Frequently Asked Questions

Joseph Pilates spent his life developing what he called “The Art of Contrology,” which is now known as the Pilates Method of body conditioning. Classical Pilates is a full body exercise system focusing equally on stretch, strength, and control. When applied correctly, Pilates allows everyone (from the novice mover to the Olympic athlete) to access their most powerful and efficient selves. Watch this short video on the history of Pilates.

A part of the Baltimore community for over two decades, we follow results not fads. All of our instructors are classically trained and dedicated to the method. With 25 years of experience, we only teach what works. Our clients expect the best from us, and we work to live up to that expectation. 

Romana Kryzanowska (1923-2013) was Joseph Pilates’ protégé, and was entrusted with his studio after he and his wife passed away. A Pilates “elder,” it is widely accepted that Romana understood the method and how to teach it like no one else.

Romana’s Pilates® is an instructor certification program created to preserve the integrity of the true Pilates Method.  After the passing of Joseph Pilates and later Romana, the program is now run by Romana’s daughter (Sari Mejia Santo) and granddaughter (Daria Pace),  

Although a court ruling mandated the term “Pilates” to be generic, and free for unrestricted public use, Romana’s Pilates® and their certified instructors are dedicated to teaching Pilates the way Joe intended. All of our instructors have been certified by either Romana herself or her daughter, Sari.  

Here at the Pilates Center at Goucher College, as well as teaching clients, we are also a Romana’s Pilates® Instructor Training Center. Contact Stephanie Lawson, Director and Instructor Trainer, for more information on becoming certified with the Pilates Center at Goucher.

The best way to learn Pilates is to begin with private sessions. We recommend private sessions because this allows you to understand the exercises to the fullest with a personalized touch. To get started with private sessions, email pilates@goucher.edu.

If private sessions are not your preference, start with a Level 1 mat class. Your first Level 1 mat class with us is FREE. Browse the Class Schedule to find a class that fits your schedule. 

The Pilates mat is a series of exercises that run in a specific order and build off of each other. It is important to build a strong foundation in this technique in order to properly advance, and knowledge of the exercises and vocabulary is necessary in order to succeed. Keep in mind, not everyone progresses through the levels at the same rate. Depending on your practice and ability level, Level 1 may just be a small stop on your Pilates journey!

“In 10 sessions, you will feel a difference. In 20 sessions, you will see a difference. In 30 sessions, you will have an entirely new body.” - Joseph Pilates 

 

When Joseph Pilates said this, he was referring to keeping up your Pilates practice 3 times a week. For most clients, 3 times a week does tend to be a sweet spot, but is certainly not a requirement for everyone! We have clients that come in to their mat class once a week, and we have clients who try to come in every day we are open, mixing in private lessons, tower classes, and mat classes. Pick what matches your lifestyle. Browse our Class Schedule to find a class that fits your schedule. To get started with private sessions, email pilates@goucher.edu.

We run by the session in order to make sure we can build your workout safely and efficiently. Although we do recommend that you sign up for the whole session, it’s not required. If your schedule or lifestyle fits better with a drop-in method, we allow drop-ins to your appropriate level.

Tower classes use the Pilates apparatus equipment in a group setting. To ensure everyone’s safety, foundational knowledge of the Pilates technique is required. That knowledge can be learned through mat classes (at least one session) or through private instruction with a Classical Pilates Instructor. If you still have questions about whether tower classes are appropriate for you, please send us an email.

The Science:
Developed by legendary physical trainer, Joseph Pilates, in the 1920s, Pilates teaches controlled movements using counter-resistance.

• A full-body conditioning system of exercises that will help you look and feel your best.
• The focus is on core stabilization making you stronger from the inside out.

The Results:
Whether you're recovering from an injury, dealing with back pain, or simply want to be your healthiest, authentic Pilates can help, maximizing muscle efficiency and ensuring your safety.

• Improve your posture, alignment, balance, coordination, flexibility, muscle elasticity, joint mobility, and overall strength.
• Discover a heightened awareness of the mind body connection.
• Prevent injury in your daily life and while engaging in other forms of exercise.
• Feel better!

No! The Pilates Center is open to anyone interested in practicing Pilates. We offer in-person private and group classes. Can't join us in person? Join one of our virtual classes via Google Meet. To find a class check out our Class Schedule page.

The Pilates Center is located on the beautiful campus of Goucher College in the Decker Sports and Recreation Center (SRC). View our short How to Visit video for directions to the Center once on campus.