I have never liked 'working out'. I hate 'gyms' and am not a self motivator when it comes to working 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!! read more

When I began taking lessons at the Pilates Center of Pittsburgh, my exposure to Pilates had been minimal, 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. read more

I was new to Pilates when I timidly started with a mat class at the Pilates Center of Pittsburgh more out of curiosity to discover what Pilates was about. That was about 4 years ago and I have not missed a week since I began training with Lesley. Since I was an avid bicyclist, walker, yogi, and part time weight lifter, it took me quite some time to figure Pilates out. Lesley understood it would take some time for me to catch on and become a fan. Her patience and support made it possible. I appreciate all of the teachers at the studio. I am no longer in constant pain from my lower back, I hold myself different, and I am stronger and more flexible. Thank you Pilates Center of Pittsburgh. read more

I have been going to The Pilates Center since October 2016, had experiences before with other teachers. I connected so well with Lesley in privates that I was hesitant to see another instructor BUT I did (Kylie & Allie) both were great! Both really took the time to watch my body and listened.. a time slot opened with Allie around Christmas for privates so I took it! I am still working 2 times a week!! How does it get better than that?!?! Very happy I found this little gem on 19 read more

I began my Pilates practice at Lesley's studio at the recommendation of a friend due to my lower back pain. In a short time, my lower back pain disappeared. That was more than 4 years ago and I continue my practice at this studio. I cannot express enough how working with Lesley and her team of fabulous instructors has changed my 58 year old life. I am stronger than I could have imagined at this age. And the mental health that goes with the physical strength from my practice is immeasurable. This is a classical Pilates studio and it may sound trite but I am truly a Pilates nerd. The programs are customized to each students needs and the instruction is specific and amazing. It is a lovely studio and the teachers are encouraging and knowledgeable. There is nothing intimidating about it. My current instruction is, and has been for some time, with Kiley who is so kind and supportive. She motivates me to challenge myself. I now can't imagine life without Pilates. read more