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CORE MVMT is a welcoming reformer Pilates studio in the heart of San Francisco's Castro district. We offer high-intensity, low-impact group fitness classes focused on building strength, flexibility, and endurance. Our expert instructors provide personalized attention, ensuring proper form and a safe workout for all levels. Experience the transformative power of mindful movement and connect with a supportive community in our judgment-free environment. Whether you're a Pilates pro or a complete beginner, we invite you to discover your strongest self at CORE MVMT.
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Reviews
Natasia Smith
★ 5
I was visiting San Francisco and stumbled on CORE MVMT. This studio is such a cute and welcoming space! It’s so clean, intentional and full of good energy. I took the intermediate class with Heather and loved it! The way she cues each movement makes it easy to follow while still being a serious workout. And the playlist... perfection! I already love Pilates but doing it to music that wasn’t the usual house or pop made it so much more fun.
I only wish I’d found this studio on my first day visiting in San Francisco, I would’ve gone every day. If you’re local or even just visiting, definitely check out CORE MVMT. Especially if you get to take Heather’s class, You will LOVE it!
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Aviva LeShaw
★ 5
Heather was so sweet and helped me easily get into class off the waitlist last minute. Class was great, cute studio! Clean and comfortable. Music was great too
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Shelly Puri
★ 5
Super clean and conveniently located by multiple MUNI lines. The instructors are lively and efficient.
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Peter Orgill
★ 5
I’ve been going to CORE MVMT since it opened in 2020. The quality of classes is always very high. I always try to go to Kat’s saturday morning classes because they are ridiculously good (always the right mix, she generally hits the full body, technical, difficulty, etc, etc). Today’s class (which i just walked out of) was a tad different in the sense it was perfect. 10 out of 10, wow, she’s hit a new level (bottle that class). Keep it up Kat & see ya next week.
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Yasmin Bauer
★ 5
I have been really enjoying the intermediate class on Tuesday with Daniel. What I love about it: the classic slow burn that makes your muscles shake, the clean studio, and the down to earth vibe. I’m excited of trying more classes!!
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Arpana Dhir
★ 5
Fantastic workout and great studio space! I really love Lisa’s classes. She’s a talented teacher, and I appreciate how she builds community and connects with students. It is always an enjoyable and challenging workout.
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Meher Habib
★ 5
i took a class with shengjie here and it was incredible! she was the most clear and kind instructor. as a former core40 regular, i can definitely say this is a superior experience. also there was a really good fun group of people in the class today (sunday 5pm) except for one guy who kept breathing really heavily and struggling on every move… STILL 10/10 HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
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Ann Steel
★ 5
I got everything I needed! I recommend it!
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Olivia DiRienz
★ 5
Core mvmt is the best!! I’ve been coming here consistently for a year and I look forward to it every time. The classes are challenging and leave me feeling stronger, and each instructor has their own vibe which makes it so nice to switch it up! The owner Lisa is lovely and really knows what she’s doing. If you want to try pilates, I highly recommend supporting her business!
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Laura
★ 5
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kipply
★ 5
Ive been coming here on and off for a while, and it's been a blast! It's my first time trying pilates and I haven't wanted to do anything else. Always walk out tired but with a straighter back
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Sharmin Sadoughi
★ 5
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Matt Biggar
★ 5
Wonderful studio with great teachers and a strong sense of community. It’s a locally owned and run business which is an added bonus. Keep the dollars local and make this your Pilates home!
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Megan Stephenson
★ 5
I’m beyond grateful this place exists. Core MVMT has changed my entire relationship with exercise. I’ve been coming here for more than a year and never thought I would be a 7am workout class person. I feel so much stronger. The instructors are motivating and lovely. The owner Lisa is amazing and I love supporting her business, not some random corporate chain.
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Enrique Sant
★ 5
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modern hippie286
★ 5
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Nabila Ryan
★ 1
Awful experience dealing with the owner Lisa. She is hostile, distrusting, rude and isn't here to build a community out of respect and kindness. There are much better studios in the city that cultivates building a community with better classes and results.
1. I joined as a new customer in May and bought a 20 class pack that was offered after my initial visit. Class was taken out of the 20 pack so I reached out to see what was going on. I was told it was because I was added to a 7am class I was waitlisted for at 11pm the night before. I was not informed via text or email. After many back and forth with Lisa about me not receiving any emails on being added to the class, she credited the class back. I informed her that my intention isn't to cheat her or her business.
2. I slept through my alarm one morning and missed the 7am class for which I rushed to the studio to go to the 8am. I not only lost out on a class, I was charged an additional $30 no show fee even though her policy says it is $25.
