I've been doing Pilates for a while, and Tandem Pilates just hits different. The instructors really…read moreknow their stuff and explain things in a way that actually makes you feel the movement. I've noticed a big difference in how I engage my muscles, especially in classes like CoreSculpt. The studio is also a big plus--tons of natural light and a really calm, welcoming vibe. But honestly, what keeps me coming back is how good the teaching is. Every class feels super intentional and well put together. I also like that they offer both reformer and mat classes, so you can switch it up and keep things interesting. Bootycore is definitely a standout if you want a good lower body burn.

Tam is great! You can tell this is not her first rodeo. Her class is challenging, engaging and…read morefunny- "[directive], thank you, dears" "great job, loves!" Looking forward to taking another one of her classes soon!

I am writing this review as both a health care provider and a client of Leah Paperno. Leah rocks! I…read morecouldn't have asked for a better pilates instructor. I've been doing privates with Leah for a few months now and have noticed many positive changes in my body. My hamstring muscles (biceps femoris, intermembronosis and intertendonosis) tend to be tight, my groin muscles (gracilis) tend to be tight (and weak) and my abs (rectus abdominus, obliques) tend to be weak. Thanks to Leah's observations, we have explored both stretching out these bad boys and making them stronger. My body awareness has increased dramatically under Leah's instruction and I feel my body both open up and become stronger. Everyone should be so lucky to have a wonderful pilates teacher like Leah! The nitty gritty: Cash or check, park in the lot that shares with Mariposa Bakery and get there on time to make the most of your sessions with Leah! Find Leah here: http://leahpaperno.wordpress.com/

A welcoming, organized, fully equipped studio in a lovely space, with a darling chocolate lab…read moreon-site (as in labrador retriever, not a laboratory for making chocolate :) But the best thing about this studio is Alyssa Conn. Her in-depth knowledge of anatomy, exercise physiology, orthopedics, bodywork, and movement is tremendously helpful if you're dealing with pain, injury, or asymmetry. What's even better is that she explains things to me very clearly and patiently, which is important because I want to understand the underlying causes of my frequent injuries and how to treat and prevent them.

Have you found your Bliss yet? Mona Meline is amazing!…read more Who is she, you may be wondering? She's the proprietor of Bliss Fitness & Health, a woman owned/inclusive and most importantly a FUN local fitness studio (community). Mona is the main teacher (though the other instructors are awesome too) for the fitness classes offered at Bliss. Bliss Fitness is a great neighborhood spot. It's a fun alternative to a traditional gym with small group classes, private one-on-one training and a massage room by appointment. The studio is bright, inviting, well-ventilated and lavender scented spray to clean the equipment and props. I tried a three week trial for the group classes, which gave me the opportunity to try the various types of classes offered by day of the week. There is also a series of morning classes but that isn't my speed thus I went for the evening offerings. At this time I've sampled the TRx (total resistance training), a Stable and Strong core class, a Recess Time reimagined circuit-training as well as a more mellow abs and hips class. I was able to repeat some of the weekly varietals and found that despite the 'same' flow consistency, they were rarely the same poses and varied considerably. Mona and the other staff are always asking how much steam we have/was the class challenging enough or just the right beat/level? The class workout music curation is excellent and will have you moving! If you are not experienced/in shape, there are modifications available for most of the poses/exercises to suit your strength. Mona brings her infectious energy to each class. And despite groaning - they go by fast, which just serves to highlight the enjoyment of the workout, something I LOVE! I now understand what people mean when they say they are addicted to a workout/runner's high. Of all the class offerings I am the biggest fan of TRX. It is daunting for sure but by the end of class I feel strong and competent and I have found that this energy carries over into my life, so I am hooked. I would be remiss if I didn't circle back to the dynamo instructor and fitness coach that is Mona. Give this local business https://blissfitoakland.com/ a try, I am confident that you will not have any regrets!

I've walked by the Bliss sign for years as it's in my neighborhood. I finally decided to check it…read moreout because I'm now in my mid40s and need to think about my bone health and balance . I've never enjoyed working out, but after my 3week trial I was hooked. I love Kelly's rebel recess class so much, I've had my daughter and best friend join me for a few classes, and I rave about this place. Mona and Kelly teach fun, varied, challenging classes that keep me coming back for more. It feels safe and inclusive and non judgmental for folks of all ages and fitness levels. The community at Bliss is also friendly and welcoming. I highly recommend it for a challenging, FUN work out.

As a newcomer to Pilates, I was really unsure of where to go or how to start. I found Bayside…read morePilates on the web, and went with them because they had a nice site and because they had great prices on classes. I have been really pleased with my choice. Faye is an excellent teacher! She provides excellent group and individual classes. She pays a lot of attention to each student and remembers all of their physical histories. She really works with past injuries and current concerns. I've seen a lot of progress, and actually enjoy coming to class to exercise! Faye makes the workouts challenging without killing you, and makes exercising fun.

