Welcome

About Pilates

Developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates, Pilates called his method "Contrology".  If practiced with consistency, Pilates improves flexibility, builds strength and develops control and endurance in the entire body. It puts emphasis on alignment, breathing, developing a strong core, and improving coordination and balance. The core, consisting of the muscles of the abdomen, low back, and hips, is often called the "powerhouse" and is thought to be the key to a person's stability. Pilates is know for developing longer, leaner muscles as it focuses on strengthening the skeletal muscles, thus help improving joint health and bone density while creating positive body awareness.  Pilates allows for different exercises to be modified in range of difficulty from beginner to advanced; the intensity can be increased over time as the body adapts itself to the exercises.

Benefits of Pilates

 ~ Tones and builds long, lean muscles

~ Awakens and enhances your mind-body connection

~ Enhances flexibility

~ Balances muscular strength

~ Compliments other forms of exercise and reduces injuries

~ Improves posture & alignment

~ Creates a more flexible spine

~ Increases performance during sports

~ Low impact/easy on the joints

~ Develops strong abdominal muscles to support your core

ABOUT ME

I was first introduced to Pilates in 2010 and that is when my passion for Pilates began.  As a mother of two, I constantly struggled with not only making the time for exercise and myself, but finding an exercise that was the right “fit” for me.  I tried boot camps, personal trainers and a variety of large gym fitness classes.  Although they were good, I didn’t enjoy or look forward to them.  I wanted to find a workout that left me feeling renewed, invigorated and connected with my body.  That is when I discovered Pilates.  After several sessions, I noticed my body was moving differently. I felt my body changing, becoming long and lean, I felt strong, and I felt GOOD, REALLY GOOD!

As the years past and I continued to practice Pilates via Mat classes, the Reformer and other apparatus, my love and passion continued to grow.  With the general chaos of being wife & mother, I found that the one hour I had to myself was an hour not only to exercise but to reset my mind and body together.

After years of practicing Pilates I decided in 2017 that I wanted to share what I have become so passionate about with others.  That’s when I decided I wanted to become a Certified Pilates Instructor.  I wanted to share with others what I have enjoyed for so many years.  I wanted others to feel strong (when you don’t think you have the strength), to feel peace in the midst of chaos, and most importantly, to feel amazing about yourself and what you can accomplish. 

CLASSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

I received my Comprehensive Teacher Training certificate from Classical Pilates Education which includes, Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, High Chair, Wunda Chair, Ladder Barrel, Tower and more.  I am dedicated to connecting with my clients and customizing workouts to fit their skill and fitness level, helping to achieve their goals.

EDUCATION

I received my B.S. Degree from the University in South Florida in Communications.  I spent several years in the advertising and sales industry before dedicating my time to raising a family. 

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me!

Available Classes

Classical Mat Pilates

The Mat class will work your entire body.  Each class will work to balance all muscle groups' strength and flexibility, with an emphasis on challenging the core and stabilizer muscles with each movement. ... Pilates mat is a challenging yet safe method to sculpt your body and to feel increased agility in your every day movements. With the incorporation of props including bands, weights, balls and the Pilates ring it is a fun and invigorating class.  Mat Pilates works to lengthen whilst strengthening the muscles rather than building bulk. It therefore makes for an effective, non impact stretching and toning program that is safe for the joints.  Great for all fitness levels!!!

Apparatus Sessions (Private and Duet)

The Pilates apparatus at Mermaid includes the famous reformer, tower, wunda chair and barrel. Springs, cables, bars, straps, and pulleys allow exercises to be done from a variety of positions, even standing. The resistance created by the pulley and spring system can provide a more challenging strength and endurance workout while offering assistance as well. It may also produce visible results sooner — arm, leg and abdominal muscles can look more firm and defined within a dozen or so regular sessions. The apparatus' many attachments increase the range of modifications that can be made to the exercises, and allow additional exercises beyond what can be done on a mat. This capability, combined with the support afforded by the resistance the apparatus provides, allows people with limited range of movement or injuries to safely do modified exercises. The apparatus works to lengthen whilst strengthening the muscles rather than building bulk. It therefore makes for an effective, non impact stretching and toning program that is safe for the joints.  Great for all fitness levels!