3. On a 8am Monday class the instructor does not show up. No communication to anyone that signed up for the class whatsoever. I went home and emailed that I would like to make sure the class is credited back to me and I asked if I can get the $30 no show fee refunded since this time around it's her instructor that didn't show up. Lisa once again responds with animosity and anger over email saying "I’m not going back and forth with you over a policy that you signed and agreed to. I’m not refunding the charge from 7/29 nor am I going to change my policy because you don’t like it."
She ended up refunding the remainder of the 10 classes left on my 20 pack. Good riddance!
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Justin Correa
★ 5
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Sina S
★ 5
Reflecting on my journey, this review celebrates an entire year of transformation, growth, and newfound strength with CoreMVMT, my local Pilates sanctuary. When I initially embarked on this journey, my back was a constant source of discomfort and pain, a stubborn shadow over my life despite over a decade of dedicated yoga practice. Back issues were an unwelcome companion, making my days challenging and my love for yoga strained. It was then that CoreMVMT emerged as a beacon of hope.
Under the compassionate guidance of Lisa, Kat, and an extraordinary team of coaches, I found not just instructors, but mentors and cheerleaders who have been instrumental in helping me surmount my health challenges. With their expertise, I embarked on a routine of 2-3 classes per week, a commitment that has been nothing short of revolutionary for my health and well-being.
The impact of this journey has been profound. With newfound core strength, I've ventured into territories I never thought possible for myself. Training for a triathlon became a tangible goal rather than a distant dream. Running over 8 miles has now become a testament to my strength, free from the back pain that once plagued my every step. This transformation has been nothing short of miraculous, a testament to the power of dedicated Pilates practice and the supportive environment fostered by CoreMVMT.
Each class at CoreMVMT is a masterclass in understanding and appreciating our bodies. The instructors expertly guide us through movements that are not just about physical fitness but about nurturing a harmonious relationship with our bodies. They teach us the art of being fully human—how to carry ourselves with grace, relate to our physical selves with kindness, and approach everyday movements, whether it's bending, cleaning, or simply standing, with mindfulness and care.
The accessibility and inclusivity of CoreMVMT's class formats deserve special mention. They have created a space where everyone, regardless of their fitness level or experience with Pilates, feels welcomed and supported on their journey toward better health.
In summary, my experience at CoreMVMT has been transformative. The studio and its incredible team have not only helped me achieve my health goals but have also opened my eyes to the incredible capabilities of my own body. For anyone looking to embark on their own journey of health and self-discovery, I cannot recommend CoreMVMT enough. Here's to many more years of strength, health, and movement with this amazing community.
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Evan Knopf
★ 5
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Kimberly Chan
★ 3
Cute studio, and I loved that they offer sweat towels as most pilates studios don’t.
However, I wished the instructor walked me through their machine before class (I’ve taken pilates at BodyRok, Solidcore, and other local studios and every studio’s machine is different) and provided more alignment and form corrections, both verbal and physical, throughout class. This studio isn’t surrounded by mirrors like other workout studios, so the instructor guidance HAS to be there to ensure correct form and avoid injury if you can’t check your own form in the mirror. I also did not feel challenged by the programming and barely broke a sweat…and I’m usually a very sweaty person when doing any workout.
I might try an Intermediate or Advanced class one day to give it another shot, but maybe the programming just isn’t for me.
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Jenny W
★ 4
Really enjoyed my workout here! Studio was intimate. Pace was slow. I value à studio where i can actually practice body alignment in addition to strength. So much prefer this studio over others that just feel like Barry’s on a reformer.
Had a girls date, grabbed some brunch on the way to Mission Dolores.
Would have liked: More alignment corrections from instructor.
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Giuliana Capusso
★ 5
Great class! The instructor Lisa was really attentive to me as a beginner and I felt really welcome.
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Thrilling Tastes
★ 5
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Jeff Macke
★ 5
As a straight man who has not attended an exercise class in a very long time I was a bit anxious about attending my first one in forever in the Castro. But my wife was excited and really wanted to try it out. We arrived about 10 min early as you are instructed to if you haven’t been there before and the instructor went over the machine with us and kind of what we were getting into. At a minute in I was thinking “you have made a horrible mistake” but that was just a bit of weakness leaving my body. At five minutes in I found a groove and the rest of the work out flew by. The class was great and fun. Everyone was friendly and nice and helpful.
Not to mention one class has me with a totally slamming summer beach body, increased my IQ by 14 points and I am now fluent in Portuguese! Wellllll maybe it did do all that but it was a good class and fun. If you’re a little nervous don’t be I couldn’t recommend this more!
