Center For Movement

An Exciting Time for Center for Movement

2008-09-25T16:24:00.006-04:00

Fall Greetings from Center for Movement,

Seemingly a busy time at two of our preeminent studios, our Lexington Avenue and Scarsdale locations are currently undergoing transformations and renovations. The Lexington Avenue studio will be relocating mere steps away to 966 Lexington Avenue between 70th and 71st street. With high hopes to open mid October, we are confident that the move to our new studio will be as seamless as possible, while satisfying the needs and requests of our clients.

Similarly, our beautifully renovated Scarsdale studio will be opening any day now. Our valiant efforts to make a new and efficient studio will be rewarded shortly, as we cannot wait to hear feedback from our clients! Clients can also enjoy Tower Mat classes there for the first time. Considering their success at second avenue, we are confident that clients can reap the benefits of an intimate class environment, while simultaneously embracing a variety of exercises that the classes have to offer. Be sure to check out both studios complete transformations, as we always appreciate customer input.

In other news, we have released a new fall schedule for our Second Avenue location. Classes are still offered throughout the day, attending to both early morning risers, and those who wish to squeeze in a class before the day comes to an end. Our classes offer variety and excitement for clients both old and new. If you would like, you may pick up a new schedule at the studio. Otherwise, feel free to check out our website at http://www.centerformovement.com/.
Lastly, we present an exciting new promotion called Friendship and Fitness. We extend this offer to current clients to bring a friend (must be anew client), in return for a free tower class. Available until November 1st, this is an opportune way to expose a friend to the benefits of Pilates, while gaining a free Tower Mat class for yourself.

As always, we encourage our clients to acquaint themselves with all of the seemingly wonderful things going on here at Center for Movement. Remember that small steps will take you a long way.

Best in Health,
Donna

Summer Greetings from Center for Movement

2008-07-24T16:58:00.006-04:00

We hope summer brings everyone well. For those of you whom we have not seen a while, we hope you are continuing to keep up with Pilates during your travels. Remember, Pilates doesn't necessarily have to be done in the studio, as we hope the exercises we have posted in the past serve as a solid reminder that even at minimum, a few exercises are sufficient enough to maintain a strong, healthy body.

I was recently at a friend's birthday party, hosted on the building roof. Instead of taking the elevator, a few of us opted to take the stairs. As we were traveling down flights of stairs, I reminded myself to stand tall, keep my posture aligned, and pull my abdominals in; reinforcing the fact that even away from the studio, I could integrate The Pilates Method.

Recently, my business partner Elle and I, along with our staff, had the pleasure of hosting my sister's ( Elle's cousin) engagement party here at the studio. Special thanks to our staff whom helped transform our Tower Mat Class base into a festive party atmosphere. Our creativity was at its best, when we transformed our tower mats into convenient, stylish benches. Even for a hip, savvy New York crowd, it was interesting that the majority had not ventured into a Classical Pilates Studio. As we were toasting and celebrating to the upcoming nuptials of my sister's wedding, I was asked throughout the evening to give the history of the Pilates Method. Though my dress didn't allow me to demonstrate The Hundred, it was rewarding to have people comment on the unique apparatus and inviting setting. I couldn't help but feel inspired that Pilates is a true and tried method that captures people's attention, and peaks their interest- even at a most unusual and exciting time.

On a final note, we have been busy spreading the word with our information tables, postcards, and exciting promotional offers. If you are new to Center for Movement, and Pilates in general, we strongly suggest you take advantage of the incredible deal that is our Intro Package. Offering 3 Private sessions, 2 Tower Mat classes, and 1 Reformer Class, this opportunity is both an immense savings, and a great way to get started to a better you.

Many thanks must be extendedto Azadeh and Zachary, whom without their help and commitment to help spreading our blog, we wouldn't have been able to reach out to our readers.
Stay tuned! We will be posting new exercises that are sure to keep you Beach- Body-Ready.

Best in Health,
Donna

Rise and Shine with CFM

2008-06-17T17:48:00.003-04:00

Hi everybody,

When you look good, you feel good! Center for Movement can help you excel at both.
With the support and direction of our experienced instructors, you'll reach your fitness goals in no time. Join our 7:15 am or 8:30 am Tuesday or Thursday Tower class and get 20 % off the class price.

When you rise and shine with CFM, a beach-ready body will be attainable. This promotion is only one of the several summer specials that we are offering. Stay tuned for more impending offers throughout the summer and into the fall. We are always looking to reward the hard work and dedication of our loyal clients.

