Pilates is far from new, but Club Pilates of Winston-Salem is. And, despite the challenges of being a brand new business in a COVID-19 world, Club Pilates is taking the community by storm.
But first, what is Pilates?
Pilates is an exercise technique that was created by Joseph Pilates. Born in Germany, Joseph Pilates began experimenting with different types of resistance exercises as early as 1912. He began to develop a following before he immigrated to the United States in 1926 and opened a fitness studio in New York. The rest is history. Even 53 years after his death, his name and his legacy live on in the fitness community.
Why Club Pilates?
For Club Pilates Winston-Salem’s owner, Kristin Henry, the choice was easy. She has been working in the fitness industry since 2011, including her role as a Pilates Master Trainer. Of all the fitness styles she taught, Pilates always helped her move and feel her best. After years of teaching, she wanted to bring those benefits to more people. The Club Pilates method allows members to get exceptional instruction, using top of the line equipment, while ensuring the workout is accessible to everyone.
The Club Pilates Difference: Pilates is for Everyone
“One of the main comments we hear from our members is that our club is so inviting,” said Kristin. “Pilates isn’t meant to be intimidating, but let’s face it – some of our workout equipment can look a little intense! Our teachers make sure everyone feels comfortable and confident in class while getting a great workout. We pride ourselves on offering an approachable environment that is friendly and engaging for everyone!”
Kristin shared, “Pilates is for anyone. If you move – Pilates is for you! It’s an exercise program that is wholeheartedly embraced by dancers and competitive athletes, but it’s truly a program for anyone who simply wants to move and feel better. Since starting, our members have shared that they have improved flexibility, core strength and balance. Many have also reduced their chronic pain and even grown taller!”
At Club Pilates Winston-Salem, beginners don’t need to feel excluded. “Our trainers are adept at adjusting and modifying movements for everyone in the group,” explained Kristin. “We want everyone to enjoy Pilates, and so our job is to make sure you start where you are and grow from there! Our online class schedule explains the various options, and we have classes that meet all day, starting as early as 6am and going as late as 7pm. The classes are 50 minutes, and with our central location, we can really make things work for anyone’s schedule. We offer private, semi-private and group classes.”
Club Pilates Training
“As a Pilates Master Trainer, I am so excited to offer Teacher Training!” Kristin shared, “Pilates is my passion, and I’m thankful that I have been able to make a career out of it! And, for those who are interested in teaching Pilates, we offer that! We are always looking for caring and compassionate individuals who love to move! And, once we find that spark, we can teach them the technical aspects of Pilates.”
“Our Teacher Training Program is a 500-hour comprehensive education program that thoroughly addresses how our equipment is used and how to work with members. So, prior experience is not needed! We’re going to teach an interested candidate everything they need to know about Pilates and how to teach it! Five hundred hours may sound like a lot,” said Kristin, “but training can be done within a few months. We are excited to mentor those who are eager to make Pilates a part of their career!”
Club Pilates in a COVID-19 World
“The impact of COVID-19 has taken a tremendous toll on all businesses – both new and established. We have been so fortunate, though. Even though we had not been open long before the state ordered all fitness facilities closed, we have quickly developed a loyal following. We are thankful for those who encouraged us and supported us during the COVID-19 crisis,” said Kristin. “During the quarantine, we offered free, online classes which helped us stay in touch with our members and encourage one another from afar.”
“Thankfully, our return to the studio should be relatively simple. Each participant works with their own set of equipment, which is cleaned between each class, and by coincidence, our stations are each 6’ apart.” She continued, “in the post-COVID world, we have taken extra steps to ensure everyone’s safety, including the addition of air purifiers, touchless check-in and increased cleaning. We want everyone to feel comfortable as they return to their normal activities, including Pilates classes at Club Pilates.
“I love running this small business. My husband was deployed with the National Guard when the studio opened. Thankfully, he’s home with me now, but during my time alone, I saw first-hand what an inclusive, welcoming community Winston-Salem is! It was clear very quickly that opening our studio here was the right choice,” said Kristin. “It’s such a privilege to be here and be a part of this community. We look forward to welcoming new members to Club Pilates!”
Club Pilates is a locally owned and operated franchise. It is located at 371 Lower Mall Drive in the Thruway Shopping Center. Call Club Pilates at 336.717.1222, or visit online at ClubPilates.com/WinstonSalem. Be sure to “like” Club Pilates (Winston-Salem) on Facebook and follow them on Instagram and Twitter.
SIDEBAR
Read some of the reviews!
“I love this studio. All of the staff members and Pilates instructors are so friendly and welcoming. The classes are limited to 12 people, so it’s not super intimidating, even in a full class. Modifications are provided for your level of fitness. I always leave with a great workout and enjoy going to class!” ~ Jessica O.
“Great experience! The staff is always friendly and personable. Highly recommend!” ~ Monica H.
“Wonderful, effective workout that is gentle on your joints. Great instructors and amazing equipment. This will be my new go-to for exercise, strengthening and rejuvenation.” ~ D’Ann H.
