Core Chicago Pilates
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Core Chicago Pilates
Since 2002, Core Chicago has provided accessible, high quality Pilates workouts to address each client's needs while instilling strength, confidence, and joy in both our studio and virtual space. Our studio is also proud to offer physical therapy, postural restoration, and Pilates teacher training.

Holly and the other instructors are so dedicated, kind and conscientious. The classes have been a wonderful supplement to my physical therapy. In fact, the instructors even communicate with my therapists so that I get the most out of my Pilates sessions. I highly recommend Core Chicago for almost anyone who wants to improve their strength, flexibility and overall health.
Services
Founded in 2002 as one of the oldest Pilates Studios in Chicago, Core Chicago Pilates began with teaching private sessions and rapidly grew into a full service Lincoln Park Pilates studio with Private and Duet instruction as well as a full group class schedule. We look forward to seeing you in the studio!.
Includes 4 private sessions that will help you start your Pilates journey or fine tune what you already know. This is a great place to start for the student who comes to us with any injuries or other concerns as we can work with your care team to continue on your path to progress. Also perfect for those who want help working on something specific or just aren't ready to join a group yet.
Pilates is a series of exercises that build upon each other in progressive layers. Like a cake! Now that we have your attention, let's talk foundation. In order to ensure you are setup for success, we strongly suggest starting with one of our Introductory Packages. Cancellation Policy: Group Classes (Equipment and Mat): 12 hours before session.
Human bodies are asymmetrical by design. When working properly, our naturally asymmetrical bodies can work efficiently and pain free. However, as early as childhood, we begin to develop postural and compensatory patterns. Over time, these patterns of imbalance can cause pain and imbalance.

Common examples of this include chronic shoulder pain, low back pain + disc issues, pelvic floor dysfunction, mid back tightness + pain, hip impingements + pain, and many more issues.Best done in a private setting, we begin each session by spending a few minutes evaluating the clients postural position.
We are pleased to offer in-house physical therapy with Stephanie Korso, owner of Indepth Physical Therapy. Core Chicago Pilates works closely with Stephanie to create programs for shared clients/patients. By communicating daily, we are able to stay up to date for client treatments and plan sessions/classes accordingly for those interested in full-circle wellness.
Reviews (25)
Sarah Barnes
Sarah Barnes
Sep 15, 2021
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I never leave reviews - but this place is AMAZING. Small class sizes, great instructors, feels homey yet still peaceful and professional. Highly recommend.
Melissa C.
Melissa C.
Mar 21, 2021
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This pilates studio offers challenging classes which are also safe. The teachers are great at making modifications for those who need it without making the pace of the class suffer.
In these challenging times, the space is immaculate and I feel very safe there.
Michael Colletti
Michael Colletti
Sep 20, 2020
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Been a regular at Core for the last two years and have taken classes from Holly and all her staff. The quality of teaching is unparalleled. When traveling, have taken Pilates classes in cities all over and there is so much value in the small class sizes offered at Core. It allows for personal instruction and attention to detail that I haven’t experienced at other studios.
Well appointed studio welcoming to both those new to Pilates and experienced.
Can I leave 10 stars?
Brody Dawson
Brody Dawson
Jan 21, 2019
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Core Chicago Pilates is far and away the best Pilates studio in the city. I have been going here exclusively the past three years after trying out almost every studio in the city. Holly and her team of instructors are the best there are and they always keep it interesting. Whether you are new to Pilates, or have been practicing for years, each class is accessible and provides something fun and new! You always will feel welcome at the studio and will leave feeling better than when you walked in the door. I cannot recommend Core Chicago Pilates enough!
Doug Bacon
Doug Bacon
Dec 31, 2018
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I’ve gone to CCP on a weekly basis for over a decade. I do their group “mat class”, which is fun, fast, and quite challenging, and private sessions on the reformer. I think CCP is the best time and money I spend on my fitness routine. Holly (the owner) is a physiological magician; if you can articulate where a muscle is uncomfortable, she can help you fix it and teach you how to ward off future discomfort. 5++ stars.
Christine Mastrianni
Christine Mastrianni
Aug 31, 2018
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I can’t not say enough about how much I love this studio!!! It is a little hidden gem in Chicago. The owner Holly has made this studio such a warm and welcoming environment for pilates lovers of all kinds. They offer a wide variety of classes to cater to every experience level. If you are looking for a fantastic workout, experience and environment Core Chicago Pilates is your place!
Whitney Read
Whitney Read
Aug 25, 2018
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I owe so much to Holly and the team at Core Chicago Pilates! I never had a consistent fitness routine until I started pilates 2 years ago. For me, gyms and group classes were intimidating because I felt out of shape and sluggish amongst the regulars. What was suppose to be a only a couple of 1-on-1 intro sessions to get familiar with the reformer and class flow quickly snowballed into regular weekly sessions and a great appreciation for the practice.
The studio is welcoming from the moment you walk in, and everyone from the instructors to the patrons are equally inviting. Class sizes are small
Jessica C.
Jessica C.
Aug 04, 2018
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I did the Core and Reform class yesterday for my second workout of the day and it was exactly what I needed. Pedra, the instructor, was able to correct my form while still leading a nice class. I would recommend the Core and Reform class to beginners or anyone who is doing their second workout of the day. Pedra was on tempo the entire class.

