Meet Jessica
When she's not chasing her baby Clementine or creating refreshing Pilates content that goes viral on TikTok, you can find the ex Ballerina teaching challenging yet enjoyable Reformer classes at Frame.What was your journey to becoming a Pilates instructor?
My Pilates journey started at a young age as I trained to be a professional ballet dancer. I was always drawn back to pilates training throughout studying for my Bachelors of Arts in Dance at Columbia University. When I moved to London and found myself unhappy in a corporate job, I felt inspired to change careers and focus on teaching full time. Most recently, Pilates has helped minimise pain throughout my first pregnancy and regain strength after my daughter was born in October 2020.
I love Pilates because...
…there’s always something new to master! It’s impossible to be perfect at it because there’s always going to be something new to learn.
Describe your teaching style in 3 words
Fun, challenging and authentic
Best feedback/review you’ve ever received
A student at Frame once told me that before taking my class they were really intimated to try a reformer class but they felt welcomed yet challenged during my class. I believe that Pilates is for every body so i try to reflect that philosophy by creating a safe atmosphere for all of my students.
What’s your go-to Reformer move and WHY?
I love short spine massage. I try to include it in every class because it feels so great on you back. You’re left feeling more length in your spine.
What do you get up to when you’re not teaching Pilates?
Chasing my 20 month old daughter Clementine
The one thing you wish people knew about Pilates?
I wish more people knew about the interesting history! Pilates was invented by a German man named Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. His method, originally called “Contrology” consists of controlled movements that increase flexibility, builds strength, and develop control and endurance in the entire body. The original reformer was built using beer kegs and springs (a nod to his German heritage!). It later became popular in the 1960s when Joseph Pilates opened a studio in New York City and worked with many famous ballet dancers.
Feeling inspired to get into bed (Reformer obvs) with Jessica?
Find her teaching at Hammersmith Tuesday Mornings and Thursday Evenings or Sunday Morning at Angel. Follow @passagepilates for ‘gram content.