FAQs

Pilates is resistance training that utilizes spring-based equipment and bodyweight to build strength and improve flexibility. It was developed in the mid-1900s by Joseph Pilates, who called his body of work “Contrology.”

The Gyrotonic Method utilizes highly adjustable specialized equipment to increase balance, agility, open energy pathways, stimulate the nervous system, increase range of motion, and improve strength and movement efficiency. It was developed by Juliu Horvath, who continues to refine his method for modern needs.

One of our most frequently asked questions!

Both approaches build strength, coordination, and mind–body awareness, but the philosophy and structure behind each are quite different.

As a dedicated Classical Pilates studio, Somaspace follows the original repertoire as developed by Joseph Pilates and passed down to us by Romana Kryzanowska. This method is not a loose collection of exercises, but a complete system designed to develop the body as a whole through deliberate, interconnected sequences.

Our teachers train for years to master this structured, levels-based system. By studying the same repertoire deeply — rather than constantly reinventing it — we uncover its precision, logic, and transformative power. The results speak for themselves in the consistency, longevity, and strength our clients experience.

Contemporary Pilates, by contrast, takes a more interpretive approach, often combining traditional Pilates exercises with fitness, physical therapy, or other modalities such as Barre, Yoga, or Boxing. While this can be creative and enjoyable, it differs from the Classical approach in structure, progression, and intent.

We always encourage prospective clients to explore both styles to discover which best supports their individual goals.

We believe variety is the spice of life. As teachers, we are also practitioners, and we have found Pilates and the Gyrotonic Method to be great complements to one another. Many of our clients attend a session for each every week.

We recommend starting with an introductory package of privates. This gives you an opportunity to experience one or both methods as well as our approach to sessions.

Pilates and the Gyrotonic Method are each complete systems and are best experienced in separate sessions. This gives you an opportunity to feel the distinctive benefits of each method.

Somaspace is proud to host the Real Pilates Teacher Training® Program, founded in New York by Alycea Ungaro, a second-generation teacher trained directly by Romana Kryzanowska, protégé of Joseph Pilates.

This makes our program one of the few in Austin with a verifiable, traceable lineage to Joseph Pilates himself : a crucial distinction in an industry where many programs cannot substantiate that connection.

Our director, Amanda Vernor, is both a Romana’s Pilates–certified instructor and a Real Pilates graduate, ensuring that the work is taught exactly as it was originally laid out by Romana : through a levels-based system (beginner, intermediate, advanced) and across every piece of studio apparatus.

We keep our cohort intentionally small — just six apprentices per cycle — to provide individualized mentorship and detailed feedback throughout the 30-week certification. That level of personal attention has resulted in a 100% graduation rate at Somaspace, a reflection of both the program’s structure and our commitment to each trainee’s success.

If you’re looking for a program that is structured, comprehensive, and fully verifiable, Real Pilates Austin offers an education that builds teachers, not just certifications.

GYROTONIC® Austin Central is the official Gyrotonic education hub hosted at Somaspace. We serve as an authorized training center offering certified Gyrotonic teacher training courses, apprenticeships, and work-study opportunities throughout the year.

The GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM®, created by Juliu Horvath, is a trademarked, internationally recognized method taught only by licensed educators who maintain certification within the official program.

At Somaspace, all instruction and courses are conducted by certified Master Trainers and follow the precise curriculum established by the Gyrotonic headquarters.

Our studio is equipped with the full suite of specialized Gyrotonic apparatus, providing an authentic environment for both clients and teacher-trainees.

Whether you’re interested in private sessions, professional education, or continuing coursework, GYROTONIC® Austin Central offers direct access to the authorized system : no hybrids, no reinterpretations, just the method as it was designed.

Your session time is reserved especially for you. We ask that you provide 24-hours notice for all cancellations to avoid being charged in full. This industry-standard policy is in place to protect our teachers' income and the studio's solvency. We provide the same courtesy to our clients : should a teacher need to cancel a session within 24 hours of the session time, we will credit your studio account with a session of equal value. We also ask that you provide notice on Friday for Monday appointments.

Free garage parking is available behind the studio. When you arrive the 5th St Commons complex, follow the signs to retail parking.

Our garage features an Electric Car (EV) Charging Station.

Yes! Our group classes are limited to just 4 practitioners. This ensures an individualized approach while enjoying a group dynamic. Check out our Class Guide for our group class offerings.

Absolutely. Our private sessions are ideal for helping you keep up your fitness while healing from an injury. Many of our instructors are trained in post-rehabilitative exercise techniques.

Absolutely. Private lessons are ideal for prenatal fitness, and our instructors are trained to provide a safe and effective workout during pregnancy. Postnatal clients are recommended to complete 3-5 private lessons prior to joining a duet or semi-private group.

Please wear comfortable athletic wear that is free of buttons, snaps, and zippers to protect the fabric of our equipment. Bike shorts are required under shorts and skirts for everyone’s comfort. Additionally, we require clean socks to be worn in our studio. Sticky socks are best for safety and can be purchased at the studio.

Somaspace will follow the operating status of the Austin Independent School District during inclement weather.