Your First Class Starts Here

Pilates Orientation Class

A 50-minute workout that teaches you the reformer, the fundamentals, and our approach. $31. Required for all new clients.

Not Just an Introduction

The Orientation Class Is a Real Workout

A lot of people expect the orientation to be a tutorial where someone talks at you for an hour. It is not. The orientation at Art of Pilates is a full 50-minute class. You learn the STOTT V2 Max Reformer, and you use it.

Your instructor walks you through how to set up the machine for your height, how the spring resistance system works, how to use the straps and the foot bar, and what the different spring colors mean. Then you spend about 25 to 30 minutes going through foundational Pilates exercises on the reformer. By the time you are done, you will be sore in muscles you did not know you had.

This is required for every new client, even if you have done Pilates somewhere else. Our equipment, our spring settings, and our teaching style may be different from what you are used to. The orientation makes sure you are set up for success before joining our small group classes.

$31 per orientation class
Reformer setup for orientation class at Art of Pilates

What You Will Learn

Your 50 Minutes, Step by Step

Here is how the orientation class breaks down so there are no surprises when you walk in.

1

Machine Setup

Your instructor shows you how to adjust the reformer for your body. Head rest position, foot bar height, and how to change spring settings. You will do this yourself every time you come in, so by your second class it will be second nature.

2

Springs and Straps

The spring system is what makes the reformer work. Your instructor explains what each spring color means, how to add and remove springs safely, and how resistance changes when you adjust them. You also learn how to use the straps for arm and leg exercises.

3

Foundational Exercises

The last 25 to 30 minutes are spent doing actual Pilates movements on the reformer. Footwork, leg presses, arm series, and core work. Your instructor watches your form and corrects you in real time. You leave with a workout under your belt and the confidence to join Level 1.

Why Every New Client Takes It

Why the Orientation Is Required

We get it. You may have done Pilates at another studio. You may have used a reformer before. Here is why we still ask every new client to take orientation.

Our Reformers Are Different
We use STOTT V2 Max Reformers, which have a specific spring system and setup that may differ from machines at other studios. Learning our equipment means you can focus on the workout instead of figuring out the machine during a group class.
Our Teaching Approach Is Specific
Our instructors have completed 600+ hours of training. They teach with a specific vocabulary, cueing style, and method that orientation introduces you to. When your Level 1 instructor says "two reds and a blue," you will already know exactly what that means.
Safety Comes First
The reformer is safe when used properly and risky when used incorrectly. Orientation teaches you how to add and remove springs without catching your fingers, how to get in and out of the straps, and how to position your body to protect your spine and joints.
You Get More from Every Class After
Clients who take orientation get more out of their first Level 1 class than clients at other studios get out of their fifth. You walk in prepared, confident, and ready to work instead of spending the first month confused about the machine.

After Orientation

What Happens After Your First Class

After orientation, you are ready to join Level 1 group classes. These are 50-minute reformer sessions with a max of 10 people where you build core strength, flexibility, balance, and body awareness through controlled movements.

Your Level 1 instructor will already know you took orientation and will build on everything you learned. They watch your form, give real-time corrections, and let you know when your body is ready for Level 2. Most beginners spend several weeks to a few months in Level 1 before progressing. There is no timeline and no pressure.

If you want extra support or want to work on something specific, private sessions are available alongside your group classes. Some clients book a private or two right after orientation to build extra confidence on the reformer.

Level 1 Pilates class after orientation at Art of Pilates

Before You Come

What to Bring and What to Know

A few things to have ready before your first visit so everything goes smoothly.

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Comfortable Clothes

Wear workout clothes that let you move freely. Avoid anything too loose that could catch in the springs or straps. Fitted leggings and a tank top or tee are the most common choice.

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Grip Socks

Grip socks are required for every class. If you do not have a pair, they are available for purchase at the front desk. Regular socks will not work on the reformer. The grip keeps your feet from slipping during exercises.

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Arrive 10 Minutes Early

Give yourself time to check in at the front desk, fill out any paperwork, and get settled before class starts. The team will show you where everything is and answer any last-minute questions.

Where to Book

Book Your Orientation at Any Studio

Orientation classes run throughout the week at all three locations. Pick the studio closest to you, find an orientation on the schedule, and book it.

Huntington

140 E. Main St, Huntington, NY

631-459-4313
View Schedule
Greenvale

87 Glen Cove Road, Greenvale, NY

516-646-6628
View Schedule
Commack

6401 Jericho Turnpike, Commack, NY

631-354-3219
View Schedule

Common Questions

Pilates Orientation Class FAQ

What happens during the Pilates orientation class?
The orientation is a full 50-minute class. Your instructor teaches you how to set up the STOTT V2 Max Reformer for your height, how the spring resistance system works, and how to use the straps and foot bar correctly. You then spend about 25 to 30 minutes going through foundational Pilates exercises on the machine. It is a real workout, not just a walkthrough.
Do I have to take the orientation class even if I have done Pilates before?
Yes. Every new client at Art of Pilates is required to take the orientation class, regardless of prior experience. Our reformers, our spring settings, and our teaching approach may differ from what you are used to. The orientation makes sure you get the most out of every class from day one.
How much does the orientation class cost?
The orientation class is $31. It is a one-time class that all new clients take before joining regular Level 1 group sessions. Available at all three studios in Huntington, Greenvale, and Commack.
What should I bring to my orientation class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes that let you move freely. Avoid anything too loose that could get caught in the springs or straps. Grip socks are required for every class and are available for purchase at the front desk. Arrive about 10 minutes early so the team can check you in.
What happens after the orientation class?
After orientation, you are ready to join Level 1 group classes. These are 50-minute small group sessions with a max of 10 people where you build on everything you learned in orientation. Your instructor watches your form, gives corrections, and lets you know when you are ready for Level 2.

Ready to Take Your First Class?

The orientation class is $31. Pick the studio closest to you, find an orientation on the schedule, and book it today.

Huntington Greenvale Commack

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