ABOUT US
We are a team of comprehensively certified Pilates teachers. We have studied under different Pilates schools/ methods like Dianne Miller’s, Michele Larsson’s, Stott, BASI (Body Arts and Science International), Ron Fletcher, Polestar Pilates, Balanced Body and Body Harmonics. Having such a wealth of knowledge has made us this unique and cohesive team, where each strives to bring her own outlook and experience to enrich both her fellow teachers and students.
BASMA
I’m the owner and president of the Studio. I’m a BASI® Certified Pilates Teacher with an advanced certification in Post Rehab: Injuries and Pathologies. I’m a MAT® – Muscle Activation Techniques Certified Trainer, a TRX Certified Trainer and a Certified Urban Poling Instructor. In addition, I have recently acquired an Associate Certification in Osteopathy and an advanced certification in Gerontology (the science of aging), and in Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery.
After a very successful career in High Tech, I have finally found my passion in helping others feel good about themselves. To me, Pilates is not just a form of exercise, it’s a way of life. It is you being in control of your body and your mind; it’s you connecting deep with yourself; becoming stronger, fearless, limitless and full of vigor for life. I invite you to take control and strive for a higher quality of life. As for us, it is our purpose to help you through that journey.
I love how our classes make people feel. This Studio has become my sanctuary and I hope you will find it yours!
MEET THE TEACHERS
ASTRID
Pilates is an essential part of my life. It has given me increased strength, flexibility and joy. Through my ongoing learning path and by teaching others I better appreciate the body-mind connection. I draw upon the teachings of Joseph Pilates and study the modern interpretations of his work, and that of others, as I continue my personal journey.
Certifications:
Qualified Fletcher Pilates® Teacher following successful completion of the 750- hour Comprehensive Program recognized by the Pilates Method Alliance (PMA)
PMA®-NCPT (Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher)
ELDOA (longitudinal osteo-articular decompression, certified by Rucsandra Mitrea/Legacy Sport & Wellness Centre (Dallas TX) under authority of Guy Voyer, DO, for Level 1 (2015), Level 2 (2016) and Level 3 (2017)
JANICE
With over 15 years teaching fitness in various forms I had heard about Pilates but I did not try it until 1999 when I was informed I required a knee replacement. Staying fit, being active has always been an essential part of my life so I had to find something I could still do without further damage to my knee.
I started Pilates mat classes with Kathy Bond from the Saskatoon Pilates Centre, Saskatoon, SK and I was hooked.
I loved the way it made me think about how I moved and to find different muscles from the ones I usually wanted to work with – it was mentally and physically hard work! . I knew I had found a form of exercise I would be able to do for years in spite of my damaged knee.
Certifications:
SPRA (Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Assoc.) Fitness Certification (1989 – 2004)
Can-Fit-Pro Fitness Certification (2004 – present)
Mat Initiation 101 course through the Physicalmind Institute in June 2002.
Pilates Comprehensive Certification by Core Dynamics Pilates, Santa Fe, NM, with Michele Larsson (mat and equipment). Completed Nov 2005.
PMA®-NCPT (Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher)
LORRAINE
As a full time professional dancer since 1985, I first discovered the New York style Pilates with Pilates Instructor Deja Griffith in Montreal in 2000 and was hooked. From then on I took multiple classes a week and in 2002 obtained a certification in Mat with Structural Studies Institute run by the Pilates instructor and Osteopath Rosemary Geist. I then made it a priority to find a comprehensive Pilates instructor training program that included all the Pilates equipment training, in addition to the Mat training, which respected the original Pilates philosophy of mind and body. The comprehensive teacher training program at Core Dynamics Pilates, based in New Mexico, USA, was the ideal option. Michele Larsson, the founder of Core Dynamics, was trained by Eve Gentry who had learned directly from Joseph Pilates himself. In 2003, I was fully certified to teach Pilates Mat work, Reformer, Chair, Cadillac and Spine corrector classes. I continue to expand my knowledge. I am also trained by Innovations in Pilates, to teach Pilates stretches.
TERESA
I came to love Pilates about 12 years ago when I stumbled across a Reformer class while on holidays. Since then my interest in Pilates has grown tremendously. Having had 2 previous knee surgeries, I found Pilates added strength without having to do high impact exercises. Who knew that such mindful movement could nourish the mind, body and soul so incredibly. The strength, balance, control and flexibility achieved through Pilates enables the body to move with great posture and alignment. It is these Pilates benefits that have encouraged me to become a Comprehensively Certified Pilates Teacher through the LiveBy Pilates program. I look forward to the journey ahead and I’m very proud to be part of such a skillful team. I truly believe that everyone should give it a try as the benefits are unlimited.
YOLANDA
My journey first began in physiotherapy where I cultivated 22 years of experience. My approach to rehabilitation was to see the patient as a whole not just as a single injury. Pilates was the ideal compliment to this treatment approach, allowing me to assist others in taking control of their own rehabilitation. This is why I became a Comprehensively Certified Pilates Teacher through LiveBy Pilates teacher training program. I continue to strive to help others learn more about their bodies, allowing them to take this knowledge beyond the studio for application to their everyday life.
JACQUELINE
My journey with Pilates began in 2005! I attended just one Matwork class and it was heaven for me. I quickly progressed to private and group sessions both Matwork and Reformer, Cadillac and others. After 12 years of practice in wonderful studios in Newfoundland and across Ontario I knew it was time to take the next step and become certified as a Pilates instructor. I chose the Stott Pilates method as it was the one that resonated with me and I completed my training under Merrithew in Montreal. I certified in Mat and Reformer methods at both the essential and intermediate levels. Together with my Masters of Nursing I understand the importance of maintaining a healthy body and the value of incorporating movement into all aspects of life. Pilates ensures balance, strength, coordination, body awareness, vitality, grace, ease and joy!