Best in Health,
Donna

2008-06-04T15:39:00.005-04:00

It's been a very inspiring week here at Center for Movement. Monday, June 2, launched the first day of our teacher training certification, and our apprentices have been a pleasure to work with. It's so rewarding to be able to share my expertise in the Pilates method with upcoming new teachers. Their passion for learning the classical Pilates teaching techniques ensures that the true work of Joeseph Pilates will not be lost. As someone who has been practicing for years, I feel so strongly that the authenticity and integrity of the method is retained. While our apprentices are just embarking on their journey to become teachers, I am certain, that in no time, they, too, can share the rewarding benefits of being a Pilates practioner. Both Elle and I look forward to continue working with them, and hope that in the near future, they will join our CFM teaching staff.

On the business front, we are always loooking for ways to encourage clients to challenge themselves. In an effort to reward their hard work, we are now offering an " Intro Package" at our Second Avenue studio; which is a great way to become familiar with the different classes, instructors, and servies we offer. For $280 dollars ( a savings of $123!), you will receive 3 private sessions, two tower classes, and one semi-private reformer class. Thus, you can sample virtually every service that CFM has to offer, while benefiting from the great workouts. We offer this package with great confidence, ensuring our clients that they can try a bit of everything. For the Pilates enthusiasts, we offer an unlimited monthly tower mat class option for $375.

I look forward to seeing you in the studio, and hope you opt to take advantage of some of these great offers!

Best in Health,
Donna

Center For Movement featured in AM New York Newspaper

2008-05-22T18:40:00.009-04:00

Yesterday was an exciting day! My business partner, Elle, was featured in AM New York's Health Section. The segment focused on Pilates exercises that are sure to get your legs in great shape for the summer. Amongst them were the scissors exercise, and bent knees leg lift. Though the names aren't traditional Pilates jargon, the exercises are authentic and sure to tone and shape your legs. If you weren't able to pick up the paper and don't have a tangible source for referring to these exercises, we encourage you to look online at AM New York's website. Click Here to view the article!

The photoshoot for this segment was a blast. Kristen ( another instructor at CFM) and I also took part in it. My segment was called Straight To The Core, where I demonstrated five exercises which I've passed on in earlier postings. Kristen's segment focused on how to tone your upper body. State tuned for those exercise tips next week.

CFM in the news,
Donna

Memorial Day Weekend Workout

2008-05-19T17:32:00.005-04:00

In an honor of the Memorial holiday weekend, Center For Movement will be closed on Sunday May 25th, and Monday May 26th at all three of its locations. So, as we've said in the past, the beauty of Pilates is that once you build on a foundation, you don't necessarily need a studio to reap the benefits of the Pilates method.We suggest doing a few floor exercises on your own.

Start the routine and warm your body up with The Hundred:
1) Lie on your back with your arms stretched alongside your body, palms down. Bring the knees into a tabletop position. Lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the floor while reaching the arms hip height. Begin pumping the arms up and down as you extend the legs to a 45* degree angle and squeeze your legs together. Inhale for 5 counts and exhale for 5, pulling your abdominals in. Repeat 10 times

And then move on to the Roll-Up:
2) Lay flat on your back with your legs straight, heels together, toes slightly apart, inner thighs and buttox engaged. Pull your abdominals in and up and inhale as you lift your arms up, chin to the chest, and begin to roll up. Exhale as you stretch forward over your legs. Keeping the abdominals engaged, inhale and slowly begin to roll down one vertebrae at a time. Maintain the arms at shoulder height. Exhale as you lift your arms to the ceiling and then back over your head, stretching and lengthening your arms. Repeat 5 times.

2) Teaser: Lie on your back with your knees bent into your chest, and the arms straight over your head in line with ears. Extend the legs out on a 45 degree angle. Using the powerhouse, slowly roll up. Hold the legs at the 45 degree angle and begin to slowly roll down. Repeat 5 times.

Happy Memorial Day Weekend! We're commited to helping you take your Pilates sessions on the road this summer.

Stay tuned for more weekend workouts,
Donna

Our New Website

2008-05-12T17:35:00.005-04:00

We are pleased to announce that our new and more user friendly website is currently up and running. Thanks to your feedback, we were able to make changes that allow viewers to make their searches more specific and faster. Prices and class schedules are more readily available, and we have made it easier to navigate the website as well. Please feel free to comment on our new design and layout, as we are always open to suggestions.
Ifyou haven't yet, be sure to vote for us on " Best of " at http://www.citysearch.com/

Happy Viewing!
-Donna

Straight To the Core : A few exercises we recommend that will tone and strengthen your powerhouse

2008-05-06T17:33:00.009-04:00

The photoshoot went really well and amongst some of the exercises that we shot for in the magazine are ones that I want to share. The beauty of Pilates is that it can be done anywhere.

