symmetry pilates studio is a haven where you will work your body, energize your mind and free your spirit.

After 7 years of studying Ashtanga yoga and Pilates, Joey McLaughlin founded symmetry pilates studio to provide the area with a complete resource for individualized Pilates and Fusion instruction. Based in West Chester, PA, symmetry is a studio where the focus is not solely on the body, but also the mind and the spirit.

symmetry represents Ms. McLaughlin¹s vision to create a comprehensive facility for Pilates and Fusion instruction and overall body conditioning.

The studio features a full range of Pilates equipment and techniques that can be used alone or in combination to specifically address each client¹s physical needs. Exercises assist and facilitate the body¹s understanding of correct and functional movement patterns.

In addition to the equipment room, symmetry features a large mat room for Pilates mat work and Fusion instruction. Classes are held daily.

symmetry pilates studio features customized, individual fitness and body conditioning as well as group mat classes.

symmetry represents Joey McLaughlin’s vision to create a
comprehensive facility for Pilates and Yoga instruction and overall body conditioning. Joey brings years of experience and education to her teaching with an extensive background in body studies, including a comprehensive understanding of anatomy, body movement, and the connection between the body and the mind.

Joey McLaughlin:
• founder, owner, and principal instructor
• certified Pilates instructor through the Physical Mind Institute NYC
• certified teacher of Yoga
• over 11 years of intensive Ashtanga yoga studies • over 10 years of Pilates instruction
• member of IDEA in personal training
• certified massage therapist from the Owens Institute of Wholistic Studies
• over 14 years of classical ballet

INSTRUCTORS:

Patti Diamondstone: (Pilates Mat and Machine)
Patti has 16 years experience in teaching exercise/fitness classes. She has lectured extensively on women's health issues, diabetes, senior exercise, metabolic syndrome and general physical fitness. Her certifications include Yogafit Level 3; Senior Yoga, ACE Personal Trainer: Level I Tai Chi, PhysicalMind Mat Pilates, and BOSU Master Trainer. Patti holds a B.A. from the University of Pittsburgh and an M.A. from PSU. She received her Pilates machine certification in May '07 at symmetry pilates yoga studio.

Liz Smutko: (Pilates Machine)
Niagara University, B.A. English
Syracuse University, M.A. Magazine
Fitness Experience: HIgh school basketball, soccer, volleyball, track; NCAA Div. I basketball (4-yr. scholarship)
10 years experience in pilates, studied with Janeen Galati, (Best of Philly '99, Fitness Trainer) Alternative Health & Fitness, Philadelphia, PA;
Trained and taught at balanCenter Pilates (Best of Philly '03, Pilates Studio), Narberth, PA.
Certified by PhysicalMind Institute

Laura Markford: (Pilates Mat)
Laura Markford has been working in the health and fitness industry for over 10 years now. She has earned a B.S. in Corporate Health Education and has designed successful health and fitness programs for companies such as Rohm and Haas, PECO Energy, Galaxo SmithKline and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Laura began practicing pilates after suffering from some painful body alignment issues that resulted after giving birth to her first
child. She is a walking testimonial and says, "practicing pilates helped my body fully recover when nothing else did". That was four years ago. Laura has since been certified through the PhysicalMind Institute to teach pilates and for the last two years she has been sharing her knowledge, skills and commitment with students of all levels.

Cate Sands: (Pilates Fusion)

Heidi Neal: (Pilates Mat)

Leah Bilsing: (Pilates Machine)

Kerri Myatt: (Pilates Machine)

Lynn Friel: (Pilates Mat)

Nikki Bazemore: (Flirty Girl)

Pilates

Your muscles are longer, leaner and stronger. You move with elegance and grace. You stand taller, breathe deeper and are more centered. You build strength at the core of your body and of your being through precision and muscle control that you never thought possible. A stronger, more flexible back; a tighter, trimmer waist and deeper, more relaxed breathing. You look better. You feel better. You are better.
This is Pilates.

