How to Arrive + Thrive at PCS

Keira Cumberland ·

How to Arrive + Thrive at PCS

Your guide to feeling prepared, grounded, and empowered in the studio

At Pilates Collective SLO, we’re proud to cultivate more than just strong bodies — we’re building a culture rooted in respect, presence, and purposeful movement. As our community continues to grow, we want everyone — new clients, longtime students, and teacher trainees alike — to feel informed, supported, and aligned with the values that make PCS a truly special place to practice.

This guide will help you:

  • Arrive with confidence

  • Understand our studio etiquette

  • Care for the equipment

  • And embody the PCS ethos both on and off the apparatus

🌿 How to Arrive + Thrive in Class

1. Dress Mindfully for Movement

Wear fitted, functional clothing that stays in place and allows your instructor to clearly see your form. Avoid loose shorts or overly low pants, especially in exercises like mermaid, short spine, or feet-in-straps.

💡 Grip socks are encouraged. They improve traction, enhance hygiene, and prevent toenail polish from transferring to the upholstery.

2. Hair Up, Feet Clean, Accessories Minimal

Help us keep the space clear and clean:

  • Tie long hair up and out of the way

  • Arrive with clean feet

  • Avoid jewelry, sharp nails, zippers, or embellishments that can scratch, snag, or tear the equipment

3. Shoes Off, Phones Away

Please leave your shoes at the front bench to protect our floors and equipment. Phones should be silenced and stored — this is your time to unplug, breathe, and be fully present.

4. Respect the Method, the Instructor, and the Room

PCS operates with the quiet discipline of a martial art. That means:

  • Be open to learning and correction

  • Trust the expertise of your instructor

  • Stay focused on your own experience

  • Support a calm, non-competitive environment

We do not tolerate big egos or disruptive energy. Our studio is a space for healing, clarity, and growth — we ask that everyone who enters upholds that energy with care.

5. Care for the Equipment Like It’s Sacred (Because It Is)

Our handcrafted apparatus is central to your practice. Please:

  • Wipe down your station after class

  • Avoid wearing anything that could scratch or tear the upholstery

  • Tell your instructor immediately if something feels off or broken

🧭 Progress With Purpose: The PCS Level System

We believe in earned progression, not one-size-fits-all workouts. Our PCS Level System ensures that you’re building skills safely and systematically — with just the right amount of challenge.

Each level supports you in mastering movement with clarity, control, and confidence. Your instructor will guide you when it’s time to move up, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

🌀 Not sure what level you're in or where you’re headed? Just ask — we love helping clients navigate their growth path with purpose.

💬 Let’s Keep Growing Together

Have questions? Feedback? Something we missed? We welcome your input and your voice in our evolving community. 📩 Email us anytime at info@pilatescollectiveslo.com, or talk to your instructor before or after class, we’re always happy to connect.

✨ PCS Is More Than a Studio

It’s a place to:

  • Move with integrity

  • Honor the lineage of the method

  • Support and be supported

  • And reconnect with your own depth

Thank you for being part of what makes PCS a studio of excellence, humility, and care.

Why Pilates is More Than Just a Workout

Keira Cumberland ·

Pilates is often seen as just another way to stay fit, but at Pilates Collective SLO (PCS), we believe it’s much more than that. It’s a holistic practice that nurtures not just the body but also the mind and spirit. In this post, we’ll explore how Pilates transcends traditional fitness, offering profound benefits that can transform your life.

The Holistic Nature of Pilates:

Pilates is unique in its ability to foster a deep mind-body connection. By focusing on controlled movements, precise breathwork, and mindful alignment, Pilates helps practitioners become more aware of their bodies. This mindfulness extends beyond the studio, reducing stress and promoting emotional resilience in everyday life. It’s this integration of mental and physical wellness that makes Pilates a holistic practice, supporting overall well-being.

Personal Transformation Through Pilates:

Pilates empowers individuals by building confidence in their bodies and abilities. It’s not just about getting stronger or more flexible—though these are certainly benefits—but about learning to trust and respect your body. Many of our clients have shared stories of personal growth, discovering new strengths, and achieving goals they never thought possible. This personal transformation is a testament to the long-term benefits of a dedicated Pilates practice.

Community and Connection:

Pilates isn’t just an individual journey; it’s a shared experience that fosters a sense of community and connection. At PCS, we pride ourselves on creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and supported. Practicing Pilates in a group setting allows for mutual encouragement and camaraderie, making the journey toward well-being more enjoyable and sustainable. Our commitment to fostering these connections is a key part of what makes PCS special.

In short:

Pilates is more than a workout—it’s a path to holistic well-being, personal growth, and community connection. We invite you to experience the transformative power of Pilates at Pilates Collective SLO. Whether you’re new to Pilates or looking to deepen your practice, our studio is here to support you every step of the way. Sign up for a class today and start your journey toward a healthier, more connected life.

WHAT is Pilates?

Keira Cumberland ·


🔍 Curious about Pilates and its transformative power for your mind, body, and soul? Dive into our latest blog to uncover why Pilates isn't just a workout—it's a game-changer for becoming your strongest, most resilient self from the inside out.

In the blog, we explore the three incredible benefits of Pilates:

1️⃣ Precise Alignment: Discover how Pilates fine-tunes your body's mechanics, unlocking its full potential for digestion, breathing capacity, and untapped strength.

