Welcome Chiara

We’ve been lucky enough to welcome two new teachers to the Pilates East team recently. We sat down with Chiara to have a chat and find out a little bit more about her…

Chiara is currently training for her Fully Comprehensive Classical Pilates qualification with Pi Studios and doing her apprenticeship hours with us here at Pilates East. She has recently started teaching the Fundamental Mat classes on Monday evenings and you can expect to see her on the teaching schedule more towards the end of the year!

Tell us about how you got into Pilates?

I used to go to the gym regularly and focused on high-intensity workouts, but I found that I was putting my body under a lot of stress. Looking for a different approach, I wanted something that would still help me build strength but in a low-impact way, with the added benefits of flexibility and a stronger mind-body connection. That’s when I decided to try Pilates, and after one class I was hooked! What started as a simple workout quickly became a passion, and I’ve been dedicated to practicing and learning more about Pilates ever since.

⁠How would you describe your teaching style?

I would describe my teaching style as supportive, encouraging, and motivating. I focus on creating a positive, welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable and confident. I’m all about lifting others up, helping them push past challenges, and celebrating their progress—no matter how big or small. It’s important to me that everyone feels empowered to reach their full potential!

⁠What do you love most about Pilates?

What I love most about Pilates is how it views the body as a whole, focusing on making it as functional as possible. It’s not just about isolated movements or exercises; it’s about enhancing the way the entire body works together. Pilates helps with building strength, flexibility and balance, all while keeping the body in harmony. It’s a holistic approach that is both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

⁠Three favourite exercises?

It’s difficult to narrow them down to only 3 but I would probably say: short spine massage on the reformer, ballet stretches on the ladder barrel and full traditional ending on the Cadillac.

⁠If you could only use one piece of Apparatus, what would it be?

If I had to choose just one piece of Apparatus, it would be the Wunda Chair. It may be small, but it’s incredibly mighty! It really tests your core strength, stability, and balance due to its compact surface. In fact, it’s the piece I find the most challenging, which is exactly why I need to work on it more. I’m all for a good challenge, so it’s definitely one of my top picks!

⁠One interesting fact we might not know about you?

One interesting fact you might not know about me is that I’ve lived in four different countries. I absolutely love traveling and immersing myself in new cultures—it’s been such a rewarding experience that’s helped me grow both personally and professionally. Each place has taught me something new, and I’ve had the pleasure of meeting amazing people along the way. I’m always excited to explore more and continue discovering everything the world has to offer!

⁠What motivates you?

What motivates me is the opportunity to help others reach their full potential and feel empowered in their bodies. Seeing someone push through a challenge, achieve something they didn’t think was possible, or just feel stronger and more confident—that’s what drives me.

On a personal level, I’m also motivated by the constant growth and learning that comes with practicing Pilates. There’s always something new to discover, whether it’s refining a movement, understanding my body better, or finding new ways to challenge myself. It’s all about progress, no matter how small, and that keeps me going!

And lastly, why should everyone do Pilates?

Everyone should do Pilates because it’s a practice that truly meets you where you are. Whether you’re new to exercise or have been working out for years, Pilates helps you build strength, flexibility, and balance in a way that feels good and sustainable. It’s not just about getting fitter; it’s about feeling more connected to your body and learning how to move more efficiently in everyday life. Plus, Pilates works wonders for your posture, mental clarity, and overall well-being. It’s a rewarding practice that can make you feel stronger and more centred, no matter your age or fitness level.

Be sure to say hello and give Chiara a warm welcome to the Pilates East team!