What Is Pilates?

It’s a system of exercises created in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. Mr. Pilates referred to his method as body contrology, which is a practice of controlled mobility, that leads to total body strength and flexibility, restores balance and helps you optimally move through life. It is a Return to Life, as aptly titled in his book written on the exercise system.

Why Should I Work With Strong Body Pilates?

We understand there is no shortage of studios available to you. At Strong Body Pilates, you can count on teachers with a deep command of the Pilates method and a passion for what we do. That’s what sets us apart from the competition, as does our ability to change bodies through honoring the traditional work of Joseph Pilates. If you want to experience what the Pilates method can do for you, we can show you how to get there.

Where Is the Studio Located?

Strong Body Pilates is located in Toluca Lake, a Los Angeles neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley, next to Burbank, Studio City and just over the hill from Hollywood. Our studio is housed in the Toluca Towne Center, at 10660 Riverside Dr, between the major intersections of Lankershim and Cahuenga. We’re on the second floor, Suite B, which can be accessed via two stairwells, located at the center of the building and near the far west end of the building.

What Do I Wear to Pilates Class?

Wear comfortable exercise attire that isn’t too loose, so we can see your body in movement and make corrections. Pilates is also practiced without shoes. Many practitioners do wear socks, however, and in such cases, we recommend grippy Pilates socks for safety purposes. We carry grippy socks available for purchase at the studio.

What Should I Expect From a Pilates Lesson?

Expect to move and probably sweat. Expect to follow a designated exercise program for your body and expect to explore the full range of spinal movement / mobility, unless contraindicated for your body.

Are the Teaching Styles Different for Each Instructor?

No. Since the mission of our studio is to uphold the original method of teaching the Pilates method, you can count on a consistent approach from our instructional staff. Of course, we have different personalities, but the endgame remains the same. Some of the equipment (Reformer and Mat) follows a specific order of exercises (by design) and all exercises prescribed to you are selected specifically for your body. Pilates is a practice, which requires consistency in order to progress, and we’re here to help you get there.

What If I Have an Injury or a Condition that Limits My Mobility?

Pilates is suitable for healthy bodies cleared for exercise. If you have any questions about whether to participate in Pilates, or any other exercise regimen, please consult your physician.

Can I Still Practice Pilates While Pregnant?

Pilates is perfectly safe for pregnancy. In fact, one of our senior teachers, Keion, practiced Pilates throughout both of her pregnancies and she can attest to the benefits. Please ensure that you have been cleared for exercise before participating in Pilates, or any other form of exercise.

What If I Need to Cancel or Reschedule?

Things come up. Life gets in the way. People get sick. We get it. If you do need to cancel or reschedule, please do so within our industry-standard 24-hour cancellation window. Cancellations can be conducted via our online scheduler here, through our Strong Body Pilates app, or you can contact us by phone or email and we’ll be happy to help. Cancellations / rescheduling requests that fall outside the 24-hour cancellation window will be charged the full session rate.

Where Do I Park?

The Toluca Lake Towne Center has a designated parking area with a mix of tenant and patron parking spaces. Park in any unmarked space and please avoid designated parking spots. There is plenty of street parking available on Cartwright Avenue, just east of the building and Moorpark Blvd, one block south of Riverside, along with metered street parking directly on Riverside. Please watch for parking signs, as street cleaning occurs on specific days and times of the week.