2️⃣ Conscious Control: Say goodbye to mindless reps as you learn to move your body effectively and own it with laser focus, both in the studio and in your daily life.

3️⃣ Profound Connection with Your Body: Explore how Pilates fosters a deep understanding of your body's capabilities and preferences, empowering you to make informed choices for your health and well-being.

At Pilates Collective SLO, we're more than just instructors—we're your partners in this journey to a stronger, more connected you. Wherever you are on your fitness path, we're here to cheer you on and celebrate every achievement. 🎉

Ready to step away from confusion and dive into a world of mindful movement? Read the full blog here:

New year, new you…. Or not quite?

Keira Cumberland ·

Amidst the inundation of "new year, new you" messages, it's crucial to pause and reflect on what truly matters in our fitness journey.

At PCS, we believe in creating a space where everyone feels at home in their body. It's about fostering pride, confidence, and support as individuals define their unique paths to strength and wellness.

Fitness and wellness aren't one-size-fits-all; they're deeply personal journeys. So, instead of chasing someone else's ideal, let's dig deeper and envision the feelings we want to embody as we pursue our goals.

In 2024, let's embrace the idea that:

✨ We are worthy at any size, stage in life, or age.

✨ We are proud of and grateful for our bodies.

✨ We are in control of our wellness journey.

✨ We are resilient physically and mentally.

✨ We are capable of achieving our goals.

✨ We are supported by our community.

✨ We are fully seen and accepted as we are right now.

Let go of external pressures and dare to dream bigger. Share your goals with us—what are you hoping to achieve this year?

Beyond Perfect Form: The Power of Vulnerable Practice in Pilates

Keira Cumberland ·


In Pilates, it's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of perfection, but today, let's reflect on the beauty of vulnerability in our practice.

I recently had a meaningful discussion with a teacher trainee about the importance of embracing imperfection. Pilates isn't about flawless demonstrations; it's about authenticity and growth.

Imagine being inspired by a teacher who admits their struggles, showing that even experts are on a continual journey of exploration. This vulnerability creates a safe space for us to try, fail, and discover the joy of our bodies.

At PCS, we encourage exploration and experimentation. Your unique journey matters most. We celebrate effort over perfection and create a safe space for vulnerability.

So, as you step onto your mat, remember that vulnerability is a superpower. Embrace the journey, trust the process, and let the power of vulnerable practice guide you to your version of Pilates perfection.

Do you believe vulnerability enhances your Pilates practice? Share your thoughts below!

Dianna’s Story | Reconnect with your body after illness

Keira Cumberland ·

Title: Dianna's Inspirational Pilates Journey

At Pilates Collective SLO, we're passionate about sharing stories like Dianna's. After facing cancer and surviving two brain aneurysms, Dianna found solace and strength in Pilates. Through our community, she discovered a transformative journey of healing and empowerment. Dianna's experience showcases the profound impact of Pilates in rebuilding the mind-body connection after adversity. Join us in celebrating her triumph and the magic of Pilates in fostering resilience and renewal.

Where it all started..

Keira Cumberland ·

Keira Cumberland's journey is a testament to the unpredictable nature of life and the power of following one's passion. Her story, shared in an interview with Voyage LA in 2019, reflects on the beginnings of her venture, Pilates Collective SLO, and the challenges and milestones she encountered along the way.

How to Start | Your Pilates Roadmap

Keira Cumberland ·

Getting started is sometimes the hardest part, and often, the path isn’t clear. To help you kickstart your Pilates practice and discover its transformative power, I’ve created a personal Pilates Roadmap for you.

Introducing Your Personal Pilates Roadmap

At Pilates Collective SLO, we believe in providing a roadmap to guide you through your Pilates journey. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some prior experience, this roadmap is designed to help you start, understand the why behind Pilates, and explore where it can take you.

Pilates Anywhere: How to Master Your Practice On the Go

Keira Cumberland ·

Looking to deepen your Pilates practice and continue making progress toward your wellness goals? Practicing at home can be a cost-effective and convenient option. However, it's crucial to first learn proper form and technique from a certified instructor in a studio setting. Once you have a solid foundation, consider subscribing to online resources, mastering the Classical Mat System, investing in Pilates props, and creating a dedicated space for your practice. And don't forget to make personal practice a consistent part of your routine. With these tips, you can continue your Pilates journey from the comfort of your own home.

Clearing Up the Confusion: Dispelling Misconceptions About Pilates

Keira Cumberland ·

As a Pilates studio owner, I've heard a lot of misconceptions about Pilates over the years. Many people believe that it's only for certain types of people or involves complex equipment that only experts can use. But as someone who has been practicing Pilates for over a decade and running my own studio for several years, I can tell you that Pilates is a versatile and accessible form of exercise that can benefit people of all ages, genders, and fitness levels.

In this blog post, I address some of the most common misconceptions about Pilates and share the truth about this amazing exercise. From building core strength and improving posture to increasing flexibility and providing a low-impact cardiovascular workout, Pilates offers a wide range of benefits for the mind and body. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced athlete, Pilates can be modified to meet your needs and help you achieve your fitness goals.

If you've ever been curious about Pilates but weren't sure if it was right for you, I encourage you to give it a try. You might be surprised at just how much it can transform your body and your overall wellbeing!