Ultimate Fitness Mill Valley

All of the instructors here are top notch. Whether you are just beginning or have experience with Pilates, you will have a Positive Experience at Mercury Fitness.

Reviewed on Facebook

I have recently started going back to Mercury Fitness, courtesy of ClassPass and am pleasantly surprised with every new teacher I take. I am still new to the reformer and took 'The Situation - Machine Hybrid/Core' class with Aikaeli a few weeks ago. She is such a gem! I felt  as though all pieces of the reformer were explained impeccably to me and that I was given useful corrections frequently. There are only 4 reformers at this studio so you get very personalized attention which I love. I have also taken the Mat Pilates class with Cheyanne who KILLS it. She is incredible and gives the hardest mat class i've ever taken. Overall, this studio delivers a 5 star experience every time I visit. It doesn't hurt that it's a three minute walk from my apartment either ;) More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This place is amazing and Randy is great! Spacious flooring so you don't feel crammed in a room and the equipment is new and clean.  I highly recommend Mercury Fitness. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I love Mercury! I've been doing pilates for years and I was frustrated when I started taking classes in SF that were pilates, but sped up and bootcamp style. Pilates is 99% about form, and if you do the right form you will get results and your body will feel good/injury free. These classes did NOT focus on form and felt really unsafe. Then I came to Mercury and found the mecca for experienced instructors who care about your body's health and safety, but still push you beyond belief so you leave feeling sore and accomplished. Pilates lengthens me and makes me feel strong and Mercury is the spot! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

What did I just endure?! This isn't your mom's Pilates class.The machine hybrid "gun show" class with David was just as wicked and challenging as everyone described. Despite priding myself in having decent upper body strength, it was absolute torture (in a good way). I've taken a mat Pilates class here that was solid and more traditional, but David's classes are on another level. The upper body-focused class had us doing deceptively hard moves with light weights as well as the machine and springs, tackling our arms, shoulders, and upper back. We finished with leg exercises, but the focus of the class was upper body and core.It doesn't help that there only four students so all eyes are on you--and you can't get away with slacking off. David was a hilarious and sarcastic teacher and insisted that we keep going, frequently making jokes like, "Only a thousand more reps to go!" Ha ha...I wanted to die. I've never sweat and trembled so much in a Pilates class before!I will definitely be back for more butt kicking. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

David is one the best fitness teachers I've ever had, and that says a lot coming from 13 years of hard core yoga. He effortlessly weaves endurance challenges, strength training and appropriately charming banter throughout class. It's my understanding that he has been teaching fitness classes including aerobics back in the day, for 30 years and was 15 years of professional ballet dancer. David is truly a master Pilates teacher, who innovates and keeps things fresh. In the 5 years that I've been taking classes with him, I have not been bored! I am more tone than I ever been in my life. David's understanding of anatomy, pacing, sequencing are on point. He has a way of inspiring you without loudly barking at you. Also, the volume of the music in the studio is appropriate, not too loud. The studio is clean and inviting. I highly recommend David's classes for a challenging and not boring class that won't disappoint. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I've been taking Pilates classes at Mercury, on and off, for almost 8 years. David Woods (BEST instructor ever!) has been part of my journey there. He understands the body mechanics like no one and has helped me to develop a strong and healthy body. David Woods, you are the best! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I love Lisa Liles!!! She is such an amazing instructor and aside from that a really fun, cool, easy person to spend time with.    I have loads of experience with pilates (started taking classes  in 1999) and mercury knows pilates.  Love that they are in my hood! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

