I went to pilates in JB…
A little context: i'm a dentist who started pilates this year because my neck and back were basically forcing me to do something about it. i do pilates in singapore, but on a recent JB trip, i thought — why not try a class over there for a change?
here's everything you need to know if you're thinking of doing the same.
The Studio: Cove Pilates
Website:covepilates.co
Address: 02-19, Blok F Komersial Southkey Mozek, Persiaran Southkey 1, Kota Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Cost: RM 199 for a duet pilates class
i've actually stayed at the apartment building right next to this studio before (it's an airbnb-style place), so it was a little fun walking back into a familiar area for a completely different reason.
before the class, i made sure to let them know:
i'm a beginner in pilates
i didn't really like the pilates chair — we find the exercises too difficult
they noted it all down, and it made a difference (more on that in a bit).
Getting There: Transtar Coach
i took the transtar coach from singapore. tickets are $6 each, and it's pretty convenient — but fair warning, finding the bus pick-up point after clearing immigration can be a bit hectic.
tip: just follow the other people from your bus. don't try to figure it out yourself. trust the crowd 😅
The Facilities
the studio itself is really cute:
super pink pilates room (very instagram-worthy)
spacious duet room — didn't feel cramped at all
no towels provided, so bring your own
1 shower, located inside a toilet cubicle
small space, but it works well for what it is.
The Class
Instructor: Shi Ern — loved her vibes ⭐
the class was a mixture of reformer, chair, barrel, and cadillac. even though we mentioned we weren't fans of the chair, she tailored the exercises to our fitness level without making a big deal of it. that kind of attentiveness really matters.
it was my first time trying the barrel AND the cadillac. shi ern actually asked if we wanted to try the cadillac and carved out time for it — only one person can use it at a time, and the exercises are tough, but it was so fun. obviously had to take some videos for memories :')
So, Was It Worth It
yes — but go in with the right mindset. this isn't about progression, especially if you're only going once. it's about exposure, trying something new, and having a really good reason to eat a lot after.
it's also a genuinely fun activity to do with your bestie / partner. highly recommend the duet format for that reason.
Other activities
胜阳茶室餐厅
Address: 01-17, Block H, Komersil Southkey Mozek, Persiaran Southkey 1, Kota Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
the hawker right next to the pilates building is lovely. we had the kway chap and wanton noodles (Puen Thai Food and Good Taste Full Egg Wantan Noodle 好味全旦云吞面). may look ordinary — but super super tasty. don't skip it.
Eden by Wizards Cafe
Address: 19, Jln Tiong Emas, Kawasan Perindustrian Tiong Nam Tebrau 3, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Tang Retreat Reserve (massage)
Address: 08, Block A, Pusat Komersial Pelangi, Jln Sri Pelangi 4, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia — view on Google Maps
阿彬养生肉骨茶 · Restoran Ah Peng Bak Kut Teh · Taman Pelang
Directions:view on Google Maps
