When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Club Pilates
Why Club Pilates is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Club Pilates stands out as the world's largest Pilates brand and franchised fitness network, boasting over 1,200 locations globally across four continents. Established in 2007 and headquartered in Irvine, California, Club Pilates has expanded rapidly to become a household name in the Pilates community. The studios offer a welcoming environment suitable for all ages and fitness levels, emphasizing the philosophy that controlling one's body leads to greater control of life. Their offerings go beyond traditional Reformer Pilates by incorporating a variety of state-of-the-art equipment such as TRX bands, BOSU balls, Exo Chairs, and more, supporting low-impact, full-body workouts. The class selection is extensive, featuring options like Reformer Flow for classic Pilates, Cardio Sculpt for an energetic mix including plyometrics, and Restore for muscle recovery, ensuring there is a class tailored to any mood, fitness goal, or experience level. Expertly trained instructors guide participants through challenges aimed at improving strength, flexibility, balance, and mobility. Whether you're seeking a beginner-friendly introduction or a more advanced workout, Club Pilates provides structured class levels alongside accessible introductory sessions, creating a supportive hub perfect for meeting up with friends and pursuing wellness together.
Here's what people think of Club Pilates
As of recent, Club Pilates holds a 4.5-star rating based on 40 reviews.
Reviewers generally praise Club Pilates for its comprehensive range of classes that blend strength training, cardio, balance, and flexibility work, contributing to noticeable improvements in physical function and well-being. Many appreciate the knowledgeable and supportive instructors who help newcomers understand Pilates basics and encourage progression through different class difficulty levels. Positive feedback highlights the studio's clean, inviting atmosphere and the diversity of workout options, which accommodate varying fitness levels and preferences. On the downside, some users note the higher cost compared to typical gym memberships, mentioning that single classes can be pricey, especially at around $25 to $35 each, though this is often justified by the quality of instruction and small class sizes. Additionally, a few reviews bring up that Club Pilates studios tend to have limited amenities like showers or saunas, which may be important for some customers. Some male clients have also felt somewhat out of place, as the classes are predominantly attended by women, although this gender dynamic also creates a comfortable space for many female participants. Overall, the reviews depict Club Pilates as a well-regarded, professional Pilates studio chain that caters effectively to a wide audience while maintaining a community atmosphere, making it a compelling destination for group exercise and social engagement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
DAG1809 FLAGSTAFF
Club Pilates One star - don’t bother. This is not a place to join if you work a full time job, have limited spare time available, or even work part time. Their hours of operation on their website are: Mon & Tue & Wed & Thu: 8am-8pm Fri: 8am-5pm Sat & Sun: 8am-2pm They don’t mention they close from 12:30 / 1:00 until 3:00 every weekday, they open at 9:00 on Sunday and the last class ends at 1:30 on Saturday. Classes are based on skill level so depending on your schedule, you would be lucky to find 4 classes a month that meet your schedule and/or a class at the appropriate class level. The likelihood is that you would not get into your desired class based on demand, and would eventually be put on a waitlist. Also, when doing your due diligence, you won’t be able to verify the level and certification of their instructors. That information is no where to be found. I wanted to join, so I stopped in and provided my contact info and a credit card, so I could get the app and look up classes. They would also send membership costs which are: Unlimited Membership - $239/mo. Eight (8) Class Membership - $179/mo. Four (4) Class Membership - $99/mo. When I realized the club was not for the working community, I politely declined to join and asked they refund my $32 for the 50 min class I was charged for and never signed up for. Amber, the GM declined my request. She offered to put me in a 7:00 AM class when I had communicated to her that I work at 8:00. Amber, fyi that means bums in seat, at the office, ready to go at 8:00. (not cleaning your reformer for the next class). I was told I needed to contact the manager. So, sent a detailed email and explained why I was not joining and would not be taking a free introductory class (I did over 500 classes in the past 6 years at Club Pilates in another state). Bottom line, the lack of customer service, high monthly membership cost, undesirable hours and no information about the instructors make this place a hard NO for me. Still haven’t refunded my $32 either.
Maureen Riley
Joining Club Pilates is the best thing I’ve done for myself. I like the variety of instructors, all of whom are very knowledgeable. The studio is always spotlessly clean and the staff are great. Only downside is that there aren’t enough classes offered for the demand. Classes can be hard to get into. That does seem to be improving as more instructors come online.
alonkahana
Below is what I wrote a year ago. I’ve done nearly 200 classes with CB. My wife and daughter attend classes. I used to bring friends. And I’m leaving. Why? I really don’t think that they care about their customers. Instructor turnover is high - a sign that they don’t treat their top instructors well. Reformer maintenance is poor - we’ve dealt with snapped ropes, uneven ropes and torn reformer cushions. And the inflexibility in scheduling makes the club uniquely unfriendly to busy people. There are better options (in Ann Arbor I like Core Collective; in Northville I like Innerverse). So much has changed since I wrote the review below: Very convenient location. Easy parking. Variety of excellent instructors, many of whom really know how to tailor the class to different abilities. There’s a bathroom large enough to serve as a changing room. I’ve really enjoyed my membership. I go to both the Stadium and Washtenaw locations. They just added some Saturday afternoon classes, which is wonderful. My primary limitation is that I work during the week so I can only take the late weeknight classes (7 pm) or the weekend classes. I really appreciate having late evening and weekend options, and look forward to them being expanded.