The class only has 4 reformers, so there's a lot of individual instruction. The studio itself has a very calm and zen vibe.
Meg S.
Meg S.
Oct 23, 2017
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Core is my favorite pilates place in the city! (When they were under construction the past few weeks, I legitimately "missed" my Saturday morning. As much as one can miss their abs hurting to death before 11 am.)

Although it is a bit out of the way for me, the entire studio is super welcoming for exercise newbs and experts alike. I had my first class with Christine on Classpass, who went above and beyond in explaining the absolute basics of the reformer. I ended up also buying the Introductory Package which includes 4 reformer classes and 4 mat classes.

The instructors are not only
Mary N.
Mary N.
Sep 19, 2016
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Just got a monthly membership for the PureMat classes because the first one was so great. I'm not experienced with Pilates but they're helping me learn at my own pace. Can't wait to go back next week.
Elise K.
Elise K.
Jun 18, 2016
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I visited for a small group class this week and found the staff friendly and knowledgeable. The studio is quite small and laid out over two floors. I only visited the downstairs area that was simple, but quite clean and functional.

The class I attended was 50/50 class that incorporated 30 minutes of toning, yoga, Pilates, and light weight training I got and 25 minutes of deep stretch with a foam roller. The class consisted of just myself and one other student, which was a very good student to teacher ratio. The class was well taught and left me feeling great.
Lauren P.
Lauren P.
Aug 26, 2015
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I'm not sure why there are less than five star reviews, as Holly and her practice are wonderful. Holly is extremely knowledgable and makes you feel SO comfortable during your session. I came to Holly to work on my diastasis after pregnancy and she has made such a tremendous difference in my life. I have been able to regain ab strength and am getting back to my old shape! Holly is also extremely accommodating with scheduling. I had a family emergency come up and she not only accommodated the schedule change but also provided me with resources for the medical emergency. Her facility is always
Stacey O.
Stacey O.
Dec 02, 2014
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Holly is a great instructor and is very knowledgeable. She has helped me gain strength in a short amount of time. I like the small studio feel.
Emily D.
Emily D.
Oct 19, 2014
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I really wanted to like this place, but was rather disappointed with the experience, not the instructor.

Facility: the studio takes up 2 floors of an old and tired building. Downstairs is the mat and spin area, and upstairs is the pilates equipment.

Equipment: I took the reformer group class and was a little put off by the shape of the equipment. It looked old, grungy and in need of a power wash. Doing moves on my stomach gave me prime viewing of all the hair and dirt on and under the reformer. A wash and a vacuum is really in order on and under the machines.

