The Power of Personalization: Why Private Pilates Sessions Make All the Difference
When it comes to Pilates, there’s nothing quite like the focused attention and personalization of a private session. Whether you’re new to Pilates, returning after an injury, or simply craving a deeper connection to your practice, one-on-one instruction offers a tailored experience that meets you exactly where you are.
While group classes offer community, motivation, and rhythm, while private sessions offer personalization and precision. In a private or semi-private session, your instructor takes the time to understand your movement goals, customize each exercise to your body, and guide you through a workout designed to help you move smarter, feel stronger, and build lasting confidence in your Pilates journey.
Many clients find that a blend of both works best—starting with a few private sessions to establish a strong foundation, then joining group classes to build consistency and connection. Others continue with private instruction as an ongoing form of self-care, using it as dedicated time to move with intention and expert guidance.
Private sessions are ideal for:
Beginners who want to get comfortable with Pilates equipment and movement principles before joining group classes. While it’s not standard, a private session is a great way to become familiar with the machine, learn the proper nomenclature and the Pilates principles of breath, alignment, form, control, connection, and fluidity, and cover the basics of a class.
Clients recovering from injury, who need personalized guidance and modifications (after being cleared by a doctor or physical therapist).
Seasoned practitioners looking to refine technique, deepen their understanding of alignment, and receive direct feedback.
Clients with unique modalities such as POTS, vertigo, Ehlers-Danslos Syndrome, scoliosis, the list goes on! If there is anything about your movement that might require additional modifications or personalized instruction, we recommend working privately with an instructor to receive the full benefits of Pilates catered to your individual needs.
Private sessions aren’t just for new students. They’re a valuable tool for anyone who wants to move with more intention and awareness. Because every session is tailored to you, your instructor can adjust the pace, intensity, and focus to match your energy and needs on any given day.
“I moved to Richmond in the summer of 2023, and one of the first things I did was look for a new Pilates home. I gave Niche a try and felt a connection immediately … I started slowly with Mat Move classes and then added semi-private sessions with a friend. Our instructor was Savannah just by luck, and we hit it off immediately! Savannah is the absolute best instructor - challenging but also offering variations on moves so that I can go at my pace and ability level. Now, in addition to 2-3 classes per week, I meet individually with Savannah once a week. I recently retired, and with the extra time I now have, I want to continue to improve my fitness level. Savannah knows this, and includes me in discussion of my goals and the types of workouts I want to do with her. We laugh a lot during our hours together, which makes getting in shape so much more fun. Best of all, I appreciate the feeling of friendship that I get from Savannah and all the staff at Niche. Going to the studio multiple times a week is a highlight of my life right now. Thank you to Niche!!” - Anne C.
“At 57 years old, after a lifetime of competitive sports, keeping horses, farming and high heels, my body was starting to say, "no, thank you." I joined Niche Pilates in 2019 and despite a covid hiatus, I've hit my 200 class mark. What has that done for me? I am fitter than I've been since 2005. I'm more flexible than even when I was doing yoga three times a week. I've found a community of folks who are kind, supportive, and non-judgemental. Pilates has truly been a reset for my body and my mind. Thank you!!!” - Nan C.
