The PBA Standard
Every class at Pilates by Ashtyn is rooted in our method: intentional movement, anatomy-based cueing, and true Pilates foundations. Nothing is rushed, nothing is random. Every class is designed to challenge you, physically and mentally, in a way that builds strength, confidence, and control.
No matter the class, expect to be challenged, energized, and leave feeling empowered.
New Here?
What to Expect at Pilates by Ashtyn
We’re so excited to have you. Whether it’s your first class ever or your first time at PBA, you are more than welcome here.
What to Bring:
Water bottle
Grip socks (required for all classes)
Don’t have any? We have grip socks available for purchase in the studio.
We provide everything else - mats, equipment, props, and anything you’ll need for class.
When You Arrive:
Plan to arrive about 10 minutes early for your first class
Check in at the front desk when you walk in
Our team will greet you, get you checked in, and walk you through everything you need to know
If you’re taking a reformer class, we’ll show you the machine, how it works, and make sure you feel comfortable before class starts.
What to Expect in Class:
Every class is rooted in the PBA method - intentional movement, anatomy-based cueing, and true Pilates foundations
You can expect a challenging, upbeat, and empowering workout
Our instructors will guide you every step of the way, offering hands-on adjustments and clear direction
Beginner Tips:
Start with Reformer Pilates or Mat Pilates
If you’re unsure where to begin, try out our Intro to Reformer class. Offered once a month on Sundays at 11:30am. Designed specifically for those who have taken 0-3 reformer classes.
Avoid classes labeled Power, Spicy, or Cardio for your first few sessions
Take your time - this is a practice, and we’re here to support you in it
Our Space
At Pilates by Ashtyn, we pride ourselves on creating a space where you feel seen, supported, and welcomed from the moment you walk in. We’ll learn your name, guide you through your experience, and make sure you feel confident every time you step into class.
Learn More
About The Studio
WHERE SHOULD I START?
Your first Pilates class, without the guesswork.
If you're new to Pilates, you don't need to figure it all out before you get here. That's what we're here for.
At PBA, both our signature Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates classes are beginner friendly. You'll learn the foundations of Pilates while building strength, control, body awareness, and confidence as you go.
The best place to start depends on what feels right for you.
Start with Mat Pilates if...
You want to learn the foundations of Pilates without equipment, build core strength and body awareness, or the reformer feels a little intimidating right now.
Mat is simple in setup and it's one of the best ways to understand how your body moves.
Start with Reformer Pilates if...
You're ready to learn the equipment and want the support and resistance of the reformer while building full-body strength, stability, coordination, and control.
Our signature Reformer Pilates class is beginner friendly, and your instructor will help you understand the equipment before you get moving.
Still not sure?
Pick one. Seriously.
There's no perfect first class, and you don't have to "get good" at Mat before trying Reformer. Start where you're comfortable and build from there.
YOUR FIRST FEW CLASSES
Learn the foundation. Then turn up the heat.
Your first Pilates class doesn't need to be your hardest Pilates class.
If you're new to PBA, we recommend starting with our signature Mat Pilates, Reformer Pilates, or Intro to Reformer classes. These formats give you time to learn the movement, understand our cueing, and become familiar with the PBA method.
Once you've built that foundation, there are plenty of ways to level up.
For your first few classes, we'd recommend waiting on formats like Power, Spicy, and Reformer Cardio, which move faster or introduce more advanced movements and transitions.
You'll get there. Promise.
New to Pilates? Let's talk about it.
Beginner Pilates FAQs
Is Pilates by Ashtyn beginner friendly?
Absolutely. You don't need previous Pilates experience to take a class at PBA. Our signature Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates classes are beginner friendly, and our instructors provide clear, anatomy-based cueing and guidance throughout class.
If you're completely new to the reformer, you can also start with our Intro to Reformer class, designed specifically for clients with 0–3 Reformer classes.
Should I start with Mat or Reformer Pilates?
Either.
Mat Pilates is a great place to learn core engagement, control, alignment, and body awareness without navigating equipment. Reformer Pilates uses spring resistance and a moving carriage to provide both support and challenge.
Both teach foundational Pilates principles, and both can be your first class at PBA.
If the reformer makes you nervous, start on the mat. If you're excited to try the machine, we'll teach you how to use it.
What should I wear to my first Pilates class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes that allow you to move freely. More fitted clothing can make it easier for your instructor to see your alignment and help you with form, but the most important thing is that you feel comfortable moving in it.
And yes, cute workout sets are always welcome.
Do I need grip socks for Pilates?
Yes. Grip socks are required for all PBA classes.
Grip socks have non-slip material on the bottom that helps give you additional traction on the mat and Pilates equipment.
Don't have a pair yet? We sell them at the studio, so you can grab some when you arrive.
What should I bring to Pilates?
Just bring a water bottle and your grip socks.
We'll provide the mats, props, equipment, and anything else you'll need for class.
How early should I arrive for my first Pilates class?
Plan to arrive about 10 minutes early.
Our front desk team will get you checked in, show you around, and answer any questions. If you're taking Reformer Pilates, we'll also introduce you to the reformer and help you get comfortable with the equipment before class begins.
Is Reformer Pilates difficult for beginners?
Reformer Pilates can be challenging, but you don't need previous experience to start.
The reformer uses springs and adjustable resistance that can both support and challenge movement. Your instructor will guide you through setup, form, and transitions throughout class.
If you'd like extra time learning the equipment first, Intro to Reformer is designed specifically for beginners.
Which PBA classes should beginners take?
We recommend starting with:
Mat Pilates — our foundational Mat class.
Reformer Pilates — our signature beginner-friendly Reformer class.
Intro to Reformer — designed specifically for clients with 0–3 Reformer classes.
Once you're comfortable with the foundations and PBA method, you can begin exploring our more challenging formats.
Which classes should I avoid for my first Pilates class?
We recommend waiting to take Power, Spicy, and Reformer Cardio until you've taken a few foundational classes and feel comfortable with Pilates movements, equipment, and PBA's cueing style.
Our Spicy Reformer Pilates class is our most advanced Reformer format and is recommended after 10+ classes at PBA.
How often should a beginner take Pilates?
There's no single schedule that's right for everyone. Your routine depends on your experience, goals, recovery, and the other movement you're doing throughout the week.
Consistency matters more than trying to do everything at once. Start with a schedule that feels sustainable, give yourself time to learn the method, and build from there.
Our team can also help you choose classes and a routine that makes sense for you.
Do I need to be flexible to do Pilates?
Nope.
You don't need to be flexible, strong, coordinated, or "in shape enough" before starting Pilates. Those are things your practice can help you develop.
You don't prepare yourself for Pilates. You start Pilates to build the practice.
What happens during Intro to Reformer?
Intro to Reformer moves at a more supportive pace so you have time to learn the equipment and foundational movements.
You'll learn how to set up the reformer, understand the springs and carriage, work with the straps, follow common Pilates cues, and move with proper form, breath, and control.
It's offered once a month on Sundays at 11:30 AM and is intended for clients with 0–3 Reformer Pilates classes.
Do you offer beginner Pilates in Columbus and Westerville?
Yes. PBA offers beginner-friendly Pilates classes at both our Italian Village studio in Columbus and our Westerville studio.
Both locations offer Mat and Reformer Pilates, giving you the option to start with whichever format feels right for you.