The Insider: Marsha, Nobu Pilates

The Insider Q&A

Tell us about Nobu Pilates – where is your studio located and when did it open?

Nobu Pilates is located at Nobu Hotel Portman Square, and it is the first of its kind! It’s been quite a journey but has proven to be a success, gaining attention from many people in and around London and visitors from far and wide.

Your job brings to you the heart of Marylebone most days. What do you enjoy most about spending time in the area?

Marylebone is super central and gives a mix of both residential and business clients. It somehow feels serene for an area which is directly in the mix, which caters to all needs; you can find a quiet bench in the park to read or a lively cocktail bar. I adore the sense of community and connection between the local businesses. There’s a feeling of mutual uplifting and support.

What was your mission when you started Nobu Pilates?

Nobu have always been driven to deliver both luxury and lifestyle, but also to find ways to offer guests something unique. In the pre-opening phase, they had seen the rise around people’s awareness to wellness, and the growing popularity with Pilates. It made sense to create a beautiful wellness space, with a full Pilates offering within the hotel for both guests and the local community to enjoy.

What classes and workouts can visitors sign-up to at your studio?

There are 3 signature class types – POWER, PRECISION and PURE – designed by me exclusively so they’re not classes you will experience elsewhere. By design, the classes each offer something that caters to individual goals and tastes. The PURE classes are classical, exploring equipment authentically. The PRECISION classes have more of a PT approach, incorporating sets and reps, and the choice between upper and lower body. And POWER is centred around the jumpboard: a mini trampoline attachment positioned at the foot of the reformer- the upbeat cardio version of Pilates. I couldn’t possibly choose a favourite; it would be like choosing a favourite child!

What is your go-to destination in the area for a post-work out breakfast/juice/coffee/shake?

For breakfast and a great coffee – Daisy Green on Seymour Street. Great green juice – Nobu Portman Square Hotel. Quick smoothie – Joe and the Juice on Baker Street, never disappoints! And let’s not forget a Friday night glass of wine at Philglas and Swiggot on New Quebec Street.

How would you choose to spend a free day in Marylebone?

Start the day with Nobu Pilates to get me energised, then pop to Joe and Juice for a Power Shake. I’d then take a stroll around the women’s floor of Selfridges and refresh my manicure at Coco Nails. Then I’d meet friends for lunch at A.O.K Kitchen. If the mood is right, have a few drinks at Chiltern Firehouse after.

Nobu Hotel London Portman Square, 22 Portman Square, London, W1H 7BG