Finding affordable reformer Pilates in the Boston area is a challenge - enter the Body center! Knowledgeable instructors. Vaccination required and masks. I buy discounted class packs every so often and had booked them on ClassPass in the past. read more

TRX and Pilates.... Small classes keep the instructions personal and well taught. MD, who teaches the TRX classes is great. He used to be a gymnast I believe, and he is very good at shaping every workout for personal needs. He could have a class with a bodybuilder, professional dancer, someone with scoliosis, and a pregnant lady, and he can adapt the same exercise for each persons personal physical needs. He pushes you, while not making anything unsafe. There are also advanced classes, which he does not allow people to take who are not physically ready. It is his studio, as well as he ass on the line if someone got hurt, and if he thinks you are not ready for the advanced classes, he will say it. That is a very good quality, coming from a collegiate athlete. Both the pilates and TRX classes are good for male and female. The only reason I don't put 5 stars is the difficulty getting into the studio. From Washington st, turn up Holden st. The first "parking lot / parking spaces" off the street on the right, you are there. It is upstairs. Enjoy the great workouts! read more

The Body Center - USE RED ARROWS TO FIND BUILDING - Pilates Near Me - West Newton, Massachusetts

So there should be a law mandating that all high school reunions be publicized a year in advance to give everyone enough time to diet, work out, get the hair plugs and Botox, and drop a few pounds. My friend in Arizona got a Save the Date card with two months' notice. (I'm still waiting for mine in the mail, but I digress). So I called two Pilates studios in Brookline, and The Body Center called me back immediately. The other one, in Coolidge Corner ("she," ahem, shall remain nameless...), did not, and this was after I mentioned that I was referred to them by a friend of the owner. Harrumph. My previous Pilates experience has been limited to a bunch of mat classes and home sessions with a 20-minute Ana Caban video while my cat Kismet meowed in my face as I did the Hundred on the floor. Here, I started right away on the Reformer. It's soooooo f'ing cool. You put your feet in the straps and you feel like you're doing some circus move or something. Let me tell ya, it's like playtime, even if I have to keep being reminded to exhale through the mouth, wrap my ribcage, and stop hunching my shoulders. And when you try to do that all at once, it's no wonder I keep getting corrected on my form. But I feel really good and revved up afterward. The hour goes quick. The instructors are great on a personal level; the owner is very cool about asking about how weekends were and when my reunion is coming up. As actual instructors, sometimes they tend to use too much Pilates-speak or technical terms for the beginner level. For example, I have no idea where my trapezoidals are--I never took anatomy. So if I'm looking blankly at the instructor, the instructor's job is to break it down for better comprehension, and I don't always get that level of explanation, which makes me feel kind of dumb--and that is my biggest complaint. Which is pretty minor, actually. Overall, this is a small, neatly kept studio in a funky little building. Class size is limited to three, and sometimes, if you're lucky, nobody else shows up, so it's almost like getting a private class experience for cheap. The only reason that I didn't rank this as five stars is because for me, any exercise studio to be ranked "as good as it gets" would have to be a place where I dropped 10 pounds after every time I went in there. But what can I say? I'm a demanding kind of woman. read more

I wanted to update my review; after having not gone for the past couple of years, I attended an Essential Reformer - Sets class last week. Based on the schedule, seems classes now accommodate at least 11 people. I was worried that I would have a difficult time following since it has been awhile, but that was not the case. Kathleen was an absolutely amazing teacher. Because of the holiday season, it wasn't busy that day (Friday afternoon), so the class was me and another person. So, it worked to my benefit and Kathleen was able to give us individualized attention. She was really detailed in her approach to guiding us through the exercises, and I want to return for more classes. One thing, I wish Body Center would update their website with more comprehensive information about pricing, contact information, and the studio itself. Currently, the website only has the schedule, and the only way I can view pricing is if I put a class in my cart. read more

