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Month: September 2023

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Pilates Exercise Spotlight: Why We Love Our Lunges!

Lunges are a powerhouse move. Lunges work an incredible range of muscles in the body, and even people with incredibly strong lower limbs can struggle with lunges.

We love to work different types of lunges into class because the reformer provides so many opportunities for lunge variations! With reformer Pilates, we can get all the amazing benefits from lunges, without the boredom that comes from doing the same set of lunges over and over again.

What muscles are involved in lunges?

Lunges engage almost every part of your body from the core, down.

“My favorite exercise is lunges because there are so many ways to add variations and challenges to them. Having a strong lower posterior chain can be very beneficial for your spine!” – RTR Instructor Helena

With proper form, during a lunge, you’ll engage your hips, glutes, quads, hamstrings, calves, and core.

The Human Performance Lab at the University of California – Davis explains that lunges are “a multi-joint exercise that is used for injury prevention, injury rehabilitation, and improving sports performance.”

Over time, lunges can strengthen the muscles that protect the hip, knee, and ankle, and improve your balance and core stability.

The benefit of integrating lunges into your Pilates routine

In addition to building up the muscles in your core and lower limbs, lunges are kind of the gift that keeps on giving! Regular lunge exercises will help you:

1. Improve Balance and Stability

Lunges require a lot more coordination than many other exercises that target the lower limbs. During a lunge, your front foot takes the brunt of the load, and you engage your core to stay balanced.

By exercising your lower body unilaterally (on one side), you get to work on each side of your body separately. The single-leg exercise can improve your posture and balance because you are activating your core!

2. Develop your muscles evenly

As we mentioned earlier, lunges are a unilateral exercise. It’s going to affect the forward leg. This is super important because we typically favor one side of our body more than the other. One side is almost always stronger. But in other leg exercises like squats or deadlifts, your dominant side can overcompensate for your weaker side. This means that your weaker side is never forced to develop evenly.

But underdeveloped muscles can cause a bunch of issues! It forces other parts of your body to overcompensate, which causes unnecessary wear and tear, and can increase the risk of injury.

Lunges, on the other hand, ensure that you develop each side of your body evenly. This protects your body, improves posture, and reduces any overcompensation happening in the body.

3. Boost your flexibility and range of motion

Lunges are a fantastic way to boost your hip flexor flexibility and range of motion. Especially for office workers who sit all day, hip flexors need some extra love and attention. Lunges are a great way to work your hip flexors and give them the TLC they need for a full range of motion.

Like most exercises, improper form in lunges can actually increase your risk of injury. In class, our instructors are there to help ensure that you perform exercises safely, and with the proper form! This helps us to ensure you get all of the wonderful benefits of lunges, without straining your hip or your knee.

If you have questions about your form during lunges or any other exercise, always check with your instructor.

“When planning a Pilates class, I always look to incorporate all the muscle groups and create a flow that keeps you moving around the reformer. I hope my clients take away a sense of accomplishment and feeling stronger after class than when they walked in.” – RTR Instructor Dolci

Feel the difference for yourself!

Join our community at RTR Pilates and experience the benefits of lunges firsthand! Get your first month of unlimited classes for just $129.

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Want to become a better swimmer? Try adding Pilates to your fitness routine!

Professional athletes everywhere know that Pilates is one of the best cross-training workouts to level up their game. For swimmers, regular Pilates can be incredibly effective for injury prevention, core strength, and agility in the water.

Swimming is one of the most popular exercises in the world, and it’s also an exercise that truly engages your entire body. Whether you’re a casual or competitive swimmer, you need body awareness, control, balance, and mental focus in the water.

Luckily, these are all things that we also practice in Pilates!

“I grew up a competitive swimmer and have always been an athlete, when I retired from swimming I really struggled to find a workout that I loved and could do every day without dreading. I tried everything; yoga, bootcamps, personal training, spinning, and just couldn’t get into any of it. I finally found RTR and took my first Pilates class and fell in love at first class!” – RTR Instructor Lindsey

For swimmers looking to move more efficiently through the water, develop key muscle groups, and prevent injuries, Pilates is an ideal addition to your exercise routine.

