PITAIYO Opens on Caroline Street

When you walk into PITAIYO, a new fitness and fashion boutique at 1006A Caroline St. in downtown Fredericksburg, you've entered an oasis.  The decor, the music and the aromatherapy immediately contribute to deep breathing and a lower heart rate.  It's a relaxing atmosphere.

Alex Kelly-Maartens created PITAIYO in 2006.  The exercise for which her business is named is a combination of Pilates, tai chi and yoga, with a focus on mind and body integration through positive affirmation. "You are what you think" is the theme.

Alex is quick to point out, however, that it's not a spiritual practice.  She's seen too many people turned-off to even trying these exercise forms, thinking they are religion.

"The PITAIYO workout is one method in multiple formats designed to condition the entire body," Alex said. "My goal is to make these exercise forms accessible to everyone.  Each format encourages integration of the mind and body and helps you achieve precision in muscle control, coordination, strength and fluidity of movement."

The first room of the shop is the boutique, featuring workout fashions.  The next room is the lounge, where guests relax before and after class.  Alex provides herbal teas and infused waters.

The exercise studio and the children's room are next.  Alex is working on a co-op so moms can come to class and have childcare available.

Classes are grouped by categories of gentle, rebuild-refocus, athletic, children & family, and specialty.

The complete list of classes offered includes:

• Pre Natal PITAIYO, which follows American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) guidelines.
• MOME -- a shorter, simpler class for moms and little ones; 
• Power PITAIYO, with effective cross training needed for half marathons, marathons and triathlons, for example.
• Couples PITAIYO
• KIDZ, for ages 5 - 8 and 9 - 13.
• Guided Meditation, described as, "very user friendly and described as thinking on purpose."

Corporate retreats and private functions are available by appointment. 

Class listings, registration and payment are online.  Prices are:

• 10-pack, $100
• 3-pack, $39
• Single One Month, $60
• Drop in, $15
• Military/Senior Drop in, $13
• Student Drop in, $10

For more information, see:

• PITAIYO website
• PITAIYO on Facebook