I consider the five Basic Principles the essence of STOTT PILATES; what distinguishes the STOTT PILATES brand from all other Pilates methods. As a trainee, if you are going to learn one single thing from our training courses, learn the Basic Principles.

When I started pilates as a client in 2012, I just had my first job after receiving my bachelor’s degree. I saw my chiropractor regularly since I was 16 and I knew that it would be a bad idea to sit 40 hours per week at an office without exercising.

My story of a spinal injury and the benefits of rehabilitative Pilates is well known.  My passion for Pilates led me to leave the practice of law and bring STOTT PILATES training to the United States where I opened Equilibrium in 1996 as the first licensed training and certification center in Michigan.

By: Liz Smythe

"So you just haven't lived until you try elephant on the chair! It's very hard for me to pick a favorite Pilates exercise, but that one is right at the top of the list. It makes me smile just thinking about it! I love the challenge of the balance, the intensity of the abdominal work and the fantastic stretch through the back.

A great teacher is also a great student...

I love learning from Amy P....Ever since I was in the training program, I enjoyed learning from Amy P. I admire how detailed she is in teaching her clients and classes. She ensures that every client gets a safe and effective workout while challenging them with Pilates.

We would like to congratulate Mary Warren and Maria Haralambis on passing your Matwork, Level 1 exams and to Julie Casto for passing her Matwork & Reformer, Level 1 exam!

We are so impressed with all of your dedication and hard work and wish you lots of success in your career as a certified pilates instructor!

Our FIRST Studio Stars Feature highlights one of our very favorite couples: Anastasia and Ron Plonkey! We absolutely love having them in the studio on an (almost) daily basis. We are so impressed by their dedication and commitment to their health and strength.

Jenn shares two of her favorite exercises:

My favorite exercise to teach on the mat is slow double leg stretch. It is great for the core and has a lot of choreography! It is difficult to cue, but with practice it is a fun challenge!

My favorite exercise to do personally is feet in the straps -frog.

for Dance Instructors
By Jenn Montie

As a ballet instructor I think that every dance instructor should go through the training program!

I was a dance instructor before I became a Pilates instructor and I'm so thankful that I decided to do the training! People who grow up dancing usually have a strong body awareness and a good sense of anatomy.

Congratulations to Julie Meyer on passing her  Matwork, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, & Barrels, Level 1 exam. We are proud of your hardwork and accomplishments!

Julie is currently teaching mat, Pilates on the ball and equipment classes 5 days a week at Pilates connection in Saint Clair shores.