1) The Pilates March: Lie flat on your back with arms reaching long by your side, palms down. Bring the knees into a tabletop position. Sink your navel into your spine and think of knitting your ribs together. Without arching your back, slowly tap one foot to the floor and keep your abdominals engaged. Alternate legs in a continuous marching motion. Repeat 20 times – 10 times for each leg.

2) The Hundred: Lie on your back with your arms stretched alongside your body, palms down. Bring the knees into a tabletop position. Lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the floor while reaching the arms hip height. Begin pumping the arms up and down as you extend the legs to a 45* degree angle and squeeze your legs together. Inhale for 5 counts and exhale for 5, pulling your abdominals in. Repeat 10 times

3) Double Leg Stretch: Lie flat with knees together and bent into the chest. Place your hands on your ankles and lift the head and shoulders up. Inhale and, letting your ankles go, reach the arms overhead as you extend the legs out long and forward (45 degree angle). Keep your abdominals pressing towards the spine. Exhale and bring both the arms and legs back into the starting position. Repeat 5 times

4) Double Leg Lift: Lie flat on your back, extend both legs straight towards the ceiling. Place your hands behind your head (or under your tailbone for extra support) and then curl your head, neck and shoulders off the floor. Maintaining a flat back, inhale as you lower the legs toward the floor and exhale as the legs reach back up. Repeat 5 times.

5) Crisscross: Lie flat on your back and place your hands behind your head. Bring the knees into tabletop position and then curl your head, neck and shoulders off the floor. Keeping the chest open, twist the torso and bring the left shoulder towards the right knee while extending the opposite leg out on a diagonal. Hold this position, then twist to the other side, working the abdominals diagonally. Repeat 5 times.

I hope you find these helpful when you don't have the time to make it to a class.

Wishing you good health, always,
Donna Singer

In The News

2008-05-05T16:54:00.006-04:00

We are so excited to share a recent write up that we received in Metrosource New York Magazine. They wrote a very complimentary article raving about our unique Tower Mat classes and beautiful space. If anyone is interested in seeing the full article, please ask for it at the front desk.

On the PR front, a photographer from AM New York Newspaper is coming in tommorow, Tuesday, May 6th, to photograph myself, Elle, and Kristen for their special segment on trainers. We will keep you posted when that article is released.

Don't forget to take advantage of our special offers going on through Memorial Day. It's a great time of the year to spring into shape and kickstart your summer. As always, we want to be your source for motivation and fitness!

Best in health,

Donna

Note From Donna

2008-04-24T16:54:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone,
I'm happy to report that my desk duties have slowed down, which have enabled me to start teaching and taking classes again. What I've come to find, from my years of practice, is that once you've invested in the method, even assuming you've taken some time off, your foundation remains. The beauty of this technique is that when you want to jump back into the practice, your body and mind instinctively followed because you've established a core. I already feel stronger, more toned, and energized from just a few classes. Special thanks to my staff for their motivation that they project throughout the class.

I encourage all students to experiment with various instructors, finding that each instructor offers a unique class experience. I've already taken aspects of Anna Maria's class, and taught and shared with my clients. This all encompassing ability to incorporate various styles makes Pilates fun and effective.

Just a reminder that our Spring Pilates Certification is beginning May 5th. For inquiries, please feel free to contact me to discuss the specifics of the program.

On a final note, I couldn't be happier with my choice of career. Pilates has given me the opportunity to stay in shape, help others achieve their wellness goals, and balance a healthy work and family lifestyle.

Spring In To Shape With These Three Great Offers

2008-04-24T15:13:00.006-04:00

3 Great Offers from CFM, available now through Memorial Day!

*The Pilates Sampler
Wondering where to get started? Try CFM’s Pilates Sampler for $200, Consisting of 3 Tower Mat Classes of your choice, 1 Reformer Class, and 2 Private Sessions from the instructor of your choice ( a value of $343 dollars), truly a unique package for someone with a taste for fun and physique!