Claudia Leo
This side of town desperately needed a Pilates place and I’m glad that Club Pilates is filling that void. The place is clean and the instructors are all friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. My suggested improvement/wish list item would be that this location added restorative and/or stretching classes which are so beneficial to any Pilates practice and would be more inclusive and fair to those dealing with injury and recovery. These types of classes would only secure more clients to the regular classes after all. I hope this piece of feedback is taken into consideration. I love the place and would love to continue to attend if my fitness needs are met.
Brooke Allum
I’ve been wanting to try Pilates so I took the free intro class. The instructor was amazing and explained everything. I took my first full class last week and loved it! We can kind of go at our own pace and do what feels comfortable for us. Both instructors have been awesome so far
How to reach Club Pilates
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Why Club Pilates may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Club Pilates with your friends? Club Pilates offers an exceptional gathering spot for friends looking to combine social time with wellness in a vibrant, supportive environment. The studio’s welcoming atmosphere fosters a sense of community where every fitness level is embraced, making it ideal for groups wanting to experience or deepen their Pilates practice together. With a strong rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 40 reviews, the quality and consistency of the sessions are well regarded by both beginners and experienced practitioners alike. The workouts at Club Pilates are low-impact yet highly effective, focusing on strength, balance, flexibility, and mobility, which means everyone can participate without fear of injury or discomfort. Moreover, the group Pilates classes are designed not only to challenge the body but also to engage the mind, enhancing overall well-being. Whether you want to try something new or maintain a healthy lifestyle, Club Pilates’ community-oriented approach ensures that your meetup is not just about exercise, but also about connection, encouragement, and fun.
What type of activities are available at Club Pilates? Club Pilates specializes in Reformer Pilates workouts, which use specialized equipment to deliver a low-impact, full-body exercise experience. Classes range from beginner-friendly Intro Sessions to more dynamic workouts like Reformer Flow and Cardio Sculpt. The Intro Class is perfect for those new to Pilates, offering a 30-minute, full-body session guided by instructors who have completed over 500 hours of training. Reformer Flow classes combine classical Pilates moves with modern variations, creatively alternating between different equipment such as the Reformer, Springboard, Chair, and Mat. This ensures that each class is unique and keeps participants engaged. For those seeking cardio alongside strength, the Cardio Sculpt class features plyometric movements using the Jumpboard to increase heart rate gently, making it a fun, aerobic challenge that is still joint-friendly. These activities are designed to increase muscle tone, improve posture, and boost energy, making them excellent choices for groups of friends who want to share diverse workout experiences in the same session.
Why is Club Pilates perfect for a group meetup? Club Pilates offers more than just physical workouts; it creates a sense of belonging through small group sessions that foster camaraderie and motivation. The highly trained instructors personalize attention within group settings, helping every participant feel supported regardless of skill level. This personalization enhances the social experience while ensuring safety and effectiveness. The studio’s welcoming vibe and the variety of class types cater to different fitness objectives, so a group can enjoy multiple classes tailored to their interests, from beginner sessions to more advanced flows and cardio challenges. Additionally, the use of modern Pilates equipment helps engage and unify participants in a shared physical and mental challenge, making the workout simultaneously enjoyable and rewarding. The environment encourages friends to encourage each other as they improve their stamina, flexibility, and balance together, turning fitness into a collective achievement. Finally, the studios themselves are designed as inviting, clean, and comfortable spaces, making them easy places for meetups that blend fitness with social interaction.
What makes the Pilates classes at Club Pilates stand out? Club Pilates emphasizes Reformer Pilates as the core of its workout methodology, notable for its low-impact nature combined with full-body conditioning. Unlike many traditional gyms, Club Pilates classes utilize specialized equipment to enhance movement precision and add resistance, promoting strength, flexibility, and balance simultaneously. Instructors at Club Pilates undergo extensive training, exceeding industry standards with over 500 hours of comprehensive Pilates education, ensuring expert guidance. Classes range from foundational beginner lessons that emphasize form and alignment to more advanced sessions focusing on coordination and dynamic exercises. This tiered approach means that those new to Pilates aren’t overwhelmed while experienced participants remain challenged. Moreover, the classes incorporate varied Pilates apparatus such as the Springboard, EXO-chair, and TRX® systems to add cross-training benefits. The atmosphere is upbeat, inclusive, and community-focused, which differentiates Club Pilates from conventional fitness centers and creates a lasting, positive impression on participants.
