At Courtney Stalder's Pilates House, the focus isn't just on physical fitness—it's about healing both body and soul. Through mindful movement and breath work, Courtney has created a welcoming space where women of all ages and fitness levels can experience the transformative power of Pilates.

Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates, a visionary in tiny shorts who sought to aid injured, disabled, and sick soldiers during their rehabilitation in the 1920s. Joseph’s ingenuity led to the creation of the first Pilates reformer—a machine crafted from hospital bed springs. His goal was to support patients' limbs and aid in their recovery. The method he developed, originally designed for rehabilitation, quickly gained popularity among ballet dancers for its ability to enhance technique and build long, lean muscles.

I started taking Pilates with Courtney last week. While I haven’t quite achieved ballerina status, I can tell you that this form of exercise is just what I need right now. I was a runner half a life ago, then an intense CrossFitter for five years, and a Peloton devotee for two years before having my last baby. I admire women who are able to jump back into endurance or HIIT workouts after childbirth, but after four children, that simply isn’t and won’t be my journey. 

The Pilates House - 4846 Hwy 19, Zachary, LA

Boutique fitness studio offering reformer pilates. Small class sizes of no more than six at a time. Please register in advance on our Facebook page or through the MindBody app! Read More » 

 I do know I need to move, though. I’ve got a chronically “stuck” hip and a neck that must be stretched for 10 minutes twice a day or I’ll catch a migraine. The baby is nearing 3 years old, so I can’t use “I just had a baby” as an excuse anymore. What I need is movement that feels healthy and nurturing, not punishing. 

Courtney’s classes are small, no more than six people at a time. Everything takes place on a reformer bed, and resistance is adjusted easily. No excessive weight or complicated movements or bouncing around the room. All women at various stages of life, just stretching it out to the freewheeling sounds of Fleetwood Mac. Although my legs are shaking like Jell-O after class, I leave feeling better, not battered. 

Pilates targets disordered muscle groups and brings them back into alignment, and is also renowned for its core-focused exercises that build stability and balance. Courtney’s classes are a healthy blend of stretching, and simple resistance movements. 

I’m excited to chronicle my experience at TPH over the next few months. I’d love to see you at a class! To register, visit The Pilates House on Facebook and click “book now,” or download MindBody in the app store and search the location for available times. If you're a first-timer, text Courtney at 832-247-6673 the code P&P for 50% off your first class!