Gratz Equipped Studios: Preserving the Classical Pilates Method
Every Classical Pilates studio carries a story shaped by lineage, discipline, and dedication to the work. These spaces become anchors for learning, growth, and continuity within the method.
Through our Gratz Equipped Studio Tours that we feature on our Instagram, we're excited to feature nine studios whose journeys reflect the heart of Classical Pilates, the importance of community, and the power of teaching on Gratz apparatus.
Studio Pilates de Paris: Paris, France
A space where authenticity and tradition meet, Studio Pilates de Paris honors the original Pilates method and continues the legacy of Romana Pilates with precision, integrity, and grace.
Why Classical Pilates?
"Beyond Classical Pilates, Romana’s Pilates is about staying true to the original and efficient vision of Joseph Pilates: Contrology.
The method is intelligent, structured, and timeless. It’s not just about movement — it’s about Concentration, Control, Centering, Flow, Precision and Breathing which continue to challenge me in my very day Life and inspire my students.
I believe preserving the integrity and authenticity of this system is essential, because that’s where its real power lies.
In recent years, “Pilates” has been casually used and even distorted, which has led to some confusion about the true definition of the Pilates method. All types of Pilates are not identical. Some respect and preserve the original teachings of Joseph Pilates, while others adjust the method for their own sake.
Romana’s Pilates is a direct, living link to the source. What makes it the best method, in my opinion, is its purity: nothing is added, nothing is diluted. The work is powerful, precise, and complete, as a system designed to strengthen the body, sharpen the mind, and energize the spirit.
For me, Romana’s Pilates is the gold standard : it maintains the integrity of the original system whose unique approach has proven itself for almost a décade. while continuing to challenge and transform bodies around the world. It’s not just exercise — it’s the method as Joseph Pilates intended, carried forward with passion and fidelity."
What’s a piece of advice you always come back to?
“The advice I always return to is simple: as a teacher, a trainee or a practitioner, stay connected to the essence of the method, its fundamental principles, to the concept of the exercises. Each Pilates exercise is done with precision and fluidity, necessitating great concentration in order to control the body in coordination with each breath.
Whatever the level of the exercise or the person in front of me, those principles guide everything. They are timeless reminders that keep the practice and teaching authentic."
Why Gratz?
"Because Gratz equipment allows the method to be experienced as Joseph Pilates intended. The proportions, the resistance, the feel — everything is precise and true to the original designs. When you work on Gratz, you immediately understand why it matters: the work feels deeper, sharper, and more connected. "
Favorite Apparatus
"Definitely the Cadillac. I’ve always loved its aerial quality — it feels both grounding and liberating at the same time. It allows such a wide range of possibilities, from strong, athletic work to deeply supportive movement. If I had to pick only one apparatus, the Cadillac would be my choice without hesitation.
The Cadillac is my favorite apparatus because it invites the body into a unique dialogue of opposites — lightness and strength, softness and power. It offers the sensation of aerial movement, as if the body could float and expand beyond its limits, while still anchored by the gentle yet precise resistance of the springs.
It opens a space where movement feels liberated, spacious, and deeply connected. On the Cadillac, you can experience strength in its most graceful form — resistance that empowers without restraining, support that allows the body to truly soar."
How did you start your Classical Pilates studio?
"My journey began at the Pilates Studio of Paris, where I was trained by Monsieur Taupin. I later taught there as an instructor, and it became a very meaningful place for me. When the opportunity came to acquire the studio, I felt it was important to preserve its legacy. The Pilates Studio of Paris is truly the cradle of Pilates in Paris and France; my partner and I wanted to ensure that this heritage remained alive while also continuing to develop it for future generations. "
Learn more about Studio Pilates de Paris.
IBA Pilates: Makati City, Philippines
Cecilia Ibarrola, a Level II Master Instructor Trainer with Romana’s Pilates International and founder of Integrated Body Arts (IBA) Pilates in Manila, has been a leading force in Classical Pilates for over 30 years. A former principal dancer with Ballet Philippines, she became the first certified Pilates teacher in the country after training under Romana Kryzanowska in New York.
Why Classical Pilates?
“This ensures one to experience Pilates as Joseph intended, with a focus on whole-body integration and rhythm. The mat and apparatus work are structured as one connected method, not isolated routines. It prioritizes form over quantity.”
Why Gratz Pilates?
“I only trust Gratz. It’s the best! Gratz apparatus are modeled on Joseph Pilates’ original designs. Romana Kryzanowska was instrumental in fine-tuning the Gratz apparatus. The spring tension, dimensions, and proportions are deliberate — creating the specific resistance and alignment challenges that Joseph Pilates intended. ”
What’s a piece of advice you always come back to in your Pilates practice?
"Always keep them moving. Healing happens through movement, and it’s through movement that weakness is revealed. I try not to get caught up in over-correcting—because with consistent practice, the body begins to align and correct itself through the work. Clients are often surprised by how aerobic classical Pilates can be, especially at the more advanced levels. This principle has become foundational to my teaching style."
How did you open IBA Pilates?
"In 1995, after earning my certification under Romana Kryzanowska in New York, I returned to the Philippines and opened a small home studio with one Reformer and one Cadillac. What began as a modest setup grew into a fully equipped studio featuring top-of-the-line Gratz apparatus. In July 2025, we move into a new space while preserving the same authentic spirit. We remain a proud Romana’s Pilates International Training Center supported by nine certified instructors. "
Favorite Apparatus?
What color upholstery is IBA equipped with?
• Reformers: Goldenrod, Sky Blue, Sunset, Grape, Olive Green, and Mandarin Orange (just ordered!!)
• Cadillacs: Greystone and Putty (on order)
• Wunda Chairs: Black ×2, British Tan ×1
• Ladder Barrels: Black and Brown
• Electric Chairs: Black and Brown
• Small Arm Chair: Black
• Wall Units & Folding Mats: Black
• Spine Correctors & Mini Barrels: Black
Learn more about IBA Pilates.
Atwill Pilates: Santa Barbara, CA
Colleen Ferguson, founder of Atwill Pilates, is a Romana Pilates Certified Instructor. With roots in classical ballet and years of teaching and hosting retreats worldwide, Colleen brings a global perspective to the Classical Pilates method. She created Atwill Pilates as a home base where artistry, depth, and authenticity come to life on Gratz.
Why Classical Pilates?
“I explored and practiced many different styles of Pilates before discovering the classical method. Once I experienced it, everything clicked—the flow and pace of each session, the precision of movement, and the constant challenge truly resonated with me. With my classical ballet background, I immediately recognized that this was the Pilates I had been searching for—and exactly what I needed to be doing.”
Why Gratz Pilates?
“Before discovering Gratz, I had trained on other equipment, but the difference was undeniable once I made the transition. My body began to change more quickly, and the movement simply felt better—smoother, more connected, almost like upgrading to a luxury car. The unique spring tension challenged me in new ways and had me hooked right away. And beyond function, I’ve always loved beautiful design—Gratz equipment is, in my opinion, the most exquisitely built in the Pilates world.”
What’s a piece of advice you always come back to in your Pilates practice?
"Always keep them moving. Healing happens through movement, and it’s through movement that weakness is revealed. I try not to get caught up in over-correcting—because with consistent practice, the body begins to align and correct itself through the work. Clients are often surprised by how aerobic Classical Pilates can be, especially at the more advanced levels. This principle has become foundational to my teaching style."
How did you open Atwill Pilates?
"I had long dreamed of opening a studio that reflected my own aesthetic and vision. After a traumatic mudslide in our community forced the closure of the studio where I worked—and even cost me my home—I found myself at a crossroads. In the midst of that loss, an available space came my way. I took a leap of faith and opened Atwill with just a few pieces of equipment. What began as a challenge has grown into a beautiful journey of trust, resilience, community, and staying true to my vision."
Favorite Apparatus?
"I’m a sucker for the Cadillac. I love the leg springs in all their variations, the tower for spinal stretches, and of course the ballet stretches—which speak to my dancer’s heart. And then there’s the hanging… nothing compares to that incredible inversion."
Learn more about Atwill Pilates.
Zed Pilates Studio: London, UK
In the heart of London, Zed Pilates Studio offers a focused and supported space dedicated to the Classical Pilates Method. The studio reflects their passion for Joseph Pilates' original system; bringing clients thoughtful, one-to-one training that emphasizes precision, alignment, and whole-body connection.
Why Classical Pilates
“Classical Pilates, which focuses on the original teachings of Joseph Pilates himself, preserves the essence of his method and offers a holistic yet focused approach to physical fitness, alignment, and mind-body integration.”
Why Gratz Pilates
“With the correct proportions and spring resistance, we think the Gratz equipment is the most effective to help connect to the Powerhouse.”
Favorite Apparatus
"The Wunda Chair."
What’s a piece of advice you always come back to?
“Workout with intention”.
How Zed Pilates Studio Began
"We worked as Pilates Instructors for many years before opening our own studio. It was a natural evolution into starting our own business."
Learn more about Zed Pilates.
HeartCore Pilates : Scottsdale, AZ
Daniella Valverde is the owner of HeartCore Pilates is located in Scottsdale, AZ. A former schoolteacher turned Classical Pilates instructor, she discovered the Pilates method by chance and it completely transformed how she understood strength and movement.
Why Classical Pilates
“My first experience with Pilates happened by chance during a trip when I stumbled upon a classical studio. At the time, I was playing tennis regularly and doing CrossFit almost every day, so I considered myself strong. But in that first lesson, I could barely manage the exercises—I was shaking and felt surprisingly weak. Pilates revealed a whole new truth about my body. When I returned home, I began researching, practicing, and eventually decided to train as a teacher. The method is brilliant—transformational for both body and mind—and it has stood the test of time. I chose to study with Romana’s Pilates International and was fortunate to train at Drago’s Gym in New York City, where Joseph Pilates had his studio and the original apparatus still stood. Being in a place with so much history, learning from the direct lineage, was truly fascinating.”
Why Gratz Pilates
“Gratz is the manufacturer that has the original measurements of the apparatus as Joseph Pilates intended and created. This is the manufacturer apparatus I trained with and learned to feel the work in my body. Once you have practiced on Gratz apparatus, you don’t want to practice with any other manufacturer. The way the powerhouse connects to the springs to gain more depth, stability and length is unmatched. I also love the beautiful design and top level craftmanship. ”
Favorite Gratz Apparatus
"I definitely love the Cadillac. I love how much it strengthens me and challenges me in body and mind. Nothing beats the Cadillac to lengthen my body after a day of teaching. "
What’s a piece of advice you always come back to?
"I trained with Romana’s Pilates and Sari always used to say, “look at the body see what the body needs and teach that.” I cannot emphasize enough how important this is. I see a lot of exercises being taught haphazardly without a purpose or just because it is part of a repertoire without really looking at the client’s body to assess if the person is ready for that exercise, how the exercise addresses the need that I am trying to work or more important, if the exercise is safe for that person. "
How HeartCore Pilates began
“I started out as a schoolteacher and taught until I had my first child, at which point I decided to stay home to raise my kids. During that time, I discovered the Pilates method and became certified. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I had the opportunity to train with master teachers from all over the world. This is when I discovered Janice Dulak and began deepening my understanding of the method in my body and in my teaching. Four years ago, we moved to Scottsdale, AZ, and I opened HeartCore as a home studio. I absolutely love what I do and feel so fortunate that I get to share this work to help my clients feel good, strong and able to do whatever they want to do regardless of their age. I love that I get to continue my passion for teaching too!”
Learn more about HeartCore Pilates.
Authentic Pilates: Taledo, TX
Lindy Irwin brings a rare blend of artistry, anatomical knowledge, and spiritual depth to her Classical Pilates knowledge. At Authentic Pilates, she continues to honor the lineage of Joseph Pilates - teaching how strength, alignments, and vitality begin from within.
