WELCOME TO CENTER OF BALANCE!  Voted "Best Pilates Studio in the Bay Area" by San Francisco Magazine,
Center of Balance was founded in 1997 by health and movement specialist Tom McCook. Center of Balance is a premier learning destination and teacher certification center, specializing in Pilates, Yoga
, Franklin Method, BodyCode System, Resistance Stretching and Therapeutic Massage. Whether in a private or class setting, our expert
instructors offer balanced exercise techniques for people who want to lead healthier and more vibrant lives. You'll learn how to train with more awareness and feel what's right for your body, regardless of your
current condition or fitness level. Center of Balance is
located at 1220 Pear Avenue, Suite i in Mountain View, California, off Shoreline Boulevard near the Century 16 movie theaters. Our 3,500 square foot Center is a beautifully renovated warehouse space with separate studios for open classes and
private Pilates sessions. We also have two treatment rooms for therapeutic massage. Hardwood floors, wall-to-wall mirrors, soothing light
fixtures, airy space and calming background music create a warm and relaxing atmosphere for all who visit.
Our state-of-the-art Pilates studio features Balanced Body® equipment, including 6 Reformers, 1 Cadillac, 6 Chairs, 5 wall units, 5
small barrels, 1 high barrel, and several props for exercise variations. In 2003, we added the Elvis, MasterStretch, and Pegasus System to our studio equipment, designed by Artform® of Florence, Italy.
A variety of health and fitness techniques
Physical imbalances and weakness can lead to pain, fatigue and immobility. Unguided and automatic exercise routines can further limit
the body's functional health. At Center of Balance, our fitness programs completely engage your body and mind while restoring healthy movement. Below is a description of some of the techniques we use:  Pilates
Based on the teachings of Joseph H. Pilates, this exercise system strengthens and stretches muscles, and promotes coordination and awareness. It focuses the mind to work the body. Involving full body participation,
movements originate from the core of the body outward. Pilates is practiced on the floor (mat) and with special spring-loaded equipment that simulates the mechanics of human muscle tension, helping to develop strength,
stability, graceful and efficient movement and breath control. The body and mind become light, lifted and energized. Open classes in Pilates are offered on a drop-in basis. Check our class schedule for days and times.
We also offer Private Pilates sessions
as a successful approach to rehabilitation from injury, and Pre- & Post-Partum conditioning. Private sessions are available by appointment.
Yoga
A complete system of conditioning, yoga is a 4,000 year-old discipline that helps to create spiritual and physical
health. Meaning "union," yoga links movement with breath. The integration of Yoga at Center of Balance is
taught with a strong appreciation of proper alignment, tone and core connection as emphasized in the Pilates system. We teach Yoga
as a seamless blend of conscious movements that help us develop our nervous system, grow physically smarter, and become healthier and more graceful as we age.  Franklin Method
The Franklin Method is an innovative educational program integrating imagery, experiental anatomy, touch and movement. Developed by Eric Franklin of Switzerland, this technique explores the benefits of the mind–body
connection by teaching imagery, evolutionary design, and dynamic movement of bones, muscles, organs in relationship to each other. This approach enhances our function and ability, releases tension, improves balance,
coordination and strength, and helps develop awareness that you can take into all aspects of your life! Center of Balance is a US Franklin Method certification center.
BodyCode System
The BodyCode System was founded by Pino Carbone of Florence, Italy. Pino developed his own concept of Yoga and the innovative ArtForm® System, a patented series of exercise devices including the MasterStretch
boots, Elvis "the pelvis", the Pro-Arch, Sculptor and the elaborate Geometrix and Pegasus. Each apparatus involves a BodyCode training method enabling individuals to improve their physical condition by strengthening
and stretching in a three dimensional way. With a specific program of exercises along with extensive breathing techniques, the system
works from the inside out, giving the body a tune-up. Center of Balance is one of the first studios in the United States to integrate the
BodyCode System into our work. In 2003, Tom McCook completed the first US certification training on the Pegasus. This valuable and transforming work is offered in private and small group intensives and workshops.
 Resistance Stretching
Active contraction of muscles in a lengthened position helps the body become more flexible, strong and stable. Resistance stretching emphasizes matching a person's range of motion to his/her strength. This allows
continuous access to the muscle being stretched throughout the length of the stretch, protecting joints and
reducing injury, while also promoting functional flexibility and strength. This effective form of conditioning is woven into private training sessions and class offerings.
Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
By working through the nervous system as well as the muscular system, therapeutic massage helps people
create more balance in their bodies and reduce muscle tension and pain. Using principles of Shiatsu, Myofascial Release, Feldenkrais,
Craniosacral Therapy and somatic education, body work goes beyond loosening tight muscles to build awareness inside and out. Private sessions are by appointment only. Click here to visit our Body Therapy page
to read more about our massage therapists. What are the benefits of training at Center of Balance?
Everyone can gain from a stronger, more balanced body! Center of Balance exercise techniques are low-risk with high benefits. If you
are a newcomer to these training styles or a regular practitioner, we design programs to meet your health and fitness goals. Our qualified instructors help you get the most out of your practice. 
Individuals who train at Center of Balance include working professionals who want to use their time efficiently to reduce stress and keep fit, people recuperating from injuries, elite athletes training for
events, dancers and performers, young people who are just beginning a fitness regime, and older adults who want a safe way to keep their bones strong and bodies flexible.
Some of the benefits people get from these exercises include:
- Enhanced strength, flexibility, stamina, and coordination
- Stress reduction
- Improved concentration and awareness
- Injury rehabilitation
- Weight reduction
- Improved posture
- Vibrant health
- Improved athletic performance
- Self-confidence and positive outlook
- Balance of mind, body and spirit!
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