Flying Squirrel Studios — Local services in New York

This place is a cute, intimate studio. I was surprised that you literally walk into the studio itself right when you enter and it reminds me of a nice, airy calm house. That is, if any of my friends had houses in New York and that is if they could afford not to cram it with all of their possessions, but I digress...

I took the 7am class here last Friday and it was a great, calming way to start the day. There were only 2 of us in class so I got a lot of personal attention from the instructor. There are plenty of stretches dispersed throughout the class, which was nice to prevent muscle soreness. And omg the foam roller at the end... my back was in heaven!

With regards to facilities, mats, bands, the aforementioned foam roller are all provided. Just bring yourself, your workout clothes, a water bottle and towel. There's a changing area in the back and a restroom behind the studio, but no showers. I wish I knew this before scheduling my big meeting at 9:30am that day... ah well, a note...

The pilates instructors at Flying Squirrel are first rate. In pilates class I want to work hard, get a little personal attention and leave feeling stronger -- and a little levity also doesn't hurt. I have taken classes from many instructors at Flying Squirrel and they are all great! Dakota offers degrees of difficulty within each exercise, her weekly classes are never the same and she even mixes in some humor. Alma's classes are creative and full of variety. Benny has tons of experience, corrects the little details and plays great music. Even in a 6-person class, Dani provides personal attention and a tailored experience. Benjamin kicked my butt with an hour-long springboard ab series and Tressa's morning classes are a great way to start the day. The 2-for-1 new client special is a good deal for those new to pilates or a good foundation for those already familiar. Flying Squirrel Pilates makes me feel welcome and I've never...

I have been taking classes - group classes and private sessions - at Flying Squirrel for years now, and am healthier and happier for it. I initially went in because I was having lower back problems, but now, years later, their Pilates classes are part of my maintenance routine. Dani, the owner of the studio, is a wonderful teacher who works well with students at every level, and hires wonderful teachers who do the same. (Both my teenage children and my husband take classes, and they had never done Pilates before taking classes here.)

The classes will challenge you but they are safe and the environment is supportive. It is a lovely, non-competitive environment that I love...