Okay I will be the first one to admit that I do not like exercise of any kind. However, back and…read morestress issues and the persistent recommendation of my doctor to find and stay with some sort of activity, led me to try pilates at Embody Movement Pilates. Becky is the instructor for the group reformer pilates class that I take. Two words - LOVE IT! I actually look forward to going. The class size is small, the instructor Becky is actively engaged in making sure that you are doing it right, and understands how to modify the moves if you need an accommodation. My stress level has started to lessen as well. If you are a beginner, don't hesitate to take a pilates class at Embody Movement Pilates Studio. I wish I had started sooner.

This studio is wonderful. I've been to so many of the larger chain studios and the quality of the…read moreinstruction is just so subpar compared with what you get at EMPS. Sarah is incredibly knowledgeable about everything related to the body, movement and anatomy - you can tell just by reading her blog. Highly recommend this studio to people coming to Pilates for the first time or with an advanced practice.

As a guy, I wasn't quite sure what to expect initially from Pilates - but what I've learned from…read morethe talented and experienced instructors at the Pilates Core is that this body conditioning system can be truly transformative and, despite current stereotypes, is not just for women. There are plenty of articles that explore this in greater depth, but suffice to say that I've really enjoyed the physical challenges and rewards of Pilates. I HIGHLY recommend the Pilates Core, whether you're just starting out (as I did 18 months ago) or if you're an advanced practitioner. The Romana's Pilates-certified instructors are friendly but also push/motivate to maximize your workout. When I started, I was pretty strong but really inflexible, and they've been able to focus on developing greater flexibility as well as core strength development. Why do I continue to study at the Pilates Core? -Romana's Pilates Certification: In short, I trust that my instructors are experienced, educated, and authentic. -The Results: In combination with a change in diet, I lost more than 30 pounds (5'10", went from 190+lbs. to 160 lbs.) after beginning Pilates, and have developed greater core strength and increased flexibility. I owe a lot to Pilates, as it reinforces the body-mind connection and has been a major component of my health-conscious lifestyle. -The Value: Again, this is authentic Pilates, and I'm fortunate to be able to study under such a quality program. I see myself continuing as a lifelong Pilates student.

The Pilates Core is outstanding! All of the instructors are certified in Romana's Pilates, which is…read moreessentially the truest form of Pilates. Romana Kryzanowska was a student of Joseph Pilates himself (his protege); therefore, the Pilates taught here is extremely true to its original form. (Beware of Pilates classes at gyms and rec centers--they are often NOT true to the original.) The Pilates Core offers classes (mat, reformer, and other) at varying levels as well as private instruction. I have done both and found all of the instructors to be very attentive and friendly. They will challenge you but will also be mindful of your needs. I originally started Pilates here to assist me with physical therapy for an injury - not only did I get stronger and healthier, but I got hooked! I've been a student here for over 3 years now. Pilates is an extraordinary way to get stronger, leaner, and healthier. I think it's great regardless of your athletic ability, gender, size, or even if you have had an injury--they will meet you were you're at and you'll progress from there. I have never felt better, and I owe so much of it to The Pilates Core! They also have plenty of evening and weekend availability for those of us with day jobs, and I have found them to be extremely accommodating in terms of scheduling.

Mariel is an amazing instructor. I would agree that it is one of the best kept secrets in…read moreLockport. I am no athlete, but she has helped me become one. I have amazing balance and strength. Both of which I never had before. I always struggled going to the gym. Now, I look forward to my workouts! It's never the same, and I love meeting the people in my classes!

Patriot Pilates in Lockport Il, is the best kept secret in the southwest suburbs of Chicago. The…read moreowner, Mariel has over 2 decades of personal training, and Pilates reformer instruction. Her location on 159th St in Lockport, in the Coombs plaza, is on a main thoroughfare and easily accessible since it is right off of I355. The studio not only offers Reformer, they have Bungee, Yoga, Sculpt, and over 30 classes every week! The instructors here are all top notch, experienced and attentive to your fitness needs. If you have heard about Pilates and ever wanted to see what the buzz is all about, this is the best place to start. They will welcome you with open arms and you will love the vibe here. Best ever Pilates studio-and I've been a student here since Patriot 1st opened 8 years ago.

If you're looking for a calm and friendly place to build strength, flexibility and confidence, this…read moreis it! Lauren and her instructors guide each individual in a way that insures success without pain. Each class is unique and the hour flies by. As an older person I have seen real benefits at The School of Pilates.

