Written by Dorothea Iatrou, certified Reformer and Mat Pilates instructor with a BSc in Physical Education and Sport Science, a background as a competitive track and field athlete, and wellness supervision experience at a five-star resort.
Pilates is a method of small details. Where your breath goes, which way your pelvis tips, how much a spring should help or challenge you: most of it is communicated in words. So if you have moved to Athens, or you live here and simply think in English, it makes sense to look for a class where you can follow every cue and ask every question in your own language. Here is what to look for, what classes with Dodo Fit in Chalandri are like, and a few Greek studio words that will help wherever you train.
Why the teaching language matters in Pilates
In many fitness classes you can follow along by watching. Pilates is different. The gap between an exercise that works your deep core and one that strains your lower back often comes down to a single cue, such as "exhale and soften your ribs" or "keep your pelvis still". Understanding those instructions instantly, without translating in your head, means you get more out of every minute.
Language matters off the mat too. Explaining an old injury, a pregnancy, a sensitive joint or simply how you feel that day is much easier in the language you are most comfortable in, and a good instructor needs that information to adapt the session safely.
Pilates in Chalandri with Dodo Fit
Dodo Fit is my own practice. I am a former competitive track and field athlete with a BSc in Physical Education and Sport Science, and a certified Reformer and Mat Pilates instructor. I am fluent in English as well as Greek, and I also speak Dutch, so you can book, ask questions and be coached in English from your very first session.
Group classes take place at Caya Fit Lab in Chalandri, in the northern suburbs of Athens, and one-to-one sessions are held outdoors in Chalandri's green spaces or online. You can choose from:
- Reformer Pilates: beginner-friendly classes on the machine, focused on control, strength and length.
- Mat Pilates: classical mat work with your own body weight for core strength, balance and mobility.
- The 4S Method: our signature workout, combining strength, stability, stretch and stamina, adaptable to every level.
- Strength training: progressive, coached resistance training scaled to your level.
If you live nearby, in areas such as Marousi, Vrilissia, Agia Paraskevi, Psychiko or Kifisia, Chalandri is a short trip away. You will get the exact location and everything you need to know when you book.
Which class should you start with?
If you are new to Pilates, start with a reformer or a mat class. On the reformer the springs support you while you learn, which many beginners find reassuring. On the mat you build control using only your body weight. Both teach the same principles, and our guide to reformer vs. mat Pilates explains the differences in detail.
If you already practise regularly, the 4S Method or a mix of reformer and strength sessions will challenge you. And if you would like full attention on your body and your goals, one-to-one sessions are available too. Before your first visit, have a look at what to expect in your first class.
Greek words you will hear in Athens studios
Even in a class taught in English, it helps to know a few words you will see on studio websites, timetables and signs around Athens:
- Πιλάτες (pilátes): Pilates.
- Πιλάτες κρεβάτι (pilátes kreváti): literally "Pilates bed", the everyday Greek name for the reformer.
- Στρώμα (stróma): mat, so mat Pilates is sometimes written as πιλάτες στο στρώμα.
- Ατομικό μάθημα (atomikó máthima): a private, one-to-one session.
- Εισπνοή and εκπνοή (eispnoí, ekpnoí): inhale and exhale.
- Κορμός (kormós): the trunk, or core.
- Ελατήρια (elatíria): springs, as on the reformer.
How booking works
Have a look at the weekly timetable, then send a message to @do_dofit on Instagram or email iatroudorothea@gmail.com, in English, with the class you are interested in and anything I should know about your body. I will come back to you with availability and the details for your first session.
Frequently asked questions
Are classes taught in English?
You can book, ask questions and be coached in English. Mention it when you get in touch, especially for group classes, so the session can be planned around it.
Do I need Pilates experience?
No. Beginners are always welcome, and the first sessions focus on breathing, finding your centre and learning to move with control.
Can I book private sessions?
Yes. One-to-one sessions are tailored completely to your body and your goals. They are a good way to start if you want to progress faster, or if you are returning to exercise after an injury with your doctor's go-ahead.
Where is Chalandri?
Chalandri is a suburb in the north of Athens, next to Marousi, Vrilissia and Agia Paraskevi, and it is on metro Line 3.
Ready to start? Book a session with Dorothea and we will find the right starting point for your body and your goals. Check the weekly schedule or get in touch with any questions.
