In 2008 Katherine completed the BASI Pilates® Teacher Training Course with Dance Specialization. She is a Cum Laude graduate of California State University of Long Beach with a BA in Dance; Science Option. She is an American College of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer, and continually expands her knowledge and understanding of Classical Pilates and current Fitness guidelines.
Ava is the Pilates Place's dedicated and positive Studio Manager and team instructor. She holds certifications in NASM Certificate in personal Training, NASM Certificate in Nutrition Counseling, Pilates Sports Center Certificate in Mat and Reformer Pilates. Currently she is pursuing a degree in Law at the University of Arizona. Ava focuses on ensuring a pleasant studio experience for all clients!
After a successful career as a fashion designer, Lisa trained at Body Arts and Science International in Costa Mesa. She studied with Rael Isacowitz.
She says,
“I truly love what I do and feel it is a special gift to touch someone’s life by sharing my knowledge, experience, and creative teaching ability. “
She teaches at both locations.
Samantha is a graduate from California State University Long Beach with a B.A. in Dance. She is Pilates Mat and Reformer Certified by Synergetic Movement, and has continued growing her Pilates knowledge with Body Arts and Science International workshops taught by Karen Clippinger M.S.P.E. When she's not teaching PIlates, she knits, teaches dance to children, and enjoys dancing professionally. She has been on The Pilates Place team since 2022 and has quickly built a following.
Sara graduated Magna Cum Laude from CSULB with a BA in Dance Science. She is Certified by Synergetic Movement Pilates, and has an extensive background in Physical Therapy and Clinical setting. She is continuing her studies and education in the field of Physical Therapy.
She teaches in Long Beach and occasionally at our Westminster location.
Niki became Certified in the Pilates Method in 2002, by Diane Diefenderfer at Studio du Corps. She is also Mat certified in BASI by Rael Isocowitz and became a PMA® Certified Pilates Teacher. Niki became a MELT Method Instructor in April of 2011 and is an advanced MELT instructor. She has a B.A. from CSULB and has been in the fitness industry for over 25 years.
She teaches virtual classes, as well as in-person at our Westminster location.
Based in Orange County, Amber's journey into the realm of movement and wellness began with a diverse array of activities, from martial arts to creative pursuits like sewing, clay art, and jewelry making. However, it was dance that captured her heart and ultimately led her to pursue it professionally. During college, Amber's encounter with Pilates deepened her understanding of movement and anatomy, leading her to switch her focus from dance to dance science. In 2019, she pursued BASI certification in Pilates, complementing her B.S. in Dance Science obtained in 2020. With unwavering dedication, she now aims to pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Starting January 2025, Amber will embark on her next academic endeavor as she attends Azusa Pacific University's Doctor of Physical Therapy program. With a vision firmly rooted in holistic wellness and rehabilitation, Amber aims to establish a physical therapy practice integrating Pilates as a core component for recovery and injury prevention. Driven by a passion for accessibility and equitable healthcare, Amber's long-term vision encompasses the provision of free physical therapy sessions for those in need, ensuring that essential care remains within reach for all.
Kashmir has her pilates Mat and Reformer certification from Mt. San Antonio College. When she is not doing pilates, she works in the medical field as a medical assistant. Pilates has taught her so much about who she is both mentally and physically. She hopes to guide others through their own personal pilates journey. Kashmir believes the art of pilates is not just an exercise done during a session; Pilates is always present; it integrates into everyday life activities, making every action performed and body motion easier and more efficient. In the future, she plans to specialize in pregnancy pilates to help expecting and postpartum families. Kashmir invites every walk of life into her studio and looks forward to joining you in your pilates journey!