New Pilates Studio Aims for Accessibility, Affordable to All

An international pilates instructor has set her roots in Ravenswood, opening her own studio with the goal of creating a class for everyone.

Melissa McNamara moved to Chicago almost 3 years ago and conveniently, a former TV repair store was empty right across the street from her home.

Mind Art Core Pilates Performance, will open mid-July at 4945 N. Damen Ave. A grand opening celebration is planned for August 18.

The 1,200 square-foot space will be different from the typical pilates studio, which usually features high-end equipment for personal instruction and small group classes.

"That's been bothering me for 10 years because it's becoming an elitist form of exercise," McNamara said. "My goal with this studio is to be accessible and affordable."

Her classes will fit up to 15 people and utilize smaller equipment like foam rollers, Bosu balls and small weights. McNamara said she plans to offer 35-40 classes a week that range from $15 to $18 per session. Packages will drop that price down to $13 a class.

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But a more inclusive atmosphere won’t mean less instruction. McNamara has taught pilates at an international level, spending time in Denver and New Zealand teaching instructors at STOTT Pilates.

Rather than setting classes at beginning, intermediate and expert levels, McNamara has designed her studio around different types of exercise.

One class, Pulse, will incorporate music with mat pilates, while another, Flex, will focus on basic weights and strength training. There are four varieties total, but McNamara also plans to offer workouts for kids and pre- and post-natal women.

And pilates won’t be the only thing seen at Mind Art Core. McNamara, a former improvisationalist and theater designer, said she wants to incorporate movement classes for performers, known as Somatics.

“We just built a container around who we are,” McNamara said. “No levels, no egos, no limits.”

Those also interested in using the space for performances can contact McNamara at info@mindartcore.com.