Table of Contents
Abena Pilates is a boutique classical Pilates studio on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, offering tailored private sessions on authentic GRATZ equipment. With a perfect 5.0 Google rating from 40 reviews, this studio has earned a devoted following among New Yorkers who value the original Pilates method taught with precision and care. Founded by Abena, a Romana-certified instructor with ELDOA Level 3 certification, the studio blends classical Pilates with specialized stretching techniques for an experience that goes beyond what most studios can offer.
If you are searching for authentic, classical Abena Pilates NYC instruction on original apparatus in a private, welcoming setting, this Upper West Side gem deserves your full attention. In this review, we cover the instructors, services, pricing, and everything that makes Abena Pilates stand out in one of the world’s most competitive Pilates markets.
About Abena Pilates
Abena, the studio’s founder and owner, holds a Romana certification in Pilates and an ELDOA Level 3 certification from the Legacy Institute, the first ELDOA training center in North America. Originally from London, Abena relocated to the United States in 2009, first to Santa Monica, California, before settling in New York City.
Her Pilates journey took her through some of the most respected names in the classical Pilates world. She apprenticed at Garland Studio in Los Angeles under Trish Garland, perfected her teaching style at Winsor Pilates (Mari Winsor’s legendary studio), and taught at True Pilates in New York, the home of the Romana certification program. This pedigree places Abena among the most authentically trained classical Pilates instructors in the city.
The studio’s team includes four additional instructors, each with impressive credentials:
- Tina: Romana’s Classical Program certified with over 900 hours of practice. Former professional dancer who performed for Beyonce, PINK, Madonna, Cardi B, Kelly Clarkson, and Grimes. Trained under Stephanie Lawson and Cynthia Shipley.
- Nina: Over 25 years in fitness and wellness. Dual Pilates certifications (Kane School of Core Integration and Real Pilates Program under Alycea Ungaro). Former instructor at three Manhattan Equinox locations.
- Abby: Classical Pilates certified under Juliet Clingan at The Pilates Firm. Continues training with Kathi Ross Nash. Holds degrees from Texas Christian University and NYU.
- Ian: Romana’s Pilates certified, trained under Cynthia Shipley, Anthony Rabara, Nancy Jean McNamara, and Sari Meija Santo. BFA from Savannah College of Art and Design.
Classes and Services at Abena Pilates
Abena Pilates focuses on private, one-on-one instruction using the full suite of classical Pilates apparatus. Here is what the studio offers.
Private Pilates Sessions
Every session is tailored to your individual goals. The studio teaches the original method of Pilates as created by Joseph Pilates, with exercises focused on strengthening, stretching, and controlling the body. Sessions use the full range of classical apparatus including reformers, Cadillacs, barrels, high chair, Wunda chair, baby chair, tower, and guillotine.
Duet and Trio Sessions
Train with a partner, friend, or family member. Duets (2 people) and trios (3 people) must be organized by the clients; the studio does not arrange participants. These sessions offer a more affordable way to enjoy private-quality instruction.
ELDOA Stretch Sessions
Abena Pilates offers ELDOA (Longitudinal Stretching with Osteo-Articular Decoaptation), a method designed by French osteopath Guy Voyer. ELDOA focuses on correcting fascia imbalances throughout the body through postural movements. Benefits include pain relief, improved joint mechanics, better posture, and reduced pressure on spinal discs. Private ELDOA sessions are 45 minutes and designed for clients with chronic body pain. ELDOA has been featured in POPSUGAR, ABC6, and WearTV.
Feel Fab Package (Sessions with Abena)
For clients who want to work directly with studio owner Abena, the Feel Fab Package offers an unparalleled, customized experience. These premium private sessions are available in single, 5, or 10-session packages. Contact the studio to schedule.
Pilates Apparatus Certification Program
For certified instructors and apprentices, Abena Pilates offers a comprehensive apparatus certification program under Abena’s direct guidance. The program includes private training sessions (minimum 20), 6 months of studio access with 50 hours of observation and 50 hours of self-practice, and three mandatory 2-day seminars. Training sessions are priced at $140 per session (20-pack) or $145 per session (10-pack).
Abena Pilates Pricing and Packages
Abena Pilates offers transparent pricing with all prices including tax. Here is the full pricing structure from their website.
Welcome Package (New Clients Only)
- 4 Sessions for $385 ($96.25 per session). Expires in 6 months from purchase.
Single Sessions
- Flex Single Session: $140
Flex Packages (60-day expiry)
- 4 Sessions: contact studio for pricing
- 8 Sessions: contact studio for pricing
Duet and Trio Sessions
- Duet (per person): contact studio for pricing
- Trio (per person): contact studio for pricing
Gift Cards
Gift cards are available for 1 or 2 sessions. Note: gift cards are not applicable to existing clients.
What Makes Abena Pilates Unique
Authentic GRATZ Equipment
Abena Pilates teaches exclusively on GRATZ equipment, the original manufacturer of Pilates apparatus. GRATZ machines are built to the exact specifications designed by Joseph Pilates himself. Many modern studios use cheaper replicas, but Abena insists on the original equipment for the most authentic classical Pilates experience. The studio is fully outfitted with reformers, Cadillacs, barrels (spine corrector, ladder, and small), high chair, Wunda chair, baby chair, tower, and guillotine.
ELDOA: A Rare Specialty
Very few Pilates studios in New York offer ELDOA stretching. Abena’s Level 3 ELDOA certification from the Legacy Institute makes this one of the most qualified studios for fascia-based pain relief in the city. For clients dealing with chronic back pain, spinal disc issues, or postural imbalances, ELDOA paired with classical Pilates is a powerful combination that addresses both structural alignment and functional strength.
