This place is an absolute gem.
I started doing Pilates last year to whip myself into shape for my wedding, and now I'm thoroughly hooked. I adore Pilates & Arts and have completely fallen in love with pilates thanks to Tannis and her team!
Tannis, the owner, is a gifted instructor herself; she's energetic, whimsical and encouraging. She just bubbles over with energy. Like...I think she might be a wizard. She's kind of magic. Her mat class on Friday morning is one of the highlights of my week.
The space itself is awesome. Lots of light, high ceilings--very clean and bright. Add in some wonderful, warm instructors, beautiful equipment, attentive instruction, cool local art--and you've got Pilates & Arts!
I'm a huge fan of both reformer and mat pilates, and would wholeheartedly recommend both here (as well as the many superfun Branch classes). I know, I know; "Pilates is expensive..." But this place? It's worth every single penny. You're investing in your body and well-being, and supporting a really special local business in the process. You get so much more than you pay for with this place. You won't be disappointed! (And the best part? You get a great bod in the process.)
*A little advice for beginners: before jumping into group reformer classes, get yourself acquainted with the process and equipment by doing a few private classes first. There's a three-class intro special that I would definitely recommend--that's what I did way back in the day. It really got me ready so I was comfortable and part of the flow once I started group classes.*
Honestly, I don't know where I'd be without this place. P&A is one of Echo Park's hidden treasures that I've really come to cherish. It's truly a joy attending classes here and I look forward to many more years of pilates!
**One last little note...
As you might have noticed, I'm a devoted fan of this place. As a result, I've taken classes from almost every single instructor here.
I know whenever I start classes somewhere new, I always have a little fear of the unknown/teacher trepidation. So, for all you curious newcomers, here's the lowdown on the other teachers so you can book your classes without fear...
+ Anastasia--attentive, deeply knowledgeable, and grounding. Her Sunday mat class at noon is a must!
+ Stephanie--thorough, thoughtful, and observant. She makes you very aware of yourself (in a good way). Great teacher.
+ Dylan--quirky and fun, but not afraid to challenge you. Her jump board class is not to be missed! (All the benefits of a regular reformer class + great cardio.)
+ Katie--upbeat, kind, perceptive, and straight-up awesome. She's only at P&A on Sundays, and her classes are always a treat!
+ Elizabeth--friendly, very aware, and empathetic. She has a deep knowledge of anatomy and movement and it comes through in her classes.
+ Eric--extensively knowledgable and very much a gentleman, but get ready to WORK! He'll whip you into shape. read more