schedule. I arrived, she gave me the tour, went to work. It was a good workout, I definitely got my money's worth with the yelp deal. Loved the way she incorporated other disciplines into the workout. Her classes are too pricey for me, and she knew that from the start but still tried to give me a fair class, I appreciated that. She kept saying that pilates is a very expensive work out. If I won the lotto (oops- I'd have to buy a ticket first!), I'd be inclined to come back. I am sure there are plenty of women in So OC to keep someone like Dondi employed- she is very talented at her job, read more