I'm actually not a fan of Pilates mat classes. For me, they don't provide enough of an aerobic workout (if I'm not sweating, I don't feel like I'm working out), and it's difficult to receive one-on-one attention in a group class, despite the fact that form is so vital to actually getting the right work out in Pilates. So when I saw a Groupon for small group Reformer classes at the Body Center about a year ago, I was excited to try those crazy pulley-and-spring contraptions...but even then, I figured the regularly priced classes would be too expensive to keep attending. One year later, and I'm totally hooked. I can't speak to classes with MD, but Erin (the owner) is an attentive, professional teacher; she provides on-the-spot, personalized feedback and makes you feel like you're in a personal training session, instead of a small group setting. She begins classes promptly and works you--intensely--until the session is over. Her approach is no-nonsense (if you're looking for warm and fuzzy, that's not her, although once you get to know her, she's really funny and kind--exactly what you want in a fitness trainer). She's very loyal to her clients: she makes it a point to get to know every person who comes to her studio, and she truly seems committed to helping her clients grow and improve. Her workouts are always challenging and constantly evolving, so you never get bored. And while classes are pricey, compared to other reformer classes, they're quite reasonable, and Erin offers discounts to students and teachers (as well as seasonal specials), which makes pricing manageable, especially when you consider the kind of attention you receive during classes. The only drawbacks: there is no changing room space, and the studio itself can get stuffy (windows shut) or loud (windows open--Brookline Village is always bustling). read more

This private pilates studio is FANTASTIC! The owner, Erin, offers personalized individual and small group classes in her clean and open studio in Brookline. Her personalized classes will make you fit in no time. It's so nice to go to a fitness center where they greet you like friends and really listen to your fitness needs. A +! read more

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Attracta is no longer there - She has opened up her own dance school - but in her place is an equally as qualified and sweet woman Mona- great teachers - Erin is really good with picking her staff! read more

Stay Away!! Personal fitness is a customer support profession and there are plenty of small exercise studios to chose from. I highly recommend avoiding this studio! I initially spoke with Erin who was friendly and helpful (and may be a wonderful teacher) but MD (the studio owner?) is a total jerk. The studio is difficult to find (no signs on the door, no address number) so when I arrived late to class MD was obnoxious and out of line with his comments. I expected a "Sorry, we have a policy that you can not attend the class if you are late." Totally understandable, my mistake. Instead, I got something completely uncalled for: rude comments based on his opinion of my fitness level (from a 30 second observation) and appearance. When I explained to him that this behavior is unprofessional and inappropriate- his suggestion was that I can take a class with Erin but he does not have to like me or care about my business. Well, okay then- good luck with your studio if this is how you are going to treat potential clients!! read more

I discovered this place through Groupon and purchased a series of 10 classes. Although I'd taken mat pilates classes before, I'd never tried reformer so was very curious to give it a try. Previous reviewers have commented that the studio is difficult to find. The website must have been updated since these reviews, since there are now very detailed directions and I had no trouble at all finding it. The studio is clean, though has a bit of a warehouse feel to it, given it's location in an old building. The door on the second floor leads directly into the studio space - there is no reception area inside. I mention this because Erin, the owner/instructor nearly bit my head off on the first day when I stuck my head in before the end of her previous class. I later had a laugh with another student who had the exact same experience their first time. Though this introduction to the studio made me nervous for what lay ahead, once I got over this initial bump I found Erin to be quite friendly and an excellent instructor. She is clearly very dedicated to her students and remembered my name immediately. She cares a lot about proper form, gives plenty of individualized attention (limited to 6 students), and her instructions are clear and easy-to-follow. She does have a bit of a no-nonsense vibe to her at first, but I think this is just because she wants to make the best use of available time. Classes always started on time. In the end, I decided not to renew my package because I decided that reformer is just not for me. Although it could be because I'm still on the early part of the learning curve, I like to walk away from my workouts feeling a bit more challenged and perhaps slightly sore. However, I really felt that Erin was a fantastic instructor and would highly recommend her to anyone interested in reformer. read more

