Lithe: A Pilates-Evolved Studio

07/08/2008 Posted by littlegloria

I am a former competitive figure skater, so I've seen basically everything when it comes to strength, cardio, and fitness training. I'm also a doctoral student in Kinesiology, so I pay close attention to things like form, instruction, etc. I haven't had the time or the motivation to go to the gym because I've found it to be mind-numbingly boring... when I took classes at the gym, the instructors just pushed through everything with no regard to form, technique or quality. And then I found Lithe... I have to say, in the 10 years since I've stopped skating, Lithe is the best form of exercise I've found out there. The instructors are superb, and they care greatly about making sure the class is using the correct technique to avoid injury and stress, and are amazingly attentive to each and every person in the class. It looks easy at first glance, but it will absolutely, without a doubt, kick your butt. It is the most fun, challenging and comprehensive form of exercise I've ever experienced, and I only wish that Lithe was around when I was a competitive skater. The combination of strength, endurance, flexibility and even some plyometrics is something I haven't been able to find at the gym or any other place. It may cost a bit more than your gym membership, but the quality of activity and instruction you get in these classes are worth every penny and more. For the workout you get, this is a bargain. A word of advice - no matter how advanced you think you might be in terms of fitness level, take the immersion class. Start slow. Have fun. And be prepared to have trouble walking and laughing for the first few weeks! :)

Pros: quality of instruction and workout, great facilities

Cons: realizing how out of shape you are as you sweat and shake your way through class :)

07/21/2007 Posted by healthnut1

The Lithe Studio is fantastic. I have been a member for the past few months and I could sing its praises for days!! The studio offers a diverse assortment of classes that all share the same goal: strengthing your core and whittling your waist. These classes include Melt, which helps to relieve tension in addition to downsizing your waist. Another class, Fat Free, incorporates trampolines and is a blast( who doesn't love jumping on trampolines?). Two other classes, short shorts and skinny jeans are the ultimate in sculpting your lower body. You do a LOT of barre work. At lithe, no part of your body goes neglected. Regardless of whether I'm taking the A-list abs class or Short-Shorts, I feel sore ALL OVER. Side Note: I could barely walk for 2 days straight after my first short-shorts class! In addition to the fab classes, the instructors are true gems as well. They are motivating and super attentive. They let you know when your form is less than ideal and they understand your limits. The studio is clean and inviting to people of all fitness levels. I initially was self-concious given my minimal exposure to pilates. However, the studio requires anyone that wants to take classes to first enroll in the immersion course. You meet two days a week for about a month and after the first two weeks you're allowed to drop into any level 2 or mixed level classes that interest you during the month. I gained a lot of strength during the immersion program. Ever since the immersion program I've been hooked and have faithfully purchased monthly unlimited class passes. I highly recommend Lithe to anyone who wants to tone up, get stronger, and feel energized.

Pros: amazing results, attentive instructors, clean studio, challenging yet fun workouts

Cons: am classes require reservations, very full classes in the evening

06/23/2006 Posted by mbuono72

"I just finished week 2 of the Lithe Immersion and I have to say it has kicked my a$$. This is an incredible workout! I'm super out of shape and used to have a gym membership that I didn't ever use.....I hate gyms, I hate running, I've tried everything....but once I finally got up the incentive (20 lbs overweight) to check out the Lithe Method, I can't believe I waited this long and wasted so much money on diet infomercials and gyms. This workout works every muscle in your body and elongates it. You can feel it!

Pros: Very clean, small class size, beautiful studio and it's fun!

Cons: There is sometimes a wait-list for classes.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful

06/22/2006 Posted by citygirl215

Lauren has developed her studio and style into something truely amazing. It truely is 'pilates-evolved'. If you are tired of the same old work out this is the place for you! Skinny Jeans it true to its name and I swear to you even my skinny jeans are starting to get big. The personal attention and service in all of the classes are unparalleled. Elizabeth and Tiffany are extremely knowledgeable and will keep you motivated through even the toughest workout. Lauren is such an incredible instructor youll hardly notice how difficult her classes are. AND Lithe even made it on Philadelphia STYLE's covetted 'Best of Style' 2006 list! Congrats!

Pros: Instructors, Class Schedules, Free Parking!

Cons: **I hate to even write one** Some classes need reservations

01/29/2006 Posted by marystillwell

WORKOUTS ARE NEVER BORING AND LAUREN ALWAYS INVENTS NEW IDEAS FOR BUILDING STRONG BODIES!

Pros: Very Clean, Easy Parking, Individual Attention

01/24/2006 Posted by efnstefn

How can I put this? Lauren is exquisite. She has such great knowledge of her craft and an amazingly positive attitude. I've had back, shoulder and knee problems most of my adult life. I'm working with Lauren to address my general well being as well as my specific problems. I would recommend Lauren to anyone with injuries or just looking for a great Pilates experience.

Pros: Great Attitude, Reasonable Fees, Easy Parking

Cons: Hike from Center City

12/28/2005 Posted by cleto24

Lauren is a fabulous instructor! This is the best place I've been to. There is no attitude...you feel welcome the minute you walk in. The studio has a very relaxing feel. The space is clean and welcoming. You walk out of there feeling relaxed yet knowing you got a tremendous workout! Everyone should try this place out!

Pros: Lauren!!!, relaxing space, reasonable price

Cons: a bit of a trek

08/21/2005 Posted by mt1952

Fabulous instruction and I love the no attitude, no intimidation factor. People of all experience levels and age groups are welcomed into this intimate, sparkling clean haven of health. To me it's always a plus when you have free parking and a bathroom sprinkled with Mario Badescu products! I highly recommend this studio.

Pros: great parking, Reasonable prices, small class size