I am not one that has been big on gyms or classes. That changed with Clearly Pilates! The…read moreinstructors are amazing - they know their stuff, they challenge you; make you sweat and smile at the same time. The studio is designed for small classes making it easy for modifications based on individual needs. I have been practicing Pilates there for 8 months, on average 2-3 days per week and enjoyed a unique class each time - instructors keep it fresh and interesting. NEVER in my life did I think I would do spinning but because of the instructors and clientele, I am slowly being converted. Highly recommend for those trying Pilates for the first time to those that have been practicing for years!

Clearly Pilates is a small locally owned studio that offers a ton of classes. No matter what level…read moreyou are beginner or master this studio has it all. Melanie's hips and glutes is my favorite. She really understands where you should be feeling the exercise and has no problem adjusting you if your not doing it correctly. But also modifies moves if you have an injury or just unable to do them. I'm excited to checkout more of their classes in the future.

I have never liked 'working out'. I hate 'gyms' and am not a self motivator when it comes to…read moreworking out. I need to participate in an actual activity like tennis, hiking, running, etc. When I lived in NYC I decided to get serious about my fitness routine and started working with a trainer (Radu Fitness). THAT changed my outlook on 'working out'. I loved my trainer and she kicked by 'behind' 4 days a week. Once we moved to Pittsburgh, I was extremely disappointed with the work out scene ... the gyms (joined The Rivers Club, LA Fitness, JCC, etc.) didn't work for me and the trainer selection was very poor. A mere 4 months ago I stumbled upon The Pilates Center of Pittsburgh. While I continued to be fit through running and outdoor activities, my herniated disc was limiting my enjoyment and frequency. My Neurosurgeon said that I had to develop my core while not straining my back. He suggested that I try Pilates. Not knowing anything about Pilates, I made an appointment with at the Center and met Lesley. I have to admit that at first, it was a little intimidating and a bit complicated and I felt a bit awkward in the movements. Sometimes I thought that I was never going to 'get it'. During those first few weeks I never ONCE felt embarrassed or uncomfortable. With kind and generous trainers I became hooked! I have never had a weight problem .... but as I reached my 40's I was definitely becoming 'soft' all over. Four months later I feel strong and according to my friends, co-workers and husband, look better than ever!!! In addition to all of that good stuff my back feels so much better and my running has greatly improved. Pre-Pilates I would run 3 miles and walk like an old lady for the remainder of the afternoon or be stiff and sore the next morning. Three months into Pilates I decided to take a short run. Low and behold, my Nike Fuel band was telling me that I ran a 5K. I felt awesome ... so awesome that I ran an additional 5K!! If you are looking to zone out on the treadmill .... Pilates is not for you. If you are not serious about changing your body posture and composition...... Pilates is not for you. If you do not enjoy understanding your body and how it really moves ..... Pilates is not for you. If any of the aforementioned sounds intriguing, then give Pilates a try. I highly recommend The Pilates Center of Pittsburgh. Lesley and her wonderful trainers (Allie, Erin, Michelle, Cecile) are bright, focused, kind and skilled. Each has their own unique style but the consistency of the technique is quite impressive. Good luck!!

When I began taking lessons at the Pilates Center of Pittsburgh, my exposure to Pilates had been…read moreminimal, just some workout dvds. This was my first lesson in a formal setting with an expert and it made a huge difference in what I was able to get out of the workout. I studied mostly with Leslie, who is a true expert at precision. Leslie is great at communicating Pilates concepts in several different ways, so that you can connect with an explanation that resonates with you. That said, the other instructors are great too. Leslie is very selective about who she hires, you won't find instructors here that don't know what they are doing. I took a couple of classes with Sally and would highly recommend her as an instructor. She is extremely kind and bubbly, but don't let her fool you - she will work you! At the Pilates Center, it is required for you to go through a series of intro sessions before joining a class. Having done it, I think that this is so smart. The intro sessions are well-priced, they give you one-on-one time with the instructors to focus on your specific needs and really ensure that you are joining a class when you are ready (a great way to prevent injuries). The environment is very casual, calm and relaxed. This isn't one of those snobby or pretentious places...which is a major selling point for me. Don't think you have to be a fit and tiny ballerina to fit in here, there are students of all ages and skill levels. Most of all, I love how Pilates makes me feel strong, open and energized. It's a great way to start your day if you can swing a morning session.

I told myself that this summer I would become a yoga person, and SHPY is helping me to achieve that…read moregoal for myself. I cannot recommend this studio enough as a newbie to the practice (at 40, no less) for its approachability and overall commitment to its community and students. Stacey, the owner, teaches most classes. She will likely know your name by the second or third class, but she'll greet you with a welcoming smile from the moment you step in the door regardless of how many times you've been in the studio. Classes are fluid - quick to pick up the flow but usually include some variation each class to keep things interesting for those attending regularly. All of the teachers offer pose accommodations for those who aren't as far along in their practice or who are maybe working through an injury or disability. I've also really enjoyed classes with Ashley, who makes the best yoga playlists IMO, and Elizabeth, who offers hands-on adjustments (for those who opt in) which are both helpful and incredibly calming. If I can enjoy hot yoga as someone who loathes being hot and for whom sweat is overstimulating, anyone can. Each class is a welcome respite from the chaos of the world, and I can't recommend SHPY enough for that respite. The studio is LGBTQIA+ friendly and welcoming of everyone. Prices are pretty standard for yoga studios, but they also run specials on class passes frequently enough if funds are tight - following their IG seems to be the best way to keep up with any specials on offer. They also have pay-what-you-can nights on Tuesdays, beginner classes on Wednesdays, and gentle/restorative classes on Sundays. Overall, A++, 5/5 stars, would recommend.

