I discovered Pilates in 1995 while doing my undergraduate studies in the United States. Although I had trained rigorously for years, within a short time of beginning Pilates work I noticed dramatic toning results; so much so that I decided to enroll in the Physicalmind Institute Instructors Training Program.
After completing the entire certification program in the U.S., I moved to London and worked as an apprentice for one year at a Pilates studio run by Lee Saxby. In 2000, I returned to my native country, Greece, where I opened the Mind and Body Pilates Studio. In 2002 I became certified instructor trainer representing Physicalmind Institute in Greece and in 2007 I became certified instructor trainer representing Balanced Body University in Greece.
I have trained in working with clients with Osteoporosis by completing a Physicalmind Workshop, I use gait and postural analyses to determine their muscular imbalances and design unique and targeted programs that address their individual needs. Using my studies of Rehabilitation techniques, studied at a seminar in New York, I have had excellent results applying Pilates exercises in work with injured clients. I also teach Standing Pilates, a series of exercises created by Physicalmind Institute for toning muscles weakened by sedentary life habits. My passion for tennis has led me to design a special Pilates Program for Tennis. This program strengthens and stretches all the muscles involved in playing tennis and corrects the muscular imbalances that are caused by this one-sided sport. Last but not least, I created Designing Effective Pilates Programs course and manual. The course aims to help Pilates teachers to design effective programs for their clients. It provides a framework consisting of process and tools that organizes and assists the program design work and ensures that its outcome has consistent level of quality.
In addition to Pilates, I have been certified in the Gyrotonic method, a pioneering discipline that works the spine in circular motions and also tones the joints. It is performed on a piece of equipment called the Pulley Tower. The Gyrotonic and Pilates methods are highly compatible and combining them results in a thoroughly trained body free from injuries. In 2006 I have successfully completed the certification requirements for the Gyrotonic Expansion System (Gyrotonic level 1). Moreover in 2015 I have been specialized in Gyrotonic Jumping Stretching Board in equipment training of Gyrotonic and in 2017 I completed the continuing education requirements (Gyrotonic level 2) for the Gyrotonic & Gyrokinesis methods. In 2018 I certified in the Leg Extension, a fantastic equipment; for lengthening and sculpting all major leg muscles, while toning the abdominals and strengthening the spine and shoulders.
As of September 2022, I am following Eric Franklin Certification courses and inspired by his work I am teaching Anatomy through Movement and use imagery in my teaching for effective queuing.
And now my passion is Golf as Arnold Palmer has said “deceptively simple game but very complex”. Golf is harsh on the body it requires many spiraling movements for the spine, intense hip mobility and rotation. Using my knowledge from Pilates and Gyrotonic® I have developed programs for effective playing with ease and kindness to the body.
I enjoy my work and stay informed on advancements in the Pilates method by participating in seminars organized every year by Physicalmind Institute and Balanced Body University.
