Qualifications: Certified in group fitness by ACE. Certified by the Pilates Studio of New York (including classes by Romana Kryzonowska, who studied under Joseph Pilates, himself). Pilates Method Alliance certified instructor. Level III Peak Pilates trainer. Presenter for the PMA, IDEA and ECA.

Personal History: I was a professional dancer. After repeat occurrences of a back injury, my chiropractor sent me to a Pilates class. It was the one thing that empowered me to care for and protect my back. Years later, after leaving dance and becoming a Spanish language instructor, I decided to return to Pilates. I wanted to use my movement training and teaching experience to teach adults to move their body safely and effectively. I'm married to a great guy and am now living in Miami (but I hope to get back to LA someday).

Workout Philosophy: It's important to listen to the needs of your body. There are signals as to what may be going on physically or emotionally. Fitness should be a way to attend to those needs. Make your workout time exactly that - your time - a break from the hectic day. Work with your body, not against it.

Sucess Story: Sarah, in Miami, came to me after a Caesarian section, so her abdominals were very weak. In addition, she had lengthy rods in her back due to scoliosis. When she first started with me, she could not sit from a spine position. Due to her stiff back, we both doubted if she ever would. Well, in not too much time, Sarah was doing most of the intermediate mat and reformer workout with ease. We were both amazed at her increasing abdominal strength as well as the flexibility she was able to attain. Sarah is now very strong and continues to practice Pilates in Miami.