After tearing a muscle in my upper back just over 3 months before my wedding, I was in desperate need of a fitness solution that could be tailored to my specific injury but was still a highly effective total body workout. Lisa at Mercury Fitness definitely saved me! In working with her through private, one-on-one sessions we were able to develop a Pilates program that incorporated full body toning, while slowly building back up the strength in my back. I had originally planned to focus on Pilates only up until my wedding, but now I'm addicted! Lisa and the whole Mercury Fitness team are amazing. The studio has a calming vibe, and I always leave feeling both stronger and more relaxed. Whether you choose private Pilates sessions, classes, or a combination of both, Mercury Fitness will get you in amazing shape! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This place is great! David is an amazing instructor - funny but he pushes you and you walk out sore! I am so happy to find a challenging pilates class and I think all the classes are amazing and I took a class from Lisa and wow - that was really hard too! it is a very unique style of pilates that keeps you mentally and physically engaged the whole time! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This is the best place for Pilates.  The instructors are all wonderful to work with.  They are determined to help with our workout goals.   After so many years of not exercising, it was time to do it.  I was a whiner and lacked strength and stamina but David and the other instructors were determined to get me started and get me going to a respectable place in my regime.  I have improved tremendously through their guidance.  I didn't realize Pilates could be difficult but it helped me build up my core among other areas. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I highly recommend Mercury Fitness:-The atmosphere is great.  It is a calm, clean studio with soft music.  -The classes are challenging.  I always thought pilates wouldn't be enough of a workout, but I was wrong.  This is a great work out - I almost always break a sweat-I love David.  He is unassuming when you meet him, but his classes are hard and he pushes you to stay with it.  He is very knowledgeable and pays attention to form.  Also, in the several months I have been going, I rarely do the same workout.  He has lots of variation-I have noticed a change in my body.  I am stronger, stand up straighter and don't have as much shoulder pain More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have been obsessed with Mercury Fitness for years.  I have tried many studios in SF and Oakland, and this place remains my favorite by far.  I love the workouts because the instructors give a very detailed, targeted, and refined level of instruction while still kicking your ass.   The instructors are all extremely knowledgeable about the body.  Each instructor has a unique style and they range from giving a super intense workout, to a less severe, but solid workout. I've tried them all and think they are all fantastic.  They push you to your absolute limit while finding a way to motivate and make you laugh.  The classes are also creatively sequenced and poses are generally timed to breath (as opposed to a clock), so you really get in a flow and never feel bored or like you are doing the same thing twice.  The classes also move quickly, so no time is wasted in between poses.  I leave every class feeling like my entire body (core especially) has been whipped into shape - toned, strengthened ... lengthened... the works!   I've seriously gotten SO strong and lean from this place it's incredible.  The studio itself also has a nice vibe, quality equipment, great music, super friendly people.  And free almonds. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Love the atmosphere, it's very calm and sedate, and there always seems to be someone getting direct attention from the instructors, who are determined to help me build up my core.

Reviewed on Yelp

If you feel like dying over and over again, take David's chair classes. David is cruel and unusual, but SO WORTH IT. Classes book up quickly through classpass, so make sure you make that reservation in advance! I love the subterranean atmosphere, with dark zen-like lights and wood floors. The studio is laid out really nicely, with all the equipment (chair, mat, reformer, cadillac, tower, they have it all!) in the room so the hybrid classes flow nicely. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This is my Pilates studio of choice when I visit San Francisco.  I have a Pilates crush on David who is a master of his torture (and I mean that as a highest compliment), but all the instructors are professional and versed in their craft - and I am a Pilates trainer/studio owner!

