Backbone and Wingspan

I have taken sessions with Tim for my back and spine and his understanding of body and movements truly impresses. However, knowing him personally I have a small glimpse into what challenges an entrepreneurial mind needs to face day to day a mix of art and science. I realize that he puts a lot of heart and trust into a business which makes this world a better place. I am grateful to be associated with a friend like him wise and a goodhearted person. Spending time with someone with such great qualities strengthens them in me as well. I believe that people should hear and experience people like Tim who are doing business from the heart.

Posted 09/09/09

My experience with Tim was unlike any other. His use of imagery in his description of movement has helped me reach muscles in my upper and lower back I have never felt used before. He has articulated my posture, and made it more natural at the same time. I leave feeling taller, more confident and smarter for the knowledge of my own anatomy he imparts. I also took a Gyrontonic lesson from Cathy, who showed me that letting go and letting my body make the natural movements similar to modern dance could help me to sculpt long, lean muscles as well as be more graceful. I look forward to much improvement in my form and mind with this group!!

Pros: Gorgeous Studio Space, Fun, Friendly People who get Results

Cons: None

Posted 07/24/07

I have been coming to this studio since its opening. My trainer there has worked with me through two jobs, pregnancy, post-partem pain, and my now hectic, stressful life. Not only has she gently guided me in correcting my posture and bone structure/muscle memory, but she has made me 1000X stronger. The name of this studio truly reflects the trainers' approach - the effort to adjust one's body so that it is taller, freer, looser and happier as it gets stronger. Backbone and Wingspan is a healing place with a completely zen, mellow vibe - no pumping techno, no hard-core crunching - just honest to goodness soulful workouts that heal body and mind. That's not to say it is wimpy, though - you'll see and feel the results of your efforts quickly. I recommend it to everyone!

Pros: Lovely space, excellent equipment, friendly and thoughtful trainers

Cons: none!

Posted 10/12/06

I have known and worked with Tim for many years and I can't begin to find words to describe how he has helped me to transform the way I think about movement.

I suffer from chronic back pain, and through my work with Tim, I have learned how to move my body to keep my pain at bay. I have been able to successfully apply the universal principles of movement that Tim teaches to all aspects of my life, from running and weight training to walking down the street and sitting behind my desk at work. Instead of heavy weights and repetitive motion, Tim focuses his training on sustaining positions with light resistancce allowing me to forge a deep connection between my mind and body and to tap into my deep core strength. I leave every session feeling completely connected in both my mind and body and can continue to apply my learning to all aspects of my life.

The studio itself is a calm, zen-like atmosphere, with none of the pretention or intimidation that you may find at other NYC pilates studios. Tim provides a friendly, upbeat environment where in addition to learning how to transform your mind and body, you are bound to have fun!

Pros: everything

Cons: nothing

Posted 09/09/06

Tim has created a friendly, comfortable, clean and efficient studio for people who are looking for an intimate one-on-one training experience. With his years of experience in both dance and phycial training, Tim easly helps his clients set obtainable objectives and reasonable expections for thier work.

In addition, he has assembled an excellent team of trainers that complement his expertise and training approach.

Backbone and Wingspan is for those who are serious about their trainging or for those who want be become serious but need a little help along the way.

The best thing about the experience is that Tim always is in a good mood and has a great sense of humor both of which makes the time fly by.

Pros: Great location, clean and well organized

Cons: none

Posted 08/02/06

I credit Tim and Cathy with keeping me free of many of the usual aches and pains during my pregnancy. I had been seeing Tim for 2 years in order to strengthen my back and help with chronic neck pain. When I got pregnant I was worried that the stress on my back would bring back the pain. Not only did I stay in good shape but I had NO back pain and the recovery after my son's birth was so much easier. Tim and Cathy are such a pleasure to work with and it is absolutely worth the time and effort it takes.

Posted 07/26/06

Tim is great pilates teacher. He is patient, knowlegable, precise. He is able to profoundly affect your physique and well being. Do yourself a favor and book a session with Tim.

Posted 07/16/06

Excellent one on one instruction. The ability to combine different techniques along with insightful understanding of how each individual's issues need to be addressed makes this an extremely positive experience.

Pros: One on one instruction with superb staff

Cons: building elevators are small and stuffy

Posted 07/09/06

I have been working with Cathy Ferrara for many years. I came to her as a result of having Chronic Lyme Disease and I could do almost nothing. Someone told me about her and I have been working with her ever since. It is so important to stretch and work ones limbs otherwise you can end but by not moving at all. I always feel better after a session. She assesses how I am at each session and we work with what is going on not as a rote exercise.

Pros: The space to work in is very calming and attrasctive.

Posted 07/07/06

I have been doing Pilates with Tim, and Pilates and Gyro with Jennifer from Backbone and Wingspan for eight years and it is incredible. This team has transormed my approach to movement and gotten me in shape for major life events - wedding, prenatal, post natal etc. I am now in my second pregnancy, lugging around a 30 pound toddler without any back issues, as I have learned to use my "wingspan" to lift and it is serving me very well. The studio is also a very calm, light, clean place to go and the entire staff is kind and fun, which makes it a nice oasis during a hectic week. I highly recommend Backbone and Wingspan.

