I once saw a meme that said: “Pilates?! Oh. I thought you said pie and lattes.”

I’m not gonna lie—if I had a choice, I would probably pick pie and lattes over exercise. That’s not to say that I don’t exercise regularly, because you know…health.

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When it comes to fitness, Pilates has always intrigued me but seemed intimidating. Like many, I have taken to at-home workouts for my daily fitness routine, but have been missing the group fitness energy. There’s nothing quite like an in-person class. I had been itching to get back to an in-person setting. 

Enter: Be Kind Studios. A one-of-a-kind Pilates studio which was just what I needed to get back on track with my fitness routine. Located in the heart of beautiful Calabasas, the beautiful studio offers group reformer Pilates classes that really pack a punch.

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With a water fill station, fully stocked restroom, towels, and complimentary lattes, the studio was homey and welcoming. If you forget your grippy socks (mandatory), they have them there for sale. I am now the proud owner of a pair. Who knew socks could be so exciting?

The reformer definitely resembles a torture device, but the instructor was friendly, helpful, and made me feel right at ease. I took the Kind to the Core class and I truly did love it.

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My body appreciates a low-impact workout, but I definitely did work up a sweat. I had no idea what I was doing, but it didn’t feel too overwhelming and I think I only embarrassed myself once. The class itself was all done on the state-of-the-art reformers. Since it was my first time, I was asked to arrive a few minutes early so I could tour the studio, and given the rundown on how the reformer operates.

I felt confident with all the moving parts even before the class started. The instructor had a great positive energy and a fun playlist that guided us so we knew what we were doing at all times. While the focus was on core, it was definitely a full-body workout.

Pilates is low impact, but be prepared to work out a sweat. I opted to use the ankle weights for added intensity that wasn’t overwhelming, even for a beginner. Group classes can be intimidating, but I didn’t feel that way at all. 

Overall, I had a great experience at Be Kind Studios. I can’t wait to go back. Whether you’re new to Pilates or a seasoned veteran, definitely check them out. Your abs and booty will thank you. And then go celebrate with some pie…and maybe a latte.

Check out their classes and book online here. Follow them @thebekindstudios for all the latest updates.

Be Kind Studios is located at 23500 Park Sorrento, Unit A-1, Calabasas, CA 91302. For more information, call 818-825-3377.

[Images courtesy of Be Kind Studios]

Tara KP Troszak is an LA-based lawyer, self-proclaimed cat lady, writer, and freelance makeup artist for MAC cosmetics. She lives in the San Fernando Valley with her husband Nick and her cat Chevy. Follow her on Instagram: @makeupbytkp.