★ 5

Alona is fantastic! One session with her is equivalent to seeing three different practitioners. I was driving all over Virginia seeing different practitioners for a variety of different medical issues and it was exhausting. In one session with her, I received a hot stone massage, energy work, and a sound bath, which I would’ve had to see three different practitioners for prior to discovering SMART bodies. I feel amazing and I highly recommend Alona!

Source: Google

★ 5

The experience was not merely a class; it was a retreat for the soul, a place where worries dissolved and clarity blossomed. I wholeheartedly encourage anyone seeking peace or a deeper connection with themselves to join these classes. They truly offer a sanctuary of healing and transformation.

Source: Google

★ 5

Alona has an unusual depth and breadth of knowledge about healing arts — physical and spiritual. Her work is detailed and generous. She has a wonderful, genuine and kind presence. I highly recommend her.

Source: Google

★ 5

Alona is very caring person. She knows a variety of healing methods and uses them as she is guided during a session. She combines knowledge, intuition and creativity to meet individual needs of a client. Massage, cupping, hot stones, energy healing, meditation and much more are the methods she uses to move clients to a better place. Recently I had an accident and barely was able to move. A visit to a primary care doctor did not change much. Alona was able to significantly improve my well-being. She mapped the steps for me to continue the improvement. I can see the change even in my business since I started to work with Alona. I highly recommend Alona as a support to people who want to experience healing in physical, emotional, or spiritual aspects of their lives.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've had multiple body work sessions with Alona over several years and she is nothing short of amazing. To call her service a "massage" would be an injustice as she incorporates several modalities that are tailored to your situation and goals which translates into results that are both physical as well as emotional. Alona has my highest recommendation for anyone trying to alleviate pain, find clarity, or supercharge your health.

Source: Google

★ 5

Alona’s studio is a one of a kind experience in Williamsburg! The hot stone massage was a healing experience like no other! It’s been several days and I’m still vibrating. Thank you for sharing your gift as I’ve already booked again in September. Book today!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have had massages over the years but no one does a massage quite like Alona. She goes that extra mile to diagnose any problems with posture or structure that can help keep any discomfort away. She knows the muscles and their connection to everything else in the body to help improve overall health. The studio is also extremely beautiful and functional to promote meditation and relaxation. If anyone wants to improve their overall health and wellbeing I highly recommend Smart Bodies Pilates. And Alona is extremely knowledgeable and she will help with all aspects of natural health.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

If you have ever been curious about Pilates and/or Energy Healing, I would highly recommend that you have a visit with Alona. As a health professional am very impressed with the depth and breadth of her knowledge of physiology and anatomy. She incorporates this into her energy work in such a way that the experience is both specific, scientific and spiritual, benefitting at many levels
At first, I was unsure of the energy work for me and so I attended a group meditation
This one session connected me in a way that was profound and really made me interested in becoming a private energy healing client. I have found the combination of energy work, meditation and hot stone sessions helpful in providing clarity to my choices in this life and on my spiritual path. If you have any interest in this area of wellness, give Alona a visit. Her special gifts will benefit you in ways you may not have imagined.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have known Alona for years and finally saw her amazing Pilates studio where she offers so much in the way of healing therapies from Aerial Yoga to Pilates to Meditation classes as well as very personalized massage and energy sessions. I had the privilege of receiving an amazing massage with hot stones as well as her intuitive energy therapies. Her presence and attention to detail was quite profound. I could feel her heart with me the entire time and she deeply cared and valued how my body was able to receive her touch and therapeutic input. I thoroughly enjoyed my session with her and would highly recommend her for any of the therapies that she offers. Not only is Alona experienced with many modalities, she is also extremely gifted intuitively. What a blessing you are to our area here in Williamsburg.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working with Alona at Smart Bodies Pilates for several years now. Her energy sessions are amazing and have helped me to work through many emotional and physical issues, including vertigo symptoms that did not respond to any other treatments. Alona is an extremely talented intuitive healer who freely shares her knowledge and expertise by explain the root causes of problems and how best to address them. I also enjoy working with her on the Pilates equipment and attending her beautiful monthly meditation and sound bath programs. No matter what we have worked on, I always leave her studio feeling lighter, happier, and at peace.