5 ways Pilates can help you reach a new PR in the water

1. Strengthen your core for better form

For Pilates, core strength forms the bedrock of every exercise. Our core is the foundation of almost every movement in our workouts and our day-to-day activities.

Our bodies are an interconnected system of muscles, and most movements engage the core in some way. When our core is underdeveloped, it can cause other muscle groups to pick up the slack (especially our lower back). A strong core provides balance in the body, reduces injuries, and helps create more efficient movement – that means faster movements, with less energy expenditure!

A well-rounded core workout can lead to big results for swimmers. A 2020 study found that 6 weeks of core workouts 3 times per week lead to improved performance for swimmers. Similarly, researchers in 2023 found that adolescent swimmers who performed core exercises 4 times per week for 8 weeks experienced not only better performance in the water but also better results on Functional Movement Tests, which indicate a lower risk of injury.

2. Move more efficiently through the water

Both Pilates and swimming emphasize the need for efficient movements. At RTR Pilates, we build our classes around the concept of efficient, effective movements to strengthen the body.

Swimmers are constantly pushing their bodies against resistance in the water. In reformer Pilates, we work through resistance in the form of spring loads that help strengthen our bodies.

For swimmers, increased efficiency in the water can stem from multiple benefits that we see in Pilates. First and foremost, a strong core is key to moving efficiently and reducing the energy it takes to perform any given movement.

But posture and alignment can also play a large part in efficient movement. By strengthening the spine and building awareness of our body in Pilates classes, it becomes natural for swimmers to stay aligned in the water for reduced resistance.

3. Control your body with increased awareness

Connection with your breath and your body is a huge component of Pilates. We focus on building a mind-body connection and connecting breath to movement. Coordinating breath with movement is central to Pilates, and swimming as well. In the studio, we think about our breaths with every movement – the same can be said of swimming!

At RTR, we emphasize awareness, control, and connection to our bodies. This helps us stay present in the moment, and it also serves to activate our core to stabilize the body.

Swimmers who build a greater awareness of their body, in and out of the water, will be able to move more efficiently.

4. Improve your reach and range of motion

Swimmers rely A LOT on their shoulders. For optimum performance, your shoulders need to stay flexible and strong, with a full range of motion. With other cross-training exercises, such as weightlifting, swimmers can build the strength that they need, but they may not get the full range of motion. In weightlifting, people will often build up the middle of the muscle but fail to develop the full length of the muscle (especially the muscle near the joints!).

Pilates strengthens the shoulders and stretches the muscles and joints through a full range of motion.

Beyond the shoulders, Pilates also improves the range of motion in the hips, which is essential for your breaststroke.

5. Reduce injuries – especially in the shoulders

In general, any type of repetitive movement is going to cause some wear and tear on the body over time. We over-develop some muscle groups while under-developing others. Repetitive movements, without the proper counter exercises, can also damage the joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Swimming is one of the most repetitive sports when it comes to how the body moves.

In swimming, most injuries occur in the shoulders from rotating the arm out of correct alignment, but other common injuries include knee pain from breaststroke and hip and pelvis injuries.

Pilates plays a big role in injury prevention by strengthening the body as a whole. By strengthening the full length of the muscle, protecting the joints, building a strong core, and encouraging increased awareness of the body, swimmers reduce the risk of injury and can even see a reduction in chronic pain. A systematic review of research found that people with chronic pain who practiced regular Pilates experienced significant improvement in pain relief and functional movement.

“I want clients to feel challenged while also having fun. I hope they feel stronger &, better than when they came in.” – RTR Instructor Rebecca

See the results for yourself!

With more than 300 classes/week across 5 studio locations, RTR Pilates has classes for every level and lifestyle.

