In an effort to check out some of the gyms in the NOVA area, I enrolled in a free trial of Class…read morePass and started taking some of the classes at studios I was always curious about. Over the holidays I tried a hot pilates class with friends, so I started giving a few studios a try. Initially, when I saw Mind the Mat offered a HAWT Pilates for Beginners, I was ESTATIC. However upon further review of the HAWT Pilates class offering, the description said the class wasn't really for beginners. So sadly I opted not to enroll in any classes BUT THEN(!!) MTM had the awesome idea to offer a beginner version and I enrolled immediately (at least I think it's fairly new)! When I arrived at the studio there were multiple classes going on and the "lobby" area was full of classgoers coming and going into various classes. The beginner instructor, Erika, called for all newbies to head over to the studio where class was offered - which was great because there was no front desk staff. Once in the room you were immediately embraced with the muggy temperature that hot classes are known for. I put my items into a free cubby and started setting up. This class was completely full so we were all comfortably close. Erika came around and checked us in as we started setting up so that class could begin on time. The class itself was AMAZING. Although lots of classes sometimes say they are beginner friendly, it can be hard to learn the fundamentals. What I loved about beginner HAWT pilates is it really walked up through the different movements and taught us how to breathe correctly and what it means to scoop your belly. I can say with certainty I was doing it all wrong before! Although the class wasn't the most challenging it was EXCELLENT for beginners and is the perfect introduction to pilates. Erika was very friendly and was able to offer corrections to everyone and ensure you were truly learning. I can't say enough positive things about the class and studio! My only "negatives" are that 1. There is no water for purchase so should you forget a bottle you're out of luck and 2. I wish the beginner's class was offered on more days and times. Nonetheless I highly recommend the studio and have had a blast at the classes I have attended! Thanks Erika and MTM!

Looove this yoga/Pilates studio! All the instructors are so friendly and knowledgeable in their…read moreteachings. I regularly take their hot power flow yoga and their Pilates boot camp classes and also started appreciating the stretching classes offered here too. I used to go to CorePower regularly but I'm so happy to find a local studio I can go to instead that also offers such a nice variety of classes with such quality instructors. The studio definitely doesn't have the type of amenities CorePower has so if that's really important to you, this studio might not be it but I'm happy to forego those for a more reasonably priced studio!

Tried Pilates for the first time at Praxi Pilates, and overall it was a good experience. I wasn't…read moresure what to expect, but the studio had a calm, clean setup that made it easy to settle in. The instructor explained things clearly and was patient with me as a beginner, which I appreciated. The workout itself was definitely challenging, but in a way that felt manageable. If you're new to Pilates, Praxi Pilates is worth checking out. I did the 2 week new client trial membership and it was really worth it.

Update 2024: five years in and still feel the same! Praxi Pilates is a fun, challenging workout…read morethat I love, supports a strong body, and complementary cross-training for my other athletic hobbies (running, swimming). I go to Praxi instead of other Pilates studios because I feel like the workout changes to keep me challenged and interested, the instructors care and modify exercises for all levels (modify down and up!), and I really enjoy the community that Praxi offers!

I've enjoyed classes at Vida Pilates, and I'd highly recommend their program, especially if you're…read morelooking for an equipment Pilates studio. The teachers are great, the location is convenient, and the class prices are competitive. I've dabbled in mat Pilates for a while. I'd heard people rave about the Reformer and Tower, but I was intimidated to try them. Thankfully, my fears melted away when I started at Vida Pilates. I began with the prenatal/postnatal class with Dorothy, which is excellent. She tailors exercises to the students while teaching core fundamentals to maintain strength and good posture during the pregnancy journey. This class kickstarted new routines for me outside the studio, like incorporating more stretching and breathing exercises into my daily life. If you're a new mom or a mom-to-be, give this class a shot! It was also a great way to get familiar with the machines and see how they can take my Pilates practice to the next level. Vida Pilates is located on the basement level of the Ballston Vida gym. It's a short walk from metro, or garage parking is available ($1 for three hours). Group classes are small (1-5 students) and the facility is pretty new and clean. From my research, prices are similar and/or cheaper than other local studios. Vida members get a discount on equipment classes and can take free mat classes (with the same teachers) as part of the group fitness schedule.

From the owner: Strength of body. Peace of mind. Experience what the hype of VIDA Pilates is all about. VIDA…read moreBallston is conveniently located next to Ballston Quarter and the Ballston Metro stop. Aside from metro accessibility, we validate 3 hours of parking for $1 on P1 (take the dedicated elevator to the lobby). Beyond the Studio Luxe amenities, including a full-service locker room, sauna, and steam room. Fuel Bar featuring VIDA Signature Smoothies, assorted beverages, and snacks. Gear Shop featuring licensed VIDA Pilates apparel. Member lounge with comfortable seating and free wifi.