Pros: Knowledgable teachers, beautiful studio, unique approach

Cons: after 8 years, no complaints at all

Posted 06/10/06

Tim's knowledge, sensitivity to my needs and constant guidance has helped me to release stress from my posture. I have made necessary connections throughout my entire body from muscle to spine and have more awareness and ability to move as efficiently as possible in my everyday life; particularly to apply the principles in my work as a health counselor and a Chua Ka massage practitioner. Applying this work into my strength training has also been very helpful.
My weekly sessions are a very important part of my life and I highly recommend this work to everyone.

Posted 06/04/06

I've know Tim for many years and continue to learn and enjoy my sessions on a weekly basis. The attention I receive with Tim is tailored to my speciifc needs and body type to help maximize and develope my core strength through a varity of movements that challenge me mentally and physically. As a 47 year old male, my goal is to be in the best physical shape and alignment where Tim and his very proffessional staff make that possible in welcoming and open loft space environment.

Backbone & Wingspan is a true find.

Posted 06/01/06

I have been working out with Cathy Ferrara for many years and many bodies. She helped me stretch, tone, and strengthen my body through each of my 3 pregnancies. With each new child she has guided me by building my core muscles and helping me heal from 3 c-sections and reclaim my body. I look forward to each session.

Pros: personal sessions, terrific staff, clean studio

Posted 06/01/06

I highly recommend this studio. I've studied with Tim for a couple years now and have seen significant improvement in my physical self. The approach to movement at Backbone and Wingspan creates an inward focus which has helped me to more fully understand my body. As an actor, I've found that the work I've done there has not only greatly improved my posture and given me more backbone, it also centers me and allows me to more readily access emotions. After a session my husband tells me I am noticably taller.

Posted 05/31/06

I have worked with the staff of Backbone and Wingspan for many years including when they were associated with other fitness groups. I feel not only are they incredibly knowledgable about the body and how it works but how it works for each individual. They are a commited caring group who have helped me in so many ways giving me a pain free, aligned, strong body. All in a peaceful inviting environment.
I cannot recommend each and everyone of them more highly.

Pros: value for money, transportation hub, great karma

Cons: none

Posted 05/31/06

Backbone and Wingspan offers a friendly, professional service in a comfortable space. I felt welcomed and safe with and his crew. Highly ommended.

Runar (male, 45)

Posted 05/31/06

I have been doing pilates with one of the instructors at Backbone and Wingspan for years and love it! My instructor Luciana is great. The studio is a great space to work in and the teachers are highly experienced and terrific. I would recommend Backbone and Wingspan to everyone.

Posted 05/30/06

I won three lessons with Tim in a school benefit auction; best bid I've ever placed. Tim's guidance has greatly increased the effectiveness of my exercise program overall and especially the Pilates classes that I take. In addition, my overall muscle tone is improved and several areas of concern (lower back pain, tight hip flexors, knee tendonitis) are coming under control. Highly recommended!

Pros: knowledge, attention, atmosphere

Posted 05/30/06

Tim and his staff have created a wonderful enviroment for Pilates and movement. Tim is a thoughtful teacher who brings his varied experience (as a dancer and performer and movement expert) to the teaching offered there. I love his creative approach to Pilates. He makes it fun and interesting and tailored to my needs and abilities.
I recommend the studio highly.

Posted 05/30/06

Backbone and Wingspan is an exceptional body work studio. Instructors are exceptionally sensitive and in tune to each individual. I have tried numerous pilates studios and these teachers far surpass anyone have studied with in New York.
I highly recommend their approach for people interested in strength training and osteo prevention or those simply interested in a more flexible body, that is toned and fit...

Posted 05/28/06

I'd never done body work before, and my entire body and soul felt rejuvinated after my first session. I had several repeat sessions with owner Tim Driscoll and found his instruction, manner and spirituality to be amazing. His intuition as to what needed work was uncanny. I've recommended several friends to him and they report the same experiences.

Posted 05/24/06

This is a beautiful space to study pilates under the tutelage of excellent, committed teachers. Tim is most effective in his approach. I haven't been studying pilates for a long time but I am already feeling and seeing the results. Definitely worth checking out.

Posted 05/16/06

I'm pushing sixty, but thanks to Cathy, my coach at Backbone and Wingspan, I'm more fit than ever before in my life. I'd recommend this program to anyone struggling with the aches and pains of aging.

Posted 05/16/06

I have studied with Tim and Cathy for 8 years. Not only is it fun and enjoyable but it has been tremendous for my back pain, improved my posture and created lean lines on my body. The ability to practice both pilates and gyrotonics is a big plus. Teachers are knowledgable and are consistenly studying to improve their practices which keeps the lessons fresh and interesting. It's a great combination of a mind and body workout. Highly recommended to all.

Pros: Knowledgable teachers, Beautiful Space, Mind/body workout

Posted 05/12/06

As a client of 8 years I can vouche for the results. Studying Pilates has changed my body, cut down on back pain and stress and made me more aware of my "core muscles". Both Tim and Cathy are excellent teachers--knowlegable, disciplined and fun-- the hands-on instruction ensures that you are doing the exercises properly and Don't get bored and the studio is beautiful. It's the only exercise I look forward to doing. Definitely worth the time and money.

Posted 05/12/06

This has been invaluable for my back problems. It's hard to find something you enjoy but this has been both beneficial and enjoyable. The lessons learned are "life" lessons. I just signed up for my second 10 week series!

Pros: personalized, effective

Cons: none so far

Posted 05/05/06