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Breanna Aguilar
★ 5
Everything was so great. Lisa the instructor was amazing, even though I’ve done Pilates for years she walked me through their reformer machines (also super nice machines wow) and gave me a run down of how class would flow. She was so helpful and encouraging during class, I cannot wait to come back
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Leslie Iacono
★ 5
10/10! I went to Lisa’s class and am obsessed! The studio was so cute and clean. This is easily the nicest reformer I have ever used. The class was challenging but still fun and Lisa was so encouraging and helpful. I’ve been searching for a new studio and am so happy I found core mvmt!!!
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Keiko Arzouman
★ 5
Cute studio space & incredible instructors!! Beginner friendly. I’d never taken a reformer class ever! Instructor Rachel helped me get set up and showed me a few basics before class started so I felt comfortable. She also demonstrated different modifications throughout the class so people at different levels could do what they felt comfortable and confident doing.
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Lauren Madere
★ 5
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Prav Eena
★ 5
I started going to Core Mvmt because it is close to my work and needed help with some back pain. I found the instructors to be incredibly knowledgeable and supportive of my injury. Nearly 2 years on and my injuries are so well supported by the workouts and instructors here, so much so that I recommend the studio to my patients.
What also keeps me coming back to Core Mvmt is the community. You can tell that this is a locally owned business and that Lisa works hard to cultivate a supportive space that celebrates folks of all abilities and backgrounds.
Overall, I can't recommend the studio highly enough, both as a physician and as person who has historically been turned off by the fitness scene. Thank you Lisa, so grateful for this beautiful, caring, empowering space you've created!
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Lauren Guidas
★ 5
Soo happy to find this place. Amazing workout, centrally located, female owned! The equipment is well-maintained (something I've found lacking at other similar studios in SF), the place is very clean, they give you towels. It's a lovely atmosphere.
They make it very clear in their booking email that they do not accept late students because they lock the door (it's for safety and I'm grateful for it) so plan accordingly!
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Sara Boyer
★ 5
So happy to have finally found an incredible Pilates studio in the Castro / Cole Valley neighborhoods. The space is warm and the instructors are challenging but supportive, I especially love classes with Daniel. If you’ve ever felt intimidated by trying out Pilates but have wanted to, this is your spot. And if you’ve been to a million classes, this is also your spot. I’m so happy to have found Core Mvmt <3
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kat v
★ 1
the instructor was weirdly hostile/impatient/huffy. she doesn't seem to like actually teaching pilates. she paid very little attention to form and offered basically no corrections, even when i could clearly see people doing the moves incorrectly. didn't feel like a good environment.
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C Sylvester
★ 5
The classes and team at CORE MVMT are fantastic. The environment is welcoming and non judgmental- it is a true community. Whether you’ve never tried reformer pilates or you have done it for years, you’ll find a fun class and a burn here. The owner/instructor Lisa is my favorite instructor and you can tell how much she cares about her students.
Another reason I love this studio - it is independently owned and operated by a queer woman who loves the neighborhood and celebrates the Castro community.
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Haley L
★ 5
I cannot say enough good things about this studio! All the instructors rock, the space is welcoming and inclusive, and I’ve fallen in love with xreformer Pilates- it’s such an amazing workout and I can feel my strength build every class! Thank you coremvmt!!
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Russell Smith
★ 5
I love taking a pilates class to switch up my workouts. Focusing on slow, controlled movements is challenging but the instructors do a great job guiding you through it. Some of my favorite instructors are Lisa, Nicole, and Tommy - they are attentive, welcoming, fun, and they pace their classes masterfully. Not to mention the music is fire! Grab some friends and do a pilates workout class - you won't regret it.
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Daniel Lawson
★ 5
I love taking Lisa’s and Nicole’s classes! Shoot, even Tommy’s! The way they can make my muscles shake towards the end… is next level. I always leave wanting more!
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Elana Koren
★ 1
I've been doing studio fitness on and off for years, and this is the worst experience I've ever had. I signed up for a 10:00 am class, got there at 10:00 on the dot, and the instructor tried to tell me I needed to be there at 9:55 and she wouldn't let me in, because I missed the "machine demo." I pleaded with her to be admitted; I'd just spent $15 on an Uber to get there, and I was on time! She asked me if I've worked with pilates machines before, I told her (truthfully!!) that I have. She said "Fine, don't make me regret this" in a snotty tone.
