A new Pilates studio is coming to McKinney this fall with a philosophy that goes beyond the latest fitness trend. For Founder Valerie Penn, opening Calibrate Pilates Studio is about more than just operating a place to exercise.
“I want to help people. That’s it really,” Penn said. “Pilates has changed my life – physically and mentally. So I want to share that with others. I love seeing people get stronger and more stable, and perform better in their sport.”
The upcoming business will open at 2801 S Stonebridge Dr. #104 and offer a focus on classical, comprehensive Pilates — the original method developed by Joseph Pilates more than a century ago. Unlike many reformer-focused studios, Calibrate will offer small group classes and the full range of classical apparatus, including the reformer, mat, tower, chair, Cadillac and ladder barrel.
Penn first discovered Pilates in 2000, studying under a teacher trained and certified by Romana Kryzanowska, one of Joseph Pilates’ protégées. She continued practicing the method while building a career in the corporate world, eventually becoming a senior executive.
But after losing her husband, Penn stepped away from that career. She “wanted to do something that fed” her soul, and found that in Pilates. That decision eventually led to the conception of Calibrate.
Penn began searching for a location in May, and she signed the studio’s lease in July. The 2,100-square-foot space is currently under construction as a first-generation space. Calibrate Pilates Studio is currently planning to open in November, with a VIP soft opening for Founding Members before its Grand Opening event.
Calibrate’s approach is built around the complete classical method rather than a reformer-only workout, and the studio’s small-class format is intentional. Group classes will be limited to no more than six or seven people, while private sessions and duets will offer more individualized instruction.
“While there are a lot of reformer-focused Pilates studios, there are very few classical studios with small classes and full apparatus: reformer, mat, tower, chair, cadillac, ladder barrel, etc.,” Penn explained.
Penn herself is a Peak Pilates® Level III instructor certified across the full apparatus in the comprehensive classical system, and will be joined by other certified instructors. Right now, she has three instructors hired for the opening and plans to add staff as the client base grows.
She sees the practice benefiting a wide range of people, from professional athletes to people focused on longevity and busy professionals looking to move better.
“Pilates is for every body. EVERY. BODY. There is a reason why Pilates is 100 years old; it is not a fad, and it works,” Penn added. “Professional athletes do Pilates, longevity clients do Pilates, busy professionals do Pilates. It will give a benefit to everyone.”
Founding memberships are expected to become available soon and will be limited. Prospective clients can register their interest at CalibratePilatesStudio.com ahead of the location’s planned opening.
