Lisa Corpin, owner of Pacific Coast Pilates on Palisades Drive, caters to an individual’s needs while working with all ages and all levels of experience from beginners to advanced. “It’s never too late to start Pilates,” said Corpin, whose clients include men and women (age 15 to 70) who are physically fit or just beginning an exercise regimen. “It strengthens bones and posture, and is about using the entire body, without compensating one part over the other.” Corpin has worked with people who thought they might require surgery for a skeletal problem, but after doing Pilates are sometimes pleasantly surprised, because the initial condition clears up. “Pilates helps with core strength and improves balance, flexibility and coordination,” Corpin said. “This exercise is good cross-training for golfers, tennis players and swimmers. It strengthens and lengthens muscles without creating bulk.” Pacific Coast Pilates is located in the Highlands in a small second-floor studio next to Casa Nostra restaurant. Corpin’s sister-in-law, Brooke Lieberman, opened the business in 2004, and a year later, Corpin started working with her. When Lieberman and her husband moved to Chicago in 2009, Corpin took over the business. Corpin, who liked the boutique-style feel of the studio, made only minor changes. She replaced the sign in the parking lot, acquired new apparatus, styled the studio with cleaner lines and created a logo. “I hope that when people come here they feel at home and feel they are like family,” Corpin said. For many in the Highlands, the studio is the perfect place to grab a class because of the short drive, and for some in the Palisades community, it’s a mini-getaway because of the free parking and the beautiful views. “We offer specialized attention and customized classes,” Corpin said, noting that people can bring their own music and that friends can book a class together. “We’re flexible. We want to make sure everyone leaves feeling satisfied.” Corpin and her instructors, Leslie Alnes and Annie Verderame, mix the routines, determined that “We don’t want clients to feel bored, doing the same thing all the time.” They also pride themselves on keeping up with the latest trends and certifications. “A Pilates workout also helps eliminate stress,” Corpin said. “One way to stay healthy is to eliminate stress in your life.” Corpin, who grew up in Seal Beach and graduated from San Diego State in 2004, discovered Pilates in high school. She was a song leader and a cheerleader, and traveled the country with the Orange County High School Arts dance program, performing tap, jazz and ballet. ”I started Pilates to strengthen my body and legs for ballet,” she said. After college, Corpin said, “I wasn’t sure about my career path, but once I got certified in Pilates, I really enjoyed it.” Maybe the only downside to her business is the commute from Manhattan Beach, where she lives with her husband of two years, Tony Lieberman (Brooke’s brother). Classes are by appointment and are available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Corpin is offering a special introductory package for new clients, which is four private sessions for $199. Gift certificates are available. Call (310) 459-1036 or visit pacificcoastpilates.com.
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