How does Club Pilates foster community among participants? The community aspect is a cornerstone of the Club Pilates experience. By offering group classes that skillfully balance individual attention and social interaction, participants naturally build connections with others who have similar wellness goals. The instructors act as both fitness coaches and community leaders, encouraging participants to support one another throughout their Pilates journey. Group settings motivate attendees to push their limits while fostering a supportive environment opposed to the isolation often felt in solo workouts. Regular attendees have opportunities to socialize and form friendships, which increases the likelihood of consistent participation and greater overall satisfaction. The studio also promotes inclusivity across ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds, welcoming newcomers and seasoned Pilates enthusiasts alike. This inclusiveness nurtures a positive social climate where everyone feels valued and motivated, ideal for friends and families seeking a meaningful, enjoyable wellness activity together.
Why is Club Pilates ideal for all fitness levels and ages? Club Pilates designs its programming to be accessible for every body type, age group, and fitness background. Their Intro Class offers a gentle yet effective introduction for beginners or those who have not exercised in a while. For intermediate and advanced clients, classes like Progression and Cardio Sculpt provide increased intensity and complexity to keep workouts stimulating and progressive. The instructors modify exercises as needed to accommodate different abilities and physical limitations, ensuring safety and comfort for all. Pilates as a discipline itself emphasizes controlled movements and body awareness, helping to reduce injury risk and improve posture and mobility, which is especially beneficial for older adults or those recovering from injury. Due to the low-impact nature of the workouts and the controlled group class sizes, Club Pilates studios provide a nurturing environment where every participant can progress at their own pace. This universal programming makes it an excellent place for groups with varied fitness levels to work out together without anyone feeling left behind.
What equipment and facilities can you expect at Club Pilates? Club Pilates invests in top-of-the-line Pilates equipment that enhances the quality and versatility of workouts. The signature Reformer machine is central to their classes, offering adjustable resistance and support to allow for tailored, effective workouts. Beyond the Reformer, they feature specialty apparatus like the Springboard, which uses springs to provide variable resistance; the EXO-chair, designed for strength and stability; and the TRX® springboard system, which adds functional fitness elements. These complement the Mat Pilates exercises to create a comprehensive full-body workout. Each studio is equipped with a clean, organized, and welcoming setting that promotes concentration and comfort. The spacious layout accommodates small groups, ensuring enough room for movement while maintaining an intimate class feel. Changing areas and amenities are designed to support a convenient, enjoyable visit. The combination of advanced equipment and inviting facilities makes Club Pilates a premium destination for group fitness meetups.
How can a group make the most of a meetup at Club Pilates? To maximize a group meetup, friends or families can start by booking the Intro Class together to establish a shared foundation in Pilates basics in a relaxed and supportive environment. This beginning session helps newcomers learn proper form and equipment use while fostering group bonding. From there, the group can diversify by trying different classes such as Reformer Flow for a blend of strength and coordination or Cardio Sculpt for an energetic cardio boost. Scheduling sessions that mix workout levels ensures everyone stays engaged and challenged according to their ability. Participants can also take advantage of the sense of accountability that comes with working out together, motivating each other to attend regularly and reach fitness goals. After class, the group can linger in social spaces or nearby cafes to extend the meetup. Club Pilates’ encouraging community atmosphere combined with professional instruction transforms a simple gathering into an empowering shared journey toward better health and well-being.
What benefits do Club Pilates instructors bring to your group experience? Club Pilates instructors are extensively trained professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and a personal touch to every class. With more than 500 hours of specialized Pilates training, they understand how to tailor exercises to individual needs without disrupting the group dynamic. Their ability to observe and correct form enhances safety and effectiveness, which is crucial in group classes where individual attention can sometimes be limited. Instructors also cultivate a fun, motivating environment that encourages participation, helping to reduce intimidation especially for beginners. Their expertise means classes remain engaging and varied, reducing monotony while maximizing benefits. For groups meeting at Club Pilates, instructors become essential guides who enhance the overall experience, ensuring that attendees leave feeling energized, supported, and accomplished.
How does Club Pilates support long-term fitness and wellbeing? Club Pilates is not just about one-off workouts; it promotes a long-term commitment to health through regular, structured Pilates practice. Their comprehensive class options allow individuals and groups to build skill progressively over time, improving mobility, strength, and mental focus. The low-impact nature of Pilates reduces injury risk, encouraging sustained engagement without burnout. The studio’s community-driven approach also helps maintain motivation by fostering relationships that support accountability. With ongoing instruction from highly trained professionals and access to diverse class formats, Club Pilates provides the tools and environment for lasting lifestyle change. Many participants report enhanced posture, reduced pain, increased energy, and improved mood as benefits, which reinforce the value of regular attendance. This holistic focus on whole-person wellness makes Club Pilates a wise choice for anyone looking to integrate fitness into their lives with friends or loved ones.