QUESTIONS ABOUT MAINE PILATES

How often should I take classes?

It depends on what you want to achieve—but here’s how to make Pilates work for you:

• If your goal is to maintain your strength and mobility, commit to 1 Reformer class and 1 Mat or Yoga class each week. This is the minimum amount of movement that keeps your core strong and joints loose while keeping your stress levels balanced.

• If you want to alleviate lower back pain or mobility issues, start with 1–2 Strength in Aging classes per week. These classes are gentle yet powerful for rebuilding strength and confidence while maintaining safe movement. For more complex considerations, private lessons are available.

• If your goal is to transform your health in mind, body, and soul, commit to 3–5 classes a week. The most intentional mix is 2–3 Reformer classes, 1–2 Mat or Barre classes, and 1 restorative Yoga class. This mix of high intensity, strength building, precision, and restoration is the best way to maximize effort and achieve lasting results.

Think of it this way:
1 class a week keeps you moving.
2 classes a week builds strength.
3+ classes a week transforms your body, mind, and life.

I'm new to Pilates, which class should I sign up for?

Our class schedule boasts a variety of classes for all skill levels and experiences. Consider these factors when deciding what class to choose:

• If you enjoy yoga, running, or barre - start with our Mat classes for a slower pace and to learn the fundamental movements of Pilates.

• If you like CrossFit, rowing, swimming, or weight training in the gym - start with our Intro to Reformer classes to develop your Pilates knowledge and build up to our higher intensity Reformer classes. 

• If you are easing back into exercise and movement - consider starting with our Strength in Aging classes on the reformer which boast a gentle pace and plenty of modifications to accomodate a variety of injuries and skill levels.

• If you have special considerations, injuries, or limited mobility - try a Private Lesson Membership for a personalized Pilates plan from a certified instructor to perfect your form, build strength, and increase stability and flexibility.

Try our Intro to Pilates package of 6 classes for $120.

Do I need to be flexible or fit to start Pilates?

Not at all! Pilates is for everybody. Many clients start with limited mobility, injuries, or no fitness background. Each class can be modified to meet you where you are while safely building strength, flexibility, and confidence.

How can I prepare for class? 

To provide you with the safest and most effective experience, we require each new client to create an account and complete an online Health and History Form. Always update your instructor about any new or lingering injuries. Come with an open mind. You will hear new terminology and learn new ways to perform classic exercises. Don't be afraid to ask questions when you need clarification or are unsure about the what instructor is asking. Most importantly listen to your body. If you are feeling fatigued, take a break and resume when you are ready. This is a supportive and understanding environment whether you are an experienced Pilates practitioner or if it is your first class. Everybody is welcome and valued. 

What should I wear + bring to class?

To keep a clean space for us all to enjoy and to preserve the equipment, we are a shoeless studio. Our hardwood floors can be slippery, so we require bare feet or grippy socks. Shoe storage is provided at the entrance to our studios, and there are cubbies for your belongings inside the studio. 

All equipment is provided. We have towels, mats, Pilates circles, knee pads, yoga straps, blocks, and more! A filtered water station is available. 

For those on the go, we offer a luxury shower* fully stocked with the necessary toiletries for your convenience. *Select locations

What should I expect in class? 

Our classes at Maine Pilates are designed to strengthen your core and spine, improve your balance, flexibility, and coordination, and build muscle while still remaining a structured, low-impact workout. We prioritize natural form and alignment throughout class. Instructors will verbally cue movement and further guide you through the workout with visual demonstrations and offer modifications when necessary. Hands-on assists are available upon request.

I have taken Reformer classes before, so why do I need to take Intro to Reformer classes?

To ensure your safety and progress, instructor approval is required before joining Reformer classes. This approval is based on your ability to perform exercises in the Intro to Reformer class with relative ease, good form, and without a lot of explanation or guidance. Typically, we require 4 to 10 Intro to Reformer classes before progressing to Reformer classes in order to fully learn, comprehend, and apply the fundamental movements necessary for faster paced Reformer classes. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us at hello@mainepilates.com.

Wondering what class to join? Feel free to reach out to us before booking! If you’re still not sure which class to attend, we would be happy to suggest one that’s a good match for your skill level and goals.

What is your cancellation policy?

24 hours advance notice is required to avoid a fee. Please see our Studio Policies page for more details.