What brought you to Pilates?
As a dancer I was introduced to Pilates as a form of cross training. In college I was lucky enough to have a small Pilates studio in our dance department. After having multiple foot surgeries Pilates became an integral part of my rehabilitation.
What made you want to become a Pilates teacher?
I think it’s the Taurus in me that once I get an idea in my head I have to pursue it. In this digital age, it feels like people are becoming more like a distant relative to their own bodies. I loved the awareness Pilates tapped into and wanted to help others get intrigued by their own possibilities. My hope is to empower people to move intuitively for themselves and find joy in self discovery.
Why did you choose train at Atlas Pilates?
It was serendipity. Elana Jacobs brought me in for a video shoot, because I was a dancer and we had discussed my interest in becoming a teacher. I felt at home with everyone I met and could immediately tell that the room was bursting with knowledge. I simultaneously started taking lessons and became Atlas Pilates first apprentice. My training was unique because it was organically evolving as I went.
What is one of your takeaways from training?
Watching Lori find the spark in each client is still a skill I admire and continue to work on in my own teaching. To find the catalyst that lights up the client as they make connections in their body and to be a source of inspiration for curiosity.
When did you graduate?
2012
Why do you like teaching Pilates now?
In the time of a global pandemic, Pilates has kept a sense of community alive. With the online platform we can still move and breathe together no matter the distance. It’s been a privilege to be welcomed into our clients homes with their families and pets making guest appearances. It’s been a fun challenge to expand the creativity of my teaching and become a collaborator with my clients.
What Pilates exercise, concept or principle currently holds your attention and why?
Anything with a twist. I’m intrigued by the complexity and 3 dimensional awareness that is involved.
Why do you think people should do Pilates?
Pilates can wear many hats. There truly is something for everyone in Pilates.
Is there a particular exercise that has profoundly changed your body?
I wouldn’t say there’s one particular exercise because Pilates is a system. I’ve received certain cues with great timing that have changed the way I work.
What is your weekly workout routine?
Up until this year, I was moving my body all day everyday. I would do Pilates, yoga, or physical therapy before dancing for 6 hrs. Then run or weight train before teaching for 3 hrs. After retiring from dance my focus has shifted. I make it a goal to move my body everyday, but the movement is for me. I’ve been enjoying the outdoors by hiking, running, biking, skiing, surfing, rock climbing, and even Pilates in many scenic places.
What are you doing now?
I’m currently traveling with my husband who is a professional skier. We spent the winter in Europe following the Freeride World Tour and at each stop I got to teach the competitors. I’m teaching online for Atlas Pilates, so I get to take clients with me on my adventures.
