FAQs

WHAT IS LIFT PILATES OPEN STUDIO ?
At Lift Pilates, our Open Studio offers a unique, community-driven approach to Pilates. You’ll work on a personalized program at your own pace, alongside others who are on their own Pilates journeys, creating a supportive and motivating environment.
Your program will include exercises on the reformer and mat, forming the foundation of your Pilates practice. From there, we incorporate other apparatus—such as the Cadillac, Wunda Chair, and more—to support your body, build strength, and improve flexibility. This holistic approach ensures a well-rounded workout tailored to your needs and goals.
For a glimpse into the past, take a look at my teacher, Jay Grimes, explaining more about Joe's Gym, the old school method of Pilates — open studio style.
ARE YOU IN THE STUDIO TEACHING DURING OPEN STUDIO?
Absolutely. Open Studio is not a free-for-all! I’m in the studio the entire time, coaching you through your personalized workout. You’ll be following your own program, but I’ll be observing, cueing, adjusting, and guiding you throughout the session—just like in a traditional class, only with more individual focus.
WHAT DAYS/TIMES DO YOU OFFER LIFT PILATES OPEN STUDIO?
Lift Pilates Open Studio Schedule
I’M A BEGINNER AND HAVE NEVER DONE PILATES. IS THIS OPEN STUDIO FOR ME?
If you're ready to commit to Pilates as a regular part of your life, you’ll be a great fit. This environment is built for people who show up consistently, put in the work, and want to see real progress—whether you're just starting out or taking your practice deeper.
IS THE LIFT PILATES OPEN STUDIO A CIRCUIT?
No, the Lift Pilates Open Studio is not a circuit. It’s a unique experience where you follow a personalized Pilates program tailored to your needs, with individualized coaching in every session. This approach offers a level of customization and support you won’t find in typical exercise formats—it’s truly one of a kind.
WILL EVERYONE DO THE SAME EXERCISE ON THE SAME EQUIPMENT?
No. Every client follows a personalized program based on their individual needs and goals. My studio offers the full range of classical Pilates apparatus, with multiple pieces available, so you’ll always have the equipment you need. We’ll create your custom plan during your initial private lesson.
IS THE LIFT PILATES OPEN STUDIO FOR EVERYONE?
No. The Lift Pilates Open Studio is for those who are serious about learning the original Pilates method as Joseph Pilates intended. It’s a personalized, skill-based approach that requires commitment, consistency, and a willingness to do the work. If you're ready to invest in yourself and take your practice seriously, you'll thrive here.
WHAT IF I HAVE INJURIES?
Injuries are common, and they don’t have to stop your progress. If you're willing to work, there’s always a way forward. We’ll adjust your program to meet you where you are today, so you can keep building strength, control, and skill over time.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CLASSICAL AND CONTEMPORARY PILATES?
Classical Pilates stays true to the original method created by Joseph Pilates. It follows a specific order of exercises and uses all the apparatus as part of a complete system to build strength, flexibility, and control. The movements are athletic, rhythmic, and designed to work the entire body efficiently.
Contemporary Pilates often introduces modifications, variations, or exercises from other disciplines. While it can be creative or tailored to individual needs, it doesn’t follow the original method or structured sequence.
At Lift Pilates, I teach classical Pilates. It’s tough, sweaty, and results-driven—focused on strengthening your center, building even length and tone, and helping you move confidently in everyday life.
Even though classical Pilates is challenging, it’s designed to meet you where you are, making it accessible and effective for all fitness levels and experiences.

GETTING STARTED - HOW TO BEGIN AND PREPARE
HOW MANY PRIVATE LESSONS WILL I NEED BEFORE JOINING?
Typically, just one private lesson is all you need to get started in the Lift Pilates Open Studio. During that session, we’ll create your personalized program and prepare you to work independently at your own pace.
WILL I NEED TO MEMORIZE MY WORKOUT?
You'll learn your personalized program naturally as you practice. In the beginning, you’ll use an exercise card for guidance, and I’ll be there to coach you. As you build confidence, you’ll rely on the card less and move more independently.
DO YOU STILL OFFER PRIVATE LESSONS?
Yes. All new clients begin with a private lesson to create a personalized program for the Lift Pilates Open Studio.
If you need extra time to build confidence, additional private sessions are available to support your transition. After joining Open Studio, private lessons may also be recommended from time to time to help you refine skills, address specific needs, or continue progressing.
My focus is always on helping you build strength, skill, and independence through your Pilates journey.
DO I NEED SPECIAL EQUIPMENT OR CLOTHING?
No special equipment is needed—we provide everything you’ll use in the studio. For clothing, wear comfortable, form-fitting attire that allows you to move freely. Bare feet or grip socks are best for stability and safe movement on the equipment.
HOW DO I SIGN UP FOR CLASSES OR MEMBERSHIPS?
Since Lift Pilates offers a personalized experience, I like to start by getting to know you. Text me at 530-220-4579, and we’ll set up a quick coffee chat to see if we’re a good fit. If we decide to move forward, you’ll book a one-time private session ($165) to get started with your personalized program.

RESULTS AND COMMITMENT - WHAT TO EXPECT AND HOW OFTEN TO ATTEND
For best results, I recommend practicing Pilates at least 2–3 times per week—and twice a week is mandatory to maintain your membership at Lift Pilates. Consistency is key to building strength, improving flexibility, and creating lasting change. Many clients begin to notice real improvements within just a few weeks of regular practice.
WHAT KIND OF RESULTS CAN I EXPECT FROM CLASSICAL PILATES?
Classical Pilates builds strength, flexibility, and better posture while helping to reduce the risk of injury. With consistent practice, you may also notice increased energy, improved balance, greater mobility, and enhanced overall body control.
ABOUT LAURA
HOW LONG HAVE YOU TAUGHT PILATES?
I’ve been teaching Pilates for over 20 years. Early on, I taught group reformer classes, group mat classes, and contemporary Pilates—the popular formats at the time. Some longtime clients may still remember me as Laura Cotler.
While those formats gave me valuable teaching experience, they didn’t offer the depth, structure, or long-term results I knew were possible. That’s why I created Lift Pilates, grounded in the original classical method and an open studio approach the way Joe Pilates taught—designed to build true strength, skill, and confidence for my clients over time.
RATES AND PRICING
WHAT ARE YOUR RATES?
We offer the following pricing options:
Membership Options: (unlimited Lift Pilates Classes)
• One year Commitment: $525/month
• Month-to-Month $595/month
Private Lessons:
• $165 each
Visit the GET STARTED page for details on how to begin.