About Us - Our Methods

Our Methods

Modern Aspects of Pilates at Balance Within Pilates as a Workout

At Balance Within, the carefully designed movements of Joseph H. Pilates are supplemented by application of modern biomechanics, kinesiology, physiology and the realization that modern bodies and daily life are different than in Pilates’ day. To the original work we add the important concept of developing core strength, with the goal of supporting the body correctly during the exercises themselves, and more importantly, during all daily activities as well.

Immediate results include improved posture and stability, enhanced flexibility, increased strength and increased energy. Over the long-term, these results positively affect the mind as well as the body. In addition, the concentration and focus required during Pilates work will improve your awareness of your body and how it moves through space.

As Joe believed in his time, and we at Balance Within believe today, “…each muscle may cooperatively and loyally aid in the uniform development of all our muscles…so you will, as a matter of course, perform your work with minimum effort and maximum pleasure.”

For many people, Pilates is ideal body conditioning. The wide array of exercises provide the opportunity to not only challenge the beginner, but to provide a high-end conditioning workout for capable athletes or performers. In addition to being a beautiful, fluid workout on its own, Pilates is a wonderful complement to strength training and sport-specific training activities.

“I would never want to be without the superb training I have received in Pilates at Balance Within for the past twelve years. Originally I joined seeking better posture through flexibility and strength. Important exercises improved core abdominal strength, correct alignment of the body, articulation of the spine, and freedom of movement. The teachers are super—highly trained, meeting exacting requirements. When teaching, they pay close attention to the particular needs of each client. This well-run studio with a comfortable, happy atmosphere cannot be equaled.”
» Jeanne Kirk, client since 1997 (age 75)

“After nearly ten years of practicing Pilates at Balance Within, I find it just keeps getting more fun and interesting. Taking the teacher training workshop as a client made me aware of how deep you can go with the exercises and how challenging even the simplest ones can be. Even so, I can clearly remember what a difference my very first lesson made in how I felt—I left feeling strong and energetic, which is not what you get after wringing yourself out at the gym. That’s the genius of the way they teach at Balance Within—they tailor the work to give tangible benefits to everyone, from the beginner to the advanced student.”
» Elizabeth Mitchell, client since 2000 (age 43)

Pilates to Solve Problems

For large numbers of people, the Pilates Method serves as a basis for rehabilitation, strengthening, and learning. Its special appeal is the focus on core strength: the basic stabilization necessary for correct, pain-free movement in daily activities and the challenges of real life. Pilates work offers techniques to consciously develop correct patterns of movement for the body to carry into the outside world. These patterns are incorporated into each exercise, so they become a natural habit for the body to utilize outside of the studio.

“My chronic lymphedema went unaddressed for many years until I found Balance Within. Pilates has taught me how to be pain-free physically. From hiking and biking to working in an office 10 hours a day, I can apply techniques that give me the physical performance and comfort I haven’t enjoyed for a long time. Gail Anderson encompasses the knowledge, kindness and truly intuitive nature of a great Pilates master. What a joy to find guidance, relief, and a new way of physical enjoyment.”
» Jody Smith, client since 2007 (age 61)