Review Highlights
“A normal private or duet class with Alisha involves work on the reformer, wunda chair, springboard & cadillac.” in 10 reviews
“As a beginner in Pilates 4 years ago, I was very shy about going to a big gym when I didn't know what I was doing.” in 2 reviews
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About the Business
Business owner information
Alisha E.
Athletic performance, post-rehabilitation, Classical and contemporary Pilates
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Overall rating
11 reviews
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
- L. P.San Francisco, CA018Aug 12, 2021Updated review
Alisha creates a calm atmosphere where you can enjoy a tailor made workout. Classes are small, and through small modifications, Alisha is able to challenge each person to stretch to their potential. I feel centered, and refreshed after every class.
Each person has their own individual mat and materials. The studio is always clean and Alisha keeps the routines varied while you work on new skills and build upon old ones.
It is absolutely the best workout, because Alisha is a great instructor. You will feel encouraged, positive, and challenged in this class. Thank you Alisha!Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0Aug 28, 2012Previous reviewAlisha at Evolve Pilates is the best. I started with a drop-in class to see if I liked it. A year and a half later it's still my favorite workout.
The classes are small (4-5people) and you definitely get some individual attention. Alisha will help you work on your form, but she does it in a way that is fun and constructive. She uses positive reinforcement and humor to encourage you to do your best.
Alisha's classes are formatted so that you are getting a good workout, but there are also calm moments to stretch. I definitely feel certain muscles the next day (in a good way) but I also feel more relaxed, balanced and centered after a class.
Classes are affordable and flexible. Alisha will let you make up a class if you miss one and she is very good about letting you know about availability on other days. (How she keeps it all straight is amazing!) She was gracious enough to let me pick up a few extra classes right before my wedding and she even worked a private lesson into her schedule for me.
I've never felt more toned or happier about a workout routine. Once you start taking a Pilates class at Evolve you won't want to stop! - Polina S.Weehawken, NJ3461242May 12, 2011
Fantastic! Alisha is great! I never thought I could find such personal Pilates experience at such affordable prices. I started coming to this Pilates studio on the Monday community classes that cost $10. After 3 sessions I was convinced I wanted to make this a regular part of my fitness routine.
What makes Alisha's classes great is the small size (no more than 5 or 6 people), the personalized attention, and the variation (it doesn't get boring). Alisha corrects your form, challenges you during the work out, but remains conscience not to make exercises hurt where they are not supposed to. She all does here best to keep the studio clean. Occasionally it does smell like BO a little, but I guess that is to be expected in such a small space.Helpful 3Thanks 0Love this 2Oh no 0 - The Elf Q.San Francisco, CA1146Apr 22, 2009
Admittedly, Miss Alisha can sometimes be one hard lady to track down -- but no wonder: She's got a very dedicated pack of women AND men that are passionate about her Pilates experience. We all keep her VERY VERY busy. I've done private sessions with her for a couple of years now, and wouldn't have it any other way. Naturally, I want her all to myself. :-)
What I particularly appreciate about Alisha, aside from her very approachable and accessible style of teaching, is that she also came from a more "traditional" physical training background, so she's great at explaining the distinctions between the two philosophies. And as someone who came from the "tomboy" side of fitness -- longer, harder, faster! you know what I'm talkin' 'bout -- she was the right person to help me make the transition. (I am totally convinced that Pilates is a long-run SUSTAINABLE fitness plan that will transform your body into the leanest machine possible through every stage of our lives.) In fact, I first met her when she worked at a large corporate gym before she founded Studio Evolve so she knows it all. And she'll incorporate the best of both worlds when it makes sense.
I should also mention that I had knee surgery two years ago and Alisha went out of her way -- way above and beyond -- to learn everything should could about my particular injury (including meeting with my physical therapist!!!!) so she could ensure she was doing everything possible to help me rehabilitate quickly. She remains sensitive to my "ailments" (recurring sciatic pain, etc.) even to this day. And undoubtedly Pilates itself is helping me build a body that help protect against injuries in the future.
If you're lucky enough to train with Alisha, prepare to hear these phrases over and over again, even in your sleep:
Navel to spine...
Release your shoulders...
Lats! Lats! Lats!
Don't worry -- it'll all make great sense in Alisha's very capable hands. And you'll get a hotter bod to boot! YEOW!
Call her NOW. If her schedule is booked (entirely possible), just know she's worth a waiting list! Just leave your name and number and tell her to call you when she has an opening. That will be your lucky day.Helpful 2Thanks 0Love this 3Oh no 0 - Jennifer R.San Francisco, CA72613May 29, 2009
As a beginner in Pilates 4 years ago, I was very shy about going to a big gym when I didn't know what I was doing. Alisha was an outstanding teacher for me and offers new challenges each session.
I would encourage you to try her whether you are a pilates expert or a newbie like I was. She makes it challenging, fun and comfortable.Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Inna L.Portland, OR8511853Dec 16, 2010
Alisha is fantastic! She's a great trainer. Classes are small so you're pretty much getting a private lesson.
All I have to say is that my arms don't do a second wave anymore and I kind of have a booty now! woot!Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Kandace K.Tacoma, WA1142606Aug 6, 2008First to Review
I've been going to Alisha Engel for quite some time and she is AWESOME!!!! She does group classes, duets and privates and is the best deal in town. She's an awesome teacher and has a lot more equipment than just a mat. Those mat classes are seriously boring! A normal private or duet class with Alisha involves work on the reformer, wunda chair, springboard & cadillac. My butt and arms have never looked better :)
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 2Oh no 0 - Lisa C.San Francisco, CA1163May 13, 2011
This teacher is really good at making you work out. The place is cramped though and really unorganized.
Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Veronica P.FL, FL1458913Feb 20, 2009
For a year and a half, Alisha kicked my ass! She whipped my body into shape and I have never felt better! I have done pilates for 8 years and this is hands down the best instructor I have ever had. Also, you dont have to deal with a big gym or lots of people. It's the perfect studio! All of her equipment is brand new and she uses all of the machines to mix it up! I heart Alisha :)
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Sammy O.San Francisco, CA1833874Feb 27, 2013Updated review
Alisha motivates you and knows body mechanics! A former athlete herself and years in the fitness industry has given her the edge of adapting your workout to suit your needs and what your body is capable of! She also changes it up so you don't get bored, she has been my trainer for years and it amazes me how much flexibility and strength I keep gaining!
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0Apr 20, 2012Previous reviewAlicia is the best trainer! she is very consciences of your body and how it is feeling that day and how to get you to do just a little bit more, so you feel great and invigorated after your Pilates session.
- Becky L.San Francisco, CA11171Oct 27, 2008
Alisha and Studio Evolve deserve more than 5 stars! I've been training with Alisha for over 2 years and have no doubt she's the best in the business. She's incredibly knowledgeable, professional and super friendly. I sent my husband to train with Alisha after hearing him complain for years about his back and now I can't remember the last time he mentioned any pain. If you're looking to practice pilates in friendly, approachable (and affordable!) studio with the best instructor in town, give Alisha a call now.
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0
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