Neutral Pilates Studio — Attraction in Toronto

I recently signed up for their introductory package (5 Reformer classes) and wanted to share my honest experience as candidly as possible. I opted for the experienced-level group class, as I have been practicing Reformer Pilates for a couple of years. By NO means am I a professional, but I am also not a complete beginner. Reformer Pilates happens to be one of my favorite workouts, but today’s class with Jessica Y. and my interaction with the girl at the front desk have left me reconsidering my membership.

The Positives:

Spacious studio Convenient location with ample parking Lingson was welcoming, fun and created a positive atmosphere in the first class

Now the Negatives:

Lack of Machine Orientation: In my first class, there was no brief rundown of the Marrithew machines or their functions. This is pretty uncommon as it does pose a potential safety risk, so I'm used to most Pilates studios providing a very short overview of the machines; this is irrespective of class level, to ensure that all clients stay safe. This step usually takes less than 20 seconds, and I find that it's crucial for all those practicing Reformer Pilates.

Instructor Tone/Approach: Today was my second class at Neutral Pilates with an instructor named Jessica Y. Now, I always appreciate tough and serious instructors who are passionate about what they do, but this should not be confused with the manner in which they communicate with their clients. At the beginning of the class, after asking for my height to adjust the machine (which is totally fine—it just wasn't explained/introduced in my first class), Jessica Y. repeatedly insisted, in a condescending and disciplinary manner, that I must take the essential class before attending hers. I acknowledged, but somehow she felt the need to emphasize this several more times. I found her repetitive and condescending tone in a group class setting to be really unprofessional and unnecessary. It was unclear why she felt the need to emphasize the point multiple times, especially after I acknowledged her initial comment?

Front Desk Response: Now, the interaction with the front desk was even more disappointing. After the class, I asked if there was a mandatory policy requiring clients to take essential-level classes before attending experienced ones. The girl at the front desk confirmed there was no such policy and that clients decide based on their experience, which is standard practice.

When I provided feedback about Jessica Y.’s tone and asked if she could pass it along, the response was a blank stare and a complete lack of willingness to address the issue. So I used an example of spinning classes: Many brands of bikes (SoulCycle, CycleBar, SpinCo, etc), and it’s the studio’s responsibility to ensure instructors provide a brief overview for their new clients, NOT for new clients to figure out the equipment on their own. Unfortunately, this did not seem to resonate (at all), which highlighted such a significant gap in the studio's customer service.

Look. At the end of the day, there are countless Reformer Pilates studios in North York and the GTA. The real question is, what matters most to you? Are you cool with a less-than-stellar front desk and the occasional rude instructor if it means you get to do Pilates? If so, this studio might just be your perfect match.

But if you’re looking for a supportive and welcoming environment where you leave feeling refreshed rather than stressed, there are plenty of other options out there. So I’ve got three classes left, and I’m going mainly because I’m too cheap to waste them. Fingers crossed that the finale will be fewer blank stares, unsolicited lectures, and disciplinary tones, and more of an encouraging, feel-good workout where the only drama is my muscles...

I've been going to this studio consistently for almost a year now. I chose it based on location (walking distance from home), instructor and pricing.

Pricing: many different packages you can choose such as a "Welcome Package", 5 reformer group classes (6 people class) for a discounted price, 10 Reformer Group Classes (6 people, 3 people, semi private or private) Members get to book free outdoor mat classes when available

Location: close to Yonge/Finch, paid parking in the back of the building, paid parking in front of the building on Yonge Street, and paid parking on side streets

Classes: This studio offers 3 levels of reformer group classes: essential, intermediate and experienced there are also private classes, gyrotonic, postpartum, language specific (korean, mandarin and cantonese), etc

Instructors: I began my journey with Claire who taught me the core foundations of pilates I continued to progress and am currently loving classes with Jessica Y. She made me want to take classes consistently. She will always challenge you at each class, asks us any injuries/discomfort before every class, offers to let us try any specific exercises, etc Jessica has a sharp eye; e.g. will let you know when you need to relax your shoulders or relax your ribcage. I think finding a studio that fits your learning style is a very personal journey. I'm glad I found an instructor that I'm not afraid to approach and ask for advice. I like her teaching style so much that I'm a member at another studio she teaches in!

Recommendations to the studio: I think before a new client signs up for a class, a intro video on safety using the reformer is needed before signing the consent form if a new client signs up for a class at this studio, a survey should be offered to find out if the client is familiar with the specific brand of reformer used in this studio. This way you can help flag this client so the instructor is aware to teach client how to change personal settings before the class starts. Sometimes it feels like I am losing time in class because I have to wait for people to change their settings or they don't know how to fold the straps suggestion box for anonymous comments in the studio to help the studio...

Neutral Pilates is truly amazing! The studio has a clean, quiet, and peaceful atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease. Everyone I’ve met there greets me with a warm smile, creating such a welcoming environment. My instructor, Jessica, is incredibly patient, enthusiastic, and professional. She customizes each session to meet the unique needs and challenges of every individual, making the experience feel personal and effective. Throughout the class, she also shares helpful tips on maintaining better posture and habits in daily life to improve your overall body image. Every session is an opportunity to push yourself, and Jessica’s encouragement makes me feel empowering. After just a few sessions, I’ve already noticed a significant improvement in my strength, which keeps me motivated...