PureCore Pilates

I recently visited Pure Core Pilates as a newcomer excited to try Pilates for the first time. I found their introductory offer—2 mat Pilates classes for $49—and thought it would be a great way to get started. When I booked my first class for Saturday, October 19 at 10 AM, I made it clear that I was completely new to Pilates and needed guidance.

When I arrived, I stated that I was new and this was my very first encounter with Pilates. I was simply directed to a bench without further explanation. I followed instructions, did the class, and enjoyed it. However, after the 60-minute session, I asked about the next steps to continue with the special offer I’d signed up for. To my surprise, the instructor then told me that I had been placed in the wrong class and that it was their mistake for not checking my registration more carefully.

Afterward, I was contacted by Mari Dawson, who initially apologized for the mix-up and suggested we’d “figure it out.” I later learned that I had attended a reformer class, which apparently costs more, though I had no idea there were different types of classes. Mari then claimed I should have known I was supposed to be in a mat class—even though, as a newcomer, I had no way of knowing which was which. She then informed me she would charge me $52 for the class I’d mistakenly attended and would not honor the 2-for-$49 deal.

When I expressed that I simply wanted the introductory deal I’d signed up for, Mari refused, saying her instructors needed to be paid. I explained that I’d made it clear I was new and had expected some guidance. She still refused to honor the original special and insisted I should have asked, even though I was very clear that I didn’t know what I was doing. It was incredibly unprofessional and frustrating to be blamed for their mistake, and it felt like she was more focused on charging me than on making things right.

To top it off, my $52 payment didn’t even cover the second mat class in the original deal. I ended up calling a nearby studio, Club Pilates, and learned they offer 8 sessions per month for the same price Mari wanted to charge me for just 4.

If you’re new to Pilates, be cautious with Pure Core Pilates. They offer no guidance, don’t honor their advertised specials, and may place the blame on you for their own errors. I do not recommend doing business with this organization.