*End-of-the-Week Special: Thursday and Friday Nights from 4-8 pm
Need to unwind and re-energize after a long week? Come in for one of Center for Movement’s End-of-the-Week private Pilates sessions at 1018 Lexington Avenue. With the guidance of one of our engaging instructors and a reduced price of $75 per session, one can’t help but leave in a better state of body and mind. For more information, please inquire with one of the desk assistants at 212.988.6066

*Early Bird Pilates- 10 % Off
Before the day beings, give yourself a moment to center and prepare in the best of ways. Awaken your body with an early morning reward. Attend Center for Movement’s first class of the day, and it will be our pleasure to pat you on the back by giving you 10% off the class price. When headed for Center for Movement, you’ve gotten off on the right side of the bed.

A Note from Elle :)

2008-03-26T16:16:00.009-04:00

"It may be hard to imagine that it would be difficult for the owners of pilates & gyrotonic studios to fit a workout in, but I often find myself trying to find the time to do a full class. Of course, it's easy to maintain my pilates body with sporadic, shortened workouts because I have muscle memory. Anyone who tells you that you lose it if you stop working out are mistaken - it's easy to maintain muscle memory once it has been well established. Still, I needed a full class on a non-work day so I could relax and enjoy it. Luckily, with my teenage niece to occupy my three year old son, Matthew, I slipped in for a class on Saturday with Maya, my instructor, who led me through an entire class using the pilates ball. What fun! The ball forces you to use your powerhouse and body control while performing the exercises, all the while providing a gentle and effective workout. It's a soft little ball that's packed with the powerful ability to enhance and deepen pilates exercises. The best part was when I was done with the class, feeling energzied and worked out, my son could be excited that mommy used this fun ball to exercise with, while we played catch."

3 year old cousins Zachary (Donna's son) and Matthew enjoy some chocolate while their moms are busy doing Pilates.

Ron-stoppable!

2008-03-14T16:10:00.010-04:00

A devoted client and exceptional student, Ron Rosen has dedicated much of his time to classes here at CFM. After attempting to practice at home in order to keep his body lean and fit, we met Ron at our Open House Holiday and encouraged him to come take our group classes for professional instruction. After only a few classes Ron fell in love with our studio here on Second Avenue and has been a devoted client ever since. Here is what Ron has to say:

"Owned and actively managed by two highly qualified, educated, professional, competent and certified instructors who studied with Joseph Pilates’ premier student – Romana Kryzanowska – The Center for Movement’s (CFM) 2nd Avenue (at 77th Street) location is their third since 1998, indicating their growing popularity. Their facilities are remarkable – new equipment, constantly clean and well-lit environment, friendly and helpful staff and a group of qualified, certified, caring and friendly instructors who always explain what they’re doing with, to and for your body – with sincerity and expertise. You get out what you put into any workout – and CFM’s instructors help you work out hard, always – always – with the Pilates focus on core strengthening and breathing. I vary my sessions with different instructors as each one emphasizes different facets of the Pilates exercises, providing me a deeper appreciation of the techniques. Groups are small, and sessions vary from beginner to advanced, with enough variety and flexibility for anyone to attend their own level of workout. CFM’s equipment – Mats, Reformers and Towers, are all Pilates-based. Privates are available, but I prefer the Group Tower Power sessions most, as they combine the best of both Mat- and Equipment-based instruction and workout, and I learn from the instructors’ comments to others as well as to me. Males and females of varying ages – even other Pilates instructors – show up at any given session, and my experience is that attention is always given to those with special needs. I did a lot of homework (and visits) when I decided to attend a professional studio after practicing on my own for several years. CFM impressed me more than any other in the area. I’ve been attending CFM now for a few months, and expect to continue for as long as I’m able. Their prices are very competitive, their schedules are all day and most evenings, and I’m getting what I want: consistently excellent Pilates instruction."
~Ron Rosen

A SPECIAL OFFER FROM CFM!

Winter blues got you down? You’ll warm up with this offer-- Buy a package of 5 Refomer classes at our new Second Avenue location, and get a FREE class. Classes are by appointment only, with up to 3 people in a class. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity for significant savings, and a chance to see what the Reformer can do for your body!

Now come and visit!!

The Owners

2008-02-24T12:41:00.008-05:00

Wondering who the masterminds behind Center for Movement are? Meet Elle and Donna!

