Pilates at the Camelback Inn Resort in Paradise Valley, Arizona.
It’s hard to find a good studio, even when you know your home town pretty well- but try to find one on vacation and you could be wasting your precious vacation time and money! You want good instruction with a resort feel. . . without paying resort prices. I get it. Some studios are like sorority houses. You have to be part of ‘the clique’ to feel welcome, let alone get an appointment. So, what is my criteria for ‘the perfect studio’?
1. Trainers and owners need to have their act together.
Pretty basic, but you would be surprised. Studios that don’t return phone calls or emails is an indication that they have too much on their plate and your ‘vacation’ appointment doesn’t mean too much to them. Not all studios allow ‘vacation’ clients, so make sure you are upfront about your intention otherwise it could be an uncomfortable situation when you tell them why you aren’t coming back.
**Tip** Let the studio know about any physical limitations or conditions you might have in advance so they can place you with the right instructor.
2. Studios must be clean and organized- preferably with a killer view.
I know, If I were really hard core, I would do Pilates in a smelly basement. But, hey, my time and money are important to me- I like to feel it’s well spent. There is nothing better than doing Pilates looking out to the beach or over the mountains. Even cityscape is a view, but the place has to have a good ‘vibe’ about it.
3. Prices have to be reasonably competitive.
You can expect to pay anywhere from 65.00 to 85.00 per session if you are a ‘drop in’.
That’s it for me. Three things. Three things that should be so simple and easy yet it’s so hard to find, unless you know where to look.
If you decide to stay at a hotel that doesn’t offer Pilates, find out some nearby studios. The concierge might be of some help, but do some research on your own (or ask me!) and find reputable studios nearby. You should always combine some cardio exercise with Pilates for a well rounded exercise program. Running isn't for everyone - but everyone can walk around the block - just Don't get lost in your training, become a MapMyRun.com member and get access to free training plans and printed run routes
Some questions to ask when you call the studios ahead of time:
What style of Pilates do you teach?
Traditional versus non traditional, Stott versus Balanced Body etc. ) This is important if you want to stick with what you know- or try something different.
Do you accept ‘drop–ins’?
Many studios insist on private sessions before you drop in on a class. Sometimes you can avoid this if you call and speak to the owner and explain you will be visiting from out of town. Tell them the studio where you are currently taking classes and they might make an exception. Almost all studios require pre- registration for classes, so make plans ahead!
Think outside the box.
Maybe a Pilates studio isn’t available, but a Yoga studio offers combination Pilates and Yoga class. Or a movement studio offers Gyrotonic or Tai Chi. Be adventurous – but plan ahead!
Do you know of a fabulous Studio you want to share with the world?
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Pilates at Marriott's Camelback Inn Spa and Resort
The Spa at Camelback Inn is widely known for it's beautiful scenery and excellent service. quite honestly, I think the Pilates here is one of the best kept secrets in the Valley. For $85.00 ( less if you buy a package) you can not only have a private Pilates session, but you can also hang out at the spa , by the pool or the 'quiet' room and have a full, relaxing day. A Reformer, Stability Chair and of course a mat class is available. The only downfall is that it must be booked at a time when the aerobics room is not in use. But, considering the view and the rest of the ammentities, you can certainly make use of the rest of the facilities until you are ready for your appointment. The fitness schedule changes during busy season (usually Jan- May) so plan accordingly.
The Pilates & Movement Center of Kona, HI is the largest and most elaborately equipped movement Studio found in the State of
Owners Laura Crittendon and Steve Von Hargett are more than merely fitness instructors or personal trainers, they are licensed movement therapists. Movement Therapist go beyond just teaching Pilates or Personal Training – they have thousands of hours of advanced clinical and movement education (found nowhere else in
75-5995 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 900 • Pottery Terrace • Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Studio:
