Why Classical Pilates? The Unique Benefits That Set It Apart
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Strong Legs & Hips with the Pilates Airplane Board
Want to develop strength and symmetry in your hips, legs and glutes? The Gratz Pilates Airplane Board is the device I rely on to do just that.
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Gratz Equipped Studios: Preserving the Classical Pilates Method
The Classical Pilates method lives on through the teachers and studios who commit to its practice, protect its integrity, and pass it forward.
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Finding Symmetry and Stability with the Pilates Airplane Board
The Airplane Board reinforces Classical Pilates core principles: precision, stability, control, and aligned movement.
December Is When Next Year's Success Gets Decided
You Didn't Build a Business to Become Its Highest-Paid Employee
The Simple Trick to Attract High-Paying Clients to Your Pilates Studio
Back to School, Back to Studio: How to Harness the Power of Routine to Boost Your Pilates Business
Your Guide To Building a Classical Pilates Brand That Attracts Long-term Committed Clients
The Pilates Studio Owner’s Mid-Year Reset: How to Reset, Refocus, and Create Momentum For The Rest Of The Year
From Pilates Instructor to CEO: Why You Probably Need More Than Passion Alone to Thrive in Business
How to Navigate the Summer Slowdown Without Losing Momentum at Your Pilates Studio
December Apparatus of the Month - Pilates Airplane Board
November Apparatus of the Month - Pilates Mini Barrel
October Apparatus of the Month - Pedi Pole
September Apparatus of the Month - Pilates Cadillac Conversion
August Apparatus of the Month - Wunda Chair
July Apparatus of the Month - Pilates Spine Corrector
June Apparatus of the Month - Toe Exerciser
May Apparatus of the Month - Pilates Ladder Barrel
April Apparatus of the Month - Small Arm Chair
March Apparatus of the Month R- Pilates Mats
The Art and Essence of Classical Pilates with Lindy Irwin
The History of the Toe Exerciser
Gratz Equipped Studios Carrying Classical Pilates Forward
Let Me Move You: A Serendipitous Journey Into Pilates
History of the Ladder Barrel
A Pilates Journey Through Movement, Loss, and Resilience
Legacy of Authentic Pilates Apparatus and the Teachers Who Carry It Forward
History of the Small Arm Chair, AKA Baby Chair
The Origins of the Pilates Wunda Chair
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The Pilates Small Barrel: A Studio Essential
The Small Barrel’s repertoire blends exercises seen on the Reformer, Cadillac, and matwork, making it an integral part of the Classical Pilates system.
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Restore Your Spine with the Pilates Small Barrel
After hours spent rounding forward—at your desk, in the car, or looking at your phone—the Pilates Small Barrel (a.k.a. Mini Barrel) offers instant relief.
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The Small Barrel: Supporting Strength, Mobility, and Alignment
At Pilates of Kansas City, we use every piece of Pilates apparatus with intention — and the Small Barrel is one of the most valuable tools for improving posture, mobility, and spinal health.
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Where does Gratz Ship and What is the Best Method for Me?
At Gratz, we understand that clear communication and reliable delivery are essential to your experience. Our goal is to make every shipment from start to finish as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Posture, Breath, and Balance: The Art of the Pedi Pole
Add the Pedi Pole to your next workout or teaching session. Approach it with curiosity—this modest apparatus will teach you more about your alignment, Powerhouse, and breath than you might expect.
Don’t Let Excitement Turn Into Damage: The Safe Way to Unpack Your Gratz Apparatus
Once your order arrives, proper unpacking ensures your equipment is protected, easy to assemble, and ready to use for years to come.
Pilates Apparatus or Pilates Machine? Understanding the Language of Pilates
For those new to Classical Pilates, “Pilates machine” is often the more familiar word but in the Classical tradition, apparatus is the term Joseph Pilates himself used. he terminology may have evolved, but the essence remains unchanged: you are the engine, and the apparatus is your guide.
The Pedi Pole: The Quiet Teacher That Reawakens Your Posture
If your shoulders tend to live up by your ears, your neck feels tight, and your posture could use a reset, meet the Pedi Pole, the quiet teacher you didn’t know you needed.
Why the Pilates Pedi Pole is a Must When Working with Seniors and Special Needs Clients
The Pedi Pole is a glue that holds the Classical Pilates system together, providing the elderly participant an opportunity to witness their improvement and confidence with each use of the device.
From Balance to Spinal Health: What the Pedi Pole Can Do for You
If you’ve never experienced the Pedi Pole, now is the perfect time to discover its magic.
Space-Saving and Versatile: The Instant Cadillac Conversion
The Instant Half and Full Cadillac Conversions allow practitioners of all levels to experience the full extent of the Pilates method, regardless of space constraints.
Endless Pursuit of Mastery on the Wunda Chair
The Wunda Chair is more than just a piece of equipment; it’s a practice partner that challenges your strength, sharpens your focus, and grows with you over time.
Wunda Chair Workouts That Build Total-Body Strength
In fact, if you’re short on time or space, the Wunda Chair might be the only piece of equipment you ever need.
The Power of the Wunda Chair
As a teacher, train and practice regularly on the Wunda Chair, and you will see how your personal practice on the other apparatuses will improve.
Spine Corrector - More Than Its Name
Compact and portable, the Spine Corrector has earned its place as a staple in both professional studios and home spaces.
The Enduring Power of the Spine Corrector
The Gratz Spine Corrector teaches through challenge. It invites you to slow down, focus, and move with intention.
The Toe Exerciser: A Small Pilates Apparatus with a Big Impact
Spotlighting one of the smallest yet most deceptively powerful apparatus in the Classical Pilates studio: the Toe Exerciser.
Honoring Sari Mejia Santo with the Limited-Edition Sari Wunda Chair
Upholstered in “Sari” Blue, a bold aqua-teal vinyl chosen to reflect her vibrant spirit, this commemorative Wunda Chair celebrates Sari’s enduring legacy.
The Power of the Pilates Toe Corrector
Joseph Pilates said, “You’re only as young as your spine". I’d like to add: you’re only as strong as your feet.
Reupholstering Your Gratz Equipment: Everything You Need to Know
Reupholstering your Gratz apparatus keeps your studio looking fresh, professional, safe, and inviting. With regular maintenance and occasional reupholstering, your equipment will continue to offer the exceptional quality and performance that define Gratz Pilates.
Unlocking New Levels of Stability and Balance with the Pilates Guillotine Tower
The Gratz Guillotine Tower is a modern embodiment of this original design. Despite its compact size, it offers a comprehensive full-body workout.
Essential Pilates Apparatus for Building Core Strength
Using the right Pilates apparatus—especially equipment designed with precision and integrity—can dramatically amplify your results.
Pilates Wunda Chair: Strengthen and Tone with Targeted Exercises
Compact and versatile, the Wunda Chair offers a unique way to deepen Pilates practice by challenging strength, flexibility, balance, and control.
Converting a Gratz Reformer to Instant Cadillac Conversion
People ask this question because the Cadillac Conversion allows you to maximize both space and functionality by combining a Cadillac and a Reformer in one.
Why Pilates Mat is the Ultimate Core Workout
The Mat was stuck at ‘Least Favorite Part of Pilates’ until one day my teacher said the magic words: "you know, if you keep doing this series regularly (the Stomach Series) your ab muscles will fill in and you’ll get really strong and be able to do whatever you want."
The Ultimate Guide to Gratz Pilates Mats: Why the Right Mat Matters
If you’ve ever done Pilates on a roll-up yoga mat and wondered afterwardwhy your backbone felt bruised and abused, you’re not alone!
Foundational Techniques on the Pilates Small Arm Chair
The Gratz Small Arm Chair reminds us of that great strength and transformation often come through simplicity and control. Each movement, though subtle, demands precision, focus, and a deep understanding of alignment.
Pilates Mat Exercises to Relieve Back Pain & Improve Mobility
If you’ve ever dealt with back pain, you know how it can take over your life—affecting everything from how you move to how you feel. But here’s the good news: Pilates was designed to restore movement, realign your spine, and build strength where you need it most.
My Love Letter to the Pilates Magic Circle
It is not an exaggeration to say, I love the Magic Circle. But what I love even more ishow it helps my clients connect their mind and body, get organized, andfocus. I love how it complements every exercise, on every apparatus.
Why You Need a Small Arm Chair in Your Pilates Studio
The Small Arm Chair was created by Joseph Pilates as a way to refine posture, alignment, and upper body strength.
The Magic Circle: Pilates’ Secret Weapon
This little ring of resistance, originally fashioned by Joseph Pilates from a beer keg, is one of the most versatile and effective tools in the Pilates method. It adds just the right amount of challenge to wake up muscles you didn’t even know you had.
Trouble with your Teaser? When our Pilates mind says Yes, but your body says No.
Every advanced Pilates exercise is built from multiple foundational movements. Teaser, for instance, synthesizes the Roll Up, Roll Over, Overhead, Coordination, and many more – each demanding precise spinal articulation and full hip mobility.
Mat Pilates for Stronger Glutes & Legs
Let’s talk about your legs—the foundation of every step you take, every movement you make. Whether you’re walking, running, climbing stairs, or simply standing tall, your legs and glutes provide the power, stability, and endurance to keep you moving through life.
The Origins of the Pilates Wunda Chair
With every Wunda Chair, Gratz bridges past and present, staying true to Joe’s vision and design while ensuring it remains a vital part of the Pilates Method today.
The History of the Toe Exerciser
The Toe Exerciser, also referred to as the Toe Corrector is one of several “Magic Squares” invented by Joseph Pilates for different purposes.
History of the Ladder Barrel
Gratz Ladder Barrel honors both the legacy of Joe’s original adjustable design and the refinements made through decades of Classical teaching.
Complete Coordination of Mind, Body, and Spirit
The Pilates Method is composed of multiple parts, all of which, when brought together, make up a system.
History of the Small Arm Chair, AKA Baby Chair
As we continue to teach, practice, and evolve the Pilates method, it's important to remember the origins of our tools.
August Apparatus of the Month
August has been all about balance, strength, and control — qualities perfectly embodied by the Wunda Chair.
July Apparatus of the Month
The Spine Corrector is a quiet powerhouse, building the strength, alignment, and awareness that carry through the Pilates Method.
June Apparatus of the Month
Spotlighting one of the smallest yet most deceptively powerful apparatus in the Classical Pilates studio: the Toe Exerciser.
May Apparatus of the Month
The Gratz Ladder Barrel is a trusted tool for studios and serious practitioners. And its legacy? Rooted in tradition but built to evolve with your practice.
April Apparatus of the Month
From challenging seasoned movers to fine-tuning alignment in foundational work, the Small Arm Chair stands as a lasting example of Joseph Pilates’ innovation.
March Apparatus of the Month Recap
Gratz Pilates Mats are known for their superior support and stability, supportive design, and space-saving options.
Your Guide To Building a Classical Pilates Brand That Attracts Long-term Committed Clients
How to Strengthen Your Studio’s Brand (Without a Rebrand): Good news... you don’t need a full rebrand or expensive design project to elevate your brand.
Spine Corrector - More Than Its Name
Compact and portable, the Spine Corrector has earned its place as a staple in both professional studios and home spaces.
Let Me Move You: A Serendipitous Journey Into Pilates
I met Gratz before Pilates, and the Pilates room became my sanctuary.
The Pilates Studio Owner’s Mid-Year Reset: How to Reset, Refocus, and Create Momentum For The Rest Of The Year
A mid-year review isn’t about perfection. It’s about clarity and regaining momentum.
A Pilates Journey Through Movement, Loss, and Resilience
Pilates has been a lifeline. My Romana Pilates colleagues, Gratz apparatus, and this brilliant method have sustained me—physically, emotionally, spiritually.
The Enduring Power of the Spine Corrector
The Gratz Spine Corrector teaches through challenge. It invites you to slow down, focus, and move with intention.
Upcoming Equipment Service Opportunities with Pilates Pro Maintenance
If you’ve been waiting for the right time to schedule a tune-up or equipment evaluation, now’s your chance.
From Pilates Instructor to CEO: Why You Probably Need More Than Passion Alone to Thrive in Business
You became a Pilates teacher because you believe in the power of movement. You love helping clients reconnect with their bodies, move better, feel stronger.
Legacy of Authentic Pilates Apparatus and the Teachers Who Carry It Forward
Darien continues to honor Joseph Pilates’ vision. With Pilates Mastery™, she offers a pathway to experience, study, and embody the Method.
The Toe Exerciser: A Small Pilates Apparatus with a Big Impact
Spotlighting one of the smallest yet most deceptively powerful apparatus in the Classical Pilates studio: the Toe Exerciser.
What to Expect at the Romana’s Pilates International Conference 2025
Today, Gratz continues to craft each apparatus with the same attention to detail and exact dimensions that Romana considered essential.
Honoring Sari Mejia Santo with the Limited-Edition Sari Wunda Chair
Upholstered in “Sari” Blue, a bold aqua-teal vinyl chosen to reflect her vibrant spirit, this commemorative Wunda Chair celebrates Sari’s enduring legacy.
The Power of the Pilates Toe Corrector
Joseph Pilates said, “You’re only as young as your spine". I’d like to add: you’re only as strong as your feet.
Reupholstering Your Gratz Equipment: Everything You Need to Know
Reupholstering your Gratz apparatus keeps your studio looking fresh, professional, safe, and inviting. With regular maintenance and occasional reupholstering, your equipment will continue to offer the exceptional quality and performance that define Gratz Pilates.
Unlocking New Levels of Stability and Balance with the Pilates Guillotine Tower
The Gratz Guillotine Tower is a modern embodiment of this original design. Despite its compact size, it offers a comprehensive full-body workout.
The Elegant and Versatile Pilates Ladder Barrel
The Ladder Barrel was inspired by Pilates' famous quote: “You’re only as young as your spine is flexible.” It’s an apparatus that truly delivers when it comes to promoting spinal flexion, extension, and stability.
Maximize Your Flexibility & Core Strength with the Pilates Ladder Barrel
The Ladder Barrel is one of the most under-appreciated (and crazy effective) pieces of apparatus in the Pilates method.
How to Navigate the Summer Slowdown Without Losing Momentum at Your Pilates Studio
Classical Pilates has a story and so do you. Share what drew you to the Pilates method, why the apparatus matters, and how it shapes the way you teach.
Essential Pilates Apparatus for Building Core Strength
Using the right Pilates apparatus—especially equipment designed with precision and integrity—can dramatically amplify your results.
Pilates Wunda Chair: Strengthen and Tone with Targeted Exercises
Compact and versatile, the Wunda Chair offers a unique way to deepen Pilates practice by challenging strength, flexibility, balance, and control.
Converting a Gratz Reformer to Instant Cadillac Conversion
People ask this question because the Cadillac Conversion allows you to maximize both space and functionality by combining a Cadillac and a Reformer in one.
Why Pilates Mat is the Ultimate Core Workout
The Mat was stuck at ‘Least Favorite Part of Pilates’ until one day my teacher said the magic words: "you know, if you keep doing this series regularly (the Stomach Series) your ab muscles will fill in and you’ll get really strong and be able to do whatever you want."
The Ultimate Guide to Gratz Pilates Mats: Why the Right Mat Matters
If you’ve ever done Pilates on a roll-up yoga mat and wondered afterwardwhy your backbone felt bruised and abused, you’re not alone!
Foundational Techniques on the Pilates Small Arm Chair
The Gratz Small Arm Chair reminds us of that great strength and transformation often come through simplicity and control. Each movement, though subtle, demands precision, focus, and a deep understanding of alignment.
Pilates Mat Exercises to Relieve Back Pain & Improve Mobility
If you’ve ever dealt with back pain, you know how it can take over your life—affecting everything from how you move to how you feel. But here’s the good news: Pilates was designed to restore movement, realign your spine, and build strength where you need it most.
My Love Letter to the Pilates Magic Circle
It is not an exaggeration to say, I love the Magic Circle. But what I love even more ishow it helps my clients connect their mind and body, get organized, andfocus. I love how it complements every exercise, on every apparatus.
Why You Need a Small Arm Chair in Your Pilates Studio
The Small Arm Chair was created by Joseph Pilates as a way to refine posture, alignment, and upper body strength.
Spring Clean Your Business: Three Key Areas to Audit for a More Profitable Pilates Studio
The reality is, running a Pilates studio is demanding. Between teaching, client care, and day-to-day operations, it's easy to fall into a reactive mode.
The Magic Circle: Pilates’ Secret Weapon
This little ring of resistance, originally fashioned by Joseph Pilates from a beer keg, is one of the most versatile and effective tools in the Pilates method. It adds just the right amount of challenge to wake up muscles you didn’t even know you had.
Trouble with your Teaser? When our Pilates mind says Yes, but your body says No.
Every advanced Pilates exercise is built from multiple foundational movements. Teaser, for instance, synthesizes the Roll Up, Roll Over, Overhead, Coordination, and many more – each demanding precise spinal articulation and full hip mobility.
The Original Pilates Sequence Unlocking the Benefits of Order
Joseph Pilates didn’t just create a random collection of exercises; he built a carefully crafted sequence to help you achieve strength, flexibility, and control in a balanced way.
Embracing Tradition: The Fundamentals and Legacy of Classical Pilates
Classical Pilates isn’t just another workout—it’s a proven path to lasting strength, balance, and well-being. The method works because it strengthens your body while enhancing your movement in a way that benefits every aspect of your life.
Mat Pilates for Stronger Glutes & Legs
Let’s talk about your legs—the foundation of every step you take, every movement you make. Whether you’re walking, running, climbing stairs, or simply standing tall, your legs and glutes provide the power, stability, and endurance to keep you moving through life.
We are thrilled to welcome John Riccitiello and his wife, Elizabeth Osterman to the Gratz family.
As you read from Roberta and David, we (John and Elizabeth) have invested to become the majority owners of Gratz Pilates.
Gratz Pilates Interviews
Miguel exudes a contagious passion for Pilates, teaching with vibrant energy and unwavering dedication. With years of experience and profound anatomical insight, he possesses a remarkable ability to intuitively cater to individual needs.
Passionate about transforming bodies through Pilates, Saul Choza, founder of Winsor Choza Pilates, has dedicated 27 years to refining his craft. Integrating new fitness modalities into traditional Pilates, Saul's client roster includes Hollywood's elite and busy corporate executives.
Alycea Ungaro is a leading figure in fitness and wellness, renowned for her pioneering work in Pilates. She introduced early mat Pilates classes in NYC and expanded her influence with best-selling books like Pilates: Body in Motion.
We had the privilege of interviewing Brooke Bergdahl to delve into her rich history of collaborating with numerous elite athletes. During our conversation, she shared insights into her approach in keeping clients strong and how 'Pilates helps us be our best selves.
Gratz had an opportunity to learn more about the “Influencers” and high profile teachers in the Pilates community to share their experiences in 2020-21. We interviewed Brett Howard to tell his history, present situations and hopes for the future.
Gratz had an opportunity to learn more about the “Influencers” and high profile teachers in the Pilates community to share their experiences in 2020-21. We interviewed Sonje Mayo to tell her history, present situations and hopes for the future.
We are proud to present the interview with our friend Olga Burkova from Moscow and share her history, as she reflects upon the present situation and hopes for the future.
We are proud to present an interview with our friend and brand ambassador, Clare Dunphy Hemani. Clare’s mission is to support the potential in all students/teachers and to keep the spirit of Joe and Romana alive in her work.
Dana Santi has worked with Gratz for many years organizing conferences and workshops and teaching at Gratz equipped-studios all over the world. Dana is an amazing teacher with a wicked sense of humor which, combined with her work ethic, makes her classes special.
Gratz Pilates has initiated a series of interviews with some of our prominent instructors to allow them to tell their story and discuss the current challenges in our industry. We are proud to present an interview with our friend and brand ambassador Chris Robinson.
The Gratz Interview series continues with an in-person interview with Marjorie Oron of The Pilate Studio in The Netherlands. Our European Correspondent, Tavis Bohlinger, traveled to The Hague recently to chat with Marjorie.
Brooke Siler is one of the most renowned second-generation teachers to come out of Dragos in NYC. Brooke is full of vitality and insider information on the history of Pilates.
Gratz Pilates Articles
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