About Us

Your First Private Pilates Studio in Washington, DC

A boutique studio on H Street NE, teaching small group and private Pilates since 2016. Certified instructors, Balanced Body equipment and the attention of a private lesson in every class.

A DC Pilates instructor guides a client’s legs in the reformer straps during a small group class
Our story

Join Our Pilates Studio to Get Fit

DC Pilates, a small boutique Pilates studio nestled in Washington, DC, specializes in providing intimate experiences through small group classes and private Pilates lessons.

Since 2016, our focus has been on embracing Joseph Pilates’ movement principles to offer personalized strengthening, toning and healing methods to our clients. We exclusively use Balanced Body equipment in all classes, ensuring a premium experience. With classes limited to five people, each client receives attention akin to a private lesson from our certified instructors.

Beyond Pilates, we are committed to giving back to our community through various initiatives, including bike safety events, senior fitness programs, workshops at homeless shelters and engaging kids’ activities.

Bike safetycommunity events
Senior fitnessongoing programs
Shelter workshopsmovement for all
Kids’ activitiesplay and movement
The team

Meet Our DC Pilates Instructors

At DC Pilates, our skilled instructors guide you on your journey with expertise. Whether you prefer group classes or private sessions, we tailor them to your goals. Experience the transformative power of Pilates with our experienced trainers, who help you reach your potential.

Owner

Arthur Dunbar

Arthur Dunbar is an experienced fitness professional and Pilates instructor with over 20 years of experience. He works with clients of all fitness levels and backgrounds, crafting customized wellness strategies that achieve their individual goals. He has been featured in major publications such as The Beacon, AARP, The Wichita Eagle, and The Salina Journal newspaper for his innovative approaches and exceptional results. In addition to his certification and licenses, Arthur’s engaging personality and ability to connect with his clients are what truly sets him apart.

Pilates Instructor

Lauren Weinberg

Lauren Weinberg is a native San Antonio, Texan and a graduate of Elon University, where she earned both a B.F.A. in Dance and a B.S. in Dance Science. After graduation, she moved to New York City to pursue a dual career in dance and Pilates. In college, she was first introduced to equipment Pilates and immediately connected with its ability to challenge, strengthen, and refine the body.

Her performance credits include Broadway Dance Center, RWS, and Disney Cruise Line. All over the world, Lauren has had the pleasure of dancing with Disney Cruise Line on board a few of their ships. In NYC, she completed the Broadway Dance Center Summer Training Program and has performed for choreographers including Marcus Allan Cobb, Michaela McGowan, and Jason Wise. She has also collaborated with Julia Kane, Janina Young, and Alexandra Strouse on original choreography for live performances.

A passionate and dedicated teacher, Lauren has taught Pilates throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn at studios such as Club Pilates, Broadway Dance Center, Equinox, and even the TJ Maxx Headquarters. She is committed to helping people feel more connected to their bodies, build strength, and learn injury‑prevention through proper form and technique.

Instructor

Alessandra Lima

Instructor

Rashida Marshall

Rashida A. Marshall is a wellness professional originally from South Florida. She completed her 600hr Comprehensive training in Tallahassee, FL through Classical Pilates Education. She enjoys working closely with pre- and postnatal clients and practicing mat Pilates on her own time.

Instructor

Denesia Parris

Denesia is a Mat and Reformer Pilates instructor certifying through Balanced Body and a registered yoga teacher with Yoga Alliance. Her journey into mindful movement began in 2013 as a personal approach to managing scoliosis, which evolved into a passion for guiding others toward strength, balance, and body awareness.

Denesia's teaching emphasizes alignment, breath, and functional movement, creating inclusive classes that cater to individuals of all levels. She is dedicated to helping clients build strength, enhance flexibility, and improve posture through intentional movement. Her sessions are designed to be both challenging and supportive, fostering a space where clients can connect with their bodies and achieve their wellness goals.

Beyond the studio, Denesia is the author of Logan & Lexi Meditate, a children's book that introduces mindfulness practices to young readers. Recognized as a “Best of D.C. 2021 – Best Yoga Instructor” finalist, she continues to inspire others through movement, mindfulness, and education.

Apprentice Instructor

Oby Ogbuawa

Oby is a dedicated and passionate new instructor at DCPilates, bringing years of personal experience and a deep understanding of the Pilates method to her teaching. With over seven years as a committed DCPilates client, she has developed a strong foundation in the core principles of Pilates—control, precision, breath, and balance.

Professional Background

Oby is currently pursuing her Balanced Body Comprehensive Pilates Certification, a rigorous and globally recognized program that covers all major Pilates apparatus and teaching methodologies. This certification reflects her commitment to professional excellence and continuous learning within the Pilates discipline.

Teaching Philosophy

Drawing from her extensive experience as a client, Oby emphasizes mind-body connection, proper alignment, and functional movement in her classes. She believes that Pilates is not only a form of exercise but also a pathway to improved posture, strength, and overall well-being.

Motivation and Approach

Oby’s motivation stems from her personal transformation through Pilates. She understands firsthand how consistent practice can enhance both physical and mental health. Her teaching approach is supportive, encouraging, and tailored to meet each client’s individual needs—whether they are beginners or advanced practitioners.

Summary

With her deep-rooted passion, formal training through Balanced Body, and years of personal practice, Oby brings both expertise and empathy to her role as a DCPilates instructor. Her goal is to help clients achieve balance, strength, and confidence through the art and discipline of Pilates.

Partners

Product & Affiliate Partners

We exclusively use Balanced Body equipment in every class.

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Ready for Your First Session?

New to Pilates or new to us, starting is simple. Here is exactly how it works.

Questions first? Call +1-202-543-4600 or send us a message.

  1. Choose how to start

    Single classes, class packs and private sessions are all on the pricing page.

  2. Book your spot

    Pick a time on the schedule. Classes are capped at five, so booking ahead helps.

  3. Come to the studio

    526 H St NE, 2nd floor, Washington, DC. We’re open 7 days a week.