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How Regular Pilates Classes can Help Reduce Chronic Pain

Earlier this year, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published research estimating that more than 51 million people – that’s more than 20% of US adults – suffer from chronic pain.

Let’s repeat that one more time. An estimated 20% of US adults are living with chronic pain. That is absolutely wild.

In the study, researchers also found that only about 10% of adults recover from chronic pain and become totally pain-free year over year. This is incredibly significant because long-lasting chronic pain increases the risk for depression, Alzheimers, dementia, substance abuse, and suicide.

If you have chronic pain, you know that it makes a huge impact on your life every single day, ranging from what types of jobs you can have to how you can play with your grandkids.

For anyone experiencing chronic pain, consulting with a licensed medical professional should always be your first step. Depending on your type of pain, exercise may lead to significant pain reduction, and can even lead to a completely pain-free recovery.

For many chronic pain conditions, research shows that Pilates is an incredibly effective tool to reduce and eliminate chronic pain.

How Pilates can Impact Chronic Pain

Now, there are many different types of chronic pain. Chronic pain, in general, just refers to pain that lasts longer than 3 months. Some of the most common types of chronic pain in the U.S. include lower back pain and arthritis. Back pain makes up an estimated 10.1% of all chronic pain cases each year.

When it comes to musculoskeletal or inflammatory chronic pain, Pilates can have a significant impact on your body’s ability to recover.

“As an athlete and professional ballet dancer for many years, Pilates has always been a part of strength recovery for me in school and in my professional career. After having multiple injuries, Pilates helped me to get back my strength not just in my muscles but in my overall wellbeing.” – RTR Instructor Katya

Pilates is fantastic for chronic pain because of the types of exercises and areas of focus that we focus on in the classroom.

Low Impact Exercises

Pilates exercises are low-impact, which means that it puts less pressure on your joints. This means that you can enjoy all of the benefits of Pilates without putting further strain on vulnerable joints. For anyone with chronic pain, this can provide a safe way to exercise without exposing your body to unnecessary wear and tear.

Improved Joint Mobility

While general strength training, like weight lifting, builds muscles mostly in the middle of the muscle, Pilates focuses on strengthening the full length of your muscles. This means that people who attend Pilates classes regularly strengthen the muscles around the joints. This provides a greater range of motion and improved mobility.

Strengthening the muscles around your joints can also take pressure off of those joints and relieve much of the pain associated with that specific part of the body.

A Stronger Core

Most of the movements in our bodies draw on our core, and when our core is underdeveloped, other parts of the body end up overcompensating. This can be a big source of back and neck pain, as well as increased risk of injury.

Core strength stems from well-balanced core development. At RTR Pilates, we spend a lot of time focusing on overall core strength, which directly contributes to stability and injury prevention. Because your core is the foundation of movements in other parts of your body, developing your core can protect and reduce pain in other parts of your body.

Better Posture

A big part of Pilates revolves around our awareness of our bodies and guiding our bodies into better posture and alignment. Posture and alignment have a huge impact on musculoskeletal pain.

Good posture and alignment can:

  • Prevent muscle fatigue.
  • Promote effective and efficient use of the muscles of your body.
  • Prevent abnormal positioning of your spine.
  • Reduce abnormal wear and tear on joint surfaces.

Reduced Risk of Future Injury

While reducing the risk of future injury isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when combating chronic pain, it is still an incredibly important component of protecting your body and building upon compounding gains.

When you live with chronic pain, you’re already operating at 70%, 60%, 50% or less every day. If you already live with a significant health issue, then an additional injury can be disastrous for your quality of life.

As a low-impact exercise, Pilates strengthens your overall body to build a stronger system and reduce the risk of future injury. This can make it easier to recover from existing chronic pain and feel more in control of your body, which is critical for your mental health and resilience.

Improved Mental Wellbeing

Research shows that Pilates is fantastic for so many different aspects of our mental wellbeing. Studies show that regular Pilates classes can have a positive impact by:

When you are battling chronic pain, your mental wellbeing is crucial to living with and recovering from chronic pain.