All Pilates sessions at symmetry are designed around your specific body, needs and goals. Using special Pilates apparatus, adjunct equipment and Pilates-based mat work. The sessions focus on strengthening the pelvic, abdominal, and back muscles from the core. Progressive, precisely controlled movements become the basis for proper posture. Alignment and constant elongation of the muscles make a remarkable change in your body ...change that ranges from elegant posture and body awareness to abdominal strength and flexibility, stamina, confidence and mental focus. Pilates is appropriate no matter what your age or fitness level and can be especially therapeutic for those recovering from orthopedic injuries.

The Pilates method was developed by athlete, Joseph Pilates in Germany in the early 1900's. The method is a mind-body exercise that borrows from the principles of yoga and calisthenics to focus on correct alignment, breathing, joint release and range of motion. Because each movement requires intense concentration, the mind is fully engaged, which helps the brain cells to renew. The main piece of equipment for Pilates is called the Universal Reformer. It is a padded, bed-like platform with a base that slides back and forth on a track. A variety of bar, pulley, and strap attachments enable you to execute the movements lying down, sitting, kneeling or standing. There are up to 500 exercises performed on the Reformer, so workouts are not repetitive and are customized to your evolving fitness level. Pilates based mat work is a series of exercises performed on a padded mat. Best for a general workout and when done correctly, the most difficult.

The Pilates workout incorporates 4 fundamentals:
Breath:"Bellows Action" Breathing expands the ribs sideways like an accordion, which means lungs are able to completely expand.
Energize: Oxygenated blood is forced into the farthest reaches of the body, flushing out toxins.
Align: Proper alignment is essential. Focus is placed on neutralizing the spine and maintaining its natural curvature.
Move: Body awareness is a byproduct of regular Pilates work, It has been called "purity of form in motion" and it becomes integrated into your everyday movements of life.

Yoga

You flow through a series of poses, working towards the edge of your abilities, gaining strength, flexibility and balance with every session. Your body produces heat. Heat that allows you to reach new frontiers of flexibility, power and peace. Your breath is focused. You become immune to nagging thoughts and inconsequential worries. As your limbs align, so does your mind and soul.
This is Power Yoga.

Power yoga is the Americanized version of Ashtanga yoga. The Power yoga workout consists of yoga postures that are linked together in an uninterrupted flow of movement. Postures simultaneously stretch and strengthen opposing muscle groups. Breath is associated with each movement that helps to create and maintain heat in the body, helping the muscles to more easily open. Through this continuous series of movements, students build strength, endurance, flexibility, fitness, self-assurance and mindfulness.

The key to Power Yoga's sweat producing, muscle-building power is the pace. Instead of pausing between poses as one would in traditional yoga, each move flows into the next, making it an intense aerobic workout. The fast pace creates an internal heat that accelerates all of yoga¹s cleansing, strengthening and toning effects. Muscles will stretch and joints will move freely.

Power yoga classes at symmetry are total mind-body workouts and are suited for all levels. There are endless variations in particular poses to suit beginners or challenge experienced yogis and yoginis. All you need is a mat, towel, water and a desire to reach new levels of physical and mental fitness.
All of symmetry's yoga classes are taught by professional yoga teachers. Mats are also available for purchase or rent at the studio

symmerty pilates studio
Pilates Teacher Certification Program

PILATES MATWORK
Training for Mat Pilates teachers
Summer 2011 Dates to be announced soon

Prerequisites: 15 Mat classes
Course: Learn to teach the 25 Classic Pilates exercises
Tuition:
(prices subject to change without notice)

Description 101:
Learn the basic biomechanical movements of the Pilates mat exercises, including 16 fundamentals (mini-exercises), postural evaluation, functional anatomy, and beginner/intermediate mat exercises. Contraindications and cueing techniques are covered as well as modifications and variations for each exercise, making them adaptable to students with different abilities. Further, you will explore the history and essence of PilatesMethod with specific emphasis on how the breath is used to create added stability during exercises.