Elle Jardim brings over 18 years of teaching experience to Center for Movement. Her holistic approach to the body has its roots in her early years as a dancer. Elle graduated from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts in 1985, pursuing a career in dance. She later earned a Master's Degree in Exercise Physiology while teaching in corporations, schools, and commercial settings. In 1996 she became a certified Pilates Instructor while studying with the Master Pilates Instructor Romana Kryzanowska.
Elle has dedicated her entire life to the study of the body and movement and brings with her a wealth of knowledge that encompasses yoga, Gyrotonic®, Gyrokinesis, Reiki, dance, and traditional forms of exercise. Elle was certified in the Gyrotonic method and Gyrokinesis in 2002.

Donna Singer, who holds a B.A. in Management, manages the business operation of Center for Movement. Donna brings many years of experience to CFM in both her teaching and management practices. Certified in 1998 by the renowned Pilates Studio in New York City, she trained directly under Romana Kryzanowska in the exclusive independent study program. Donna is an often-requested instructor who brings her unique style to an array of teaching scenarios, whether they are private, semi-private, or group sessions. She is thrilled to have realized her life long dream of not only owning her own business but also incorporating her love of fitness into this venture.

Elle in her fabulous open leg rocker!

Say Cheese!

2008-02-12T15:55:00.001-05:00

Today at Center For Movement Heather Oppelt Gray from Heather Oppelt Photography came to take photographs for our new, upcoming web site. Heather graduated with an M.F.A in Fine Arts from the School for Visual Arts and has been taking commercial, editorial, portrait, and lifestyle photos for over five years. Heather's states, "I am drawn to the 'decisive moment' an insider achieves when photographing through an outsider's perspective." Her client list rages from Details Magazine to the New Museum of Contemporary Art and Logics by Matrix. Heather appreciated working with us not only due to the nature of her work, but also because she greatly appreciates the life-changing and strengthening impact pilates has on the individual. Her time here at Center for Movement was greatly appreciated, and we thoroughly enjoyed working with her.

For further information check Heather out at www.heatheroppelt.com!

Now for you pilates addicts out there, remember to keep healthy by stretching daily and working the core to build up that internal heat.

Here is a pilates tip for you guys couped up in the office:

Sit at the edge of your chair. Plant both feet evenly on the floor; inhale through nose and out your mouth (if you really want to feel it, purse your lips). On the next inhale, place your hands on your stomach and then pull your belly in and up as you exhale out. You should feel your abdominal muscles engaged. Bring your shoulders blades together and sit as tall as you can, growing taller with each exhale. Slowly breathe this way for ten counts, inhaling as much air as possible and exhaling, pushing out every last bit of stale air. Once you are done, you can relax, move around and repeat if desired.

This simple exercise brings awareness into the core and helps improve one's alignment and posture. Not to mention, it helps strengthen and tone those sexy abdominal muscles.

Best in health,

Zachary

Center for Movement!

Stretch and Firm-Up Your New Year's Resolution!

2008-01-25T12:51:00.000-05:00

Winter is setting in and so are the holiday leftovers. All of us from the high power executive to the weekend warrior to the stay-at-home Mom to the city student can use a recharge; reboot and realignment that will help heal, build strength and endurance, flexibility, and stamina. Center for Movement’s newest location, on Second Avenue on the Upper East Side, is here to help you find your center through Classical Pilates Tower Mat and Reformer Classes so you can resolve to start the New Year off standing taller, feeling stronger and looking leaner.Daily class offerings include: Basic Pilates Mat, Pure Pilates Mat, Magic Circle Weights, Tower Power Mat, Reformer and more. Classes are offered 7 days a week from 7:00AM to 8PM Monday through Friday, and 8:30AM to 5:00PM Saturdays and Sundays.There is also a boutique offering Pilates videos, massagers, apparel and more!The Classical Pilates exercise method has been around for years but has become a buzz word and one of the fastest growing fitness activities in recent years due to media attention it has gotten from movie stars and elite athletes who use it to maintain their shape. Pilates is low impact and will reshape and tone; flatten the abdominal muscles; improve flexibility; correct muscular-skeletal imbalances; prevent back pain; correct posture; create a longer leaner body and increase lung capacity all without putting stress on the joints. Pilates has also been shown to decrease stress, depression. The original CFM was founded in 1998 in Scarsdale, New York by cousins and business partners Donna Singer and Elle Jardim. After realizing extraordinary success in helping hundreds of clients achieve life-changing results, a second studio was opened on the Upper East Side of Manhattan in 2001. With the 2007 opening of their new Second Avenue facility, Donna and Elle continue their commitment to bring the benefits of Pilates movement to New Yorkers through a philosophy of physical well-being through body re-education.