Pilates - Northwell Health’s Center for Wellness and Integrative Medicine

Pilates, or “Contrology,” was developed by Joseph Pilates prior to World War I. During his time in an internment camp during WWI, he developed a new approach to exercise and body conditioning. Joseph Pilates conceived “Contrology” as a method of physical conditioning in which individuals could work their bodies to their full potential developed on the shoulders of ancient disciplines. Pilates originates from the idea that real power comes from strengthening from our deepest center and living from our core. Pilates lengthens and strengthens the body. It balances all muscle groups and strengthens the core. It is proven to be the best way to recover from injuries and prevent their recurrence. It is believed to be a mental as well as physical conditioning, to work the body to its full potential.

Class descriptions

At the Center, we offer both beginner and intermediate to advanced Pilates classes. We also offer private sessions or custom classes.

Fundamentals

This class is for clients in the beginning stages of Pilates or those desiring a more relaxed class. Experience the apparatus in a supportive environment while still getting a total body workout. Open to all levels. Book a session

Combo

This class alternates between all the apparatus (Reformer, Tower, Chair and Mat) to combine the best of everything. Designed specifically by the instructor with advanced planning so each class is slightly different and suited to individual needs and levels. This class will challenge and work all your body parts. Intermediate to advanced levels. Book a session

Reformer

This class is designed to offer a challenging and fun workout. This moving piece of equipment is used to increase range of motion, strength, balance, and coordination by using springs of various tensions. Intermediate to advanced levels. Book a session

Tower

The tower is a fixed all-mounted apparatus that increases flexibility and mind/body awareness. Build lean, flexible muscles as well as increase coordination, improve posture, and relieve stress to various joints and muscles. In this class you will use the breathing bar, leg springs, arm springs, and push through bar to accomplish a challenging full body workout. Intermediate to advanced levels. Book a session

Pilates for Pelvic Health

Pilates for Pelvic Floor Health classes are specifically designed to help you learn to activate muscle groups, which support the pelvic floor. Research reveals that the lower abdominals and pelvic floor muscles co-contract to stabilize the pelvis and lower back. These classes focus on breathing techniques, spinal alignment, stabilization and appropriate range of motion to engage the pelvic floor as part of exercises where abdominal, as well as, other muscle groups are involved. Classes will explore functional movement in a supportive and fun environment. Book a session

Private Sessions and Custom Classes

Private one-on-one sessions are the best way to cultivate your Pilates practice. Our teachers customize a program to develop each client—all building new pathways for core strength, lean & long muscles, balance, flexibility, uniformity and progressive accomplishing of the exercises. We are happy to create a structured program for groups on a custom basis. Contact us to book a session

Pilates instructors

At the Center, our masterful Pilates teachers will meet you on your journey wherever you are and create a customized experience. We will guide you with compassion, respect and love to embrace the change you need today. Meet our Pilates instructors

Postpartum Exercises: Perfecting Your Posture

For many parents who’ve just given birth, the prospect of starting an exercise or any physical routine again may seem daunting. But what if we told you starting could be as easy as sitting in a chair and working on your posture? Here, Amy Aranoff, a Pilates instructor with Northwell Health’s Center for Wellness and Integrative Medicine, will guide you through several posture-based activities that can be great for rebuilding your core strength after baby (or anytime, really).

Watch the video