About Us
A note from Michal, founder of Pilates by Mi
My relationship with Pilates began long before I imagined opening a studio.
In my twenties, a car accident left me with injuries to my lower body and a long rehabilitation process. It was through that recovery that I first discovered mat Pilates, which became part of my rehabilitation.
In my thirties, I rediscovered Pilates in a different form: the reformer. This time, I was navigating the physical and emotional demands of fertility treatments.
I am blessed to be Jacob’s mother. Alongside that blessing, my experience with fertility treatments held years of hope, anticipation, disappointment, and pain. I came to the studio looking for a little distance from everything I was going through.
What I found was a way back to myself.
As I learned to move with greater awareness, I began to understand my body differently. I noticed my alignment, discovered strength, and grew more confident. The practice became a place where I could focus, feel present, and reconnect with my body. Alongside the physical strength, I found a greater sense of steadiness and clarity within myself.
I wanted to understand what made Pilates so meaningful to me. I took private lessons, deepened my own practice, and continued to study. What began as a personal refuge became an essential part of my life and a lasting commitment to learning and teaching. I continue to take courses and explore the method, bringing that curiosity and care into my work.
Over time, I wanted to share more than the exercises. I wanted other women to experience the confidence, connection, and sense of renewal that Pilates had brought into my life. I wanted to create a place where they could grow stronger and feel seen and supported.
That wish became Pilates by Mi.
Our women-only studio in Williamsburg was created with a personal intention: to offer thoughtful instruction in a beautiful, welcoming space where women can give themselves time and attention. A place to build strength, understand their bodies, and learn to move with awareness and confidence, each at her own pace.
Your story may be very different from mine. Whether you are discovering Pilates for the first time or returning to a practice you love, you are welcome here.
Come as you are. Take time for yourself.
Michal
EXPERIENCE PILATES
Small Classes
Certified Instructors
All-New Boutique Studio
The Pilates Method
Pilates is a whole-body movement method developed by Joseph Pilates, combining purposeful movement with focused breathing. The emphasis is on the quality of each repetition: how you position your body, coordinate your muscles and move with control.
The principles behind the practice
Pilates is commonly taught through six complementary principles: breath, centering, concentration, control, precision and flow. Centering connects movement to the muscles that support the trunk and pelvis, while breath helps establish rhythm and coordination. Concentration brings attention to each exercise; control and precision shape how it is performed. Flow connects movements into a smooth, considered sequence.
How the reformer works
The reformer’s moving carriage, straps and adjustable springs bring these principles into practice. Springs can support a movement or provide resistance, depending on the exercise and setup. This creates opportunities to work on strength, stability, mobility and coordination together, with close attention to alignment and body awareness.
Our approach at Pilates by Mi
Our women-only studio has eight reformers, creating an intimate setting for personal attention, clear guidance and thoughtful adjustments. We focus on helping you understand each movement, refine your technique and build a consistent practice. The aim is to develop strength alongside freedom of movement, with progress that builds over time.