I'm back into Pilates again after a few-year hiatus--this time using those crazy torture-like machines (what other exercise method has equipment called The Reformer and The Electric Chair?), instead of just the mat.
I really like it and love the place I'm taking classes, Verve Pilates, in downtown Medford (121 E. 6th Street, 541- 494-4051, [email protected]). It's especially convenient for me, since I work in Medford and can go to class on my way home to Ashland.
The owner, Millie O'Brien, is a recent transplant from Bellingham, WA, super nice, and a great teacher. I'm taking private lessons with a friend of mine from work and the prices are reasonable (for "duets" the cost is about $165/person for 5 lessons, $315/person for 10). I got hooked on the Beginner's Package which is 3 Privates and 10 Reformer Classes for $265. If you just want to do a 1o-pack of Reformer classes, it's $150. In NYC at The Pilates Studio, it would be $350!
Given its vibe, it makes sense that Ashland has many more places to take Pilates than Medford, including Inward Bound Wellness, but I highly recommend trying Verve. It's the first Pilates studio in Medford to have group equipment classes and I heard that Millie is only one of a few actual certified instructors in Southern Oregon. Build that core!