These workout are so precise and effective. It's a workout like no other. Great for the body and…read moremind. It's for all levels. My posture, alignment, balance, length and strength feel great after a class.

Paul and Angie are some of the most humble, genuine, and caring gym owners I have ever met. They…read moretruly care about their members and staff. They above and beyond to make sure everyone is on track to reaching their goals. Ultimately their goal is to help members of the community improve their bodies and lifestyles to live a happy "functional" life. Paul is very knowledgeable in all aspects of fitness and always has encouraging words to motivate members. Angie is so outgoing and energetic it is hard to not feel uplifted when you are around her. She also is very knowledgeable about all things fitness/nutrition related. Cam, Yadi, and Matt are also some of the best trainers. If you are looking for a gym that is more than just a setting where you can lift weights and burn some calories this is the place to be, at Experity you are going to learn the best fitness techniques (excellence), to work hard and achieve your goals (performance) and you going to be are than a member you are part of the family (community). It is the best take on a gym in 2018

Such a great community (staff and gym members) that keeps you motivated to keep coming/working…read moresmart long-term. If you're looking for group workouts with trainers guiding you every time you come in, this is the place for you. Great not only for weight loss, but also weight gain for the smaller framed folks out there!

Eva Rosenthal is the pilates instructor here and has gotten me to love Pilates. She teaches…read moreclassical mat and reformer classes; I got a 3- mat class groupon. Her small classes are challenging, tailored to my specific needs, and makes me feel strong. Eva is an encouraging, patient, and is clearly passionate about Pilates and teaching. Her mat classes go through a circuit of classical Pilates positions that focus on building your core strength, increasing flexibility, and breaking bad habits like poor posture, improper breathing, and overusing your neck and shoulders which results in painful knots (my problem). The building is a bit hard to find and you have to go up to the 3rd floor. Don't let the exterior or the stairs deter you, Eva has a created a great space. Her mats are high quality, new and comfortable. She also has 3 reformer mats which are for more advanced students. Class sizes are very small so you get individualized attention. If you are at all interested in taking Pilates classes from someone caring and knows her stuff, I highly recommend Eva at Pilates Road!

I absolutely love Spark Fitness! All the trainers are incredibly kind and talented. Josh is always…read moreupbeat, positive and helpful. Ted is super motivating and is always helping you reach your goals. Whether it's mental clarity, physical strength or general fitness- I have found there is always a place for it at Spark. I used to lift and train all the time, but after having my two kids, I could not get back into a routine I didn't dread, could sustain, and delivered results. I am SO happy I walked through the doors at Spark and found this awesome team of people who are somehow equally laid back (because no one wants to be intimidated at the gym) AND at the same time motivating (because it feels amazing to get the most out of your workout and see results). I love the format- like personal training but with flexibility- having professional workouts and guidance while being able to go at your own pace. I genuinely look forward to signing up, I am excited about my workouts, I feel awesome before during and after AND the results feel pretty awesome. Highly recommend!

I've been going to Spark Fitness Hinsdale for the past 2 years. Ted and the whole team are awesome,…read morethey keep things fun, motivate you, and push you just the right amount to help you get better. It's such a great group and I always leave feeling better than when I walked in. Definitely recommend if you're looking for a place that keeps you motivated and makes working out something you actually enjoy.

An AMAZING community, owned by the best couple- Kelly & Jared. Since day one I've benefited from…read morethe excellent and knowledgeable coaches, warm community, fun events, and the variety of CrossFit, Hyrox and Olympic lifting classes!

I have been a member of Iron Flag for several months and I have learned to love coming to the gym…read more This is no small feat, since I am 61 years old, and I can honestly say I have never felt that before. I belonged to a different gym that closed late summer and I was looking for a place that would push me. I didn't even know what Crossfit was. But co-owner, Kelly, really impressed me with her intelligent questions about my health history, and Ioved how many women coaches there were at the gym, and felt the place had a great, down to earth vibe. I now attend weekday at 6:30 a.m. classes religiously and usually go to a class on the weekends. They will scale to your level and encourage you at the same time. I also thought I ate well (no flour, no sugar, and no alcohol), but I am working with co-owner Jared on my nutrition and upping my energy level and mental clarity. I appreciate the inspiration of those around me who can lift hundreds of lbs and do muscle ups, while I am working my training bar. Hey, it takes a village! My doctor is thrilled and I have gained several lbs of muscle in a few months! Check this place out. You will be glad you did!