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Ischyra Soma Fitness Pilates & GYROTONIC® Wellness Center, Princess Crofton Shopping Center, 1166 State Route 3, S (Crain Highway Suite 105, Gambrills, MD 21054,
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Frequently Asked Questions about Ischyra Soma Fitness Pilates and GYROTONIC Wellness Center
Better living through strength & grace™
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about ISF — our classes, booking, and studio.
Ischyra Soma Fitness (ISF) is a Pilates & GYROTONIC® Wellness Center located in the Crofton/Gambrills area of Maryland. We offer a customized, one-on-one and small-group approach to movement that focuses on transforming and strengthening the body — all in service of our motto: better living through strength and grace™.
"Soma" is Latin for body. "Ischyra" (ἰσχυρός) is a Greek adjective meaning strong or mighty. Together, they reflect the studio's philosophy: a strong body is the common thread that runs through Pilates, GYROTONIC®, and every modality offered at ISF — rooted in the classical Greek ideal of balance in mind, body, and spirit that inspired Joseph Pilates himself.
Eshael M. Johnson, MS, is the owner and lead instructor. She is a classically trained Pilates instructor, certified GYROTONIC® teacher, GYROKINESIS® trainer, and former semi-professional cheerleader. In 2021, she joined the board of directors for the Pilates Method Alliance as its treasurer. She operates the studio exclusively in the Crofton area.
Yes! Ischyra Soma Fitness has been named the Best Pilates Studio in Crofton, Maryland for the fourth year in a row (Best in Crofton 2025). This recognition reflects the community's trust and the team's commitment to excellence in movement and wellness.
ISF currently offers:
- GYROTONIC® Tower — equipment-based training to develop core strength, posture, and mobility
- Pilates Mat — precision floor-based exercises for core stabilization and muscle sculpting
- Pilates Apparatus — reformer and apparatus work to deepen Mat foundations (including a Men-Only session)
- GYROKINESIS® — a holistic, equipment-free method coordinating breath, movement, and mental focus
- Buff Bones® — low-impact bone health and balance class combining Pilates, yoga, and functional movement
- Physical Therapy — via Dr. Suzanne Cowan, a board-certified orthopedic PT through MovementX
Pilates focuses on core stabilization and controlled, precise movements — often using a mat or apparatus like a reformer. GYROTONIC® uses a pulley tower system with circular, spiraling movements that mimic swimming, yoga, and dance, emphasizing range of motion and fluidity. GYROKINESIS® is the mat/chair-based version of the same method with no equipment needed. Both complement each other beautifully and are offered at ISF.
Absolutely. Every class at ISF is designed to be effective for all levels of experience and fitness. Whether you are brand new to Pilates or a seasoned practitioner, classes are tailored to meet you where you are. Seniors, athletes, and those recovering from injury are all welcome. New clients are encouraged to start with an Introductory Private Lesson to establish a strong foundation.
Buff Bones® is a low-impact class blending Pilates, yoga, and functional movement designed to improve bone health, balance, posture, and mobility. It is especially ideal for older adults and those with osteopenia or osteoporosis. Note: medical clearance is required for participants with serious bone or spinal conditions.
Yes! ISF regularly hosts specialty workshops (such as Cadillac and Barrels workshops), seasonal wellness events (like breathwork sessions and archival mat classes), and is an Official Host Training Center for Power Pilates — offering Core Mat I, Core Mat II, and Comprehensive Apparatus certifications for aspiring Pilates teachers. Check the Workshops & Events page for upcoming sessions.
You can book online directly through the Book a Class page, powered by Momence. You can also download the Momence app for iOS or Android to view the class schedule and manage bookings on the go. For appointments, use the "Set Appointment" link on the booking page.
ISF offers four program types, each available as a 3-month, 6-month, or 12-month membership:
- Private Lessons w/ Studio Owner — one-on-one with Eshael M. Johnson, MS
- Private Lessons w/ Certified Teacher — one-on-one with a certified ISF instructor
- Mat & GYROKINESIS® Classes — group floor-based sessions, no equipment needed
- Apparatus & GYROTONIC® Classes — group equipment-based sessions
Yes. In addition to memberships, ISF offers session packs such as Introductory Private Lesson 3-pack, Private 30-minute Lesson, Apprentice Private Lesson, and Duet/Semi-private options. View and purchase all packages through the booking page.
ISF has plans to accept major insurance plans as part of its wellness center vision. The physical therapy services offered through Dr. Suzanne Cowan and MovementX may have their own insurance options — contact MovementX directly for billing details. Reach out to ISF at info@ischyrasomafitness.co for the most current information.
The best starting point is the Introductory Private Lesson. This one-on-one session gives you a personalized introduction to the method, lets the instructor assess your body and goals, and ensures you feel confident before joining group classes. You can book it through the booking page or reach out to the studio directly.
Yes. ISF is dedicated to serving all bodies, including those who need prescriptive or rehabilitative exercise. Classical Pilates and GYROTONIC® are well-known for supporting recovery — Eshael personally used Pilates to rehabilitate after a car accident that shattered her kneecap. The studio also partners with Dr. Suzanne Cowan for orthopedic physical therapy. Please mention any injuries or conditions when booking so your instructor can tailor the session appropriately. Medical clearance may be required for certain conditions (e.g., Buff Bones® for bone/spinal conditions).
Not at all. ISF even offers a dedicated Pilates Apparatus: Men Only class, designed to build strength, flexibility, alignment, and core performance for men. Pilates was originally developed by a man (Joseph Pilates) and benefits all bodies regardless of gender, age, or fitness level.
Wear comfortable, form-fitting workout attire that allows your instructor to observe your alignment and movement — avoid overly baggy clothing. Grip socks are recommended for mat and apparatus work. Bring water and arrive a few minutes early. Contact the studio if you have questions about what to expect for your specific class type.
ISF is located in the Princess Crofton Shopping Center at 1166 State Route 3 S (Crain Highway), Suite 105, Gambrills, MD 21054. The studio serves the Crofton, Gambrills, and surrounding Anne Arundel County communities.
- Phone: 703.528.2821
- Email: info@ischyrasomafitness.co
- Instagram: @ischyra_soma_fitness
- Facebook: IschyraSomaFitness
Yes! ISF is an Official Host Training Center for Power Pilates, the leading classical Pilates educator with over 10,000 graduates worldwide. Programs hosted at ISF include Core Mat I, Core Mat II, and the Comprehensive Apparatus program. Visit powerpilates.com or call 1.212.627.5695 for registration details. Workshops may offer continuing education credits through NPCP and The Pilates Standard.
Still have questions? We'd love to hear from you.
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