I was referred to Bayside Pilates by a friend to whom I am now forever indebted. I had an injury…read moreto my ankle, knee and lower back. I was at the point where the injury was mostly healed but all of the surrounding muscles lost their strength and were not working properly due to over-compensation and in the case of my abs, inactivity. I came to Faye suffering from severe sciatica. I couldn't walk more than a half a block without severe pain in my lower back. Faye took on a pretty hard case with me and let me tell you, Faye is a GREAT teacher! She has infected me with Pilates. I can't stop! It doesn't hurt my back! Her passion for her calling is wonderful and inspiring. 1. She is very knowledgeable and well-trained in her field. She explains everything she is asking you to do and how it works to strengthen you. 2. She corrects your form carefully so that you will not hurt yourself. Make sure you fill out her form thoroughly so that she can help you not to re-injure yourself. 3. The studio is beautifully designed, furnished and is spotless! Very zen and all new! She takes very good care of her equipment and asks you to do so too. I really like that. It shows her respect for her calling, herself, and her clients. 4. She is affordable. Believe me, other studios are more expensive and aren't nearly as approachable or nice. 5. Her attitude towards her students is helpful, nurturing and fun. She makes you want to come back. For those who know me, exercise was NOT my favorite thing. But this is really fun. She is encouraging, even when I feel like a beached whale on her equipment. 6. You will see results. I have gone for 6 times now, I think, and I can see the results in my yoga, cycling and walking. Yes, Pilates is making other exercise more fun for me. Already, less pain, and my workers comp chiropractor says that Faye is having me do exactly the right things! Oh Joy! 7. Her studio is in a safe area with a big inexpensive parking lot about a block away. And after your workout... there's Piedmont Avenue to explore! This is great for your body, and I love it. I am not some perfectly trim, dancer's body, young, athletic hipster. I'm a plump mom in my late 50's. If I can be helped, ANYONE can be helped by Faye and her Pilates studio. Give her a try. You will love it.

This is a very cute small studio in a nice location in North Oakland. Julia, the studio owner, is…read morean excellent teacher -- careful sequencing, careful instruction, knowledgeable. However, I've done classes with a half dozen or so other teachers and they were all pretty meh. For me, it just isn't worth it when there's only one teacher whose classes I enjoy. However, if you're looking for a private instructor, Julia would be a good choice.

This is where I got introduced to Pilates. I work with Cheyenne and she's terrific. I've done yoga…read moreand gym workouts for decades, but Pilates is unique. You want an instructor who's knowledgeable, encouraging, patient, and communicates clearly. Someone who can adapt the workout to your specific needs and abilities. Cheyenne is all those things. Plus the facility is clean and comfortable. I really like this place.

This gym is small, but packs a punch! I've always been able to find parking right out front. The…read morestaff is very helpful. The equipment is essentially new and impeccably maintained. If you hate going to big corporate gyms, this is the place for you. It's like having your own private gym with a couple of your friends. Whenever I've gone here there's usually one or two other people working out. But sometimes there's none at all. The entire gym is essentially the size of a two bedroom apartment, which sounds small, but they've laid it out very smartly. For the people who like lifting there are great lifting racks and all the weights you could ever want. For the people who like cardio there's all the different types of machines that you could want.

The gym has everything you need, but the lady who mans the place is a nightmare and makes you not…read morewant to work out. My friend who is a personal trainer came with me and was literally about to blow her lid because this woman kept coming over to micromanage. I also saw her speaking very condescendingly to an older man who apparently paid for some service where she sets up the weights for him at each station, trying to make him feel bad about having done so. It was weird. It takes enough energy to motivate to get to gym and this kind of presence should not be the obstacle.

Excellent pilates studio with exceptional instructors. Roxanne owns the studio but doesn't teach in…read moreperson anymore. But she's got incredible talent in choosing amazing instructors. I go twice a week and see Krista and Cheyenne. Both are knowledgeable, fun, and really good at modifying for my many injuries. I've seen Tonya as well and she's really good also. Since I've been going I've noticed my core strength improving, my shoulders are much stronger , and my pain levels have decreased dramatically. I'm a chiropractor and I send many of patients here, knowing they will take good care of them. The studio itself is clean, stylish and filled with light. I highly recommend taking pilates here.

I started at Roxanne Graziano's studio a few months ago when my private instructor Lala began…read moreteaching there. The space is wonderful and the staff is very kind. Lala is truly one of a kind. She is excellent for people with injuries or those that are just looking to stay in shape. She makes Pilates fun and the studio space is a great place to do work out with her in. I highly recommend that you check out this studio and if possible take a class with Lala! She will make you laugh and sweat!

Its small but has everything you'd need for spin. Single Large spin classes happening throughout…read morethe day not just the mornings. Many different instructors with different styles. Tons of spin shoes for you to borrow. Three private shower rooms. Comfy changing rooms with amenities like ear plugs if it too loud, deodorant, etc. friendly to all genders. If you buy packages of classes you can also take their other classes if you want a break from spin. Stretch, pilates , core , etc They have a new comer trial mini pack to try them out for a few days. Is recommend slowly up gradually to more classes tho see if their schedule matches yours.

Such a great studio and community! They have several in options for classes throughout the day and…read moregreat instructors! I enjoy going to Minphy, Jonathan, and Marcella's indoor cycling classes. They have so much energy and are great instructors. They have a great playlist too! JL is a great Pilates instructor as well! All of the employees are so nice and friendly! It makes you want to come back and be a part of the community they are building. They also have a great smoothie bar that is decently priced. I recommend getting the cool down with a scoop of protein!