Why Classical Pilates?
"I believe all humans are seeking the essence of truth in life. When we encounter the truth, no matter the subject, it resonates deeply within our whole being. We not only recognize it, but we feel it. It has a familiar, all-encompassing quality that hits the universal, intuitive cord within every soul. There is a spiritual aspect to it that transcends beyond the need for words, explanation, or justification.
For me, The Classical work entails that essence of universal Truth. I vividly remember feeling its truth both in body and mind, almost twenty-five years ago, when I began practicing and training in the Classical system. As I continued to practice, study, and teach Joe’s method of movement over the decades, I explored its multilayered depth, while also developing a deep appreciation for its simplicity of intention.
The truth of the Classical Pilates work is not only undeniably felt and recognized within the body and mind; it offers a big picture type of clarity that the truth always has a way of bringing to light."
Why Gratz Pilates?
“Gratz Pilates equipment line is the oldest and, by many classical purists, considered the quintessential line of apparatus. It most authentically reflects the engineering, dimensions, and design of the equipment Joseph Pilates and his brother built and used in his studio.
These specifications are critical, as they are thought to best serve Joseph Pilates’ intentions for each exercise, supporting the uniform development and conditioning of the body. For this reason, Gratz is widely regarded as the gold standard of Classical Pilates apparatus."
Favorite Piece of Apparatus
"If I were stuck on a deserted island, the piece of equipment I would definitely take with me is the Cadillac. To me the Cadillac most represents the harmonious balance of deep integrative strength paired with equal supple fluidity in the body. I love that it acts as two pieces of equipment in one; as a supportive place to do the entire Matwork while also providing ample Cadillac specific spring resistance exercises."
How Authentic Pilates Began
"I originally started my studio, Authentic Pilates, while living in Austin. At that point, I had been teaching for over fifteen years in a wide variety of settings including Pilates studios, gyms, and organizations.
The timing finally felt right to create something of my own. As a single mother with a preschool-age son, I was always navigating the delicate balance between being fully present for him, providing nurturing care and strong values, while continuing to share the healing, transformative work of classical Pilates with others.
Establishing a home studio felt like the most natural fit. I refinished my detached garage into a fully equipped Pilates space, and Authentic Pilates was born. I began offering private sessions and small groups, slowly building awareness and trust within the community.
Learning how to grow visibility for a home-based studio required a great deal of patience, creativity, and persistence, but in time, it flourished. Just two short years later, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Looking at the long-term picture, I knew that the rising cost of living in Austin would make it difficult to sustainably raise my son there as a single parent. It was incredibly hard to leave behind the beautiful studio and the beloved clients I had built relationships with, but in 2020, we relocated to Aledo/Fort Worth, Texas.
I brought nearly all of my Gratz Pilates apparatus with me, and once again, I created a studio space."
Learn more about Authentic Pilates.
Centre 5: France
Located in France, Centre 5 is a studio built on shared vision, precision, and passion for the Classical Method. Founded by Frédérique Droual and Pierre Tessier, the space continues to uphold strong values and high standards in preserving authentic Pilates.
Laurence Barré, an instructor at Centre 5 shared her insights and experiences as part of the Centre 5 teaching team.
Why Classical Pilates?
"Because we truly believe that the classical method provides a consistent foundation and a clear reference point : the integrity of the work remains intact!"
What’s a piece of advice you always come back to?
“If you have any doubt, rely on the principles of the method: you will never be wrong!"
Why Gratz?
"Because this THE best brand! The apparatus is built in the respect of the heritage of Joseph Pilates, using correct dimensions and correct spring resistance."
Favorite Apparatus
"With no doubt: the Cadillac!
Because this is the Rolls of the apparatus and the most complete. Moreover, It provides the experience of the method in all dimensions."
How did you start your Classical Pilates studio?
"First this the story of an unlikely encounter between two Pilates teachers : Frédérique Droual and Pierre Tessier.
Then their vision, their complementarity and their tenacity allowed them to create Centre 5 from scratch. The result of a common will to share and teach the real Classical Pilates method based on strong values and high quality level."