“I love what I do and feel very lucky every time I am able to be in front of a class. Making people feel good about themselves is an honor that I take to heart.” – RTR Instructor Jean Marie

What Does the Research Say?

Over and over again, research demonstrates that regular Pilates classes can have an incredibly positive impact for individuals living with chronic pain.

Back Pain

There have been a number of high-quality studies that examine the relationship between Pilates and chronic pain, especially lower back pain. A systematic review of these studies showed a distinct pattern:

“Patients with chronic low back pain showed statistically significant improvement in pain relief and functional ability compared to patients who only performed usual or routine health care…In patients with chronic low back pain, Pilates showed significant improvement in pain relief and functional enhancement.”

Arthritis

A 2022 randomized controlled study looked at the impact of Pilates-based exercises on individuals with osteoarthritis. Study participants attended 1-hour sessions 3 times a week for 8 weeks. The participants were separated into a control group and a “Pilates” group; the control group attended isometrics classes, while the Pilates group performed Pilates-based exercises.

Researchers found while both groups showed a reduction in pain from osteoarthritis, participants who regularly attended the Pilates classes demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in terms of pain and physical moment compared to the control group.

Remember – Always Consult Your Physician!

Every body is different. If you suffer from chronic pain, always consult with your physician before starting a new exercise plan. They can help you understand what types of exercises will need modification to protect your body.

Start Reducing Your Chronic Pain Today

Our ultimate goal is to make chronic pain conditions as asymptomatic as possible. Pilates is a great tool to build an overall stronger, more supported body.

Join our community at RTR Pilates and experience the power of Pilates firsthand! Get your first month of unlimited classes for just $129.

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RTR Pilates’ Costa Rica Retreat – Everything You Need to Know!

Join RTR Pilates’ first annual Costa Rica Retreat February 10-14, 2024 for a week of yoga, mat Pilates, adventure, and connection in the beautiful landscape of Nosara, Costa Rica!

Whether it’s deepening your practice, relaxing on a pristine beach, making new friends, or escaping dreary winter weather, there’s something for everyone.

The details

Join us Saturday, February 10 to Wednesday February 14, 2024 for a Pilates & yoga retreat in the beautiful seaside town of Nosara, Costa Rica.

💡 What: A 4-night, 5-day retreat hosted at the relaxing Norte Nosara boutique hotel.

💡 Who: Join RTR founder Reina Offutt, alongside our tenured (and amazing!) instructors Jordan and Alex as we relax, connect, challenge our bodies, and explore a beautiful coastal community.

💡 How: Email retreats@rtrpilates.com by November 1 to reserve your spot. Visit https://rtrpilates.com/retreats/ for more information!

💡 Price: $2,200 per person

What’s included

  • 4 nights and 5 days at the Norte Nosara Hotel, a small boutique hotel just steps away from pristine beaches and a friendly town with plenty of shops and restaurants
  • 3 mat Pilates and yoga classes per day
  • Breakfast & lunch every day
  • Welcome happy hour
  • Farewell dinner
  • A Pilates gift set sponsored by MoveActive
  • Conservation activity to support the local environment

Not included: airfare, travel from the airport to the resort, dinners aside from the welcome happy hour and farewell dinner, and optional excursions to be priced separately

Make the most of your adventure

  • Join optional planned excursions (or plan your own!) to experience:
    • Zip lining in the lush surrounding jungle
    • Surf lessons
    • Coffee plantation tours
    • And more!

Imagine the possibilities

We’ve designed this trip to be a guided yet flexible retreat suitable for individuals at any level in their Pilates practice.

Our optional daily Pilates and yoga classes take place in the early-morning, mid-morning, and at sunset, allowing you to pick the classes that work for you.

Use the remainder of your day to relax on the beach, learn how to surf, explore the local community, join a pre-planned excursion, or plan your own solo adventure!

Get away from a hectic (and cold!) time of year to bask in the warm sun in a lush tropical landscape.

