12 of the Best Pilates Studios in Boston

Karal Duval Pilates / Photo provided

Pilates can be a bit intimidating. What with those big reformers, chairs, barrels, and blocks, it can look like a lot to handle. Luckily, Boston is rife with teachers and studios teaching Pilates to both those who are new to the exercise or trying to perfect their poses. Plus, mat-based Pilates can sometimes closely resemble yoga or a body-weight strength circuit—it’s great for both strengthening and relaxing the body in a low-impact way. Here are 12 of the best Pilates studios and instructors in Boston right now.

Kara Duval Pilates

Whether you’re a newcomer to Pilates or a seasoned veteran, experienced local trainer Kara Duval is bound to give you a great workout that fits your needs. Duval is certified in advanced Stott Pilates and spent more than 15 years training in classical ballet at some of the country’s best schools. She teaches a variety of private and group classes at gyms around the city including Equinox and North End Yoga.

Multiple locations, karaduvalpilates.com.

Boston Body Pilates

There’s a reason Boston Body Pilates is so popular. With five locations around Boston, this studio provides its students with one of the best Pilates workouts money can buy. Owners Zayna and Clark Elefteriadis have worked hard to create a calm, comfortable environment where customers can replenish body and mind alike. Boston Body Pilates offers mat and equipment classes for all levels, so everyone can find what they’re looking for.

Multiple locations, bostonbody.com.

Btone Fitness

Btone Fitness’ specially developed method combines Pilates, barre, and yoga concepts to create a flexible and engaging workout for everyone. Each 45 minute class incorporates a wide range of slow, smart exercises to ensure lasting results. New students can get their first three classes for $30.

Multiple locations, btonefitness.com.

K Foley Global Pilates

Ever wanted to get your Pilates workout in while enjoying beautiful views of Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library? Katelyn Foley’s Reformer- and Tower-equipped studio in Copley Square is the place for you. Foley provides a personalized workout for every client and offers specialized programs like Pilates for athletes, pre- and post-natal Pilates, and rehabilitation Pilates.

551 Boylston St., 4th Floor, Boston, 978-349-1655, kfoleypilates.com.

Upward Spiral Studio

This Cambridge studio focuses on providing each client with a safe and individualized exercise program, whether they’re rehabilitating from an injury or just hoping to get a quick workout in. Upward Spiral offers private lessons as well as small group sessions with up to four partners. The studio is open seven days a week, and workouts can be adjusted for all age groups and fitness levels.

7 Temple St., Cambridge, 617-491-2940, upwardspiralstudio.com.

Jennifer Phelan Pilates

Jennifer Phelan is one of the most experienced Pilates instructors in Boston, having worked with everyone from Hollywood actors to professional athletes and pre- and post-natal women. Phelan’s signature program, Pilates Fusion, combines traditional mat Pilates with core sequencing and music, resulting in an energetic workout that keeps customers coming back time after time. She teaches at Equinox and North End Yoga, as well as in private homes around the city upon request.

Multiple locations, jenniferphelan.com.

Integral Pilates

Located in the Coolidge Corner Wellness Studio in the Arcade Building, Integral Pilates is the ideal studio for those seeking an adaptable workout in a small group setting. Integral Pilates emphasizes comfort and safety, making it perfect for those recovering from injuries and older people hoping to work on balance and strength. Of course, if a challenge is what you’re after, Integral Pilates can provide that as well. Just be sure to inform your instructor of your fitness goals when you begin.

318 Harvard St., Mezzanine level, Brookline, 617-935-3328, integralpilates.com.

BodyTrio Studio

BodyTrio is an award-winning fitness studio based in Belmont that offers traditional Pilates, yoga, and barre courses as well as a signature workout called Triogo. This program blends Pilates, yoga, tai-chi, and abdominal exercises to provide an engaging full-body workout suitable for anyone. While BodyTrio’s usual studio on Alexander Avenue is currently closed for repairs after a fire, classes are still taking place at Plymouth Church and Belmont Hill Club, so be sure to register early to secure your spot.

Multiple locations, bodytrio.com.

Endurance Pilates and Yoga

Endurance Pilates and Yoga sets itself apart with the sheer variety of classes it offers. Endurance does group sessions and private lessons by appointment, and offers Reformer, Tower, and mat Pilates classes at varying degrees of difficulty, not to mention the studio’s extensive program of yoga and barre courses. Endurance even offers special programs designed specifically for dancers, models, and athletes.

1636 Washington St., Boston, 617-982-3205, endurancepilatesandyoga.com.

Asana Charlestown

 This studio, which also offers barre and yoga, hosts one sweat-inducing Pilates class—no reformer required, though. The core-focused session uses small weights and resistance bands as well as fast movements to get your blood flowing and your heart rate up. New members can receive two weeks of unlimited classes for $45.

20 City Square, Charlestown, asanacharlestown.com. 

Club Pilates

Located on Fit Row at Assembly Row, Club Pilates offers nine different classes as well as private training with individual guidance from a trainer. They even clearly mark their classes with four different levels: Foundation, Progression, Evolution, and Mastery, so you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into. And if you’re new to Pilates, you can drop into a free intro class to see if it’s a good fit. Classes range from more aerobic and heart-pumping to slower and more restorative, so if you’re feeling extra beat up, you can modify your workout for the day.

389 Revolution Dr., Somerville, 857-997-2580, clubpilates.com. 

C2 Body

At C2, instructors believe that through movement, you can connect your inner and physical self and by being truly connected you can be the best that you can be. Choose from personalized private Pilates sessions or group classes that will help you become graceful, present, and grounded as you learn how to maneuver on the various pieces of equipment. Each session offers modifications, program variety, and postural management, allowing you to leave the studio healthier than when you came in.

840 Summer St., Space 203, South Boston, 617-855-0330, c2pilates.com.