Class/Session Descriptions

One-on-one private instruction sessions with a personal Pilates trainer are the best way to begin learning Pilates if you have not done it before.  The complete Pilates Method of Body Conditioning involves both apparatus and mat exercises. If you are interested in working out on the apparatus, you have several options depending on your goals. It is also common to combine both mat classes and apparatus sessions in a Pilates exercise program. Studio fees and policies can be found by clicking the link at the bottom of the page.

One-on-One Sessions

with a personal Pilates trainer

Private one-on-one sessions are scheduled by appointment. They are an excellent way to experience the complete Pilates Method. They are also the best place to begin for anyone with injuries, health issues, or specific training goals. In your 50-minute session, your private instructor will guide you through apparatus and mat exercises with a special focus on your individual goals. Sessions are ongoing and can begin at anytime, based on availability. To schedule, please utilize Mindbody Online, call the studio at 202-269-3020, or email info@excelpilates.com.  Single session rates apply or you may purchase 5 or 10 private sessions at once for a discounted price.   

Duet Sessions

with a personal Pilates trainer

Private duet sessions are scheduled by appointment. In a duet session, you will experience the complete Pilates Method, shared with another individual. If you have a friend at a similar fitness level, you may begin as a duet. If not, it is best to begin with a one-on-one session so that your fitness level can be assessed and matched to another individual. Sessions are ongoing and can begin at anytime, based on availability. To schedule, call the studio at 202-269-3020 or email info@excelpilates.com. Duet session rates apply or you may purchase 5 or 10 private sessions at once for a discounted price.    

Small Group Sessions

with a personal Pilates trainer

Small group sessions are scheduled by appointment. In a small group session, you will experience the complete Pilates Method in a group of 3 to 6 individuals with a personal instructor. Such sessions require prior experience and permission from a teacher. Experience can include one-on-one training, duets, or the completion of a beginning mat class series. To assess placement in a small group, please call the studio at 202-269-3020 or email info@excelpilates.com. Small group session rates apply.  

 Mat Classes

Mat classes are offered at various times and days of the week.

Pilates Mat Foundations and Level 1 Mat are ongoing – you may start at any time.  

Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 Mat classes are taught in 6-week sessions*.  These higher level classes require pre-registration, and you must commit to one class per week for all 6 weeks. Classes must reach a minimum participation to be held.  Drop-ins available with permission. Mat classes at Excel Pilates DC are graduated from Foundations level classes through Level 4. Each mat class level has a curriculum and is designed with specific goals. See class descriptions and to sign up for classes online.

Apparatus Classes: Reformer or Wall Unit/Tower

Apparatus classes are offered at various times and days, and are taught in 6-week sessions*.   

If you are new to Pilates, we require you to start at a Level 1 apparatus class series in order to introduce you to our equipment and determine your experience level. If you would like to start after a 6-week series has begun, you must take our Intro Package of three private sessions before dropping in to an apparatus class of any level.

Experienced Pilates students who are new to our studio must be assessed to determine level, either by taking a single private session or the Intro Package.

Apparatus classes at Excel Pilates DC are graduated from Level 1 classes through Level 4, using the reformer, wall-unit, or other pieces of apparatus. Each class level has a curriculum and is designed with specific goals.