Have extra days off? Feel free to extend your trip for some solo time exploring Costa Rica before or after our retreat.

Connection + community

This Costa Rica retreat is years in the making for our team, and we are beyond thrilled to invite you to experience the laid-back yoga/Pilates/surfing culture of Nosara.

Take this time to build community, connect with fellow Pilates enthusiasts, deepen friendships, and create space for balance in your life.

Community is an integral part of the RTR family, and we can’t wait to bring our community together in a new and exciting way.

Jordan, Reina, and Alex – your retreat instructors!

How to sign up

Email us at retreats@rtrpilates.com to sign up!

Sign up by November 1 to reserve your spot or visit https://rtrpilates.com/retreats/ to learn more.

We are so excited to host this incredible retreat for you. With that in mind, we do need a certain number of confirmed attendees to properly plan the retreat. If we do not receive the necessary number of confirmed attendees by November 1, then we may move the retreat to a later date, when more people can attend.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Who can sign up for the retreat?

Anyone. This retreat is designed for Pilates practitioners of all levels – whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced pro.

No matter how long you’ve been with RTR, or how often you come to class, everyone is welcome. Want to bring a friend who’s never been to a class? No problem. There’s something for everyone.

Which instructors will teach during the retreat?

Reina, Jordan, and Alex will lead Pilates classes during the retreat, so you know you’re in good hands. Yoga classes will be led by Alex.

Will reformer Pilates be a part of the retreat?

Full-sized Pilates reformers don’t travel well on commercial flights, so all Pilates classes during this retreat will be mat Pilates. But don’t worry – they’ll still challenge you, no matter your skill level.

“People sometimes think that reformer Pilates is harder than mat Pilates – but that’s not the case. Not only are there plenty of hard exercises and movements, but by switching things up, we can get a better understanding of our muscular anatomy and engagement. We are so used to having the resistance of the reformer do a lot of the heavy lifting for us. For example, just try doing leg circles without feet in straps! – Alex, RTR Retreat Instructor

I can’t stay the full week. Can I come for part of the retreat?

Absolutely. While we can’t price partial stays separately, this retreat is built for you. So if you can only stay 3 nights, you are still more than welcome to join our team for as long as you can.

Which city should we fly into for the retreat?

Attendees should fly into either San Jose or Liberia. We will coordinate with our attendee’s flight schedules and help arrange for transportation to our retreat location.

Can you tell me more about where we’re staying?

The recently-opened Norte Nosara is a boutique, family-owned and operated hotel just steps away from Playa Guiones, a beautiful tree-lined beach famed for its surf and lush coastline.

Norte Nosara offers daily yoga and movement classes taught by world-class teachers in a relaxed and stylish atmosphere. The location also offers a pool, bar, and access to a neighboring restaurant.

Are there things to do in Nosara?

Absolutely! Nosara is famous for its laidback surfing and yoga community, and there are countless ways to explore the area. From incredible restaurants to hiking, kayaking, and wildlife sanctuaries, there’s something for everyone.

While we will offer optional group excursions, you are completely free to structure your trip around the things you want to explore during your time in Costa Rica.

Why host the retreat in Costa Rica?

We have been dreaming of hosting a retreat in Costa Rica for years now, ever since our amazing instructor Alex moved there in 2018 to immerse herself in the yoga, surf, and Pilates lifestyle famous in Nosara. Alex has stayed an amazing part of the RTR community, returning to DC every year to help guide our instructor training programs, and has been an integral part of planning this retreat for our community.

We are so excited for our clients to experience this incredible destination to relax, recharge, and reconnect with our bodies and our community.

Have more questions? Email us at retreats@rtrpilates.com or visit https://rtrpilates.com/retreats/ for more information.

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Are You Ready for Sweater Weather? Cozy Up With These Amazing Brands at RTR Pilates Retail!

Whether you’re picking pumpkins, roasting marshmallows, or running from Pilates to the school pickup line, fall is when you want your wardrobe to triple duty. Your clothing shouldn’t just be comfy and functional – it should also make you feel your best.