Description 201:
Experience the 10 new Advanced Fundamentals. Finish with 21 of the Classic mat exercises reconfigured to Standing Pilates®. These sequences require an evolved technique use of the deeper core muscles of the pelvic floor, transversus abdominus and multifidus (third level)

Frequently Asked Questions:
Pilates:
Can beginners attend classes?
What are the principles of Pilates?
Mat or Equipment?
What should I expect from a Private Pilates Machine session?
What are benefits of Pilates?
How does Pilates work?

Can beginners attend classes?
We welcome beginners -- our classes are open to all levels. We encourage beginners to pace themselves in class, and, for best results, to complete 10 classes in 3 weeks. This creates a solid physical base and an intellectual understanding in which to continue your journey into power! In increments, you'll build strength, focus, stamina and flexibility.TOP

What are the principles of Pilates?
The basic principles of Pilates are to make people more aware of their bodies as single, integrated units, to improve alignment and breathing and to increase efficiency of movement. Pilates consists of carefully performed movements, some carried out on specially designed equipment and others on a mat. Each exercise is designed to stretch and strengthen the muscles involved, open the joints and release tension. There is a specific breathing pattern for each exercise to assist in directing energy to these areas while relaxing the rest of the body. TOP

Mat or Equipment?
Both mat and machine work require commitment from both the teacher and the client as it takes time to improve and change the body’s postural and alignment habits, but both approaches will achieve similar results.

The mat work relies entirely on the student for results, but is more economical as it is done in a group of 5-15 students. It utilizes a repertoire of exercises on a floor mat only that are gentle, but focused exercises with the potential to become aerobic in their advanced form. Through the process of regular classes, the body’s structure realigns and a balance is achieved within the muscular-skeletal system. Eventually, the body will move with maximum efficiency and minimum effort.

Equipment work allows for many variations of the exercises to be performed. It allows the student to isolate the muscles more easily and also to comprehend the movements more quickly. An individualized focus is given to the client and a regime of exercises is designed specifically for their body and their needs. TOP

What should I expect from a Private Pilates Machine session?
In a private machine session, you will see a Pilates instructor for at least your first 2 sessions on a one-to-one basis. They will assess your physical condition, ask about any problems you are having and about your current physical lifestyle. You will then be shown a series of smooth, flowing exercises that take your joints and muscles through a range of movement that is appropriate to your needs. An individualized, supervised program is then tailored to your needs and paced to your ability. At the end of the session, you will feel refreshed, invigorated and energized. TOP

What are benefits of Pilates?
Benefits from Pilates include: a spinal column that is lengthened and decompressed, greater balance and coordination, longer, leaner musculature, ease of movement, and enhanced mind-body connection. TOP

How does it work?
Pilates provides a greater understanding of postural alignment during movement of the human body in the 3-dimensional planes. The movements are performed with control, proper biomechanics and flow of movement in a variety of positions. It is a unique exercise form emphasizing body alignment, correct breathing patterns while enhancing the 2 control centers in the human body: the lower, deeper abdominal muscles and the mid-back and part of the shoulder muscles. TOP

I have been doing Pilates since 2000 - originally on a piece of equipment that I purchased and then at Symmetry since it opened taking mat classes and machine classes. I love my equipment, but I wanted a certified instructor to evaluate me and adjust any misinformation or bad habits that I might have acquired. Joey, the owner, is extremely thorough in her evaluation, does not push you too hard beyond your limits, and introduces you to variations so that you are not bored and so that you improve at your own pace.
She even had a class that my parents participated in who were in their mid-70s and my boyfriend who was new to Pilates until he saw the benefits for me. Then he took some classes also at Symmetry. At some point I fell on my bottom on some wooden steps. I was fine except for some black-and-blue marks, but my boyfriend and I agreed that my injury could have been much worse without my toning, flexibility, and strength. Joey included exercises in our class to prevent osteoporosis because we were all over 50. My mother has moved in with me now, and we continue to exercise together. She is as strong as a bull.
Pilates has so many benefits for so many types of people. The breathing technique can also be carried into everyday life, the flexibility allows you to stretch further during normal everyday activities, and stress can be relieved by taking some time away from your everyday problems to focus on just the Pilates exercises - what a cheap vacation!
Karen S.

