We checked in with a new community member and asked her some questions about her new found passion and occupation. We gave her 10 questions to help capture the experience.
1. What inspired you to start your journey in Pilates, and how did you end up choosing Club Pilates for your certification?I’ve always been drawn to movement. Growing up as an athlete, fitness was a natural part of my life, and after college, I kept that momentum going—hitting the gym several times a week and gravitating toward group fitness classes over solo weightlifting sessions. When I heard a Club Pilates was opening nearby, I jumped at the chance to join as a founding member. I was instantly hooked. Two years later, I took the leap into teacher training, inspired by the incredible instructors who not only helped me get stronger and more fit but also more confident. Pilates has become more than just a workout—it’s a space for me to recharge, reset, and show up as my best self. Staying with CP for teacher training after my own journey there? That was an easy yes. I’m currently an apprentice instructor just two teaching hours away from my final test out exam! Can’t wait.
2. How has your perspective on Pilates changed since you started your training?I wouldn’t say my perspective completely changed, but my respect for comprehensively trained instructors definitely deepened. The level of dedication it takes is huge, and it’s made me even more excited to keep expanding my own knowledge. As for my personal practice, teacher training has been a game-changer—it’s given me a whole new understanding of my body, my form, and how to move safely. More than anything, it’s reinforced how important it is to train and teach in a way that truly supports and protects the body.
3. What has been the most challenging part of your certification process?When I’m not teaching Pilates, I’m fully immersed in my work as a social worker. Balancing both has definitely been a challenge, but I’ve been intentional about dedicating myself to each craft equally. As I mentioned, training takes serious commitment, and one of the hardest parts was putting in the time to observe classes—training my eye, understanding how different instructors structure their sessions, and picking up on cues. But that process has been huge for shaping my teaching style. Even though my required observation hours are done for my final test-out, I know I’ll always be watching and learning from other instructors. There’s always something new to pick up, and that’s what keeps me growing.
4. What aspect of Pilates do you enjoy teaching the most, and why?Since I’m still new to teaching, I’m actually enjoying cueing everything—it’s all about repetition, and the more I do it, the more natural it feels. Lately, I’ve been teaching a lot of jumpboard classes, and I didn’t expect to love fusion-style classes as much as I do, but here we are! Finding creative (and safe) ways to challenge members while curating the perfect playlist to set the vibe has been such a fun part of the process. I’m fully in my element.
5. Club Pilates focuses on a contemporary approach—has learning this method sparked an interest in exploring classical Pilates as well?I’d actually say Club Pilates is somewhat of a blended approach. A nice mix of contemporary while still offering beginner friendly moves from classical repertoire. I’d love to continue expanding in both contemporary and classical – my goal is to gain knowledge with continuing education credits with classical trainers. There’s room for both, and like anything else, I think it’s totally okay for Pilates to evolve and take on a more modern approach, as long as the core principles are always at the forefront. At the end of the day, I’m all about form and safety—that’s what matters most.
6. Do you see yourself pursuing additional certifications or training in different Pilates styles, such as classical or specialized rehab-based Pilates?I sure hope so! I don’t have a clear specialty or area of focus but I’m eager to continue to learn and grow in this pilates field.
7. How do you feel Pilates has changed your own body and movement awareness since you began training?Pilates has definitely sharpened my focus over the years—mind-muscle connection is so real and makes such a difference. Since training, I’ve gotten a lot stronger, leveled up in my practice, and started executing more advanced spring selections. Lately, I’ve been having a blast on the Cadillac, learning inversions and pull-ups. I can’t wait to keep building strength and seeing how far I can go!
8. What type of clients do you feel most drawn to working with—athletes, rehab clients, beginners, etc.?It’s definitely been a mix of beginner and intermediate clients, which keeps things fun and dynamic. I’m starting to see more familiar faces in my classes, which is so exciting—it’s really heartwarming to know people are enjoying my style and coming back for more. I love teaching beginners, helping them build a strong foundation so they can feel confident and progress safely. And my intermediate classes have been a blast—we’ve been playing around with what I like to call “spicier” moves, which always keeps things interesting. But honestly, the best part? Seeing women who look like me showing up and showing out in my classes. That means everything.
9. As a new instructor, what are your biggest goals for your first year of teaching?With our studio opening soon, my goal is to have a home studio with a set schedule. Right now, I’m having a great time subbing at two different studios, but I’m really looking forward to building my own group of regular clients. Beyond that, I just want to keep learning and growing as a student myself. Prioritizing my own practice not only helps me, but it also allows me to show up better for the people in my classes.
10. If you could study Pilates with any instructor or at any studio in the world, where would you go and why?I’d love to train internationally for an extended period of time. A few years ago, I took a class in France while traveling, and I absolutely loved the experience. Beyond that, I’m excited to keep exploring local studios and those in nearby states. I’ve connected with so many amazing Pilates instructors through social media, and I can’t wait to finally take their classes in person. One day, it would be an absolute honor to train with Ms. Sonja Price Herbert of Black Girl Pilates in Atlanta—her impact on the community is incredible, and I’d love the opportunity to learn from her.
Social media handles for TikTok and instagram: pilateswithdey