Across RTR Pilates’ five studio locations in the DMV, we feature brands that provide comfortable, fun, and quality athleisure pieces for every lifestyle. We love curating a wide range of brands, from small, women-owned businesses to sustainable and eco-friendly lines.

“RTR Pilates is more than a Pilates Studio. We are a supportive community that I’m super proud to be a part of.  It truly is a Place to Thrive!” – Debbie, RTR Pilates Customer Relations Manager

But you don’t have to shop in person to see our favorite picks for fall. You can also shop online at RTR Retail to find the perfect style for your needs!

Shop RTR Retail Here

Whether you shop online or in our studios, keep an eye out for these 4 amazing brands to freshen up your wardrobe this fall.

1. Tavi Noir

We love everything from Tavi Noir, but we especially love their grip socks. Grip socks are critical to Pilates studios for safety and stability, but Tavi Noir shows that grip socks can also be playful and fun!

Whether you want a pop of color or to bring out your inner dancer, Tavi Noir has styles for everyone. We also love that Tavi focuses on eco-friendly and sustainable techniques for their fabrics.

There are plenty of things we pick up shopping that we never wear again. But for Pilates-goers, grip socks are pieces you’ll need every week. So why not go for a quality grip sock that will make you even more excited for class?

2. Spiritual Gangster

Spiritual Gangster is just one of those brands where every piece makes you go “Ooooh, look at that”. Their clothing is beautiful and functional, but they also add style that makes each piece a statement item in your wardrobe.

This brand is perfect for building light layers in fall that will help you move from errands to the studio to your child’s soccer game without missing a beat. Plus, they have an ongoing partnership with Feeding America, and have donated more than 15 million meals to date.

3. Year of Ours

Meet your new favorite brand for athleisure staples. Year of Ours’ is a beautiful female-created and led activewear and lifestyle company out of California. They focus on providing multi-functional pieces in a wide range of sizing (currently XS-2X). We also love that they produce 80% of their pieces in their own headquarters and factory location in El Monte, California, and focus on ethical working conditions.

Not to mention – their sports bras are really comfy.

Self magazine named Year of Ours’ Ribbed Gym Bra one of the best medium-impact bras, and for good reason. It’s stylish, functional, and comfortable.

4. Free People Movement

Free People Movement has something for everyone. From eclectic and bold items to the comfiest sweaters you’ll ever find, Free People brings their style to athleisure wear and we love it. This brand is perfect for autumn layering with beautiful jackets and sports bras with gorgeous details.

Find your favorite pieces in our studios, or online at RTR Pilates’ online store!

Look and feel your best with RTR Pilates!

At RTR Pilates, we focus on helping you become the best version of yourself. We want you to feel confident, strong, and ready for wherever life takes you. Pilates is a powerful tool to build that confidence, but so is your wardrobe! The right clothes can empower, inspire, and bring joy into your life.

Visit RTR Pilates’ online store or any of our five studio locations across the DMV, and discover studio-to-street pieces that will have you ready to take on the world.

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Meet your new RTR Instructors!

We are thrilled to announce that six graduates have passed our training program with flying colors, and are ready to join our studios as certified RTR instructors! These fantastic instructors excelled in RTR’s rigorous training program, and we can’t wait for you to meet them.

The newest members of the RTR team

Pictured from left to right: Shay, Yara, Camilia, Andrea, Sara- our fabulous Director of Training!, Daniella, Yolanda

Shay

Shay’s journey into Pilates started with a personal quest to find a workout that focused on her overall well-being. She took her first class at RTR in 2023 and instantly connected with the workout and atmosphere. She is a passionate fitness instructor who believes that a strong mind and body are the foundation of a vibrant life. Shay’s motto is everybody and every body can benefit from Pilates.