Class: calling all Chatty Cathys
Aviva S.
Aviva S.
May 05, 2014
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I have taken both private lessons and group Pilates classes at Core Chicago Pilates and absolutely love it there! I had a recent spine surgery and Holly is so nice and so knowledgeable on the muscles/spine and how to modify my routine so I don't hurt myself but to get the most effective workout possible. The group classes only hold 4 people which is a HUGE plus because you still get one on one attention! Most definitely the best Pilates class/private instruction I have taken! Would recommend to anyone...especially those recovering from sports injuries! You will be in great hands :)
Bethany B.
Bethany B.
Feb 27, 2014
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I've been coming here for over 6 months and I absolutely love it! Holly is a great instructor, very knowledgable and personable. There's a good mix of classes so I never get bored with the workout.

As others have mentioned, the small class size is great to make sure you get individualized attention. I expect to be coming back here for a long time.
Jay Y.
Jay Y.
Aug 13, 2013
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I really love this place. Every time I go back I like it even more. The classes are diverse and fun. I highly reccommend. Plus they have great specials AND you can even get a massage after class.
Kelly S.
Kelly S.
Jan 08, 2013
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Tried a Pilates class for the first time and I know I got a good workout. Not intimidating for a beginner and the workout was pretty fun. I thought Holly was great. Will definitely go back.
Haley S.
Haley S.
Aug 22, 2012
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I live nearby and like their class selection, but the 24 hour cancellation policy just doesn't work in my career world. I understand you can't have people cancel 10 minutes before, but what about 6 hours? That's still enough time to fill the spot if there is a wait list.
Eric K.
Eric K.
Aug 08, 2012
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So I told my wife that I would try Pilates with her after several several previous times telling her no way. I have never done Pilates in my life before, so my expectations going in were low.

After a session though, I was pretty impressed. I got a pretty good workout in and worked up a good sweat. The good sweat is probably attributed to the fact that if I do any activity such as lifting a pencil, I break out in a sweat...so disclaimer there.

Anyways, to wrap up my experience, the class size was pretty small, which enabled the instructors to be very personalized and helpful (especially for
Clare K.
Clare K.
Jul 19, 2012
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I love this studio. The class size is controlled, so much individual attention is given to proper form and body alignment. The instructors never shy away from questions or giving modifications for all skill levels. It is great to have group reformer classes- again- it feels like a private lesson. I also like the spin and weight training classes. They're the best way to get a complete workout in a limited amount of time.
Finally- how nice to pay per class instead of monthly? I travel for work. With monthly memberships, I was paying for weeks when I wasn't able to get to class. With Core
Quality C.
Quality C.
Sep 22, 2011
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THE GOOD: The reformer class is intimate and very individualized. The instructor is very knowledgeable and focused on form.

THE BAD: The studio is divided into two floors.

THE UGLY: Prices went up.
Mandy B.
Mandy B.
Nov 05, 2010
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I injured my foot, and was looking for a new studio where I could take some spin classes and do Pilates. Ever Core Chicago! Classes were small and individual attention was huge. I loved the vibe and that the instructors got to know so much about you. I'll definitely be back for more!
Erin C.
Erin C.
Apr 04, 2009
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I started going here briefly when it opened and I loved it. Holly is wonderful. I had a few private lessons, and a few mat classes and loved them. I just couldn't afford it anymore so I had to stop going. I was hit by a car late last year and now I am at the point where I NEED some yoga and Pilates to get my back and core a bit stronger, so I just signed up for a yoga class to get back into it. I was excited that they added some vinyasa yoga classes :-) I cant wait to get my back, back into shape!
Rebecca S.
Rebecca S.
Feb 01, 2009
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I just started going here and i absolutely love it!

classes are super small or can be one on one.

you do not need to be a member which is awesome for me.
each class is around 18 bucks and you can buy packages.
promotions for classes change every month.

holly was a really great instructor.
super easy going and very detailed about each exercise.

i bought a package and plan on going back a lot.

ive also been telling all my friends.

oh and did i mention, when you call to join a class your first time is free!