STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — After practicing Pilates for more than 20 years, Gendyliss “Gen” Nevarez decided it was time to bring a new standard of the popular exercise method to the Staten Island community.
“My goal was to bring Pilates back to its roots, focusing on precision, strength, and true mind-body connection, while also creating a modern, elevated experience that feels both welcoming and luxurious,” Nevarez said. “Staten Island deserves a studio that combines top-tier instruction with a community-centered space, and that’s exactly what Elevated Pilates is.”
Located at 85 Guyon Ave. in Oakwood, Elevated Pilates NYC offers 50-minute reformer classes and various membership options in a space dedicated to holistic living and community.(Courtesy of WaheebWho)
Located at 85 Guyon Ave. in Oakwood, Nevarez’s concept opened for business last month, and she said that the clientele is steadily growing.
“We are proud to be the first Pilates studio in the borough with an integrated café concept,” noted business partner Moe Sultan, describing an in-studio space that serves coffee, refreshers, smoothies, protein shakes and more. “It’s truly a wellness hub, not just a workout.”
Nevarez, a retired New York City police officer, said the space is her sanctuary for mindful movement.
The studio includes an outdoor mat oasis reserved for member and community events.(Courtesy of WaheebWho)
“While serving as a New York City police officer, Gen continued practicing Pilates as a personal refuge and form of self-care,” Sultan said. “Now retired from the NYPD, she remains as vibrant and energized as ever, channeling her strength and resilience into building a space where everyone can thrive. What started as a hobby evolved into a calling, and eventually a community. Elevated Pilates is the realization of that vision.”
The owners defined the business as “a soulful welcoming space dedicated to holistic living, purposeful movement, and personal transformation,” and noted that their approach is “rooted in authenticity, community, and a deep belief that movement is medicine for the body, mind, and spirit.”
“We are proud to be the first Pilates studio in the borough with an integrated café concept,” noted business partner Moe Sultan, describing an in-studio space which serves coffee, refreshers, smoothies, protein shakes and more. (Courtesy of WaheebWho)
“I truly love helping people feel empowered in their own bodies. Pilates is for everyone, and watching clients walk out of class standing taller, moving better, and smiling is the best reward,” Nevarez said. “For me, Elevated Pilates is not just a business, it’s a community and a passion project. I feel honored to bring this to Staten Island and share what I love every single day.”
The studio offers 50-minute group Pilates reformer classes in a variety of styles, including classic Pilates, strength-focused and cardio-infused sessions. There’s also an outdoor mat oasis reserved for member and community events.
There are various membership options, including unlimited classes, 12-class monthly packages, and six-class monthly packages. Single drop-in classes are available for $49. (Courtesy of WaheebWho)
Classes are held in a boutique setting with 10 reformers, and each session is designed to challenge and transform the body while maintaining the foundation of Pilates.
There are various membership options, including unlimited classes, 12-class monthly packages, and six-class monthly packages. Single drop-in classes are available for $49.
“Elevated Pilates is unique, because we bring Pilates back to its classical foundation, but with a modern twist: fun class names, an elevated aesthetic, and a lifestyle-focused approach that blends movement, nutrition, and community,” Nevarez said. “It’s Pilates, just elevated.”
New Businesses in Focus is a column that tells the stories of new Staten Island business owners. If you run a new business on Staten Island and would like to be featured, e-mail jgorman@siadvance.com.
Elevated Pilates NYC at a glance:
Address: 85 Guyon Ave. 10306
Phone: 718-889-0518
Website: www.elevatedpilatesnyc.com
Instagram and TikTok: @ElevatedPilatesNYC.
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