THE FIRM: Pilates

Improve your mind, body, and athletic performance.
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Welcome to THE FIRM: Pilates!
 
THE FIRM: Pilates provides superior Pilates instruction in Hawaii and Southern California.  Please contact us for more information. 
 
Private and semi-private studio sessions are taught on various equipment, including the Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Step barrel, and Ladder barrel.  The spring-loaded equipment creates resistance to target specific muscle groups.  In-home sessions are also available if you already own the equipment.
 
Mat classes are taught anywhere and everywhere space is available.  One favorite location is at the beach on a sunny day.  Just bring a towel and bottle of water.
 
Pilates for the Firm Body, Mind and Spirit...
 
Pilates is an efficient low-impact workout that firms and tones the body by improving muscular core function.  Specifically, Pilates is a repertoire of fundamental exercises modified to challenge the body at any level or address individual needs.  Pilates requires focus and concentration to actively target specific muscle groups through breath and movement. 
 
The core focus of Pilates promotes good posture and enhances athletic performance.  Pilates also provides overall body awareness, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination.
 
Regardless of your athletic strength or experience, Pilates is for everyone, including the young, young at heart, and the curious soul looking for something fit and fun.  Professional athletes, broadway dancers, former college football and basketball players, military officers, and new mothers are currently exploring the benefits of THE FIRM: Pilates.
   
Train with THE FIRM: Pilates to firm-up your mind, body, and athletic performance.  To schedule an appointment, call (310) 702-5504 or send an e-mail to lauren@thefirmpilates.com. 
 
Sessions
 
In addition to a regular cardio routine, we recommend cross-training with pilates at least twice a week for optimal results.
 
Private
Private sessions are one-on-one sessions with the pilates instructor.  The 1-hour sessions are devoted to teaching the client the BASITM pilates repertoire on the equipment and mat.  Private sessions offer clients the best pilates experience with programs specifically designed to meet each client's fitness goals. 
 
Semi-Private
Semi-private sessions are for groups of 2-4 clients.  The 1-hour sessions are devoted to teaching clients the BASITM pilates repertoire on the equipment and mat.  Exercises can be done in unison on the same type of equipment or individually on a circuit.  Semi-private sessions are an economical way to receive personal attention. 
 
We will be happy to arrange semi-private sessions, but it generally works out best when clients have their own exercise partners or friends.    
 
Reformer Classes
Reformer classes are taught in the studios to groups of 5 or more clients.  The 1-hour sessions are devoted to teaching clients the BASITM pilates repertoire on the reformer, and occassionally with small aids to intensify the workout.  Exercises are generally done in unison.   
 
Mat Classes
Mat classes are a great introduction to pilates, and the most economical.  Mat classes are taught anywhere and everywhere there is a flat surface.  The 1-hour sessions are devoted to instructing clients about the BASITM pilates repertoire on the mat.  Clients may practice at home the learned exercises for continued conditioning.  
 
Special Group Engagements
The instructor is available for special group engagements or seasons.  For example, in April, THE FIRM: Pilates taught mat classes to dancers at a local high school in Honolulu.
 
 

Studio Etiquette

 

Please arrive on time, and a few minutes early if it's your first time.

 

During classes and private sessions, please turn off cell phones.

 

Please provide notice 24 hours in advance if you need to cancel. 

 

We appreciate and reward you for referrals.  

 

 
Equipment
 
Mat
Pilates mats are thicker than yoga mats.  They are 5/8" thick to provide superior comfort and support for the spine and tailbone during mat workouts. 
 
Reformer
The Reformer is a flat-bed with a movable carriage.  It contains 5 springs of varying resistance.  The carriage is moved by pushing against the footbar or pulling the straps with the hands or feet.  A full-body workout is easily acheived on the Reformer.
 
 
Cadillac
The Cadillac is a stationary flat-bed higher than the reformer.  Springs  attach to the Cadillac frame for progressive resistance, and provide a full-body workout.  Older clients typically prefer the Cadillac over the Reformer as the heightened bed makes it easier for them to lie or sit on.  
 
 
Wunda Chair
The Wunda Chair is possibly the most versatile piece of pilates equipment.  With spring-loaded pedals of varying resistance, the Wunda Chair supplements exercises on the Reformer and the Cadillac.  The unstable pedals provide a challenging workout for any pilates student, beginner or advanced.  The Wunda Chair is exceptionally useful for those unable to bear weight on their feet or back for extended periods of time. 
 
 
Step Barrel/Spine Corrector
The Step Barrel is a low-wood barrel ergonomically designed to support the natural curvature of the spine.  The Step Barrel increases flexibility and offers assistance when performing advanced mat repertoire.   
 
 
Ladder Barrel
The Ladder Barrel is a high-wood barrel used for stretching, enhancing flexibility and strengthening the core.  Ladder Barrel exercises supplement workouts on the Reformer and the Cadillac.   
 

 

 THE FIRM: Pilates