Reviewed on Yelp

Kathleen is a fabulous instructor. She gives modifications as needed and ensures the student is in proper alignment. I really enjoyed her mat class. The facilities are really lovely and feel very zen like, which is especially nice given there is a bustling city right outside the door. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I can not say enough amazing things about Pilates Director Lisa! I have been doing 'machine' pilates for awhile, and LIsa is by far the most knowledgeable instructor I have had. She is constantly changing up her classes and private sessions with new and innovative exercises. Also, she graciously gives out helpful recommendations and sweet modifications when needed/asked. Go take one of her classes ASAP! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My favorite Pilates studio in the Marina.   David is the best instructor. His classes are not for the weak or a newbie to Pilates so beware. He truly pushes each client and motivates them to get the most out of the Pilates session.  He is such a funny instructor and don't even think about slacking during your session with David. Even though there may be four students in each class, he's got eagle eyes on everybody's form and will really push you to do your best.   I always feel accomplished after each session, knowing that I tried my best. I have taken many classes with Cheyenne and Kathleen over the years as well.  Both fantastic instructors that are extremely knowledgable. The mix up the routine in each class so no class is ever the same. I was taking Pilates while pregnant and the instructors are all trained to help you modify your movements so that it's safe.  I have taken a few classes with Alexis and she's super fun, energetic and gets you moving. All in all i have had a fabulous experience.Best of all is that these instructors have all been at the studio for a while unlike a lot of studios on union street where there is huge turnover. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I almost don't want to rate this place because I don't want it to blow up and become so popular that I can't get in to a class. ... but I have to. David is the Pilates master! You will not find a better or harder Pilates class anywhere. You'll be calling for your mama 1 minute in, but it will be the best use of an hour you ever spent. I have been to several classes here and every one has been awesome. Each class is different every time. I have no idea how a person can come up with that many different Pilates moves, but I have never done the same move twice. It's simply the best! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have tried 3 different classes with David and I love it! He's fun and really challenging. This studio is nothing like average pilates studios, they take you to a different level of your pilates practice. Looking forward for my next session. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I'm not a big Pilates fan and prefer to get my workouts in through weight training, HIIT and other heart pumping exercises. Following a recent shutdown of my favorite bootcamp, I ventured to see what else was out there in SF. After reading many positive reviews and its proximity to my place, I decided to take a machine hybrid class with David. The space is gorgeous! Located in the lower level of the building, once you walk in, you'll find yourself in a zen-like environment with dimmed lights. The Hybrid classes are a mix between the Reformer and Chair. I've never used the Chair before and found it more challenging than expected. It's basically a box with one side that can be pressed down against the resistance of springs like a large pedal. Don't underestimate this piece of equipment. The machine requires core engagement to control the springs. The exercises we did on the Chair focused on the core whereas the Reformer focused more on arms and legs. Classes are limited to 6 people, allowing the instructor to give individualized attention. It's almost like taking a private class for less money. David did an excellent job leading the class and paying particular attention to form.  He made me work hard and I felt a little sore in my abs the next day. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

