During the 57-minute class, clients use weights and the ballet barre to strengthen and lengthen every muscle group to create supple and lean bodies. All beginner, intermediate and advanced level classes are structured to make the most of every minute. Motivating music accompanies the brisk sequence of toning exercises and stretches. Throughout the session, Physique 57™ instructors move among clients positioning, aligning, and providing individualized instruction.
Beginner: Clients are introduced to the basic movements, positions and methodology of the exercise system. We advise clients to take at least 4-6 beginner or open level classes before advancing to the next level.
Open: Clients from beginner to advanced level are welcome. Clients will receive instruction based on their level of development. First time clients are welcome.
Intermediate: Clients from advanced beginner to advanced level are welcome. In a intermediate level class, clients are familiar with the technique and are prepared for a more cardiovascular workout with additional variations. Due to the pace of the class, Intermediate level is not appropriate for first time clients.
Advanced: Clients with a strong understanding of the technique will be encouraged to strive for a more intense, vigorous workout. The instructor will add strengthening variations to make the workout even more challenging.
Intro to Physique 57™: This 57 minute class teaches clients the basics of Physique 57™. You will learn the Physique 57™ positions, proper form and correct alignment. The pace of the class is slower than a beginner class and each client will receive instruction based on his/her abilities. This class is perfect for infrequent exercisers and those who have constraints due to lack of exercise, injuries, age or weight. Intro to Physique 57™ will accommodate only 10 clients per session. Class is offered on the first Saturday of the month at Spring Street studio and the second Saturday of the month at the 57th Street studio. To learn more about our newcomer discounts and policies, Click here.
Mat 57™: This is a vigorous, energetic and updated form of classical Pilates developed by Shelly Knight, Physique 57™’s Director of Training, West Coast and Lead Instructor. Certified in Classical as well as pre and postnatal Pilates, Shelly has created the most comprehensive choreography of Pilates mat movements. Each Mat 57™ class is instructed by experienced, certified instructors with an inspired momentum to produce a dynamic, fast paced and highly effective workout. Mat 57™ captures the unique essence of Physique 57™ and creatively builds upon the respected Pilates mat exercises. Set to fun and motivating music, Mat 57™ is a sequence of challenging exercises that will improve flexibility, strengthen the abdominal and back muscles and sculpt the thigh, seat and arm muscles to deliver a total body workout. Learn more.
Prenatal Physique: Based on the Physique 57™ method, Prenatal Physique is a unique trimester based program that combines cardiovascular activity, strength training and stretching exercises. In an intimate 57 minute class, clients will build muscle tone, strength, endurance and flexibility. Each strength training variation and orthopedic stretch series is tailored for expecting moms at each stage of their pregnancy. Each class is 90 minutes which includes a 60 minute class and 30 minute q&a. Class is offered every Saturday at our New York City studios. See the Prenatal Physique page for more details.
Physique Express: Don’t have time for a full length Physique 57™ class? Then Physique Express is the perfect class for you, a busy New Yorker who wants maximum results in the minimum amount of time. Physique Express is a 40 minute, brisk paced class that offers a condensed version of a full length Physique 57™ class. In just 40 minutes, challenging choreography will strengthen the major muscle groups, nourishing stretches will improve flexibility and the faster pace will keep your heart rate elevated to achieve a complete cardiovascular workout. Physique Express is appropriate for those who have a basic understanding of most Physique 57™ positions (first time clients are not permitted). Sign up now!
Body Booster: This 30 minute class is dedicated to strengthening and defining specific muscle groups. In just 30 minutes, the instructor will lead you through challenging exercise variations that will tighten your tummy and accentuate your arms or tone your thighs and strengthen your seat. Take an Arm & Ab or Seat & Thigh Body Booster alone, before or after a 57 minute class to give your body a boost! Sign up now!
Physique Yin®: Physique Yin® is the ultimate class for increasing flexibility, cooling the body and calming the mind. In Physique Yin®,stretches are held for 3-5 minutes while seated to energize the deep, dense connective tissues of the body: tendons, ligaments and cartilage, which are often challenging to access. Set to chill music, you will leave class feeling lengthened, revitalized and restored. Physique Yin® is appropriate for men and women of all ages, fitness and flexibility levels. Beginners welcome! In addition to the regular one hour class, Physique Yin® class is offered in 30 minute sessions. Learn more.
Physique Yoga: This one hour class offers the perfect complement to our signature Physique 57™ class. Learn how to align your body to get more out of your workout—long, lean muscles and limber joints not only look good, they perform better! Pair Physique Yoga with your Physique 57™ and Mat 57™ classes and you are on the path to radiant good health from the inside out. Physique Yoga distills the best of this ancient tradition into a 57-minute session that tones your body, improves your breathing, focuses your mind, and enhances your overall health and well being. Learn more.
Men Only!: This 57 minute class teaches men the basics of Physique 57™. You will learn the Physique 57™ positions, proper form and correct alignment. After this you will be ready for prime time! Watch James discuss the class on NY1 and sign up for the March 13th class!
Workshops: Workshops are 90 minute classes with major emphasis on key muscle groups. Taught by a team of Physique 57™ instructors, each workshop follows the Physique 57™ sequence and introduces new and challenging exercise variations. Clients who have taken at least 4-6 Physique 57™ classes are welcome.
Private Lessons: In an intimate setting, a maximum of 4 clients can experience the benefits of Physique 57™. In a private lesson, clients follow the signature Physique 57™ sequence of exercises and receive manual adjustments throughout the class to improve alignment and positioning. Private lessons are perfect for clients who are just beginning an exercise regimen, those healing from an injury or simply, clients that prefer privacy and one-on-one attention.
Private Parties: Host a maximum of 15 guests at your very own Physique 57™ party! You and the Physique 57™ instructor of your choice can design an intimate, fun and energizing exercise party at Physique 57™ for your friends, family, clients, colleagues, bridal party and more. Please call the studio for more information.
New clients: Click here for more information.

