Strength training · Ann Arbor, Michigan

    Strength by Core Collective

    Looking for more strength work alongside Pilates? Strength by Core Collective adds progressive resistance training to the mix, including Core Circuit on our Amp Fitness cable machines at Plymouth Road. It's designed to be approachable at different experience levels, with instructors guiding you through the movements and equipment.

    Build strength. Learn proper form. Leave feeling accomplished.

    Members training on the AMP machines during a Core Circuit strength class

    Core Circuit combines the coaching of a personal trainer, the energy of a group class and the simplicity of a fully planned workout.

    • No wondering what to do next.
    • No waiting for equipment.
    • No guessing if you're doing it correctly.
    • Just show up. We'll handle the rest.
    The AMP magnetic cable machine used in Core Circuit strength classes

    What is Core Circuit?

    Meet the AMP machine

    Strength training that's designed to work with you.

    At the heart of every Core Circuit class is the AMP machine, a modern strength training system designed to make lifting weights more approachable, more effective and, honestly, a lot more fun.

    Unlike a traditional gym where you're moving from machine to machine or searching for the right dumbbells, the AMP machine lets you perform dozens of exercises from one station while your instructor coaches you every step of the way.

    Whether you're brand new to strength training or have years of experience, the machine adapts to you, not the other way around.

    Book your first class for $15
    Magnetic cable resistance
    Smooth, controlled resistance that's easy on your joints while still allowing you to work hard.
    One-pound increments
    Unlike traditional weight stacks that jump in large increments, our machines adjust one pound at a time.
    Up to 100 lbs
    Our machines max out at 100lbs, and generally feel about 15-30% heavier than free weights because they eliminate momentum.
    One station, dozens of exercises
    Presses, rows, squats and lunges - all from one station, with no waiting for equipment.

    Why Core Circuit

    Why choose Core Circuit?

    Core Circuit member training with cable resistance

    Pilates + Strength Under One Membership

    One membership. Two completely different training styles. Build strength with Core Circuit. Improve mobility, control and body awareness with Pilates. You don't have to choose one or the other.

    Adjusting resistance on an AMP machine during a Core Circuit class

    Resistance that Fits You

    Unlike traditional weight stacks that jump in large increments, our machines adjust one pound at a time. That means you can find the exact resistance that challenges you without being too heavy or too light. Whether you're recovering from an injury, are just getting started or are a regular to strength training, your workout can be tailored to your body.

    Group strength class working through a coached circuit

    Strength Training that Actually Feels Fun

    Let's be honest. Walking into a traditional gym can feel overwhelming. Which machine should you use? How much weight? How many reps? Is your form correct? Core Circuit removes all of that uncertainty. Using our resistance machines, you'll move through a professionally coached workout that feels more like taking a class than figuring things out on your own.

    Instructor coaching form during a Core Circuit strength class

    Coaching Every Step Of The Way

    Our instructors aren't just counting reps. They're watching your movement. Offering form corrections. Helping you choose appropriate resistance. Encouraging you when things get challenging. It's the accountability of personal training without the personal training price tag.

    Members following a planned strength workout

    Every Workout is Planned for You

    One of the biggest reasons people stop strength training is decision fatigue. You don't have to create a workout. You don't have to research exercises. You don't have to remember what you did last week. Our instructors design every workout and coach you through each exercise from beginning to end.

    Small group strength class training together

    More Affordable Than Personal Training

    Working with a personal trainer can easily cost $75 to $150+ per session. Core Circuit gives you expert coaching every class for a fraction of the cost. You'll still receive guidance, accountability and instruction while enjoying the motivation of training alongside others.

    Two ways to get stronger

    How is this different from Pilates?

    Both are designed to help you get stronger - they just do it in different ways.

    Reformer Pilates

    • Primarily uses the reformer
    • Controlled, full-body movements
    • Emphasises core stability, balance, coordination and mobility
    • Challenges your muscles while improving the way your body moves as a whole

    Core Circuit

    • Uses the AMP machine, a magnetic cable training machine with adjustable resistance
    • More traditional resistance training
    • Presses, rows, squats and lunges
    • Progressively increasing resistance to build strength over time

    Many members enjoy taking both. Pilates helps develop control, stability and body awareness, while Core Circuit provides a more traditional strength training experience. Together, they create a well-rounded approach to fitness, all under one membership.

    Who it's for

    Who is this for?

    Beginners are genuinely welcome - the resistance adjusts one pound at a time, so everyone works at their own level in the same class.

    • You're brand new to strength training

      Because resistance adjusts one pound at a time, beginners and experienced lifters can take the exact same class while working at completely different intensities.

    • You want to lift heavier

      Some members choose lighter resistance while others opt for heavier. The machines max out at 100lbs, so there's room to progress.

    • You already take Pilates, but want to try something new

      Every Core Collective membership includes Core Circuit, and many members take both throughout the week.

    • You want something low impact

      Our equipment provides smooth, controlled resistance that's easy on your joints while still allowing you to work hard.

    Your first class

    What to expect

    45 minutes, full body
    Every class is carefully planned to maximize your time. You'll train your upper body (both chest and back), lower body and core in each session.
    Small classes
    Core Circuit classes are limited to 14 participants. Keeping class sizes small allows our instructors to provide coaching, monitor form and offer individualized feedback throughout the workout.
    What to wear
    Wear comfortable workout clothes and grip socks. Grip socks are required for all Core Circuit classes to help keep you from slipping while using the equipment. If you don't have a pair, they're available for purchase at the studio. Please note, we do not allow shoes or bare feet on our mats for sanitary reasons.
    Choosing your resistance
    Your instructor will recommend a resistance range for each exercise and help you adjust from there. As class progresses, you're encouraged to increase or decrease the resistance based on how you're feeling.
    If you're injured
    Core Circuit is not recommended for clients with active injuries. If you're currently recovering from an injury or experiencing acute pain, we recommend waiting until you're recovered before returning to this class in particular. If you're unsure whether Core Circuit is appropriate for you, please reach out.
    During pregnancy
    Assuming you have no contraindications, yes, absolutely. Strength training is highly encouraged during pregnancy, and our instructors are trained to provide modifications as you may need them.

    Part of Core Collective

    Strength and Pilates, one membership

    Every Core Collective membership includes Core Circuit classes, so you can mix and match however you'd like. Core Circuit classes are offered at our Plymouth Road location; our Reformer Pilates formats run across both Ann Arbor studios.

    • Plymouth Road studio
    • Included in every membership
    • All levels
    Core Circuit member training with cable resistance

    Questions

    Frequently asked questions

    Still have questions? Text or call us at 734.999.0372.

    Your first class is $15

    Try Core Circuit at our Plymouth Road studio. Just show up - we'll handle the rest.