Three-in-one workouts that deliver tangible results fast are something we could all use more of. Pilates works every single muscle in your body and improves your posture while strengthening, stretching and toning your body at the same time. If you don’t want to bulk up, value flexibility, and enjoy graceful workouts, it’s an absolute must. Sweat is kept to a minimum, studios are usually tasteful and teachers are sticklers for details. Pilates took off in Hong Kong in about 2000 and, since then, a few studios have cemented their place as the best in the city. Here are the top spots to crunch, hold and pulse your way to the top, under the guidance of excellent instructors.
Flex
One look at Flex’s founder Heather Thomas Shalabi will have you booking a package here ASAP. Flex has two studios – in Central and Southside – and an incredible roster of talented teachers. The class timetables are comprehensive – offering everything from privates, trios and groups, to mat, reformer, and instructor-trainings – and a friendly and professional approach mean it’s loved by mums, athletes, beginners and experts alike. Book a trio, bring two friends and add it to your weekly routine.
Shops 308-310, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang; 3F and 4F Man Cheung Building, 15-17 Wyndham Street, Central; flexhk.com
H-Kore
Be prepared to strengthen, sweat and stretch at any of H-Kore’s classes in Central and Quarry Bay. The well-known studio focuses on efficient workouts that always make you feel the burn. Founders Vivienne and Vanessa opened the Lagree studio in 2013 and it has grown a cult following in a short space of time. They regularly hold challenges that are surprisingly effective if you need a motivational boost. The urban décor, high energy instructors and loud music are the perfect accompaniment to the classes wellness insiders love.
Suite 1201 Dorset House. Taikoo Place, 979 King’s Road, Quarry Bay; 3F Emperor Commercial Centre, 39 Des Voeux Road, Central; h-kore.com
Iso Fit
Hong Kong’s longest established Pilates studio founded by Dawna Wayburne in 1998 has an incredible array of equipment in a large Central studio. The trainers don’t miss a thing and the classes are on the more serious side, in the best possible way. Mat, Allegro and Gyrokinesis’ group classes run throughout the day, and private classes, rehabilitation and teacher training are also available.
802-805, 8/F Yu Yuet Lai Building, 43-55 Wyndham Street, Central; isofit.com.hk
Editor
Dervla Louli