Learn more about Centre 5.
Phoebe Classical Pilates: Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Phoebe is the first Romana Pilates International Certified Studio and first Gratz-equipped studio in Taiwan. Phoeve's journey with Classical Pilates began through recovery and grew into a lifelong practice of transformation.
Why Classical Pilates?
“After a car accident, the Romana Pilates Method rebuilt not only my body but also my trust in life. Classical Pilates taught me patience, precision, and faith — that transformation takes time, and the body remembers everything when guided with awareness.”
Why Gratz Pilates?
“Gratz equipment feels alive. Its precision and resistance reveal the truth of the body — no shortcuts, only honesty.
It embodies the six principles of Pilates:Control · Centering · Concentration · Precision · Breath · Flow.
Each movement becomes a conversation of harmony and intention.”
What’s a piece of advice you always come back to in your Pilates practice?
"To take your time. Everything meaningful requires patience and layering. There’s no rush in true transformation — only presence and faith. "
How did you open Phoebe Classical Pilates?
"Because of my injury, Classical Pilates through the Romana Method transformed my body and my life.
I wanted to bring that same healing and beauty to people in Taiwan.
Living in Australia led me to train with Cynthia Lochard whose strictness, wisdom, and imagination opened endless possibilities."
Favorite Apparatus?
"The Wunda Chair because it has less support, which brings more awareness.
It reminds me to stay present, listen inward, and trust my body as the ultimate teacher."
What color upholstery is Phoebe Classical Pilates equipped with?
"Alabaster — warm light, calm clarity, quiet strength."
Learn more about Phoebe Classical Pilates.
Uno Pilates: Portugal
Founder of Uno Pilates and Uno Pilates School, Miguel Silva is a leading Classical Pilates instructor, international educator, and devoted student of the Pilates method. Based in Portugal, Miguel brings passion, curiosity, and depth to his teaching empowering teachers and practitioners around the world to experience the full potential of the Classical system.
Why Classical Pilates?
“Classical Pilates is the foundation. For me and my body, the classical approach remains the most effective and authentic way to practice.”
Why Gratz Pilates?
“I learned the method using Gratz. I have tried different brands over the years, but the perfect symbiosis between the equipment and the body comes from working with Gratz. The precision, the measurements, and the way the equipment performs are truly exceptional — and that’s why I choose to work with Gratz. It’s the best investment in durability and quality, for both teachers and clients.”
What’s a piece of advice you always come back to in your Pilates practice?
"What I tell my students is: Watch and learn. Listen and respect. Think — then take action. And to my clients I say: Move and be consistent."
How did you open Phoebe Classical Pilates?
"I decided to deepen my knowledge after attending a random mat class at a gym. I wanted to understand where this system of exercises came from — the “why” behind the methodology — and the precise execution of each movement. I enrolled in my first training with no intention of becoming a teacher… but things took a different turn.
After two and a half years of learning, practicing, and teaching family and friends, the opportunity arose to open my first Pilates studio. And now, here I am — with two studios and a school — grateful to share this powerful method with everyone who chooses to embrace it."
Favorite Apparatus?
" If I get stuck on a deserted island and can only bring one piece of equipment, it would definitely be the Wunda Chair."
Learn more about Uno Pilates.
Preserving the Classical Pilates Method
Each studio we feature carries the Classical Pilates method forward in a way that reflects their own history, experience, and dedication to the work. What unites them is a shared respect for lineage, thoughtful teaching, and the unmistakable feedback of Gratz apparatus.
Together, they show that Classical Pilates is a lifelong practice, one built on consistency, refinement, and integrity. By choosing equipment made to Joseph Pilates’ original vision, these teachers and studios help ensure the method remains true as it continues to evolve.
If you are interested in participating in a Gratz Equipped Studio Tour, email marketing@gratzpilates.com.
2 Responses
Amy Hemingway
December 28, 2025
You should check out JK Pilates in NY, USA using Gratz equipment! Classical practice with an amazing studio owner!