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Business Details
17 Years
experience
Trusted Pilates & Movement Specialists in Franklin, NC
At Abel Wellness, we believe movement is a pathway to self-discovery and holistic well-being. Founded in 2009 by Donnie and Patti, our studio combines Pilates, functional movement, and martial arts to address rehabilitation, posture improvement, and pain reduction. Our approach prioritizes personalized attention, with private sessions designed to assess individual needs before integrating clients into small-group settings. We emphasize body awareness, core strength, and nervous system balance, serving clients from foundational mat work to advanced equipment-based training.

Our team brings decades of experience in physical therapy, martial arts, and wellness education, fostering a supportive community where clients build resilience and independence. We cater to diverse needs, including postpartum recovery, arthritis management, and athletic performance enhancement, while maintaining strict cancellation and attire policies to ensure quality service. Our mission is to empower individuals to reclaim their physical autonomy through mindful, adaptive movement practices.
Services
Pilates Reformer Sessions Private Movement Lessons Adaptive Karate Classes Postpartum Recovery Programs Arthritis Management Training
Details
  • Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
  • We offer personalized Pilates sessions with certified instructors having 20+ years of physical therapy experience
  • Our small-group classes maintain 4:1 student-instructor ratios for safety and attention
  • Specialized programs for postpartum recovery, arthritis management, and athletic performance
  • Combination of Pilates equipment, mat work, and adaptive martial arts techniques
  • Proven results with clients reporting reduced pain and improved mobility within weeks
What people say
Significant results in weeks Expert pain management Supportive community environment Adaptive teaching methods Proven postpartum recovery
Services
Pilates Reformer Sessions
Our Pilates Reformer sessions use spring-based resistance equipment to improve core strength, flexibility, and posture. Certified instructors guide clients through controlled movements that enhance muscular balance and joint stability. This service benefits individuals recovering from injuries, seeking athletic enhancement, or needing chronic pain management.
Adaptive Karate Classes
Adaptive Karate combines traditional martial arts techniques with functional fitness training for all ages and abilities. Classes focus on self-defense, coordination, and body mechanics while accommodating individual physical limitations. This service develops discipline, reflexes, and confidence through personalized instruction.
Private Movement Lessons
Private sessions assess individual movement patterns and create customized wellness plans. Instructors evaluate posture, alignment, and muscular imbalances to design targeted interventions. This service prepares clients for group classes while addressing specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.
Postpartum Recovery Programs
Specialized programs restore core strength and pelvic floor function after childbirth. Instructors use gentle, doctor-approved techniques to rebuild abdominal support and improve posture. This service integrates mental wellness components to address postpartum emotional health.
Arthritis Management Training
Movement specialists design low-impact routines to reduce joint inflammation and improve range of motion. The program combines mobility exercises with strength training to support affected areas. Clients learn self-management techniques for chronic pain relief and improved daily functionality.
People
Patti Abel
Co-Founder & Movement Specialist
Patti Abel co-founded Abel Wellness after finding pain relief through Pilates following corporate career strain. She specializes in postpartum recovery and arthritis management, emphasizing body awareness and functional strength development for over 15 years.
Donnie Abel
Co-Founder & Martial Arts Instructor
Donnie Abel, a 5th-degree black belt, combines martial arts expertise with physical therapy experience at Abel Wellness. He specializes in injury prevention and adaptive karate instruction, serving clients from Franklin's youth programs to adult fitness enthusiasts since 2009.
Questions
What Pilates equipment do you use?
We use Reformer, Fuse Ladder, and Mat equipment for varied resistance training options.
Do you offer beginner martial arts classes?
Yes, our Adaptive Karate program accommodates all skill levels with personalized instruction.
How many private sessions are required before group classes?
We require an Intro Mini Private 5-Pack to assess your needs before group integration.
What should I wear to sessions?
Wear form-fitting stretchy clothing and grippy socks for optimal movement observation.
Do you have waitlists for new clients?
Yes, we currently operate a waitlist for new clients to maintain service quality.
Can Pilates help with arthritis management?
Our clients report significant pain reduction and improved joint mobility through tailored routines.
Reviews (1)
Glenda Guess
Jun 16, 2018 Report
I have participated in Reformer Pilates classes with both Patti and Donnie. They are both very knowledgeable. Keeping the classes small allows them to give individualized attention where needed to assure correct form while performing the exercises. Ive also done private Pilates and Restorative Movement classes with Patti. All have been very positive experiences for me.