How The Classes Are Structured
The classes are organized into five pillars — Begin, Classical, Fusion, Strength + Cardio, and Recovery. Each is grounded in classical Pilates principles: intentional sequencing, fluid transitions, considered progressions. Levels are clearly noted so every member knows where to enter and how to advance.
New here? Begin with The Initiation.
Begin
The Initiation
Every society begins with an introduction.
The Initiation is reserved for those new to The Society. A complimentary one-on-one session in which we introduce the apparatus, the language of the method, and the standards of the studio. Before you take your first class, we want you to know the work — and to feel known by us.
The Debut
The threshold of a practice.
The Debut is your formal introduction to the reformer and to classical Pilates as we teach it. Foundational principles. Breath. Alignment. Control. Precision. The aim is not to complete a workout but to begin a practice. No experience required. Only the intention to begin.
Classical
The Method
Classical Pilates, taught with integrity.
The Method is the classical reformer repertoire taught with the rhythm, sequencing, and care it was designed for. Deliberate. Flowing. Complete. For the member who has built a foundation and is ready to study the work in depth.
The Mastery
The repertoire, fully expressed.
The Mastery is reserved for members who know the classical work intimately and are ready to move through it with full expression. Advanced sequences, seamless transitions, an elevated standard of precision. Discipline brought you here. The work will hold you to it.
Fusion
The Edit
The classical, refined.
The Edit takes the principles of the method and applies them through a more contemporary lens — without losing the foundation. Creative sequencing, full-body movement, the intelligence of classical form. For the member ready to explore the method beyond its traditional structure.
The Couture
Made-to-measure movement.
The most elevated expression of fusion at The Society. Complex combinations, considered sequencing, multi-planar work. Every class is one of one — designed to challenge the seasoned member without compromising the integrity of the method.
Strength + Cardio
The Pulse
Cardiovascular work, refined.
The Pulse pairs reformer Pilates with jump board cardio for a class that elevates the heart rate without taxing the joints. Rhythm. Heat. Discipline under pace. The cardio class for those who would never describe themselves as cardio people.
The Forge
Strength under tension. Form intact.
The Forge integrates reformer work with suspension strap training to challenge stability, functional strength, and the integrity of the core. Every repetition demands full-body engagement. Every class builds something durable.
Recovery
The Ritual
Recovery, observed.
Foam rolling, fascial release, mobility work — taught with intention. The Ritual restores what the week has taken: range of motion, range of feeling, the quiet your nervous system has been waiting for. Recovery is not optional. It is part of the practice.
The Reset
The hour the body asks for.
The Reset is a guided stretch and recovery class built around breathwork, passive lengthening, and considered mobility. It decompresses the body and clears the mind. Not a warmup. Not a cooldown. A practice in its own right.
From those who practice here
Of all the workouts I’ve tried over the years, Pilates is the one I’ve stayed committed to consistently — and by far my favorite. It’s a form of movement I recommend to everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or size. Pilates helps build strength, balance, and flexibility in a way that supports long-term mobility and overall wellness.
I found Rick as an instructor five years ago and have followed him ever since. He is, without question, the most knowledgeable instructor I’ve worked with. He creates an environment that is welcoming to all levels, from beginners to advanced clients, while still challenging and encouraging each person in their individual growth.
What truly sets Rick apart is his ability to connect with clients in a way that feels personal and approachable. He uses his extensive experience to explain movement in ways that make sense for each individual, helping me eliminate the self-consciousness and doubts I once had about my own abilities. His passion, patience, and genuine investment in every client’s progress make him an exceptional instructor.
I am so excited about the upcoming opening of The Pilates Society AZ! Pilates has become a cornerstone of my routine, and the people connected with this new studio have played a big part in establishing that cornerstone. I have studied with many of the instructors that will be teaching here.
They are outstanding, patient, clear, and deeply skilled at guiding movements that protect my joints while pushing my limits. At 71 years old that piece of mind is priceless.
Since I started, my strength has grown, my balance has sharpened, and my agility has improved noticeably. I'm excited to keep training here for years to come!
Rick Suttle is an exceptional Pilates instructor whose passion, knowledge, and dedication shine through in every class. I have been taking his group Pilates classes and private lessons for the past three years, and the experience has been truly transformative.
His expertise in classical Pilates, combined with his background as a professional ballroom dancer, creates a teaching style that is both precise and inspiring. Rick has an incredible ability to help his clients build strength, improve posture, and move with greater confidence and grace.
I am so excited for the opening of The Pilates Society AZ and know it will be an amazing space for anyone looking to deepen their Pilates practice.
Join the Society
Whether you’re new to Pilates or returning to the method with experience, there is a place for you at The Pilates Society. Explore the schedule, reserve your first class, or begin with a new member introduction.