The Studio

Welcome to Cecile Classical Pilates: The Only Gratz Studio in Omaha

At Cecile Classical Pilates, we are dedicated to preserving the integrity of Joseph Pilates’ original method. Our studio is proud to be the only one in Omaha offering instruction on authentic Gratz equipment—the gold standard in Classical Pilates. If you’re looking for true, transformative Pilates, Gratz isn’t just an option; it’s essential.

Why Gratz? The Gold Standard in Classical Pilates

Joseph Pilates meticulously designed his apparatus to work in harmony with his method, and Gratz has stayed true to these specifications. The relationship between Joseph Pilates and Gratz Industries began in the early 1940s, making Gratz the longest-standing manufacturer of Pilates equipment. Over the years, Joe and Mr. Gratz remained friends, with Gratz Industries continuing to develop custom metalwork for Joe’s studio.

Romana Kryzanowska, Joe’s protégé, insisted that all her students experience Pilates strictly on Gratz apparatus, recognizing it as an integral part of his method. As she famously stated:

“Joe was a genius, why change the work of a genius?”

Through my own teaching, I have come to deeply understand and appreciate the dedication and unwavering commitment to practicing Pilates strictly on Gratz apparatus. I have also observed that students who train on Gratz equipment become significantly stronger within just a few sessions. They develop better muscle tone, improved posture, and a more balanced physique, experiencing firsthand the transformative power of authentic Classical Pilates. At Cecile Classical Pilates, we uphold this standard to give you an authentic and effective Pilates experience.

The Importance of Authentic Pilates Apparatus

As Pilates gains global popularity, new manufacturers have emerged, attempting to capitalize on its growing reputation. Many of these companies have significantly altered the original specifications of Joseph Pilates’ apparatus, producing equipment that neither looks nor feels like what Joe designed. As I teach across the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East, it is disheartening to see so-called Pilates apparatus that Joe never invented or used in his studio. Such equipment misrepresents the true essence of Pilates and does a disservice to new students experiencing the method for the first time.

Investing in genuine Pilates equipment ensures that you experience the method as it was designed, with the correct resistance, alignment, and precision.

The Difference Between Gratz and other brands

Many modern Pilates studios use equipment that deviates from Joseph Pilates’ original designs. These modifications can alter the mechanics of the exercises, impacting both form and results. Here’s why classical equipment like Gratz stands out:

Correct Tension & Spring Resistance

Gratz maintains the original spring tension designed by Joseph Pilates, ensuring proper resistance to build strength and control. Other brands use lighter, more adjustable springs, which can lessen the impact of the exercises.

Optimal Dimensions for Precision & Strength

The size and structure of Gratz equipment—whether the size of the Reformer, the footbar placement, heavier carriage, or the leather straps shorter—are crafted to encourage correct alignment and muscle activation. The vital dimensions and resistance changes made on the other brands, dramatically altered the intensity and integrity of each exercise to be done on them. Those changes show in the body.

Deeper Engagement, Faster Results

Gratz equipment demands full-body engagement, making every movement intentional. Unlike other, more forgiving apparatus designs, it doesn’t allow for passive movement. This leads to greater strength, improved stability, and faster results.

A Client’s Experience: The Gratz Transformation

One of our clients, a classical Pilates instructor, shared their journey of transitioning from Balanced Body equipment to Gratz:

“As a classical Pilates instructor, I’ve always believed in the importance of precision and control in every movement. When I moved, I found a studio that used Balanced Body equipment. While it got the job done, something felt off—the springs were lighter, and I wasn’t getting the same deep engagement I was used to.

Then, I invested in Gratz equipment, and everything changed. The difference was immediate. That extra half-inch of work to bring the carriage back in forced me to stay fully engaged, activating muscles in a way I hadn’t experienced on other equipment. Instead of relying on the springs, I had to truly control the movement. Since making the switch, my practice has transformed—I feel stronger, more connected, and more aligned with the classical method. Gratz has taken my Pilates practice to the next level, and I’ll never go back!”

Experience the Authentic Difference at Cecile Classical Pilates

We don’t believe in shortcuts, and neither did Joseph Pilates. Our studio is committed to helping you build strength, improve posture, and achieve a deep mind-body connection through Classical Pilates as it was meant to be practiced. Whether you’re an elite athlete, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to move better, our expert instruction and top-tier equipment provide an unparalleled experience in Omaha.

Are you ready to feel the difference? Book your first session at Cecile Classical Pilates and experience firsthand what true Classical Pilates can do for your body.