Awen Pilates - Topanga, California

Addy E.

I recently had the pleasure of doing my X-former teacher training at Awen and had a wonderful experience from start to finish. I was undecided on what studio to do it at and had way too many questions. The owner was kind and patient in answering all of them, so I knew Awen was the right fit for me. The studio is such a beautiful and welcoming space. The training was a great experience and I really appreciated that it was a small group of us, as it gave us the opportunity to really engage and receive that 1 on1 feedback. It was a safe space to be a beginner at something new like teacher training, you can tell the owner wants to see the trainees succeed and fosters an environment that reflects that. Good energy and good vibes, clean and welcoming space.

Stella M. M.

After battling breast cancer, undergoing 33 chemotherapy sessions and 5 surgeries, and dealing with the loss of my mother, divorce, and forced migration, all at the same time, I decided to restart my exercise routine. As a lifelong exerciser and occasional Pilates practitioner, I thought it would be easy. I was excited to join the beginner's class at this studio, expecting a welcoming and supportive environment.

Unfortunately, the instructor's attitude was condescending, dismissive, and unhelpful. She didn't take the time to explain the new equipment or ask about my injuries (which I have many after surgeries). Her corrections were rare and delivered with a bad tone. I felt unwelcome, frustrated, and when I get in my car I broke down in tears.

I decided to cancel my next class, and initially chose not to leave a review. However, after reflecting on the experience, I want to share my story to prevent others from going through the same. Beginner's class instructors should be patient, empathetic, and careful. Welcoming a new student to a discipline that can help their mental and physical health should be an act of love, care, and support. I hope no one else experiences what I did that day.

Kristin F.

I love this studio and how unique it is. The instructors and whole vibe of the class is something only you can find in Topanga. There’s plenty of options from beginner to advanced and the intimate size is a plus!

Sophie Z.

I love this studio. It's so close to home, it's so beautiful and clean inside, so calming and peaceful. It's a smaller studio so the class feels very personal and the teachers are very helpful with guiding you or correcting your form. I love all the teachers. I have been going a lot this past month and it has been such a great way to start my morning. So sore! Such a great workout. Everyone is lovely there.

Erica S.

BEWARE! I was injured and fell during this class and the instructor (Kristiana) did not do anything to help. I was really excited to come here with all of the great reviews. I took the beginners class because this is my second time ever taking Pilates, and I’m still very inexperienced. However, my experience with Kristiana was terrible. During the class, I felt completely ignored and I had to constantly look at the people next to me in order to correct my positions. She would watch me struggling and did nothing to try and help me. The one time she came to help, she was really impatient and gave me attitude when I told her I’m confused. Considering this is a beginners class, I would think she would be more understanding. At the end of the class, my knee was on the carriage and I couldn’t control it, so the carriage flew back and my knee slammed on the wooden floor below me. I audibly said ouch and Kristiana saw this and did absolutely nothing to help me or even ask if I was okay. After the class was over, she didn’t say a word to me and I left. Now, I’m at home icing my knee because it hurts and I know it’ll probably leave a huge bruise. For beginners - STAY AWAY!!

Mackenzie S.

I am a die hard pilates girl, and have been practicing about 4-5 times a week since 2017, Ive tried what feels like every studio in LA and yours is BY FAR my favorite! The teachers are amazing, the music is killer, the lighting is perfect and serene in the mornings, and the classes are actually HARD EVERY SINGLE TIME! My body hasn’t been this sore consistently since I started this practice. Just wanted to say a BIG thank you for creating such a magical space, its absolute perfection and I just feel so grateful every time I walk into your studio.

Lindsie K.

Such a lovely studio! Great instructors, the space is very peaceful, and a killer workout every time 🙂

Samantha H.

A gem of a studio tucked in the most serene corner of the city - cannot get enough of this space, the instructors, and the community. Super challenging workout but so worth it - you will not get a better full body burn anywhere else. Everyone is so welcoming and the instructors are great about giving adjustments and any modifications needed for injuries. Cannot recommend this studio enough - class sizes are smaller as well so you really get that personalized experience in comparison to some of the larger studios in the city. Thank you so much, Awen for creating such a beautiful and safe space for me to push myself in!