Symmetry is an wonderful place to take Pilates classes. These classes are much more supportive and knowledgeable than any classes I have taken in the past. When I attended these type of classes within large fitness facilities - I notice (now) that I wasn't getting the full benefit of a dedicated instructor whose only focus was these particular fitness forms. I also noticed that when I followed a dvd at home, that I didn't have the benefit of a professional correcting my form. Expert instruction (from Symmetry) about a form flaw I had in Pilates put the focus back on my abs - and I felt the results immediately! In fact, after just a few classes I have noticed positive changes in my body (Better posture, tighter abs) that I completely attribute to attending the Pilates classes.
Melissa W.

Joey,
I just bought new slacks, size 10, for the first time in over 2 years ! My list of what I've gained from 1 year of Pilates has grown:
No more knee pain (arthritis)
Less hip pain (arthritis)
More arm, leg and back strength
Better golf
5% increase in bone density
I got into last year's shorts
I bought my first pair of size 10 slacks in over 2 years
THANK YOU !
Kitty K.

Thank you Symmetry !
Two years ago I reached the wonderful milestone of having lived for forty years ! Amazing in itself, as I did grow up in England, where there is a pub on every corner and your staple diet is in liquid form from the age of 18, ( 16 if you applied the right amount of make up !!). I digress...............
With reaching forty I began to see significant changes in my body. I had less energy, my joints ached, my skin tone lost its youthful elasticity, I had a belly and being pregnant had not caused it !!!, my arms wobbled when I waved to people, suddenly a smile was all they got ! Generally I was looking kind of OLD !!
So I had that " Come on girl, lets be good to yourself you're forty 'talk' " and joined Symmetry. Pilates was my answer, I was going to reverse the signs of aging and erase all those nights out partying that were definately beginning to take their toll !
WELL, the first few weeks had me feeling as though I was 80 not 40 and with this came the realization of how unfit I truly was, scarey ! However I persevered with the tremendous patience of Joey and then more recently Kristen, and here I am 18 months on, still pulling the funny faces, holding my breath, and hoping with every fiber that this time I will be able to make Teaser happen on the box, or roll like a ball and not like a cube!!!
The results are that my skin is not as droopy, if I wave slowly very little wobbles, my belly is flatter, my butt is firmer, my clothes fit so much better. These are the physical changes.
Six months ago I gave up smoking, I thought why would you be putting all this time into keeping the outside looking ok and not bothering about the inside?
I love going, if I cannot attend class I miss it, this is extraordinary as I never loved an exercise class in my life !! Pilates makes sense, what I am doing, what I am hoping to achieve and this is due to the total confidence I have in the teachers and how they have taught me to make this work.
So thank you Symmetry, 40+ is looking definately better and by 50 I am expecting to be able to hold that plank position for at least 5 seconds !!! ( Oh come on! give a girl a break, .....ok, ok, I'll try for 6 !).
Lois

I wish to applaud the results of my Pilates classes and the instructor/owner Joey McLaughlin for her diligence and peristence with me during the days of learning the techniques. I am a 63 year old woman who had many medical issues coming into the Pilates world, but now, thanks to Symmetry they are under check. Thank you for helping me achieve a stronger more energetic me.
Claire R.

I have been with Symmetry for almost two years, and am truly addicted. I love the way Pilates makes me feel and the changes in my body have been truly remarkable. I feel better about myself now than I did before I had my two children! My only complaint is not having enough time for more classes!
Kathleen P.

I have participated in individual pilates machine sessions for almost a year now. I have seen great improvement in my core strength and, as a result, the back pain that I had been suffering prior to these sessions is almost completely gone. I have found pilates machines sessions to be a great work out and an excellent relief from the stresses of life. I feel so positive and energized after each session! Joey is a true professional who takes the time to make sure that you are doing each exercise correctly. Thank you Joey!!
Kelly C.

