“I was new to Pilates when I timidly started with a mat class at the Pilates Center of Pittsburgh more out of curiosity to discover what Pilates was about. That was about 4 years ago and I have not missed a week since I began training with Lesley. Since I was an avid bicyclist, walker, yogi, and part time weight lifter, it took me quite some time to figure Pilates out. Lesley understood it would take some time for me to catch on and become a fan. Her patience and support made it possible. I appreciate all of the teachers at the studio. I am no longer in constant pain from my lower back, I hold myself different, and I am stronger and more flexible. Thank you Pilates Center of Pittsburgh.”

– BJ Hirschfield Louik | Testimonial

“There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and it will be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly. To keep the channel open.”

– MARTHA GRAHAM

“If you are looking to zone out on the treadmill …. Pilates is not for you. If you are not serious about changing your body posture and composition…… Pilates is not for you. I have never liked ‘working out’. During my first few weeks I never ONCE felt embarrassed or uncomfortable. With kind and generous trainers I became hooked! Lesley and her wonderful trainers are bright, focused, kind and skilled. Each has their own unique style and the consistency of the technique is quite impressive.”

– Eileen Meade | Pilates Client

“I wanted to try this practice because my body has natural impediments to moving smoothly without hitches and the idea of decompression and creating internal space and support was very appealing.

When we started learning the techniques, I really enjoyed the awakening routines and do those fairly regularly in my own morning routines. The internal support of the seed center has developed for me and I particularly enjoy the infinity-shaped rotations that start at the sit bones and work higher. I’ve gotten a lot of additional rotation and flexibility through my mid-back, which has been an especially “stuck” body part for me.

I experience a lot of satisfaction in class from increased movement and internal strength. Pilates helped me understand how much internal muscle development can improve regular movement and improve quality of life. The GYROKINESIS® exercises help differently, having improved range of motion and showing me ways to better support myself and continue to move in ways I didn’t think I’d be able to as I get older.”

– JESSICA DIPRAMPERO