A friendly place with teachers who encourage you to listen to your body. The owner, Stacy, has…read moreexactly the kind of warm personality a yoga studio owner should have, and does a great job creating a welcoming environment. The studio is clean and well lit. The teachers include lighting adjustments and music well. The music is carefully chosen- not distracting. The 10 Class pass and the 20 class pass options make it budget- friendly. (Many studios don't even offer options like these.) ABOUT THE HEAT: If you're heat sensitive like me, I recommend skipping poses, or even entire sequences, and only do exactly WHAT YOU FEEL LIKE DOING, and not a single pose more. You may find that the heat starts to become a welcomed friend, instead of something to fight against.

I finally tried out V3 on the recommendation of a friend - I wish she had spoken so highly about it…read moreto begin with; I would have gone sooner! The experience was a good one, and if I were going to be staying in Pittsburgh, I would likely buy a membership! I was recommended to V3 after looking for a place in Pittsburgh that does hot yoga. I had heard they were good, but wasn't sure how long I'd be in town, so I didn't sign up for a membership or even take a first visit. That was a mistake. They offer free seven day trial memberships and so I finally went in for a visit. The forrest yoga class was AWESOME. I don't remember the name of the lady who instructed for that class, but I think it was a double name (like Anna Lee). She was friendly and professional, gentle yet challenging. The class was full enough to have comfort in numbers, and small enough to allow the instructor to actually see everyone. She made enough comments throughout the class to give people feedback and encouragement as to their form. Having had some exposure to yoga but not being an expert, the feedback was great! I'd go again, and probably will when I come back for a visit. In the meantime though, it was a worthwhile trip and their prices looked definitely reasonable. *I've been to Core Power Yoga and another major chain. The instructor here was comparable in knowledge to even the "big names", and the atmosphere was definitely more personal. **The class I went to was a hot yoga class; their calendar is on their website which lists which classes are hot classes and which aren't. Major props to them for that one. ***The negative point which stands out the most to me is their reviews on Google maps and places; every review reads as though it could have easily been written by an employee of the facility, and some clearly were. One even included a claim by the owner of "I guarantee it!" If the organization were to remove these artificial reviews, I would recommend V3 much more readily.

Two years ago, I was a yoga newbie…read more I've never been athletic or flexible; I never had good balance. I was a gymnastics and dance school dropout as a child, and I've never liked working out. Plus, I'm in the over-50 demographic. The only reasons I even considered trying yoga were: 1) on the advice of a personal counselor who thought it could help me unwind; and 2) the attractive pricing offered by this studio (then called V3, now called Take Yoga). Honestly, I was hooked from the first day. The instructor for my first class (Leigh Ann) was young but wise, patient and clear in her instructions. She never made me feel as if I "didn't belong," and has been a source of inspiration and encouragement ever since. I am now a faithful practitioner and usually get to two classes a week. I would come more often if I could! Each of the instructors at this studio has a different teaching style, but I have enjoyed all of the classes (even the tough ones, and the hot ones) despite the fact that I'm often the oldest student in the room. The atmosphere is welcoming and non-competitive, and the other students are friendly. Plus, the place is as clean as can be. What yoga has done for me: My balance, posture and strength have improved remarkably. My family has noticed that I'm calmer, and I feel more centered. Yoga has helped every aspect of my life; I'm convinced that it helped me recover from recent foot surgery and now that I'm back on my mat, I'm a happy camper. I highly recommend this studio! Namaste!

I highly recommend Touchstone Pilates. I have been a client since Touchstone Pilates opened…read more Because I had been having problems with lower back pain and general lack of flexibility, I wanted to find out whether Pilates could help. IT HAS HELPED!! I am more flexible and able to do exercises that I thought my body was not capable of. Plus, I feel great! Lisa varies the workout at every session and knows when to introduce more advanced exercises. Lisa Pellow, owner, is a wonderful instructor - very concerned about her clients' well being.

Lisa Pellow is an excellent teacher. After nearly two years working together, I have made…read moretremendous progress. I am affected by an auto immune disease. Lisa is very patient with me, respecting my limits, but also challenging me to do my best.The studio equipment is spectacular. Finding a professional like Lisa and a well equipped studio like Touchstone Pilates is unique. Not only do I enjoy Pilates but it has helped me more fully enjoy life.

I am 73 and do online classes. Excellent instructors. They make it…read moreeasy to follow. Great demonstrators. Megan, Holly. Kayla, Stephen are who I follow. The Best! I feel so much better that I have this experience. Wonderful!

Came here for a yoga class through class pass! I tried the Dynamic Vinyasa class with Holly and it…read morewas a very relaxing experience. I felt so refreshed after!

Prior to discovering The Yoga Factory, my daily life was dominated by rigidity, chronic stress, and…read moreconstant physical tension. My mind raced with anxiety, my body ached from habitual tightness, and I felt unfulfilled and unhappy overall. After taking the plunge with a one-month trial membership, the transformation has been remarkable. In just three weeks, my anxiety has decreased by 70-80%, my thoughts are calmer and less racing, and--most importantly--my body has begun to release long-held tension, leaving me free from the persistent aches I once accepted as normal. I am deeply grateful to the kind and supportive staff at The Yoga Factory for fostering such a safe, encouraging environment--especially for someone navigating anxiety and body image concerns. This studio has truly transformed my mind, body, and overall well-being. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking positive change.

I love catching a yoga class wherever I visit. I enjoyed the Valentine's Day practice at 6am…read more Great way to start my day.

I love Bridge and Balance!!! All of the instructors are AWESOME!! They tailor the workout to suit…read moreyour needs! The 8:1 (client to instructor) ratio makes it feel like you have private workouts during each class because they can provide individual feedback during the class.