Source: Google

★ 5

Alona is one of the most knowledgeable and talented therapist/healers I have ever met. She has clearly spent many many hours studying the best methods to help her clients on our journeys to both physical and spiritual wellness. I loved her work so much I immediately brought my husband in to meet her and begin his own sessions. I cant say enough on how much we enjoy her quality of care. She is wonderful, simply wonderful. PS her hot stone massage is a literal blessing!!

Source: Google

★ 5

The second week of September 2016 found me knocking on the door of Smart Bodies Pilates based on a high recommendation from a friend of mine. In my youth, I had 12 years of ballet classes. I had taken Pilates before at a different studio here in Williamsburg about twelve years ago so I thought I knew what I was in for.
Alona Casanave (the owner and therapist), answered the door and we talked. Two weeks later, I signed up for 10 private classes (two 55 minute sessions per week). After all, if I decided I didn't like Alona or the way she taught the class, I could quit. But I'm here to tell you, everything about this experience was entirely different than anything I had experienced before.
The first session was an assessment of my body. I came into this extremely overweight, going to the chiropractor 1-2 times a week to be "adiusted" for sciatica and other back pain, and virtually not having any form of exercise for 12 years! What a mess Alona had gotten herself into (my words not hers).
Having had Pilates before, I expected to "jump right in" again but Alona required me to start at the very beginning. She explained breathing, equipment and its use, bones, tendons and muscles used in each exercise, and she demonstrated the "right" VS.
"wrong" positioning of my body in the execution of each movement -all in great detail. Then we started with Pilates basics. Alona, watched me like a hawk for proper breathing and position, and she stopped me all along the way for correctness in my exercising. Believe me I started with b-a-b-y steps! This was intense but effective.
After about 6 months, I knew I was making progress because I felt stronger and straighter and was pain free. I also realized that mentally I was ready to do more, but that physically I couldn't do certain exercises because of my being overweight. In order to keep progressing in Pilates, I decided it was time to lose weight so I started Weight Watchers.
Now another 6 months later, I am can actually see the results of the weight loss but more importantly, the results of sticking to Pilates for a year. I now see the muscle that Alona told me was forming under my weight all along, as well as the inches lost. She encouraged me every class and pushed me "to do what I was capable of but in some cases, afraid to attempt to do." You never get bored with Alona's classes because she is constantly introducing new equipment to use, and new exercises to perform. You use muscles you never knew you had because in Pilates, your exercises isolate the use of individual muscles in some cases. It is a well-rounded workout. Alona is like a walking encyclopedia of knowledge about Pilates as well as the muscular and skeletal system and the interaction of them all. She explains things very clearly and is a stickler for proper form and breathing. She tailors your class to whatever your body needs, starting each one with the question, "How are you feeling today?”
I give my heartfelt thanks to Alona for being such a caring, knowledgeable, and encouraging instructor. Not only have I gained a new friend, but also a pain free, better looking and healthier body. I have gained back balance and flexibility like I haven't experienced in years. I highly recommend Alona for anyone looking to "heal" their body.
Debbie Schoenberger

Source: Google

★ 5

Alona is great with all forms of bodywork. From massage to personal training and energy work, she does it all. I highly reccomend her if you feel stuck and want to move forward.

Source: Google

★ 5

Don't let the name of this studio fool you - it's SO much more than pilates & massage. Alona is a very gifted human (both technical and energetic skills) who is more than generous with her time and energy. Her genuine care for other beings lends to a holistic healing no matter what type of service you choose with her...go meet her and you will understand!

Source: Google

★ 5

I know Alona since 2016 when I started seeing her in her beautiful studio, which is extremely clean and very organized.
I go there for Pilates lessons which are very different every time.
I also receive Energy work as well! I love it.
Alona also works with Hot stones and Fire Cupping on me( in fact just last week she did it again)
I like detoxification on my feet following with Reflexology (always a lovely treat)
Alona is very friendly, helpful, intelligent and a very conscientious therapist.
She also offers Gyrotonic lessons for a clients with neurological conditions.
After each session with her I feel like I had a massage inside out.
Evelyn Swart

Source: Google

★ 5

Testimonial from 2010:
"I have been a student of Alona's for almost four years. I watched her become a skilled, certified instructor. She has an amazing knowledge of muscles, where they are, what they do and how to use them. Alona has a passion for helping people at their own level. She does modified moves to suit individual capabilities. She observes closely in ensure correct techniques are used for maximum benefit.
After my sessions I have more energy and am more relaxed. Sometimes I feel like I've had a massage rather than a workout. Alona is patient and consistent in her instruction. I was never an athlete.
I did the minimal amount to get thru. My
body at 61 years old now is probably in the best shape it has ever been. I am proof it is never too late to improve your health and body."

