Frequently Asked Questions

  • Pilates offers incredible value as a form of movement that supports and enhances every body, at every stage. Despite common misconceptions that it is just for women, or dancers, or any single type of person, Pilates is a powerful cross-training tool for any sport — from running and golf to tennis, climbing, biking, and beyond — helping improve strength, flexibility, and movement efficiency.

    Because Pilates is highly adaptable, each session can be tailored to meet you exactly where you are that day, whether you’re rebuilding after an injury or surgery, regaining strength postpartum, or maintaining balance and mobility as you age. Pilates can be athletic or therapeutic, challenging or restorative, but always with an emphasis on balanced, functional movement that improves body mechanics and supports you in both daily life and athletic performance.

  • Carolina Movement Lab strives to be a space where movement is both empowering and joyful. Our instructors blend precise attention to alignment and form with a deeply personal approach, ensuring each individual feels seen and supported. Guided by our core principles of Balance, Curiosity, Compassion, and Longevity, we foster a welcoming community that values thoughtful exploration, mindful movement, and sustainable well-being. At Carolina Movement Lab, we believe movement is not just exercise—it’s a path to confidence, connection, and a lifetime of vitality.

  • You can read descriptions of the classes on our group class schedule page. You’re encouraged to try different group classes and see which one jives with you!

    For beginners, consider one of the Core Restore classes. While these classes might have a mix of experience levels, there is always a focus on the fundamentals, with lots of modifications and variations provided.

    If you’re looking for private lessons, feel free to email us at carolinamovementlab@gmail.com and we can make a suggestion for who might be a good fit.

  • Wear clothes that are comfortable to move around in. Please avoid metal zippers, grommets, or jewelry that might snag or rip the vinyl equipment. We prefer that you wear socks. Sticky/ grippy socks work best if you have them, but any socks are fine.

    Bring a water bottle. There’s a water fountain by the elevator.

    We have mats for group classes, but you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

  • We are centrally located in Boone on Highway 321 in the Lifestore Bank building, across from Publix. (Yes, the studio is located inside a bank).

    1675 Blowing Rock Road

    Boone, NC 28607

    When you enter, use the side entrance closest to Burger King and Boone Heights Drive. Take the elevator or the stairs to the 4th floor. We are just down the hall. Look for the purple door.

    The pink, purple, or red AppalCart routes will get you to the right spot!

  • If you are attending classes or workshops outside of bank business hours (including bank holidays), the building will be locked. Please arrive 5 minutes early to class. Your instructor will meet you at the side entrance to let people in at 5-till. If you arrive more than 2 minutes before the start of class, you might be locked out.

    We know this setup is not ideal. We appreciate your understanding!

    If you know you are running late to class, please text or call us at 828-278-4490.

  • If you arrive before the start time of your appointment, please take a seat in the hallway while any sessions or classes finish up.

    All group classes will take place in suite 401A. When you come in, put your things in a cubby, and grab a mat. Your instructor will let you know if you need any special props.

    For equipment sessions: Your instructor will come get you from the hallway, or let you know if you are in suite A or B that day.

  • All group classes will take place in Suite A. Group classes will vary each week with what props and exercises are included. The #1 rule is take care of your body during class. Do what feels good that day. The instructor will offer modifications or variations in intensity for different exercises. It is always OK to sit one out if it’s not right for your body.

    Depending on the size of the class, you won’t get the individualized instruction of a private or semi-private, but the instructor will keep an eye on your form and alignment and suggest corrections when appropriate. We do our best to make sure no one is doing anything unsafe, but we are also trusting you to listen to your own body.

    When class is over, please use the spray bottles and rags to wipe your mat, hang it back on the wall, and put away any small props that you used. Thanks!

  • Privates and semi-privates will take place on the reformer or tower. We may also utilize other specialized equipment like the Cadillac, Wunda chair, or ladder barrel. Some of the exercises are similar to the matwork, and some are completely unique. The instructor tailors the session to you — or you and your partner — and is able to provide more precise feedback.

    Privates and semi-privates may be in Suite A or Suite B.

  • Yes! Once you have been cleared by your doctor, Pilates can be a great way to rehabilitate after an injury or surgery. Your instructors have experience working with a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, injuries, and surgeries.

    Group mat classes are best suited for people who are comfortable in various positions: lying on your back, lying on your belly, side-lying, standing, sitting on the floor, and kneeling.

    If you are rehabbing from an injury, or if you have limited positions you can comfortably be in, consider private sessions. There is plenty you can do on the equipment that doesn’t require kneeling or getting up and down off the floor, for example.

  • We strive to make Carolina Movement Lab a welcoming, supportive place for anyone who wants to move their body and feel better. Everyone is at a different point in their life, their fitness journey, or even just that day. And every body is different. We want classes to be a judgement-free space where people are encouraged to experiment with what feels good. Try not to compare yourself to your neighbor.

    If you are nervous about movement or fitness in general — perhaps because of pain or an injury — consider booking a private session. The one-on-one environment is a great way to explore movement that feels safe for you.