You know. I'm a TRX and high intensity Bootcamp kinda girl. The only mat pilates I had taken before were slow...painfully. ..and never felt like I actually worked out. I tried a mat class with the welcome special and tried David's class. Let me tell you...I've bought three more packages because I'm hooked. David makes you work muscles you didn't know existed. I leave sweating and wake up feeling sore and accomplished. Plus, he's throws in some humor which always helps when your muscles are shaking and you're hating life.  Try his class if you love a hard workout! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Some say abs are made in the kitchen. But I say they're made at Mercury Fitness. I'm pretty sure I ate two cookies after mat pilates, and STILL saw abs the next morning. Their workouts are magical!David is so fun, but you can't go wrong with any of the instructors here. They will push your limits to the max! I can't wait for the next workout. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Perfect place for the Pilates enthusiast!This studio has all the Pilates equipment you need: reformers, chairs, towers, etc.  The studio itself almost feels like a spa with the soft lighting, candles, and snacks (apples, almonds).I have taken a few mat classes with Kathleen and several reformer or hybrid classes with David.  Kathleen's mat classes are good, but incorporate a lot of stretching and will usually not cause you to break a sweat.  On the other hand, David's classes are extremely challenging.  Since I always like to challenge myself and break a sweat, I usually prefer his classes because he really pushes you to your limit and perfects your form.  I would not recommend his classes if you are relatively new to Pilates or want a moderate workout.  Even though David's classes are tough (I have to mentally prepare myself beforehand), I always leave feeling amazing and knowing I gave it all I had. My favorite thing about this studio: the small classes (mat classes usually have about 6 people and all the other classes only have 4 people max)! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I went to Mercury Fitness for the first time at 6:30 am today.First, I am already sore but in a good way.  My abs and my booty, both sore.  And I go to a lot of pilates, yoga, bootcamp, cardio, etc.  And this was a mat class.... I should be embarrassed but the abs stuff especially - WHEWSecond, great studio.  No showers which is fine, but their facility is really nice.  Lots of pilates equipment.Finally, my instructor was great.  She was engaging as the classes are really small and she was incredibly friendly.  She tailored the class to the students' needs.  Very awesome.  And no music which is great because pilates doesn't need music!!I'm gong back tomorrow. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have only been working with Lisa for a few weeks and I feel so lucky to have randomly (fate ) been assigned her for my first one-on-one session at Mercury.  She is just so personable and supportive, and we hit it off immediately.  I am training for a huge (for me) trekking trip in Nepal in November and I knew that this kind of core work was the key to enjoying and succeeding in this adventure.  After 6-7 sessions with Lisa I *KNOW* I will be able do it.  I feel stronger already, and even if the training hikes are difficult, I know I will just keep getting more and more confident because my body will be as ready as my mind is for this challenge! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I found this place through a coupon website and I'm so lucky I did! They have everything here. They have reformer, tower, chair and mat classes here running all day; and its not those skinny yoga mats that you can just roll up. Mat classes are popular and usually fill up on the weekends. Early week night are more quiet but the later weeknight classes generaly mean most of the parking is already taken up if your driving there. My sweetie and I are not as fit as the local Marina crowd so we really enjoy taking class with Kathleen on the reformer, she is more our pace so we take less breaks. I also really like taking Lisa's mat class she incorporates the  foam roller sometimes and you get a massage and strech in while you're working out! All the instructors really change up the workouts so you dont feel like your doing the same workouts all the time. They have new student specials, we take avantage and take 4 classes weeks! You know you got a good workout in when it kind of hurts to go up the 5 ft of stairways after class lol More...

Reviewed on Yelp

thank you for a fabulous 2013, cheyanne, david and kathleen!  i learned so much from you and i'm in the best shape of my life now.

Reviewed on Yelp

This place gives the highest quality, most insane break-a-heavy sweat pilates workouts I have ever seen. The instructors are all really high quality and the classes are kept small so you get plenty of individual attention to fix your posture, etc. I'm blown away at every class. David is amazing! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Randy is so thoughtful and really cares about the clients. I love the space -- super clean and relaxing but not too much so.  Had an awesome private lesson with Kathleen and she had me sweating it out! Tough but motivating and I appreciated how she was understanding/knowledgeable about c-section recovery.Cannot wait to go back! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I absolutely love this place! You see the results so fast. All the instructors are wonderful and they know their stuff.

Reviewed on Yelp

I started coming to this place in November, and I absolutely love it!  So far, I've taken a few reformer classes and also a mat class.  I like that the classes are small and the instructors are very attentive.  All the classes are taught at an intermediate to advanced level.  I would consider myself a beginner, so I liked how the instructors were very helpful in correcting my form.  So far, my favorite class has been the jumpboard class.  The mat class is the best workout overall I'd say, it definitely made me work!  It would be nice if there were also some beginner classes offered as well to get started though.  The place itself is in a great location and looks very clean when you walk in.  The people at the front desk are also friendly and I've never had problems getting into a class.  I also like that the are part of of Perkville, so you get rewarded for working out!  I already have 9 classes scheduled for me to attend in January, will definitely keep coming here.  I know these work outs will get me in great shape for spring! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Great classes, incredibly friendly staff, and what's not to love about getting your ass (and other body parts) kicked and having a good laugh at the same time (David Does Dallas, anyone?)