Club Pilates Pentagon City is amazing! Each class I attend I leave feeling stronger. Since…read morebeginning, my mobility has greatly improved. Club Manager Marley is always very welcoming and does a wonderful job at making the studio have a community feel. All of the instructors are fabulous. Instructor Maesy is awesome! Her classes are challenging and fun. I always leave her classes with a good sweat, a big smile, and a good laugh. Thank you Club Pilates Pentagon City

Terrible experience, honestly the worst I've ever had with a gym. Stay away from this place…read more I have never experienced such rude, unprofessional customer service in my life. I've been a member for about 6 months and actually enjoyed the classes and instructors, but the management completely ruined it. About two weeks ago, I got very sick and called the studio to ask if they could cancel my class as a courtesy and return the credit. I was clearly told yes over the phone. Two days later, nothing had been done. When I followed up, the manager, Marley, didn't even try to look into it, no apology, no effort to check. She immediately said that's "not what was notated," claimed I had been told no, and even accused me of being disrespectful, which is completely untrue. She wasn't even part of the original call. After pushing back, they eventually returned that credit, but the way it was handled was already unacceptable. Two days ago, I went in for a class. After the class, I calmly told the staff I want to cancel my membership because of how this was handled. I did not yell, I simply said I'm done with the studio. Yesterday, during a follow-up call, Marley escalated things further and claimed she had "seen footage" of me coming into the studio and yelling at staff. This is completely untrue, and no proof was provided for this claim. Then came the cancellation process. They brought up strict policies and additional fees, even though the only reason I'm leaving is how I was treated. After another few minutes of complete unprofessionalism from the so called studio manager, I was told my membership would be canceled and that I cannot come back to the studio again. The biggest issue is that they refused to let me use a class I had already paid for. I had a class already scheduled in the app, and I've attached screenshots showing both the scheduled class and how the app blocks bookings when you don't have credits. Marley told me that was "a credit for the next cycle," and since I'm not renewing, I have no credits left. That makes no sense. The app does not allow you to schedule a class unless you already have credits, which clearly shows this was a class I had already paid for. At this point, I don't even want to argue anymore or step into that place again. The most frustrating part is that at no point did the manager try to handle this professionally. There was no "let me look into this," no attempt to resolve the issue, just immediate defensiveness, interruptions, and accusations. Also, for a studio that charges a premium per class, there is zero flexibility or understanding. When I was sick, I did the responsible thing by not showing up, yet I was expected to lose a ~$40 class for something completely out of my control. What is the expectation, come in sick and risk everyone else? Between the lack of accountability, the way customers are spoken to, and the rigid policies with no consideration for real life situations, this experience has been extremely disappointing. If you read other reviews, you will see ongoing complaints about management. Based on my experience, I fully expect any response to this review to deflect responsibility rather than address what actually happened, just as it did when I tried to resolve this directly.

My review is a 4 purely because of the barrier of entry to this studio (and the same family of…read morestudios across the area). First you need to take a private session for $90+ unless you qualify and then you can sign up for a level 1 course. The pricing per class is quite high but that's on par for Arlington studios. The studio itself was quaint with some parking nearby. Bathrooms were clean and the studio was clean. I wish they had some frosted glass because I didn't love how everyone from the parking lot can see right in. The class sizes are small (reformer was 4 people) but allows for more hands on. The machines were easy to use and the instructor kind. My biggest issue is it took 1 month to get into a class- and you can't move on to level 2 unless you are approved (which leaves it vague). If you are level 1 and want to take multiple classes in Arlington a week, it's impossible. I would love to visit more but my lifestyle doesn't always allow me to schedule a class 4 weeks in advance. I would hate to buy a pack of 10 classes and never be able to get into a class and be at the mercy of being approved to getting into the higher level courses.

I called about starting classes here & they said I had to do a private lesson to learn the…read moreequipment. In the call, nobody mentioned there being a charge for this first private lesson (almost $100) - I just assumed as it is required, and almost like a "trial", it would be free. Upon talking with the owner who was very helpful they were able to resolve the situation and were very kind. I completed the private lesson with a very knowledgeable and kind trainer who was very helpful. The machines were well kept & the space was very nice. Great small business with helpful staff!

Great work out. Very difficult. I bought the 4 pack. They recommend you do starter courses…read morebefore jumping into the signature. Let me know if you are able to do that because I've been trying for a month. The ONLY offered times for this are like 130 pm and it never changes. Seeing how I have a job and don't want to sit around on Saturday or Sunday until 130, guess I will never complete them. Also the classes at good times fill up really quickly. Good gym, great staff but good luck with the scheduling.

Amazing instructors - Kylee, Dani, Ellie, and Bronte are all rockstars!…read more By far and away, the best workouts I've ever done.