I began at Symmetry to help my riding. It has helped me become more symmetrical on both my sides. Also, my abs have become stronger and the muscles in my legs have a better shape. Along with this my posture has gotten better.My riding has greatly improved.
Maire G.

Before I started Pilates, I was hurting in almost every joint in my body. I had been very active physically horseback riding and other activities and I had numerous injuries over the years. I had whiplash from a car accident years ago that left my neck and back in almost constant pain-- I have several herniated disks. I had dislocated my shoulder. I had a torn miniscus and knee arthoscopy. I had been in a wheelchair for 9 months after breaking my leg in several places and I had had multiple surgeries in that leg. I had no upper body strength and going up stairs was painful. When I started Pilates with Joey as my instructor, almost everything hurt. Joey went slowly, pacing the moves to what I could do, and urging me to try new exercises that were challenging. I lost my breath quickly. Many positions were uncomfortable or impossible.
But we both perservered. I have been going to Pilates Symmetry twice a week for almost 2 years. My joints no longer ache. Steps are not painful. I lift 50 pounds of horse feed regularly with little trouble. I can carry and hoist heavy trail saddles onto my horses' backs without a problem. I can walk uphill without losing my breath. Joey continues to challenge me with every increasingly difficult exercises.
When I have a setback-- like Lyme disease-- we ease off, but as soon as I'm able to increase the intensity of an exercise, we are right back to it. Pilates has become a way of life for me...
Laura M.

Pilates on the machines has really improved my tennis game. Playing more than 1 1/2 hours on a hard court use to kill my lower back, I walked like an old lady the next day..
Since pilates I can play much longer with no pain. I also see an improvement in my serve.I have much more power with much less stress on my body (specifically my arm and shoulder). Finding and strenghtening my core has really improved my game..
Debbie M.

I've been taking Pilates sessions with Joey McLaughlin for more than three years now. Most noticeably, Pilates improved my posture, increased my flexibility and strengthened my abdominal muscles.
Robin L.

I would say that Pilates and Joey have really raised my consciousness about the importance of my core strength in sports as well as in sitting and standing. Since I have realized this my lower back pain has disappeared, my posture is better and my golf swing is stronger!
Marilyn P.

Working out at Symmetry has been an hour a week that is just for ME!! No kids, no clients...just ME! It makes me feel stronger at my core, both physically and emotionally!
Linda F.

Symmetry's Pilates machine sessions helped me get through my pregnancy feeling strong and energized. I looked forward to my session each week and would leave feeling better than I had all week. As my belly grew bigger, Joey modified the exercises for me. I continued my weekly sessions up to my 38th week of pregnancy and could still do Teaser (I'm very proud of that).
When it came time to deliver my baby, it took 3 pushes and then the Doctor was yelling for me to stop. I attribute my easy pregnancy and delivery to my weekly sessions and the personalized attention I received from Joey at Symmetry.
C. Bailey

symmetry Pilates Studio Pilates Teacher Certification Program

Pilates Apparatus Certification
Workshop Dates: 10 week intensive
Summer 2011 Dates to be announced soon

Prerequisites: Completion of Pilates Matwork• 10 apparatus sessions
Course: 10-week, course that includes observation, homework, apprentice teaching, and 40 hours of lecture.
Tuition: TBD
materials: TBD
A learning process that is presented seamlessly, elegantly and clearly by one of our Elite Certifying Teachers so that you understand the fine points of the apparatus exercises; relevant anatomy; modifications and contra-indications; spring formulas; and how to teach real people, not just other instructors.

A written and practical exam is required for final certification

Description:
Apparatus training including Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, and Ladder Barrel. The 10-week course teaches the original exercise protocols on the equipment fine points of the apparatus exercises; relevant anatomy; modifications and contra-indications; spring formulas; as well as modifications and variations. The course starts with a beginner workout and progresses through advanced level exercises over the 10 weeks.
After completing the training program you will receive an associate teacher certificate.