I am always jumping around, trying out different group classes at different establishments and the Body Center is definitely the best fit I've found so far. I bought the package on Groupon to try it out but I liked it so much that I've renewed my package multiple times. I take the TRX/Pilates class with MD 3 times a week now and I feel fantastic. The setting is intimate, there are usually no more than 5 or 6 people in the class so I am always getting close attention to my form and technique. MD is funny and engaging and knows the right exercises to get me in shape while having a blast. I've been doing it for about 4 months now and I am yet to get bored. I love that the class is 30 minutes of TRX to get my muscles toned and then 30 minutes of Pilates to help me cool down. For me, it's the perfect combination. And I also love that there are different levels of classes so I can take the level 2 if I want to be challenged or the level 1 if I want to take a more leisurely class. And the time slots work perfectly with my schedule. All in all, the Body Center is a great place to work out and have some fun. I'd recommend the Body Center--and MD's class, specifically--to any one who hasn't found that perfect fit yet. read more

Miserable classes if you have back pain. I signed up for the 10 classes groupon because I heard reformer pilates were good for people with back pain. Unfortunately the moves really hurt my back. I took 2 beginner classes, which were pretty much just learning the moves. I tried about 4 essential classes (the next level), but by my last 2 classes I just had so much discomfort in my back that I wanted to cry and leave the class early. I made 2 teachers aware of my pain, but they didn't have advice that helped me. One offered me a pad to put under my back, but the pain wasn't from a hard reformer. Besides that issue, there are only a few mirrors so you can't always see yourself. The teacher describes what to do, and doesn't always show what to do, so I had to look around the room at others. They do sometimes correct your form though, which is helpful. They're nice teachers, but not warm, fuzzy and encouraging. There's no music. I'm forfeiting the rest of my groupon :( Not worth the pain and misery. read more

IF YOU DON'T MIND A SMELLY STUDIO WITH RUDE INSTRUCTORS AND OLD EQUIPMENT THIS PLACE IS FOR YOU! I was recommended to this studio by a neighbor friend of mine. I was looking to get into Pilates because I needed to strengthen my core due to back issues. I discovered a Groupon and thought...win win!! I called the studio and no one called me back. I sent an e-mail and got nothing (which is odd because Erin checks it before each class). I called again and Erin (the owner) SEEMED helpful. I went to the studio and what I found was rude, rude, rude!!! Erin has no personality at all and was down right nasty to some of my classmates. I expect (at the very least) to feel welcome when I come into the studio. I took a few more classes to use up my Groupon and Katherine seemed a little better and I learned much more from her. The last class I took was with MD. He's a poor excuse for a human being. The part that bothered me the least was that he flirted with the girls in the front row the entire class. I asked him for an alternative move because of my back issues and he laughed at me and said something like..."I have pins in my back what is your excuse". I have a herniated disc that was just starting to get better and I know the moves I shouldn't do. Bottom line folks, DON"T WASTE YOUR MONEY! read more

Definitely a good place for my first time doing Pilates Reformer classes. The classes are small (no more than 7 people) so there is a lot of individual attention. This is great because the reformers look like Medieval torture devices when you first encounter them. The prices seem pretty good compared to Pilates reformer classes in Boston, and the price is REALLY good if you manage to get the Groupon. Minus one star because the floors are kind of dirty... Seems like a small thing, but as a student, you are barefoot, and it's not that hard to sweep! Also minus one star because I'm just not the biggest fan of Pilates. It is definitely good as a substitute or companion exercise for any physical therapy you may be doing though. I would check this place out if you are into Pilates reformer classes. Classes are good, and the price is right. read more

I am so happy that I discovered The Body Center. It was the first time I took Pilates, so I was a little nervous but Erin and Attracta are GREAT. They really get it. I'm sore after the first few classes, but going back for more. I already feel stronger. Thanks for a great workout in a great location! read more

I bought a groupon for this studio and was given a recommendation who also had previously bought one. I am VERY dissatisfied with the customer service and professionalism of the staff. I am not able to sign up for classes without doing so WEEKS in advance and you must take a certain amount of classes before you can "move on" The beginner classes are not challenging and I felt as though I could have gotten a better work out through a gym where the staff is friendlier and I can book a few days in advance. Needless to say, i'm stuck with more classes than I would like to bare in order to not eat the cost of this groupon. In addition to this horror, the conditions of the studio are terrible. the instructor doesn't even have a reformer he or she can use for herself so she's forced to just say what our next move is instead of showing us. The building has no signage, they make it seem like there is free parking, which there isn't. The website sucks and there is no "waiting area" once you're actually in the studio (well, unless you count the couch that looks like it came from a dumpster) STAY AWAY! read more

