FAQ

Absolutely! High Intensity Pilates can be modified for all levels of fitness. Throughout class we offer ways to scale back or level up. Let us know if you have injuries or sensitivities that we should be mindful of so that we can help you find modifications where needed. We also offer privates if you feel you’d be better suited for one-on-one training.

Welcome! Please come 10-15 minutes early so we can orient you to our method and machines. The first few classes can feel confusing so have some grace with yourself – we don’t expect you to know the names of the moves or understand the machine right away. We’re here to guide you! You can expect class to be challenging, but know that we’ll encourage you to listen to your body and modify when you need to. We’ll offer ways to scale moves to be more or less challenging.

Our High Intensity classes on the XFORMER are loosely based on traditional Pilates, but incorporate strength and cardio for a super efficient 45 minutes. Each movement is slow, but transitions from one move to the next are quick to keep our heart rate elevated. The XFORMER allows us to have the benefit of traditional low impact Pilates movements, while using various tension loads to push our body to the limit without strain on joints. This is why you’ll often hear us refer to our classes as high intensity, but low impact. The body is worked in sections with the ultimate goal of finding that satisfying muscle shake which happens when our muscles are fully fatigued. Your heart rate will rise in class and you’ll feel the after-burn long after you leave. We bet you’ll even discover muscles you didn’t know you had!

Grip socks are required, bring your own or purchase at the studio (or 2 class intro offer includes socks). We also recommend a water bottle, we have a filling station, and a small towel. We have cubbies for any other belongings you need to stow.

You can, but we don’t require it. We’re ready to welcome most fitness levels into our group classes. If you’re working through a particular injury or would feel more comfortable in a smaller setting, reach out and we’ll arrange for a private session.

We have a free parking lot behind the studio on Carlos Ave with 12 spaces available for clients. You will also find street parking on San Pablo and Carlos to be plentiful during the day.

We’ve found for beginners that 3 classes a week is where we really see the benefits of movement and mastering the method. For more advanced clients we suggest 3-5 High Intensity Classes a week so that your body has the opportunity to rest and recover.

If you’ve taken a class with us or somewhere similar you know moving slow is TOUGH! Moving at this slow pace and removing momentum causes our muscles to slow-twitch, which helps us reach muscle fatigue in turn building stronger muscles and burning fat. This slow movement causes muscle fatigue, which increases stamina and gets you the results you’ll enjoy in your life outside of the studio whether that’s running after kids or tackling a marathon.

We’ve all been there! Grip socks are required for all classes without exception. They ensure safety during exercises, without them you may slip. Additionally they help us maintain the utmost level of cleanliness. Socks do not have to be purchased from us, but we do have a variety of colors and sizes for sale in case you forget yours.

For classes, we have a 12-hour Cancellation Policy. No Exceptions.

We get it, things happen. However with the limited number of spaces in each class, we need to ensure all clients show up for the class they’ve reserved. Cancellation with less than 12-hours notice is deemed a Late Cancellation and will result in a loss of the class credit and/or a $15 penalty. Classes missed without cancellation are deemed as “No shows” and will incur a $25 penalty and/or loss of the class credit. So please, take a moment the night before class and be sure you are prepared to arrive on time.

We know life happens, truly! This policy isn’t because we hold some kind of grudge for canceling plans. We have all experienced traffic, getting sick, all the reasons one misses class and we know it’s frustrating! With that said we have a limited number of XFORMERS in class, which means when you’ve reserved one, it is no longer available for anyone else to claim. Sitting on a waitlist only to hear later you could have come to class is so disappointing, so when you can’t make it we want to open that class back up! Classes are also designed to be experienced as a group so the empty machine affects everyone from fellow clients to your instructor. Of course, you’re welcome to ask, but please be prepared for us to maintain this boundary.

We get it, life happens, but to ensure everyone has a safe and undisrupted class doors will be closed 5 minutes after class begins. For existing clients note that if you do not arrive within the first 5 minutes of class your spot may be given away and your instructor may not permit you into class.

Please note that new clients must arrive 10 minutes early so we can show you the XFORMER and ensure that you are safe and well prepared for class. If you have not been given an orientation to the XFORMER and the method you will not be permitted to participate in class. This is one rule we simply will not budge on, we want to keep you safe!

Yes! Unlimited Membership packages include 1-2 guest passes per month (see your specific agreement for exact guest pass allotment). You can also purchase guest passes through our app so you can enjoy a class together. We also offer a complimentary guest pass for those that help spread the word about Plank + Power via Google and yelp reviews (limit 1 per client).