Reviewed on Yelp

David is crazy amazing.  His workouts are challenging but super fun.  He's the best pilates teacher I've ever had, and I've had like 30, in San Francisco and New York.

Reviewed on Yelp

Oh hello abs! 3 weeks in taking classes and private sessions here my stomach has never looked so flat and tone. Love the zen like feel of the studio, the knowledge and ability of the trainers and especially the way my body looks. Great place to get a kick butt workout in! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Go to Mercury for Pilates. It's an amazing experience and a great investment for your body. The instructors take the time to get to know your body and it's particular needs during each work out. Most will adjust you if you are doing the exercise incorrectly. Class sizes range from 4-8 people maximum, so you get very personalized attention each session. The vibe at Mercury is chill-out. There is always cool electronica music playing in the background, candles lit, island scenes showing on the flat screen TV, and plush leather Pilates mats to work out on (no need to bring your own). The studio is pristine,  clean, and offers you fresh white towels, almonds and apples to enjoy. But NO free water available. They charge $1 a bottle if you forget to bring your own water. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I am now in love with Pilates, because of Mercury Fitness.  I suffered a great deal from lower back pain for years and I am crediting Pilates and Lara for complete relief of that pain.  Now the only thing that hurts is my core after class!  I also took the teacher training for Mat at Mercury.  Lara is extremely well versed in the Pilates principles and method.  Her anatomy and human movement knowledge were so helpful as I learned how to teach Pilates to my clients. In addition, the studio is super clean at all times, the large and thick mats are perfect for the practice and the staff are very friendly. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Love, love, love, love, love! Everyone at Mercury is fantastic and I always get an amazing workout every time I go.  David is my favorite instructor but I really haven't had a bad class there with anyone.  The owners Lara and Darren are great as well.  Now, if only I could manage to work less and go to Mercury more! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Best Pilates studio in SF. I have tried many other studios and none have come close. I live in SOMA, but I make the drive in the mornings to do the 6am mat or reformer class. The workout is focused and challenging - just as pilates should be. Challenging is key. I have never felt like I'm doing the same exact workout...the instructors always seem to have some new technique in each class which keeps things challenging for me and I LOVE the results. The staff here is extremely attentive, friendly...it's a place "where everyone knows your name". More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This place is wonderful. I am a fellow fitness instructor and I love a place that gives a great workout. More importantly, I love a place that has a nice staff and really great customer service. That is by far the best. I can do without all the bells and whistles, but I understand the concept, design, and the reason it resides in the Marina District. When I return from Europe I am sure I will be doing more consistent classes, possibly even the training. Thank you ladies, and David More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Best workout ever.  I love it here and have been going on/off for 5 years!  Everyone from the owners, to the front desk folks to the AMAZING trainers is wonderful. I had broken my ankle (severely) and after 3 months of being in a cast and on crutches, I needed to start working on my strength in conjunction w/ my PT.  So I went back to Mercury after a hiatus and I can't stress enough how all of the trainers I worked with (David, Bridget, Cheyenne, Christi, Lara, etc) helped me get my core strength and ankle/leg strength back through 1:1 sessions or classes (and lose a bunch of weight and look hot again)!The private 1:1 sessions are intense and the mat classes often leave you drenched in sweat and feeling like jelly, but soooo worth the price!  I haven't done the machine classes in a long time but I remember those being wonderful, too... More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Ridiculous.  In a good way.  The pilates classes here are tough.  Go here to die (in a good way).  A much needed studio amongst a city full of frou frou no results pilates studios.

Reviewed on Yelp

The classes (both mat and machine) at Mercury are phenomenal.  I've loved most of the instructors, but Bridget is my favorite.  The space is beautiful and the classes absolutely destroy me..  in the best possile way! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Great place to get in fantastic shape.  David and Cheyenne are amazing, they will kick your booty!  I love the on-line reservations, small class sizes and spa-like atmosphere (especially at 6am).

Reviewed on Yelp