Unfortunately The Body Center was very disappointing. I signed up through a Groupon, excited to be able to do small classes at an affordable price. While the place itself is clean and bright, finding it was a bit of a nightmare. There are no well marked signs on the door or on the building to help you find your way. When I finally figured out how to enter the building after being poured on by a rain storm, a man-- I presume one of the trainers-- verbally accosted me. He was rude and judgmental. I simply asked where I needed to be for my class and he started picking on me-- my outfit, my demeanor, my attitude. It was pathetic. I was not impressed. I do not recommend this facility to anyone. Working out should be an enjoyable experience-- or at least the people you're paying to support you, should in fact be supportive. read more

I did pilates at this studio since its inception. Erin, the owner/instructor runs hot and cold with her instruction. She does know her stuff and would be a great instructor if she could set aside her own personal issues. Some days she is on, other days she is impatient and at times abrasive. After 5 years at this studio, a little constructive criscism ended up with a parting of ways. Any instructor that doesnt listen to their paying clients really needs to check themselves. I feel that although the prices are good and the instructor is well trained and knowledgeable, it isnt worth dealing with her mood swings. I would rather pay more and not be ostracized and ridiculed than deal with her! If an instructor is truly vested in their clients they work with them, not against them, making them feel bad about themselves!!!!! read more

There may be merit to the Pilates portion of this 'center'. I unfortunately had the misguided and unpleasant experience of encountering MD Stovalli and his X-training session. I had purchased a Groupon for what I had understood to be for Pilates classes. When the warm-up exercises were being explained and it was clear something was amiss - I asked what they had to do with Pilates. "Nothing. And Pilates is a waste of your time. Women don't exercise right". I was then accosted by MD Stovalli's self aggrandized "I'm the best training in the entire NE" ..... to be followed by "I've dealt with people like you my whole life..." I considered walking out on this arrogant guy - but decided to see what the deal was. Only to be followed by the instructions "Bring your boobs to your knees." REALLY!!!! The following 45 minutes was just grunt brute workout - which may be fine for some - but not my gig. If you want thoughtful and intelligent feedback for a workout which will increase your knowledge of your body and how it works and how to take care of yourself - you best go someplace else. read more

I just signed up for another series of the reformer classes and I would (and have!) recommend this studio to anyone looking to try reformer Pilates. There are several levels of classes for difficulty so that you are always being challenged. The studio is clean and quaint (exposed wood and beams, very New England) and the main instructor, Erin, is very professional. Because the classes are capped at six students, I always get the individual instruction I need if my form is not quite correct. Definitely give this studio a try. read more

I started going to the Body Center 6 months ago because I bought the Groupon and thought it would be a good way to get back into a workout routine. I was skeptical...I'm a runner and usually don't enjoy workout classes but I've been plagued by injuries and haven't been able to run. Since that time, I've become hooked on the body center, specifically the TRX classes taught by MD. They are challenging yet fun and the class sizes are small so you really feel like you're getting the technique correct. MD is knowledgeable without being intimidating and he ALWAYS keeps us laughing. But the main reason why I keep going back is because every person I've met there, both staff and students, is friendly and welcoming. Nobody is snotty, overly intense, or rude. I cannot stress enough how wonderful this place is, which is why I wanted to write this review and encourage others to patronize this local business. read more

This was my first experience with Pilates and Erin did a fantastic job in our first private session explaining how it works and giving me a real feel for the form and the best way to get the most out of classes. (highly recommend a session or two with her first!) She is serious, knowledgeable, and super attentive to everyone in the small (6 max, usually less) classes so you feel like she is watching you and helping you improve each time. I walk out of class feeling taller with more energy. It's really made a difference in my everyday life and I look forward to it sooo much. Some people have commented about how hard it is to find. It's the yellow house on Holden street which is a short, one block street across from the Brookline Town Hall, public parking lot and tons of on street metered parking. Yes, it looks like you're walking into the back door of a private house but go up one flight of stairs and you'll find a beautiful, clean studio. It is one hour of calm, focused, challenging movement which is the exact opposite of the typical chatty, loud gym experience. I love this studio and recommend it HIGHLY. read more