The 212 Method
A boutique Pilates studio in the heart of Midtown, 212 Pilates offers a personalized wellness community designed for you. With private sessions and group fitness classes, we provide a variety of class styles and sizes to support your unique wellness journey.
Rooted in the 212 Method, our approach prioritizes spine safety by emphasizing neutral spine alignment—a key principle for building strength, stability, and mobility without unnecessary strain. All 212 Pilates group classes follow a strict No Spinal Flexion rule, ensuring that anyone can participate comfortably, regardless of physical conditions, without the need to disclose personal information or self-modify.
The 212 Method is a proprietary approach created by Tara Gordon, owner and founder of 212 Pilates, to be truly inclusive of all bodies. Rather than requiring individuals to modify exercises or do something different from the rest of the class, this method ensures that everyone moves together, increasing confidence, accessibility, and a sense of belonging. We are currently the only studio in Manhattan—possibly anywhere—that applies this method across all classes, including Pilates, Sculpt, Zumba, and Chillax, making safe, effective movement available to all.​
This approach is essential not only for injury prevention but also for counteracting the postural habits of modern life. Many of us, especially those in the corporate world, spend hours curled over computers or phones. Instead of pushing the spine into the opposite extreme, we teach in the body’s longest, most neutral position—promoting longevity and functional movement that integrates seamlessly into daily life.
To deepen both new and returning clients’ understanding, we introduce neutral spine at the start of every class, reinforcing its importance in movement. Instructors remain mindful of maintaining neutral spine not only during exercises but also in transitions and demonstrations. If an exercise cannot be performed in neutral, it is not the right movement for the class. This includes modifying range of motion when necessary, ensuring every client moves safely while still gaining the benefits of Pilates.
We look forward to welcoming you into our studio.
