BodyWave Pilates Expands Into New Space

Pilates is a growing trend in exercise, so it’s only fitting that is expanding as well.

The studio in Kensington Square, which has been open for over 5 years, has moved. But they haven’t gone far.  Their new space is still in the same shopping center but no longer in the back section next to Mezza Restaurant. They are now located in front next to .

Co-owner and instructor Janice Gill is thrilled about being in the new location.

“We just had our grand opening on Oct. 10 for this larger space," she said. "There is so much more room for equipment and classes, plus we now have mirrors all around the room so everyone can be more aware of their posture and technique. When you can view what you’re doing, you can easily adjust so you’re doing the moves correctly.”

Gill was introduced to Pilates as a young girl when she began taking ballet.  She was a dance major in college and used the discipline to strengthen her body for performances.  In the early 1990’s she became even more involved with Pilates.

“After my kids started school, my passion for Pilates re-awakened,” she said. “I also taught aerobics and other fitness activities, but discovered Pilates to be my true love.”

Her business partner and fellow instructor, Carolyn (Tanker) O’Donnell, came to the discipline in a different way. A friend turned her on to Pilates, and although it took a little while for her to warm up to it she soon loved it as well.

“Carolyn took instruction from my trainer, which is how we met,” Gill explained. “She is also a hairdresser, and the long hours on her feet working on clients took their toll. She discovered that Pilates relieved the back and neck pain she had from her day job, and wanted to share this form of pain relief with others.” 

Gill and O’Donnell, along with their other instructors, have gone through extensive certification in order to teach their clients. They are proud of the fact that they have all come to Pilates from different backgrounds.

“We can cover all bases, from therapeutic to strength,” Gill said. “I know what it’s like to have Pilates assist me in the dance profession, while some of the other ladies can relate to how it assists them in lessening illness symptoms.  Everyone can benefit in some way.”

The studio boasts a wide range of clientele, including athletes and those with injuries. Gill is especially proud of their oldest student.

“We have a lovely lady who is 102 years old taking Pilates," she said. "She came in severely limited in her abilities. While she will never have the range of motion of someone much younger, she can now do a lot more than she did at the beginning and her quality of life has improved. She is a real inspiration for all of us!”

For more information on group lessons and private sessions, check out the BodyWave Pilates website or call them at 440-871-2475.