Testimonial from 2024:
“I was Alona’s first client 17 years ago. I have watched her thru the years as she has taken many, many classes furthering her knowledge of the body. She adds new routines while reinforcing the basics always aware of individual needs”

- Lynn Geddy, retired postal clerk.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you have come to this page then assume that you were meant to find it. My life has changed exponentially since I started coming to Alana’s studio almost 3 years ago. I found Smart Bodies Pilates while searching for an exercise physiologist who could help me heal a recurring tendon injury. I had been to the orthopedic doctor, physical therapy, chiropractor and tried acupuncture. Nothing seemed to help long term. Alona did a postural analysis and found some things that were definitely not in alignment that could be the reason I kept reinjuring myself. She took her time to explain everything everything while I looked in a mirror and could actually see what she was referring to. It was eye opening and educational as I always thought I had very good posture from years of ballet. I would highly recommend having the postural analysis if you are having pain and can’t pin point what the problem is. Alona is very knowledgeable of the human body and its connection to your mind and spirit.
The name Smart Bodies Pilates does not begin to encompass all that Alona is capable of offering you on the path to healing. She has added gyrotonics to her pilates regimen and has monthly meditations with sound baths that are beautiful. Amazingly what has been the biggest thing to transform me is the energy work she provides. At first I was unsure about it but I was willing to try anything to heal and get my body back to healthy. What I didn’t expect is the impact it has had on every aspect of my life. I have healed trauma and pain I didn’t even realize I had. Alona has a special gift for dicovering exactly what you need on any given day. I am not the same person I was when I walked into her studio the first time and I will forever be grateful that I found her. I can’t recommend her highly enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

Finding Zen in a Hammock

I initially stumbled upon Smart Bodies Pilates by chance, simply tagging along with a friend. What started as a casual visit quickly evolved into a deeply enriching experience that has transformed my well-being. Owner and instructor Alona Casanave instantly impressed me with her passionate and professional presence. The atmosphere here is incredibly welcoming and inclusive, fostering a sense of genuine connection and support.
What truly sets this center apart is its unique blend of eastern and western practices. My personal favorite is meditation in a hammock along with sound therapy, which offers a gentle, suspended feeling that enhances relaxation and mindfulness. I've been attending classes for over a year now, and the individualized approach makes a world of difference. Alona takes the time to understand each client's needs and tailors the practices, accordingly, ensuring everyone feels seen and supported.
But the variety doesn't stop there! Beyond meditation, I've been truly impressed by the spa massage with warm oil and hot stones: This luxurious treatment provided deep relaxation and muscle tension relief, leaving me feeling rejuvenated and pampered. Additionally. the innovative equipment-based therapy/Gyrotonic helped me improve my flexibility, strength, and posture in a safe and effective way.
Whether you're seeking stress relief, improved physical health, or simply a deeper connection to yourself, Smart Bodies Pilates offers a diverse menu of procedures to suit your needs. From Pilates and massage to traditional eastern practices, there's something for everyone.
Overall, I highly recommend Smart Bodies Pilates to anyone seeking a transformative wellness experience. Alona's expertise, combined with the welcoming atmosphere and unique East-West approach, makes this center a true gem. It's not just a place to exercise or take a class; it's a place to discover your own inner peace and well-being.

Source: Google

★ 5

Go ahead and treat yourself to a little self-care🙏🏻 I am in the wellness business and have never come across this type of approach…the sound healing classes I take are fantastic! A beautiful way to end my day and center myself for the month! Alona, is an amazing soul and you feel it immediately! You deserve a little Awww😇🙏🏻

