Real Pilates Houston (formerly Control Studios) is one of my all-time favorite classical pilates studios in the country. Classical pilates has been part of my wellness routine for years now, and finding a studio that is both rigorous and true to the classical system, while still feeling like a beautiful escape from the outside world, is rare. It’s a fully classical studio tucked into the heart of Upper Kirby, situated in a complex alongside The Atrium (yoga studio) and Unwind Studio (meditation studio).
Real Pilates is a fully equipped Gratz studio, meaning they have the full range of classical apparatus: the reformer, the cadillac, the chairs, the pedi pole, the spine corrector, and more. It’s one of the only studios in Houston with this kind of range. The space itself is beautiful too, from the mauve and red reformers to the skylight over the cadillac to an interior that feels perfectly curated without ever feeling stiff or pretentious. Classes range from open level to 101, 201, 301, and open gym, so there’s something for every skill level and experience.
Something unique about Real Pilates Houston is that, unlike most classical group classes, you get to use multiple apparatus in a single class. Typically in a group class, especially a beginner one, you stick to just the reformer, the cadillac, or the mat and spine corrector. At Real Pilates Houston, it’s common to move through the reformer, tower, spine corrector, and chair all in the same session, so you get to experience much more of the full system. At most studios, that kind of range is reserved for privates. Real Pilates also offers private sessions, which are a great way to speed up your progress and find your whole body connection more quickly.
Every instructor I’ve taken a class with here has been excellent, though David, Monisha, and Maya, a few I’ve taken recently, have especially stood out. What makes the classes stand out even more is how you feel walking out of them: strong, long, and energized, like you pushed yourself in the most productive possible way.
One of my favorite things about this studio is that you often learn how strong you actually are. An instructor will cue something you’ve never done before, and for a second you’re unsure of the exercise, but the cueing and instruction are good enough that you end up realizing you’re stronger than you thought. The first time I did pull-ups on the chair, I genuinely wasn’t sure I had the upper body strength for it. My instructor guided me through it step by step, and I surprised myself with how strong I am.
This studio is great for every level and age, which is one of the best things about classical pilates in general: anyone can do it. The instructors are able to tailor a class to your needs, whether that’s rehabilitation, general strength, posture, or mobility.
There’s abundant free parking, which makes getting to class easy, and it’s simple to book through Momence. It’s also just a short walk or drive from other Organically Texas favorites like Greenfork and Straw.
Real Pilates Houston, 3733 Westheimer Rd Suite 201, Houston, TX 77027