Yara

Yara’s journey to become a Pilates instructor was driven by a desire to share the transformative power of movement. Drawing from her dance experience, she prioritizes precision, grace, and discipline in her teaching. Her approach is to empower clients, whether beginners or experienced enthusiasts, to discover their inner strength, improve flexibility, and cultivate a balanced, functional body.  She is always excited to make new connections with those she works with and uncover their limitless potential!

Camilia

Camilia began her fitness journey in her early adolescence. She was always very physically active growing up; participating in sports and running 5k races whenever possible! Going to university during the Covid-19 pandemic really opened her eyes to the myriad of issues regarding health in American society.

Upon her graduation from Vanderbilt University in 2022, she decided to look further into a potential career path that would allow her to be a part of the solution. When gyms were closing down, YouTube mat Pilates became a regular part of her fitness regime and has stayed ever since!

In addition to Pilates, she loves to cross-train with weightlifting, yoga, and running. Health and wellness have become a growing passion of hers and through her classes, she hopes to foster the same joy and love in her clients!

Andrea

Andrea is an enthusiastic practitioner of Pilates and has been a loyal RTR client for the past two years, and now she’s also an RTR instructor! She brings her passion for healthy living and teaching to her clients.

Raised in Brazil and fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, Andrea found an inspiring balance of traditional and contemporary approaches to Pilates at RTR. When not teaching Pilates classes, Andrea serves as an adjunct faculty member for the Leadership Coaching program at Georgetown University and coaches leaders in the Private and Government sector.

Daniella

Daniella’s love for teaching Pilates comes from her desire to help improve people’s lives, and the joy she gets from the practice. When she was little, Daniella wanted to be a Cirque du Soleil acrobat, which led her to many different sports and ways of exercising.

Also certified as a Yoga instructor, Daniella loves to help others cultivate a deeper than physical, healing connection with themselves and the rest of the world.

Yolanda

Yolanda’s Pilates journey began when she was a Yoga instructor teaching at a studio that primarily offered Reformer Pilates classes. She began taking classes at the studio and fell in love with it.

After going through a challenging pregnancy with her son which had her on bed rest from 19 weeks on, Pilates was a huge component in her post-pregnancy recovery.

Yolanda sought her first Pilates certification through Peak and began teaching in Rockville, MD. After a couple of years away from teaching, she and her family moved to Great Falls in 2021 and she discovered RTR Pilates. In 2023, Yolanda had the opportunity to become an RTR Instructor and has loved being a part of the community!

About RTR’s training program

The RTR training program teaches instructors how to help people transform their bodies and their lives. While most instructor training programs only focus on teaching exercises by muscle groups, we take that focus and add in the a bit of engineering to optimize each class. The program is taught by our Director of Training, Sara L.

Learn more about the RTR training program

Through our unique training program, we empower instructors to create programs that integrate their own style and personality with efficient flows and effective exercises. The result is a group of instructors prepared and empowered to lead fantastic classes from day 1.

We offer more than 300 classes/week, varying from 6:15am – 7:15pm, across our 5 DMV locations, so there are plenty of opportunities to meet our new team members!

Gina

Gina is the Director of Retail for RTR Pilates. Her expertise lies in retail management, buying, and the customer experience. With her experience in both large and small settings, she has a passion for visual merchandising, client relations, business development, and community outreach.

Gina

Gina is the Director of Retail for RTR Pilates. Her expertise lies in retail management, buying, and the customer experience. With her experience in both large and small settings, she has a passion for visual merchandising, client relations, business development, and community outreach.

Yolanda

Yolanda’s Pilates journey began when she was a Yoga Instructor teaching at a studio that primarily offered Reformer Pilates classes.  She began taking classes at the studio and fell in love with it.  After going through a challenging pregnancy with her son which had her on bed rest from 19 weeks on, Pilates was a huge component in her post-pregnancy recovery.  She sought her first Pilates certification through Peak and began teaching in Rockville, MD.  After a couple of years, she stepped away from teaching to take a position as a Health & Wellness Coordinator at a Software company then later chose to become a stay-at-home Mom during the Pandemic and had her daughter. She and her family moved to Great Falls in 2021 and discovered RTR Pilates as she was looking to get back to taking classes.  In 2023 she had the opportunity to become an RTR Instructor and has loved being a part of the community since!