Source: Google

★ 5

I have had a great experience at Smart Bodies and Alona is wonderful to work with. She is experienced, knowledgeable and insightful and tailors treatments, pilates, exercises, etc. to the individual rather than approach from a one size fits all mentality. The studio is well-equipped, inviting, and clean. I also had one of the best massages ever.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been seeing Alona Casanave, the owner and therapist at Smart Bodies Pilates, for 2 ½ years, primarily for acupressure, energy pathway work, massage, and hot stone therapy. Alona has focused on reducing muscle and tendon inflammation related to my scoliosis condition, for which we have documented noticeable improvement with photos and reduced physical discomfort. She has also recently expanded my sessions to include energy work. I trust Alona entirely. She is an exceptional, multi-talented, compassionate, and certified professional, whose expertise stretches across several types of physical and spiritual interventions for improved health and happiness. Her studio is well equipped and always immaculately clean and inviting.
Betsy Middleton

Source: Google

★ 5

It is so many things that Alona brings to her practice. From the day I met her I knew she was someone very special. She is truthful, she is detail oriented, she is calming. You truly know you can accomplish your goals with Alona. We met in 2013 or 14. I had moved from Chicago and was looking for a Pilates studio. Never had I imagined I would find the world class instructor I did in Williansburg VA. I moved out of state after working with her for several years, as far as replacing her class I haven’t found anyone better. We have remained in contact over the years & now we come back together in another space. It’s difficult to describe everything Alona has helped to unlock in myself. What I know is that I’ve always known I can do/have/be anything I want, but now I believe it. If you are thinking about working energetically on your goals I whole heartedly recommend Alona.

Source: Google

★ 5

Smart Bodies with Alona is the right place to be if you want to improve on you and your self journey. She offers an array of skill, knowledge, professionalism, kindness, empathy to get where you choose to be. Thank you Alona for accepting me where I was and encouraging me on every session. It takes a very special gift that you pocess and give to others that makes this world a better place of living. So I am encouraging those who read reviews, if you are searching, you may have found who you were searching for. Thank you Alona for helping me getting my smile, self confidence where I choose it to be!

Source: Google

★ 5

Had another amazing session with Alona yesterday. I’ve invested in over 1000 hours of body work over the past twenty years and Alona is on a very short list of the best practitioners I’ve had the privilege of working with. Her unique combination of soft tissue, meridian, and energy work produces immediate relief on her table as well as removing deeper obstacles from my constant pursuit of enjoying life as much as possible. Looking forward to joining one of her group meditations next time I’m in town.

Source: Google

★ 5

I recently started taking classes at Smart Bodies Pilates, and I have to say, I'm blown away by the experience. In addition to the excellent Pilates instruction (I didn't even know I had muscles in some of the places we worked on!) I've also had the opportunity to explore energy healing and meditation with Alona. This has been nothing short of transformative and has changed my life.

The energy healing sessions have been particularly powerful for me. I wasn't sure what to expect at first, but Alona was incredibly knowledgeable and compassionate, and she created a safe, supportive space for me to explore some deep emotional and physical issues. I left feeling lighter and more centered and grounded than I have in years. Alona truly has a gift and employs her multi-talented repertoire of knowledge and skills to give you an individualized experience. Whether it is energy alone, or combined with acupressure or massage, you need to truly experience this for yourself to understand how beneficial, cathartic, and life changing this is.

The meditation classes have also been a highlight. I have struggled with meditation in the past because I can't "visualize". This was a completely different experience with Alona doing a guided meditation with lots of other sensory components to help my mind settle. The session occurs in a darkened room while we are cocooned in aerial yoga swings. Alona's voice, along with sound bath therapy is a game changer and I truly look forward to the next class. I've never felt like I really "got it" until now. Alona has a gift for guiding you into a state of deep relaxation and focus, and I always leave feeling refreshed and recharged.

Overall, I can't recommend Smart Bodies Pilates enough. The quality is top-notch, and the offerings of pilates, energy healing, massage, and meditation really set it apart. If you're looking for a holistic approach to fitness and wellness, this is the place to go. I am so grateful that I found Smart Bodies Pilates - you should try it for yourself!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

A few years ago, I was having a lot of hip pain and could no longer sit comfortably on the floor to play with my grandkids. I found Alona at Smart Bodies and have been working with her ever since. By using the Pilates reformer and other equipment in her beautiful studio, she has helped me so much with proper body alignment, strength, stretching, and balance. My bone density has even improved! I have experienced both single and duet classes and in each class we receive Alona’s full attention and focus on improving our performance of each exercise. Every week she challenges us with new exercises and it is never dull! It is fun to work with a partner in the duet classes. I highly recommend them.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working with Alona for about 1.5 years. After 5 years of severe leg breaks, surgeries, physical therapy, and an osteoporosis diagnosis, I didn't recognize or trust my body. I needed emotional as well as physical rehabilitation and was intrigued by the combination of individualized pilates, yoga and multi-modal massage therapy. I cannot be happier with the results and Alona's guidance - as I have recovered strength, flexibility and balance, I have recovered my sense of self, well-being, and hope for an active life.