The first few minutes of the class were hard and I was struggling to keep up a bit; not because I'm unfamiliar with Pilates machines, but because I'm out of shape after recuperating from an accident. Then she had everyone move from planks to crunches and I took a moment to consider whether I wanted to ask for a modification; my physical therapist has specifically told me to avoid crunches, but I wasn't sure if I wanted more of this woman's attention on me. She saw me hesitating, got in my face about how I was obviously not experienced or fit enough, and kicked me out. Mind you, this is all unfolding in front of a full class, which is pretty embarrassing. This class was literally called "beginners", so it's not like I blundered into an advanced class. I told her I would leave as long as she promised not to mark me as a no-show, since ClassPass charges a pretty punitive fee for missing a class. She said she wouldn't charge me a no-show fee, but when I got home, I saw she had indeed marked me as missing the class. I had to reach out to ClassPass customer service to make sure I wouldn't be charged. Insanely unprofessional.
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Heather Y
★ 5
If you're looking for a Pilates studio that goes above and beyond to create a supportive and transformative environment, look no further than CORE MVMT! From the moment I walk in, I’m blown away by the attention to detail and the level of care that every instructor demonstrates.
The studio itself is stunning - bright, airy, and impeccably clean. The equipment is top-of-the-line and well-maintained, making every workout feel safe and effective. But what really sets CORE MVMT apart is the people who work there. Each instructor is knowledgeable, compassionate, and truly invested in helping you achieve your goals. They take the time to understand your unique needs and limitations, and then tailor each session to meet you where you are.
In addition to the physical benefits of Pilates, CORE MVMT also prioritizes the mental and emotional aspects of the practice. Every class incorporates mindfulness and intention-setting, helping you connect with your body and release stress. And the community that CORE MVMT has built is truly special - supportive, non-judgmental, and fun!
Overall, I can't recommend CORE MVMT enough. Whether you're a seasoned Pilates pro or a total newbie, you'll find everything you need to thrive at this studio. Thank you, CORE MVMT, for exceeding my expectations and helping me become a stronger, more centered version of myself!
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Rita Golub
★ 2
I initially thought this may become my go-to Pilates studio until one of the instructors would not allow me to even enter the studio 30 seconds post class time, with zero care of the money spent on class or transportation to get there. So if you arrive even a second late, they will leave you outside with zero consideration. I personally have no interest in attending a studio that has no grace period.
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Allison Basham
★ 5
Hands down the best pilates place in the city (and I have tried them all). This is a classic slow burn, muscles shaking pilates workout that leaves me feeling both sore and refreshed in the days following. The instructors are so welcoming and friendly, but are also very knowledgable and provide helpful correction cues/modifications. Lisa and Tommy are both excellent!
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James Strife
★ 5
Had my first class here today and it was great! The instructor was super helpful and took the time to make sure i wasnt lost when working with the machine. Ill def be back and im sorry i had to leave 40 minutes into the class due to work stuff!
Thanks Rachel!!
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Cassidie Clayton
★ 5
I have never done a reformer class and was intimidated until I took Lisa’s class. She is welcoming and great and breaking down each move. The beginner classes are challenging but I can still follow the whole class.
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Amin Rasooli
★ 5
Very cool environment !
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Dana Baldini
★ 5
Core MVMT is amazing. I’ve brought everyone brave enough to try with me but honestly Lisa and the other instructors make it really approachable. You’re gunna get a great workout and join a really cool community.
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Thiago Martins
★ 5
I have been going to the Studio for a little over 2 months ago and I highly recommend it. It has a friendly and welcoming energy. Lisa is absolutely incredible. Even with packed classes, she always takes the time to give individualized tips on how you can correct your posture, challenge yourself to the next challenge and most importantly, do things that are right for you and your body. I feel much stronger than I was 2 months ago, my posture has improved, and I love having 40 minutes blocked for myself.
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Parita Kapadia
★ 5
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Michelle Delen
★ 5
I love taking classes at this plant filled beautiful space. The classes are challenging AND fun, Lisa keeps it upbeat with her ever-changing playlist and core routine. Thanks for bringing this to the Castro!!
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Mel MacEachron
★ 5
The most AMAZING WORKOUT!!! I had only done Pilates once before I tried Lisa's class and I was hooked after trying it for a few sessions - now I go on a weekly basis! Her Pilates class targets muscles I didn't even know I had and I leave every class feeling so invigorated and strong. She has such a fun, positive energy that makes everyone feel welcome, and every class is different, with motivating music to match! I go back for the awesome atmosphere and also that fact that I've been seeing results that I wasn't able to achieve on my own before this class. Additionally, this studio is extremely clean, with sanitized reformers for each class and air purifiers at every outlet. Highly recommend their classes for anyone, total beginner or very advanced - they have classes for all levels!
