All Pilates instructors are trained to look at the body in front of them. At Candlestick Pilates, we consider the person living inside the body. Our clients have ranged from 13-105 years old and come in all shapes, sizes and levels of experience.
Each session is customized, the process and progress look different, but our goal for every client is the same: Educate the mind, move the body and notice the amazing changes that happen as a result of the Pilates Method of Body Conditioning.I started with one session a week and my instructor listened and was careful not to push me too hard.
Each session is customized, the process and progress look different, but our goal for every client is the same: Educate the mind, move the body and notice the amazing changes that happen as a result of the Pilates Method of Body Conditioning.I started with one session a week and my instructor listened and was careful not to push me too hard.
Services
We are located in the heart of the Upper West Side at 140 West 83rd Street. Our Brownstone-Parlour Floor studio is fully furnished with classical Pilates apparatus that was built to Joseph Pilates' original specifications. Our soaring tin ceilings and brick walls create an industrial feel that is juxtaposed with the warmth and focus of our caring staff.
We have been changing bodies on the Upper West Side of Manhattan for over 15 years! We were founded as The Center Studio in 2005. The Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan hired Hallee Altman as the first Pilates Instructor prior to their opening in 2002, and in 2005 she became a tenant of the building- managing her own Pilates studio while also teaching in their fitness center.
Pronounced puh-LAH-teez, this method of body conditioning is a unique exercise system that takes the name of its creator, Joseph H. Pilates. Originally, Pilates referred to his method as the "Art of Contrology", referencing its focus on strengthening both body and mind with the performance of controlled exercises.
The MELT Method is about returning the body back to its ideal state, especially in conjunction with exercise. Unfortunately, most people don't know they have misalignments or dysfunctions in their body when they exercise. If your body is not prepared for exercise, you can easily end up injured! At a minimum, you create tension and stress if you exercise and your body is not in proper alignment or has inhibited extensibility.
Hallee has been teaching the Pilates Method since 2001. After her first mat class she instantly became hooked, and just as Joseph Pilates guaranteed, saw changes in her body in just ten private sessions. She was driven to learn more, and quickly became inspired to teach others to better understand their body's boundaries and intensify their workouts while staying pain-free.
Reviews (9)
Cat S.
Jul 11, 2020
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A gem, sign up for virtual classes and private sessions now - they are the best! Since March, I've been doing lots of great online classes at various studios, and Candlestick is amazing - the top. I hesitated to do virtual private sessions, thinking no-touch would not be worthwhile. I was happily proved wrong! Candlestick puts you in the room, and the studio is beautifully run. On and offline, the go-to Pilates place!!
Deborah D.
Dec 13, 2018
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I have back problems and have been doing PT and then working out, and while these helped somewhat, I was not improving.
I had heard that Pilates really helped people with back problems so I decided to try it. I called The Center Studio since it had good reviews--and was very close to where I lived--and spoke to Jessica, who was very helpful. We set up an appointment for several days later with Nell.
Nell and I hit it off immediately, which is important if one is working one-on-one with someone. I wasn't sure what to expect since the machines made me think of Fifty Shades of Gray.
I had heard that Pilates really helped people with back problems so I decided to try it. I called The Center Studio since it had good reviews--and was very close to where I lived--and spoke to Jessica, who was very helpful. We set up an appointment for several days later with Nell.
Nell and I hit it off immediately, which is important if one is working one-on-one with someone. I wasn't sure what to expect since the machines made me think of Fifty Shades of Gray.
J. B.
Aug 13, 2018
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I rarely post reviews but had to write about The Center Studio because they have truly saved my life. I went to them with a back injury that was really affecting me - not only physically - and started working with Greg. He knew exactly what to do and after taking things slowly for several weeks (or months?) I am pain free, stronger and feeling so much better all around. I tried other studios but found them to be cookie cutter and factory-like. Here you get very individualized attention and a plan that is specific to your needs.
Nadia Z.
Apr 23, 2015
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I've been attending Center Studio for three years, and it is no exaggeration to say that it has changed my life. I have gotten so much stronger and more flexible, my posture has completely changed, and my herniated disk problems have improved dramatically. The instructors here are sophisticated, with knowledge not only of the Pilates method, but also an understanding of physiology. They cater to all levels, from absolute beginners to those who have been practicing for years. All ages are welcome, and they are also able to help those with injuries. Highly recommended.
Genna Singer
Dec 28, 2014
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The Center Studio is clean and quiet, a perfect setting for a great one-on-one pilates session. The owner (and my instructor) is personable and friendly, and was able to easily walk me through each exercise with clear and reasonable prompts. I really enjoyed the experience...and really felt it the next day!
Dave A.
Feb 25, 2010
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I have been a regular client of the studio for several years now. I have found the instructors to all be very knowledgeable about pilates, anatomy, physical rehabilitation/injuries and MELT. I suffered severe back injuries many years ago and they have all been careful to work within my limits without baby-ing. The front desk staff is also first rate. They are 2 steps ahead of me and constantly find me open times when I can't keep my weekly appointments. All in all, a fantastic experience for both mind and body.
Stefanie A.
Oct 16, 2009
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I was introduced to this studio from a friend at work who always raves about the superb quality of instruction and the private pilates lessons. Their Upper West Side location is extremely convenient and you would be surprised at the great prices. Very intimate setting and a great place to go whether you are a beginner or experienced.
Drew C.
Oct 16, 2009
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I have admittedly never done pilates before, but when I first walked into The Center Studio, I was welcomed to a very clean and organized space (a major plus for a neat freak like me!). The workouts were great, the instructors were helpful and not judgmental of my lack of flexibility. I went at the urging of my friend who loves the upper west side location. A major plus-private instruction. Small classes for a good price. My girlfriend and I go all the time. Would recommend to anyone, check it out the people are great!
Lady B.
Apr 22, 2009
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Don't shriek when you read this, but i had never done Pilates before (bowing head down on muffintop with shame). Yet the good people of The Center Studio welcomed me to their shrine of abdoliciousness and I'm loving it!
This joint is way intimate (tiny) and very well-run. It's open to members and non-members of the JCC Health Club, and is inside the JCC.
I have had classes with Sabrina and Bethany - both great. Kevin, the manager, is super and friendly when scheduling appointments, answering questions, etc.
I can't afford it - so that sealed the deal and I signed up immediately
This joint is way intimate (tiny) and very well-run. It's open to members and non-members of the JCC Health Club, and is inside the JCC.
I have had classes with Sabrina and Bethany - both great. Kevin, the manager, is super and friendly when scheduling appointments, answering questions, etc.
I can't afford it - so that sealed the deal and I signed up immediately