An Extraordinary Instructor Team
The depth of the instructor team at Abena Pilates is remarkable. Tina brings over 900 hours of Romana’s Classical Program training alongside a professional dance career with global superstars. Nina brings 25 years of fitness experience and dual Pilates certifications. Abby trained with Kathi Ross Nash, one of the most respected names in classical Pilates education. Ian trained under four Romana’s Pilates mentors. Every instructor on the team holds classical certification and is trained to teach on GRATZ apparatus.
Premium Studio Amenities
The boutique studio offers thoughtful amenities: a changing room, fresh towels, filtered water and cereal bars, Nespresso coffee, WiFi, smartphone chargers, air conditioning, and wheelchair accessibility. These details create a premium experience that matches the quality of the instruction.
Instructor Rental Program
Abena Pilates rents studio space to qualified classical Pilates instructors at $40 per private session and $60 per duet. This program means the studio attracts and supports high-quality instructors, creating a broader community of classical Pilates professionals under one roof.
Certification Program
The Pilates Apparatus Certification Program signals that Abena Pilates is serious about maintaining and advancing the classical Pilates tradition. By training the next generation of instructors, the studio ensures the Romana lineage continues with integrity.
Location and Getting There
Address: 100 Riverside Blvd (455 West 64th Street), New York, NY 10069
Abena Pilates is located on the Upper West Side, near Lincoln Center and Riverside Park. The studio is accessible via the 1 train (66th Street/Lincoln Center station) and the A/C/B/D trains (59th Street/Columbus Circle station). The neighborhood offers excellent dining, shopping, and cultural venues within walking distance.
Phone: (212) 362-5310
Email: contact@abenapilates.com
Who Is Abena Pilates Best For?
- Best for beginners? Yes. The Welcome Package of 4 sessions for $385 is designed to introduce new clients to Pilates. Private sessions mean you receive full attention on form and technique from your first visit.
- Best for classical Pilates purists? Absolutely. Romana certification, GRATZ equipment, and a team of classically trained instructors make this one of the most authentic classical Pilates experiences in New York City.
- Best for the Pilates Princess aesthetic? Yes. The boutique studio with premium amenities (Nespresso, fresh towels, WiFi), private setting, and deeply personalized instruction aligns perfectly with the Pilates Princess approach to self-care and intentional movement.
- Best for chronic pain? Yes. The combination of classical Pilates and ELDOA stretching makes Abena Pilates exceptionally well-suited for clients dealing with back pain, spinal disc issues, and fascia-related discomfort.
- Best for aspiring instructors? Yes. The Pilates Apparatus Certification Program offers hands-on training with Abena on the full suite of GRATZ equipment, with studio access and structured seminars.
- Best for budget-conscious? Private Pilates in Manhattan is an investment. The Welcome Package at $96.25 per session is competitive for UWS private instruction on GRATZ equipment. Duets and trios offer a more affordable alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions About Abena Pilates
Does Abena Pilates offer beginner sessions?
Yes. Abena Pilates welcomes all fitness levels. The Welcome Package of 4 sessions for $385 is designed specifically for new clients. Because all sessions are private, your instructor can start from the fundamentals and build your practice at your own pace. Wear comfortable workout clothing, socks, and avoid zippers on clothing.
How much does Abena Pilates cost?
A single private session is $140 (tax included). New clients can start with the Welcome Package of 4 sessions for $385 ($96.25 per session). Flex packages of 4 and 8 sessions are available for regular clients. Duet and trio pricing is available by phone. Gift cards start at 1 session.
What equipment does Abena Pilates use?
The studio uses exclusively GRATZ equipment, the original manufacturer of Pilates apparatus designed to Joseph Pilates’ specifications. The full suite includes reformers, Cadillacs, Wunda chair, baby chair, high chair, tower, guillotine, spine corrector, ladder barrel, and small barrel.
What is ELDOA and does Abena Pilates offer it?
ELDOA is a stretching method designed by French osteopath Guy Voyer that focuses on correcting fascia imbalances through postural movements. Benefits include pain relief, improved joint mechanics, better posture, and reduced spinal disc pressure. Abena holds a Level 3 ELDOA certification and offers private 45-minute ELDOA sessions for clients with chronic pain.
What is the cancellation policy at Abena Pilates?
All cancellations and rescheduling must be made 24 hours in advance. Failure to cancel within 24 hours results in forfeiting the session. All sessions are by appointment only and must be paid prior to the visit or held with a credit card on file.
Looking for More Pilates Studios in New York?
New York City offers an extraordinary range of Pilates studios. If you want to explore more options, browse all curated Pilates studios in New York on our Studio Finder directory. For other studios we have reviewed in Manhattan, check out PilatesTime NYC on the Upper East Side (classical Pilates with group options) or Foundation Pilates in Midtown East (private Romana-lineage Pilates with breast cancer rehabilitation).
If you love the classical Pilates approach at Abena Pilates and want to complement your studio sessions at home, our Mat Pilates at Home Playbook gives you a structured program for practice days. And for anyone dealing with back pain who wants targeted support, our Pilates for Desk-Bound Women: Back Pain Fix pairs well with the ELDOA stretching work available at the studio.
Abena Pilates is located at 100 Riverside Blvd (455 West 64th Street), New York, NY 10069. Visit their website at abenapilates.com or call (212) 362-5310 to book your first session.
