WHAT IS ATHLETIC PILATES?

Joseph Pilates created an incredible method.

And it was created over 100 years ago.

When he developed Contrology - now known as Pilates - modern exercise science didn't exist. Concepts like progressive overload, recovery, muscular adaptation, and evidence-based programming were in their infancy. While some of what Joseph Pilates' wrote down contradicts what we now know to be true, he built his method using the best knowledge available at the time - and it continues to change countless lives.

Today we know more. Science has evolved. Pilates is unquestionably fitness - it's resistance training. So as Pilates Trainers we have the opportunity to use the same principles that govern every other successful fitness program.

While some are dogmatic about Pilates - doing things because "that's how Joe did it" - at Pilatesmith we know our clients live in today's world. They evaluate Pilates against other fitness modalities like strength training, boxing, yoga, and the gym. And yes they could do Pilates for non-fitness reasons, but it’s impossible to say that Pilates can’t be used for fitness.

So for those who want fitness from Pilates, they need exercises that work for the body they’re living in. They want to see signs of exertion that show they’re progressing towards their goal. They want to feel challenged. They want to see their bodies change. They want to feel better and live longer. Pilatesmith was forged for those people.

At Pilatesmith, we believe the Pilates method and modern exercise science belong together. That means we don't just teach exercises - we program workout routines. We don’t just understand Pilates - we understand fitness and how to achieve fitness goals. We aren’t instructors - we’re Trainers. Were not staff - we’re teammates and community builders.

We apply proven training principles like progressive overload and muscle fitness principles to create workouts that are both authentically Pilates and grounded in modern exercise science. Because it’s still Pilates - we pull from the classical and contemporary repertoires - it’s the way we deliver it that’s different.

We didn’t abandon the method. We evolved the programming.

We call it Athletic Pilates. It’s where traditional Pilates meets modern fitness. It's the future of Pilates and we’re forging the path.

So stop choosing between Pilates and fitness. Between intensity and community. You get both at Pilatesmith.

The story of Pilatesmith

The magic of Pilates is no longer a secret, especially right here in Los Angeles. As more people discover Pilates and expect it to deliver on their fitness goals, Jessica Henien, our Founder, noticed more clients hitting a proverbial “Pilates ceiling.” After being introduced to the method, Pilates was no longer meeting their needs and expectations - at least not at a studio-wide level. These strong, experienced Pilates lovers - or "Pilatesmiths" - needed a studio built for them.

Realizing this, Jessica saw an opportunity to create a Pilates studio that delivered on fitness goals using traditional Pilates. We call our signature style Athletic Pilates. Simply put, Athletic Pilates is Pilates - for fitness. It’s intentionally programmed to deliver the benefits of Pilates and builds fitness to transform your body.

She also saw an opportunity to better serve clients by thoughtfully leveling classes, offering Private Training for those wanting custom sessions, and creating a space that felt inviting and warm. After so many transactional workout experiences, Jessica wanted to create a place where people knew your name and where you recognize familiar faces. Because the only thing better than a great workout, is a fun workout with friends.

After a near collision with a locksmith van sent Jessica down a wormhole about the word "smith" and where it came from, the idea for Pilatesmith was born.

At Pilatesmith, behind every workout is an experienced team who wants to help you reach your full potential and build a community that supports you. We're an Athletic Pilates Club. We champion effort over ego, hard work over shortcuts, and smiles along the way.

Get ready to forge a body that is stronger, leaner, and more toned - and to become obsessed with your fitness routine!

BE A SMITH

Anyone who works out at Pilatesmith is called a Smith. It’s derived from ‘Smid’ - an Old English term for ‘one who strikes hard’ and over the years has come to mean ‘a maker.’

Smiths are known for their work ethic, continuous pursuit to be better, and just general bad-assery! They come from all backgrounds, shapes, and sizes, and are connected through the shared value of hard work and a growth mindset. They’re humble because they know there’s always another level to achieve, and more ways they can hone their craft.

Whether you’re a Novice, Apprentice, or Pilatesmith, if you want to get stronger, be in a space where you’re supported by others, and discover the full potential of your body, then we’re for you!

OUR PROMISES

Consistency: Every workout will challenge you, every visit will feel like Pilatesmith.

Community: We’ll learn your name, celebrate your wins, and make this feel like your studio.

Service: We’ll be the best part of your day - every email, every visit, every “see you next time!”

Studio: Our spaces will inspire confidence, support your performance, and make you proud to be here.