Men, pilates is not just for women. Though, I would suggest this studio change their logo to…read moresomething a bit more gender neutral to bring in more dudes. My wife and I tried a private lesson with Tara on the equipment, and all I can say is do NOT watch stand up comedy after going here, cuz your abs will feel it. As a beginner, I appreciated that she explained all the exercises and made adjustments to the equipment (or my posture) to make sure I was getting the full workout and not risking injury. She often told me to look at my abs (to get the right posture). I can't see them yet, but with enough sessions, I might start to! We'll definitely be back.

TERRIBLE studio. They closed their Arlington location. Del Ray classes are MUCH too crowded no real…read moreinstruction. When I realized they were charging me class by class instead of package which I had for 6 years, I asked them to refund the difference. They said, Sheri, Sheri, Sheri does it really matter? We gave you so much grace when your father was dying." I missed ONE class during 7 months when my dad was dying. I quit immediately. Isn't a Pilates studio supposed to be be part of self-care? This was an awful way to treat a long time client during a fragile time.

I've been doing pilates here for years! It has changed my life. Andrea and Brad (specifically) are…read morepassionate about classical pilates and it is evident! I used to have lower back pain, and since being a student here I no longer have any issues because she has worked with me to strengthen my core over time! It's the best money I have ever spent on a class! I recommend this as preventative to everyone I know!

Moving to DC, I tried a ton of different studios to find a Pilates class that would challenge me…read moreand help me to really learn and understand what's going on in each exercise--why we do it and how to do it right. Being a classical studio, Andrea and the studio teachers are trained to break down each exercise, cater to the students, and make sure you leave feeling stronger. Classes at VIDA feel different than other studios where everyone really wants to be there, dedicated to that hour--excited to be pushed by the teachers, but also enjoy feeling the long term benefits of why we do Pilates. I couldn't recommend this studio more to beginners--the classical structure shapes your whole experience to guide you to the next levels with confidence, where advanced students are consistently challenged in every class.

Let me introduce you to my eXtend-ed Family (and maybe yours too!)…read more I've been coming here for almost two years, and while I originally came when my former beloved Barre3 studio closed in Clarendon, it now truly is a home to me. I dream about my teachers and friends at night, and I wake up in the morning looking forward to my mid-day workout (I most often take the noon classes). If I haven't been to the studio in a day or two (like when I am out of town) I don't quite feel 'right.' Let me tell you about the teachers: Dana is sunshine personified! Her positive energy is contagious, and her wit and word plays make me laugh out loud. She has a way of making everyone feel welcome and has only positive words to carry us through the classes. Her good-natured cheer and self-deprecating charm belies her intelligence and warmth. Elaine is a mistress of form. Her watchful eye ensures we all move safely and effectively, while offering modifications that cater to everyone. Her passion for teaching shines through, and she genuinely cares about helping each student improve. She is encouraging and helpful and always gives you a reliable workout with a good kind of exertion. Kelly, the owner, pours her heart and soul into this studio. Her classes, along with Stephanie's, are no joke - they'll push you to your limits, but you'll leave feeling empowered and accomplished. Kelly is a tough cookie and I think that the studio's success is a testament to her keen eye for detail (the Bath and Body Works hand soaps will always match the season, for example), her sense of style and her welcomed obsession with cleanliness. Kelly also has a ROBUST holiday decor repertoire for EVERY occasion. Alissa is GORGEOUS and you easily feel her warm embrace as soon as you walk into one of her classes. In Alissa's Barre Camp and Bounce classes, your coordination will be tested, but she always helps you feel totally OK about just doing what you can do and will talk you through every move and choreographed series. Emily is ADORABLE. She has a playful, jovial demeanor and her Bounce classes are my favorite since the trampoline is intimidating to me and she really breaks each move down and builds up slowly so you don't feel lame when you are bouncing like a goofball. Kate is literally a RIOT. You almost don't need any ab exercises since you'll be laughing the whole time, even as you are working your glutes or your triceps. She has an irreverence and wit that has led to me changing my family's weekend schedule so I can attend her Sunday classes. Marti and Tonya are both sweetness personified. Marti has a calm, wise, soulful spirit that is soothing, even as you are sweating. Her poise and grace are the perfect antidote to the early morning screech of the alarm. Because of my schedule, I don't get to take as many of Marti's classes, but when I do, I feel treated. Tonya's Southern accent sounds like mother's milk. She does a great job of coordinating the beat drop of a song to the moves and her workouts can be deceptively intense. Tonya's modesty alleviates any anxiety you might have when you have an 'off' day. "Bless her heart!" There are a handful of teachers that I have not had because I only take morning or noon-time classes. There are also teachers who have gone on to other destinies who I miss dearly (looking at you Colleen!) but every Xtend teacher I've had has been welcoming and taught me something. That's saying a lot since I've been in some form of Barre, yoga or The Daily Method for 20ish years!! Xtend is a place where you grow stronger, laugh often, and feel genuinely good about yourself. The sense of community is truly special - you can tell everyone there genuinely cares about each other. Come join us!

One of the nicer boutique studios in the area! If your primary method of working out is yoga/barre…read morethen this is the studio for you.