The opening of Curva Pilates earlier this month has given Al Khobar a new way to stay healthy this summer.
Our women-only studio is located on the second floor of an unassuming building with the letter A on the outside. It’s the ideal place to spend an hour on our Reformer Pilates machines. Private sessions and group classes are available. There is limited parking just outside the studio.
Pilates is a type of exercise developed by German Joseph Pilates in the 20th century to help with health problems and improve flexibility. It was originally created to help soldiers build muscle strength by adding resistance to hospital beds with springs. If you’ve done yoga, ballet or gymnastics, you may enjoy this form of exercise, but it’s unique.
You can also message their Instagram account, where you’ll be asked to enter your name and phone number. You’ll then receive a welcome message on WhatsApp with the class details and ground rules. “To maintain customer safety and hygiene standards, please make sure to wear Pilates socks during class,” they say.
Upon entering the tranquil space, decorated with fresh flowers and the refreshing scent of lemon detox water, complimentary to all guests, you’ll be given an electronic key to a locker where you can safely store your handbag – you can keep the key with you and return it at the end of your visit – there’s a hook to hang your abaya and a shoe rack.
If you don’t have Pilates socks, you can wear regular socks, there are hair clips in the mirror area in case you forget to tie your hair back, and wet wipes are provided if you want to freshen up before or after your session.
You will receive guidance from a fair and balanced coach, Lubna. For first-timers, I will ask if you have any physical conditions that I should be aware of, i.e. if you currently have any pain or injuries, have had any surgeries or problems with your back, shoulders, arms or legs.
Lubna explains each step succinctly, making the experience enjoyable. The Reformer machine is not difficult to use and is perfect for all fitness levels.
She makes sure to ask for feedback and listens to all comments and concerns. Lubna believes that consistency is paramount, regardless of level, and encourages visitors to try the Reformer three times a week.
Reformer classes at Curva can be purchased for SR175 ($46) per session, but are slightly cheaper if purchased in packages: five sessions are SR850, 10 sessions are SR1,650, with two other package options of 15 and 20 sessions.
There is a 10 percent discount for university students and a 10 percent discount for Aramco staff.
This enduring form of exercise, which emphasizes core strength, flexibility and full-body awareness, has become a global trend but is still not widely practiced in the Eastern states, and Curva is here to change that.
Find it Carva Pilates Or on Instagram, Carva Pilates.