Source: Google

★ 5

I usually do not fill out reviews. If I could give ten stars I would. My expectations were exceeded. I had scheduled the cupping massage to detox and help with my fibromyalgia symptoms. Not only were those addressed but additional symptoms and/or conditions that I had not even mentioned were explained to me. I left with more energy and a better understanding of things I could do to help my conditions to continue to improve. I will definitely be scheduling additional massages for myself and my family.

Source: Google

★ 5

As a nurse, I have spent many years on my feet.  Eventually causing chronic upper back pain.  Now, even though I am retired from nursing, the back pain still persists primarily while standing and working in the kitchen for any length of time. The pain became so intense that I, eventually,  had to wear a back brace anytime I wanted to work  in the kitchen. I tried many different treatment modalities in order to strengthen my back.  None of them was effective.    Finally,  I was told that improving my core strength could help support my back. Alona Casanave was recommended to me.  I went to Smart Bodies Pilates and was very impressed by Alona's knowledge and expertise.    She customized a program for me and we worked together twice  week.  My core muscles were getting stronger, but I still had the intermittent upper back pain.  Alona,  besides being an excellent Pilates teacher, is  also a gifted massage therapist.   Through Pilates  exercises and Massage Therapy, Alona helped me retrain those muscles.  She was literally able to give them new muscle memory so that I  now use those muscles appropriately.  I have been pain free ever since.
Pilates has been the gift that I give to myself .   My goal is to be able to enjoy my 70's and 80's with a stronger, healthier body. Thank You Alona.
Ava

Source: Google

★ 5

My whole life I work with children in kindergarten and as a result my neck was so tight and unable to move from side to side. My condition was so bad! I was afraid to drive my car because I was unable to turn my head. Fortunately, very fortunately, in 2013 I found Alona at Smart Bodies Pilates. She identified immediately where my problem was, designed a program to fit my needs including Pilates and Hot Stone massage therapy. The return on my investment in her program was much greater than I would’ve received at any doctors office. I had to put the time and yes, the money, but it was a lifetime improvement and worth everything to me! I wholeheartedly recommend anyone regardless of their every day lifetime trama to experience the healing benefits. It is my wish this program will effect your life as it has mine. Katy

Source: Google

★ 5

I have had hot stone massages all over the country. Alona's use of the hot stone therapy is incorporated in the entire massage. Good integration of massage and hot stone technique. It is her unique trademark.

Source: Google

★ 5

I am a golfer and I have been going to Smart Bodies Pilates with Alona for 5 years. I have found it has made a tremendous difference in my strength and my flexibility and in my golf game. I highly recommend her.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is a great place to get a hot stone massage! It really relaxes my muscles and eases away the tension I feel. You must give it a try!

Source: Google

★ 5

Smart Bodies Pilates is a unique, personalized program designed to address the specific needs of each individual. Alona provides an expert analysis of posture and movement and then creates a repertoire of Pilates exercises that with consistent practice will correct physical alignment and reduce pain. As a part of her program she includes hot stone massage therapy which allows the muscles of the body to respond more effectively to her therapeutic program. Having worked with her for more than a year she has gradually corrected years of misalignment issues caused by my scoliosis and has taught me techniques and strategies that I can use at home between sessions to maintain and support what she does in her studio. I highly recommend her Pilates and Hot Stone Massage program for anyone experiencing pain or simply wanting to combat the physical effects of aging. It is the best physical exercise program I have ever done!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Starting Pilates for the first time last fall with Alona has been such a great experience for me. I can't say enough about how wonderful Alona is as a teacher. She is so knowledgeable, patient, and inspirational with a special gift for explaining everything in ways that even a beginner like me can understand. I never thought I could learn Pilates and enjoy it as much as I am, and it's all thanks to her. I can't wait to go to every session to learn the next thing and feel the continued benefits to my overall fitness. She also does the best massage and hot stone therapy that I have ever experienced. Thank you Alona for changing my life.

Source: Google