Studio: Steps on Broadway
2121 Broadway at 74th Street, New York
212-874-2410
Directions: Take the 1, 2, 3 to 72nd Street, and walk up to 74th Street (Steps is on the third floor, above Fairway market)
Class Price: $17 ($16.50 for union or professionals with ID)
10-class and 20-class cards are also available
Class: Pilates Mat Class
Instructor: Robin Powell
Class Description (from Steps website):
"Strengthening and stretching exercises with emphasis on alignment, based on the Classical approach. Benefits from this class: Strengthen the core which helps alleviate back pain, enhance, lengthen and tone the muscles. Improve flexibility, posture, and over all body awareness. ‘Leave class felling 2” taller!’"
**One can bring their own mat, but Steps also provides Pilates mats.
Pilates is said to be excellent cross training for ballet dancers. The class helps one develop the core strength necessary for ballet. For those like me who don’t always use their turnout muscles correctly, the exercises in Pilates classes will isolate and help you feel those muscles working.
The Pilates class I took with Robin Powell that day was an open level class. The thing about open classes in New York City is that dancers of all abilities can attend—from beginners to professionals. The general atmosphere of the classes is relaxed, as each person doesn’t waste time comparing themselves with others. Everyone is solely focused on improving this own technique and body.
