Pilates For Every Body

Pilates has a reputation for being really hard — or only for certain types of bodies — but that’s not actually what it was designed for.

Originally developed in the early 1900s by Joseph Pilates, the method was created to support overall health, rehabilitation, and strength through controlled, intentional movement.

It draws inspiration from gymnastics, breathwork, and Eastern movement practices (including yoga), with a strong emphasis on core strength, alignment, and balance. At its core, Pilates is about moving well — not pushing harder.

That philosophy is exactly what drew Catlyn Griswell, one of our certified Pilates instructors, to the practice. “I really love Pilates because it helps you find restorative movement, maintain your core, and support your whole body alignment.” – Catlyn Griswell, Certified Pilates Instructor and BTTC Group Fitness Instructor

With a background as a professional dancer and formal training at Cornish College of the Arts, Catlyn has seen firsthand how Pilates supports strength, resilience, and longevity — especially for people coming back from injury or building strength for the first time.

“It’s especially good if you’ve had an injury, are coming back from one, or if your body just isn’t strong yet and you’re trying to find strength in places you didn’t even know needed it.”

One of the biggest misconceptions about Pilates is that it’s only for advanced athletes or one specific type of person. In reality, it’s incredibly adaptable.

“Pilates has become something that people think is very difficult or intimidating,” Catlyn says. “But it’s really adaptable to all bodies. There are hard moves — like with anything — but it’s easier than you think when you come in with an open mind.”

We’re especially excited to introduce 1-on-1 Private Pilates Sessions at BTTC because they allow for something group classes can’t always offer: individual attention.

“In a private session, you get to figure out the little steps in between each move — what connects what in your body.” Catlyn explains. “We’re all so different and our bodies each need different things.”

Private sessions create space to slow down, ask questions, and better understand how your body moves — whether you’re cross-training for tennis, easing into fitness, or simply wanting a more personal experience.

We see Pilates as a natural complement to everything else happening at the club — supporting strength, injury prevention, recovery, and confidence in movement.

Call us at the club at 360-733-5050 to find out more or visit us in Fairhaven to view pricing and schedule sessions—just like you schedule Personal Training. Not a member? Check out our memberships!