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Justin Robinson
★ 5
Such a great class. Lisa is so good. I'll definitely be back!
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Brett Ponton
★ 5
It was DIVINE! Great class, great music, and great instructor that made my first class feel super supported! I’m so glad I took my first class and it won’t be the last!
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Azarpi mx
★ 5
This place is amazing, I am new in the Pilates world and Lisa is been and amazing teacher.
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ashley rivera
★ 5
Love Lisa's studio! Her workouts are always hard, her music is always good, and she is an excellent teacher. Highly recommend.
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E C
★ 5
Lisa has converted me into loving Pilates. Went here in January via ClassPass and was super impressed (1st timers and beginners will feel welcome and well-cared for!). Lisa was friendly, encouraging with lots of personality. I'm still on my post-pilates glow from last night. Excited to finally get back to my in-person classes.
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Ellie Karlsson
★ 5
No comparison, this is the best Pilates studio in the neighborhood. Lisa's cues and music keep me motivated, and for a busy mom it's the most efficient workout for me.
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Kim Pennington
★ 5
THE BEST REFORMER PILATES IN SF! The studio is super chic and beautiful, but the best thing about this place by far is the owner and instructor, Lisa. Lisa is super engaging (she remembers EVERYONE'S names), encouraging, and makes the class so much more fun. The classes are always super challenging, but she is amazing at motivating everyone. Core Mvmt really is the best!
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Joshua March
★ 5
Really great contemporary Pilates studio. Lisa is an amazing instructor, and has just the right level of intensity to keep everyone challenged.
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Anna March Henderson
★ 5
Highly recommend. I’m a relative beginner but I can see this being challenging for all levels. Lisa is the instructor as well as the business owner and she is a delight- lots of authentic positive energy and personalized attention. I felt challenged and supported at once and will be coming back. Also, the volume of the music was perfect- never too loud!
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Juan Castano
★ 5
Best Pilates in the city. Period.
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Lani Alger
★ 5
This place is Georgeous, Newley remodled and the owner couldn't be MORE experienced! This is a fantastic studio with an even better work out!
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Alex Friend
★ 5
I’ve never been one to be curious to try Pilates but I have to say that this new studio is not just a lovely space and somewhere that inspires you to work out but the real star is Lisa! She’s full of energy and positivity that just wants you to keep going. She’s encouraging, patient and pushing you till the end. I recommend it to anyone that is looking to try Pilates for the first time and you’ll keep coming back! Thank you Lisa!!
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Liam Azulay
★ 5
From sports to weightlifting to hot yoga, none compare with the workout you get with Lisa at COREMVMT. Reformer pilates helps you target muscles you haven't been able to integrate into your other workouts. Lisa maps out premeditated and detailed routines that challenge you in ways that leave you dripping sweat with a sense of triumph to end the class.
I haven't felt any discomfort or anything close to a injury during these classes. If anything, the guided exercises help relieve strains and create healthy habits/techniques for the future. Start to master working with your body weight and TAKE THESE CLASSES!
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Tyler Brown
★ 5
As a first time pilates goer, Lisa’s beginner class was incredible! She always encouraged the class to challenge themselves and made sure we were practicing good form. I felt so good after the workout! I will definitely be going back!
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erin t
★ 5
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Will Carspecken
★ 5
Core MVMT has the best pilates classes I've ever taken. Lisa is a passionate instructor who provides motivation as well as tips on improving technique for a variety of levels. I really appreciate how she spends the time to get to know her clients. The machines are top notch, and the location is fantastic!
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Ginger Babb
★ 5
Great workout. Hard in a good way. Lisa is very positive and teaches in a way that’s really easy to understand and is motivating.
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T F
★ 5
Lisa is AMAZING!!! Such a fun and energetic class. Highly recommend for all skill levels. Will definitely be going back!
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Erik Peterson
★ 5
My workout at Coremvmt was LIT! I love the beautiful, new space. The classes definitely push my body to its limits in a way that lifting & Barry’s do not. I love this place and will definitely be back for more!
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nick avallone
★ 5
Great workout, will definitely be doing it again.
I’ve never done Pilates before, but Lisa did a great job of explaining the movements and creating tiers of difficultly so you could push yourself further if you wanted. Loved her energy as well.
The machines themselves were also very cool, never seen ones like it before.
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Sarah Small
★ 5
Brand new pilates studio! Class was super energetic and hard, but still the positive and accessible experience you expect from pilates. Bright, clean new space and super convenient location for transit.
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