Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Spark Pilates a premium place to learn?
At SPARK Pilates, we have exceptionally high standards for the delivery of "Joe's" traditional system of corrective exercises. Our unwavering commitment to our clients is why we only employ fully certified Pilates teachers. All SPARK teachers have made a personal financial investment in their Pilates education of over $10,000, with a minimum of 450 apprenticeship hours from a reputable Pilates school and are committed to their ongoing continuing education.
Also, by staying true to Joseph Pilates' Contrology method, our students learn discipline, self awareness, and resilience, while also healing from and preventing injuries.
What type of equipment does Spark Pilates have in-studio?
At Spark Pilates we incorporate exceptionally crafted classical apparatuses by Pilates Designs, Empower Pilates, and Gratz, being the first studio in Toronto to feature the Pilates Designs Archival Reformers and Wunda & Baby Chairs.
In an effort to ensure your experience is enhanced by the equipment you learn on, we offer a fully equipped studio complete with traditional apparatus, including: the Universal and Archival Reformers; The Cadillac/Towers with classical Mats; Wunda Chairs, Electric and Baby Chairs; Ladder and Small Barrels plus Spine Corrector Barrels; The Pedipole; Magic Circles; Push-up Device; Foot and Toe Correctors; Neck Stretcher; Airplane Board; Sandbag; Breathacizer; and Tensatoner.
Do I need to pay for a monthly membership to join the studio?
No membership required! Welcome to downtown Toronto's first fully equipped Classical Pilates Studio that is open to the Public. Clients may drop in and "pay as they go", or purchase packages to take advantage of reduced rates and renew as often as they wish.
What is the studio’s cancellation policy?
Spark’s Cancellation Policy is strictly enforced for all clients regardless of reason. Hence should you have any illness such as cough, fever, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, to avoid a late cancellation charge, please be sure to provide the Spark Team a minimum of 24-hr notice prior to all appointments. For any late cancellations, we will do our best to switch your booking into a virtual session, but we cannot guarantee we will be able to accommodate if it is too last minute.
(NOTE: Semi-Private Lessons require a 48-hr notice)
What are the studio’s hours?
We offer daily appointment-based private and semi-private lessons. To book a Private Lesson click HERE, to book a Semi-Private Lesson click HERE, or to book a TriggerPoint Therapy session click HERE. If you require a particular day/time that is not available, please give us a call to discuss and we will try to accommodate your needs.
To see our full studio set weekly class schedule click HERE.
What should I wear for my Spark Pilates class?
We recommend form fitting clothing that is both comfortable and allows you to perform at your best. Don’t forget your grip socks – They are mandatory! We have a variety available for purchase on our Online Shop or in-studio.
How long is each session?
All equipment classes run 45 minutes in length. Mat Classes run 50 minutes. Private, Semi Private lessons, and Tigger Therapy Sessions run 50 minutes. Please see our studio services page for more details.
How do I book a session?
You first need to select your preferred class or lesson type, hence click each link below to learn more about each offering:
Once you have decided on your preferred class or lesson type, as a new client you will need to provide your contact details, or as an existing client you will need to sign into your account with your email. Then complete the purchase by select your preferred date, time, instructor, and confirm payment.
How much do classes and lessons cost?
To learn more about class pricing and private lesson packages please click HERE to see all Spark Pricing. If you are unsure as to which offering will best suit your needs, please do not hesitate to email us at hello@sparkpilates.com or visit us in studio to discuss in person.
Why should I start with Private Lessons?
Having the undivided attention of a certified professional Pilates teacher will give you the best return on your investment. It takes time to learn how to move efficiently and safely on each apparatus. Hence the importance of laying down a strong foundation in the fundamentals will ensure you progress quicker, help you achieve your goals faster, but always at your pace. Plus, you will get way more out of your group classes as you will be able to apply the skills you learned in your 1-1's and maximize the benefit of each class.
What classes does Spark Pilates Offer?
Spark Pilates offers a variety of weekly classes to suit all levels and goals. From foundational Mat to the invigorating Reformer, and the transformative Heart & Soul Mat Reformer to the comprehensive Full System class workouts, we provide a dynamic range of options to strengthen your body, enhance flexibility, and nurture your well-being. Click each link to learn more about each class, and see their corresponding weekly class schedule – Let’s Spark a Movement for Life!
What other education modalities does Spark offer in-studio?
We offer therapeutic tools that may assist with spinal decompression and/or to release tight muscles and fascia. By incorporating these tools, you can advance and progress the quality of your movements/mobility, enhance workout recovery, and help prevent injuries from occurring. We feature the TP Therapy Brand TriggerPoint Rollers/Balls, and the BALLance Concept Tools by Dr. Tanya Kuhne due to their proven results. TP TriggerPoint Therapy balls and/or BALLance Concept tools are often incorporated in Private or Semi Private lessons, or can be booked as its own session. Learn more about Spark’s Tigger Point Therapy by clicking HERE.
What do I need to attend a virtual class?
In addition to a phone, tablet or laptop, you will also need some space to move and a mat. It is best to wear form fitting clothing that are both comfortable and allow you to perform at your best.
I have a previous injury and was told to do Pilates, but went somewhere that teaches modern Reformer and offers group fitness that is "based on" Pilates, and my injury got worse! Why should I trust Spark Pilates?
Unfortunately, the Pilates industry is unregulated and with the recent increase in popularity, the usage of the name "Pilates" is sadly being used without strict guidelines or prudence for qualified instructors. As such, there are many businesses capitalizing on the popularity of the name, and creating spin offs or classes that are "based on" the original Pilates method such as Hot Pilates, Yogalates, and Reformer Pilates, just to name a few. However, when Pilates is done properly, under the guidance of a fully certified Pilates professional, it is excellent for correcting imbalances, preventing and healing injuries.
For which at Spark Pilates we try to stay true to the Authentic/Classical Pilates method that was created by Joseph Pilates using traditional apparatuses. Although practicing classical exercises on contemporary Pilates apparatus can be done, the fact is the exercises won’t feel the same in your body. Spring tension and dimensions of the classical equipment make the method, “the method”, and are pertinent to the transformation your body will experience.
Do you have a Teacher Training program at Spark Pilates?
Spark Pilates is a proud partner and host studio of Authentic Pilates Canada (APC), offering the APC +600hr Apprenticeship Education and/or Bridge Program. All classes will be led by Cara Hazelton and apprentices will need to attend in-studio seminars at Spark Pilates, and if needed may continue to access the studio to fulfill the requirements of their apprenticeship at an additional fee.
Click HERE to learn more about our Mat and Comprehensive Pilates Teacher course ... Let's Spark a Movement for Life!
