Our honest thoughts on the big 4 in Pilates; CorePlus, Upstate Studios, KX Pilates and Fernwood Fitness

With pilates and yoga studios becoming ever more popular, we have become spoiled with choice. However, whether you're wanting to mix up your practice and change studios, you're on the hunt for a new studio, or you're wanting to begin your pilates & yoga practice, the options can be overwhelming. Luckily for you, Hermosa Co-Founder Anmarie, has tried the big 4 in pilates shares her tips. 

The big 4 in pilates; CorePlus, Upstate Studios, KX Pilates and Fernwood Fitness. Each of these wonderful studios have locations all across Melbourne, with each maintaining high teaching & studios standards across all locations.  


Coreplus 

CorePlus offers it all when it comes to PIlates, with 3 Hot Mat class types, 3 Reformer Class types and 3 Yoga Class styles. Additionally, they offer Pre and Postnatal Reformer for expecting & new mums. 


Anmarie’s Tip:
Hot Mat Pilates can sound intimidating, with the extra challenge of the heated room, choosing a mat close to the back of the room near the doors, or on the end of the row as they tend to be the coolest parts of the room. 
Also remember it is okay to take breaks!! Listen to your body, take sips of water and be kind to yourself. But, if your feeling strong take that challenge when the Instructor suggests it (you may surprise yourself)

Upstate Studios

Upstate is the new kid on the block with Studios popping up all around Melbourne in recent years, Their signature sunshine yellow hues and energising neon boost mood and motivation to the next level. 


Upstate offers multiple class styles across Mat Pilates, Reformer & Boxing. There strength focused pilates class style leaves you feeling strong and confident. 


Anmarie’s Tip:
Upstate Instructors utilize microphones when teaching classes, so if that is not for you, maybe Upstate is not the best option for you. 
Upstate Studios has great change room and bathroom facilities equipped with dysons!! So if you're looking for a studio where you can rush off to work after or if your coming from work, Upstate Studios has the bathrooms of your dreams. 


KX Pilates

KX pilates is the OG!!! Their classes are designed for all levels of fitness. Offering a large range of class styles, KX allows newbies to progress and get stronger, but also challenge those seasoned with advancement movement. 


Anmarie Tips:
Intro offers are the best way to trial a new studio and the KX  intro of 5 classes for $60 is an amazing offer. With a 2 week expiry, 5 classes gives you the chance to try a couple styles of Reformer Pilates and see how it works with your routine.
Make sure you introduce yourself and let the Instructors  know of any nerves or past experience with Pilates. They are there to see you get stronger and support you, and by letting them know they will make sure any moves that may not feel good are modified to you.

 

Fernwood Fitness 

Established over 30yrs ago by businesswoman, proud mother and weightlifting champion Diana Williams, Fernwood Fitness has become a household name across Australia with 71 studios around the country. 


Fernwood Fitness offers a great variety of classes from HIIT, Pilates, Yoga, Zumba and more. Each club has different offerings so be sure to check out the one closest to you for class availability. 


Anmarie Tips
With so many class types on offer, check out their class page at https://www.fernwoodfitness.com.au/classes. This is a great  resource to explore their classes nd help you decide which one to try. 
Remember to book a tour!!! Whether you sign up online or head into your local Fernwood, asking for a tour is a great way to familiarize yourself with the space and the staff and ask questions. 



Concluding note from Anmarie

Thank you for reading and I do hope this has provided some insight into these Pilates Studios.

I can understand trying a new class style or studio can be a little daunting. If there is a studio or a new class style your wanting to try, please email info@hermosaatheltica.com and let me know! I am happy to trial the studio or class and let you know my thoughts, or I can come with you to your first class.