I am new to your studio, what should I know prior to my first visit?

Welcome! We are happy that your path has led you to our wonderful studio!

9th & 9th Pilates is not a "drop-in" studio due to limited equipment and group sizes. Please pre-register to reserve your spot prior to arrival using our online system or by giving us a call.

We offer some parking behind the studio (off Windsor Street), please do not use the 3 parking spots behind the retail boutique next door during regular business hours. Street parking is rarely a problem. Upon entering the studio through the front or back doors, please leave your shoes on the mats provided. You will need to fill out a new student form, and print your name on the class sign-in sheet. There is ample storage (cubbies in Pilates room, shelving at the back of the Green Room) and coat hooks, and we have 2 restrooms. Please do not walk on the carpet with your shoes, and make sure you sign-in to avoid a "no-show" charge. Turn off your cell phones to help us maintain a distraction-free environment.  Read more about our Cancellation Policy under 'Classes & Pricing'.

I am completely new to yoga. What should I know about my first class, and how should I prepare?

There are many different styles of yoga, but to familiarize yourself with the Vinyasa style specifically, get started in our Monday Vinyasa 1/Yogilates class. Wear loose-fitting clothing, anything that allows you to move freely is ideal. You will take the class barefoot or with sticky socks (available for purchase at the studio). If you have your own yoga mat, please bring it with you. If not, you can use one of our rental mats free on your first visit, and for $1 beyond. We sell great mats for less than $20 at the studio. Please try to maintain a sense of quiet inside the studio, if you would like to catch up with friends, please do so in the lobby.  Out of courtesy to your fellow students and instructor, please plan to arrive for the start of class on time.

Isn't yoga just 'stretching & breathing'?

Hmmm...not quite :) Our Vinyasa Yoga style is also known as "Power Yoga" and has gained popularity in the West due to it's dynamic and challenging qualities of moving breath-to-movement, and strengthening the body. Breath IS a large component of any yoga practice and an easy way to relax the body, quiet the mind a soak up some Prana! Within the course of class, you will both tone and then stretch and lengthen various muscle groups.

What results can I expect from a regular Vinyasa Yoga practice? How does yoga differ from other work-outs?

Qualities of Yoga...

• Noncompetitive, process-oriented
• Awareness is internal (breath, moving meditation)
• Limitless possibilities for growth and self-awareness
• The Parasympathetic Nervous System dominates
• The  sub-cortical regions of the brain dominate
• Slow dynamic and static movements strengthen
• Muscle tone normalizes
• Low risk of injuring muscles and ligaments
• Effort is minimized and relaxed
• Energizing (breath is natural or controlled)
• Balanced activity of opposing muscle groups
• a longer, leaner physique with greater core strength
• the ability to exercise equanimity during life's more challenging moments

What does "Namaste" mean and why do we say it at the end of class?

Though there have been some very liberal interpretations of the word 'namaste' within the yoga community (such as "the divine light within me honors and bows to the divine shining light within you"), "Namaste" is simply the Hindi word for "greetings" or "salutations" or "hello". 'Namaste' has no religious connotations and is a loving way to express gratitude towards yourself, your fellow students and your teacher at the end of class.

I have an injury/chronic condition/am pregnant. Is Vinyasa right for me?

That depends. We are happy to discuss your class options with you on a case by case basis but please consult your physican before starting any new exercise program.