By: Emilie Nelson
Say hello to BeFit Modern Pilates, Dallas’ newest Pilates studio located in the West Village. BeFit is not your average pilates class; offering a fun twist to the beloved workout. BeFit’s mantra is “make it shake,” and no matter how many classes I have taken (which is hundreds by now), I am still shaking by the end of it. They practice 45 minutes of Le Grit-style Pilates which consists of slow resistance training at a high intensity, making it a low impact, full-body workout. I consider myself to be a Pilates princess and have tried a plethora of different studios and styles of classes. Of all the class I’ve tried so far, I can confidently say that BeFit is hands-down my favorite class and studio.
BeFit provides a unique Pilates experience with a modern approach. Through their full-body workouts, the main goal is to activate slow-twitch muscle fibers to the point where they begin to “shake” throughout the workout, promoting leaner muscle development. This is a high-intensity workout, as it sounds, but the slower place allows it to have a lower impact on the body. The controlled method targets specifc muscle groups guaranteeing that you achive the “shake.”
BeFit is a boutique workout studio, so it is important to sign up ahead of time as there aren’t many reformer machines. Upon arriving, you are greeted by your instructor. From there, you are able to choose which reformer machine you sit at, each equipped with built-in bands, straps, two light weights and a ring. Each class begins and ends with stretching, which is crucial for warm up and recovery. Every instructor designs unique routines and workouts ensuring that your class will never feel repetitive. They all follow the Le Grit style of Pilates, which includes moments of cardio like full-body burpees on your reformer, weighted strength training, band work and more classic Pilates moves such as planks and twists.
I rave about BeFit for its high energy ambiance, with music constantly blaring to keep me motivated through the pain. The staff is intentional about every detail, down to the lights in the studio, which are turned on and off throughout your workout to help you focus. The high-intensity, low-impact workout not only stretches your body, but also tones and tightens. By the end of the class you are left exhausted yet refreshed. I find Pilates to be great for clearing my head and the best way to start my day. Remember, guys, Pilates is not just for the girls; it offers the same fitness benefits for boys, and it’s deceivingly challenging!
BeFit gets my stamp of approval, and if I can assure you of one thing, their mantra stands correct-as they always “make it shake.”
