Choosing a class
Private, duo or trio? Choosing the right class format
In short: If you're new, or have pain or a specific goal, starting with private classes is the most solid approach. Once you've learned the basics, moving to duo or trio classes is a good balance for both motivation and budget. At Studio 4, even the busiest class has only 3 people.
When you decide to start pilates, the first question is usually "Reformer or mat?". The second is at least as important: will you take classes on your own or in a small group? In this article we explain the three class formats, who they suit and how to decide.
First, a distinction: a small group is not a crowded class
When people hear "group class", most picture a room of 10–15 people. In a class like that, the instructor tries to watch everyone at once and a wrong movement can go unnoticed. At Studio 4 Pilates, group classes have no more than 3 people. So even in a group class, the instructor closely follows each person's posture, breathing and movement.
Private class: entirely about you
In a private class, the class is built from start to finish around your body and your goal. The instructor can make a movement easier or harder for you, or change it completely.
Who is it ideal for?
- People starting pilates for the first time
- People with a sensitive area such as the lower back, neck or knees
- People in the postnatal period (with their doctor's approval)
- People who want to focus on a specific goal
What to keep in mind?
- The cost per class is higher than for group classes
- For those who love group energy, working alone may feel quieter
Duo class: together with a friend
In duo classes you share the class with your partner, a friend, your mother or a sibling. Coming together can be the strongest motivation that gets you to the studio on days when you'd rather skip it.
- Attention almost as close as a private class: The instructor can comfortably watch two people at once.
- Levels should be similar: If the two of you are at very different levels, the instructor adapts the movements for each of you; but being at a similar level makes the class flow better.
- Planning together: Class times need to fit both people's schedules.
Trio class: group energy without the crowd
A class of 3 is the busiest format at the studio. You get the pace and energy of working in a group, but nobody gets lost in a crowd. A good option for people who have learned the basics and want to keep going regularly.
Comparison
| Private | Duo | Trio | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instructor attention | Entirely on you | Very close | Close |
| For beginners | Best fit | Suitable | After learning the basics |
| Sensitive area / pain | Best fit | Depends on the case | Depends on the case |
| Motivation | Personal goal | Coming together | Group energy |
| Cost per person | Usually the highest | Medium | Usually the lowest |
How can you decide?
Ask yourself these questions:
- Have I done pilates before? If not, taking your first few classes privately sets the foundation of the movements correctly.
- Do I have pain or a health condition? If so, starting privately and sharing your doctor's recommendations with the instructor is the safest route.
- Is there someone I can come with? If so, a duo class is both enjoyable and very effective for keeping it up.
- What motivates me? Focusing on my own, or working alongside others?
The route we recommend for beginners: learn the basics in a private or duo class, then move to a trio class if you like.
Can you change your format later?
Yes. Your class format doesn't have to stay the same once you've chosen it. As your goals, schedule or budget change, you can switch between private, duo and trio classes. Both reformer and mat classes are offered in all three formats; you can see the package options on our packages page.
Frequently asked
Does everyone do the same movement in a group class?
Usually you work within the same flow, but the instructor makes movements easier or harder for each person's level. With no more than 3 people, these adaptations are possible.
My friend and I are at different levels. Can we take duo classes?
Yes, you can. The instructor adapts the movements for each of you. If your levels are very different, it may be more productive to take a few private classes first and then join up.
How much are the prices?
Prices depend on the class format and the number of classes per month. For current information, just message us on WhatsApp.