Yara

Yara’s journey into Pilates was driven by a desire to share the transformative power of movement. Drawing from her dance experience, she prioritizes precision, grace, and discipline in her teaching. Her approach is to empower clients, whether beginners or experienced enthusiasts, to discover their inner strength, improve flexibility, and cultivate a balanced, functional body.  She is always excited to make new connections with those she works with and uncover their limitless potential! 

Shay

Shay’s journey into Pilates started with a personal quest for a new workout that focused on overall well-being. She took her first class at RTR in 2023 and instantly connected with the workout and atmosphere. She is a passionate fitness instructor who believes that a strong mind and body are the foundation of a vibrant life. Shay’s motto is everybody and every body can benefit from Pilates. 

Daniella

Daniella’s love for teaching Pilates comes from her strong-willed desire to help improve people’s lives and the joy she gets from the practice. When she was little, she wanted to be a Cirque du Soleil acrobat, which led to her trying many different sports and ways of exercising. While also certified in teaching yoga, detoxing, and as a psychic, Daniella loves to help others cultivate a deeper than physical, healing connection with themselves and the rest of the world, even though Pilates.

Camilia

Camilia, a graduate of Vanderbilt University Class of 2022, began her fitness journey in her early adolescence. She was always very physically active growing up; participating in sports and running 5k races whenever possible! Going to university during the Covid-19 pandemic really opened her eyes to the myriad of issues regarding health in American society. Upon graduation, she decided to look further into a potential career path that would allow her to be a part of the solution. When gyms were closing down, YouTube mat Pilates became a regular part of her fitness regime and has stayed ever since! In addition to Pilates, she loves to cross-train with weightlifting, yoga, and running! Health and wellness have become a growing passion of hers and through her classes, she hopes to foster the same joy and love in her clients!

Andrea

Andrea is an enthusiastic practitioner of Pilates and has been a loyal RTR client for the past two years and now, starting in 2023, an instructor. She brings her passion for healthy living and teaching to her clients. Raised in Brazil and fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, Andrea found an inspiring balance of traditional and contemporary approaches to Pilates at RTR. When not teaching Pilates classes, Andrea serves as an adjunct faculty member for the Leadership Coaching program at Georgetown University as well as coaching leaders in the Private and Government sector.

Michelle

Michelle is a full time Realtor and when she’s not busy closing deals, you’ll find her in her role as a RTR Pilates advocate. Her commitment to health and well-being extends beyond the real estate world. She believes in the transformative power of Pilates, promoting physical and mental wellness for all. Michelle’s friendly and supportive approach makes her the perfect guide for newcomers to the pilates world. Michelle is bilingual, loves connecting with other Spanish speakers and embracing their rich culture.

Lauren

Lauren joined RTR in 2023. She has had a passion for fitness since 2012. She loves strengthening her body through movement which was very helpful during her pregnancy and the birth of her son in March 2023.

Katharina

Katharina started combining her hobby and passion to move and work out with work during university. It was a great way to stay balanced, meet new people and earn some extra money. At that time she taught aerobics, dance, strength classes etc. Getting people to move, strengthening and mobilizing their bodies and having a good time feels very rewarding. As a psychotherapist and a mom Katharina knows how important exercising is, mentally and physically. She has been doing Mat Pilates every now and then for years. At one point they offered Reformer classes at the gym she was working at. She took a class and loved it. When she moved to the USA, the RTR studio in Chevy Chase was within walking distance. Still unpacking stuff, Katharina needed some me-time and took a class. It was amazing. So far she was more used to classical reformer Pilates – the combination of classical and contemporary Pilates at RTR let her become a regular client. A year later Katharina became an instructor and never regretted it. In fact she continues to get further certifications and loves taking workshops and getting new inspiration.

Helen O

Helen is our Director of Operations here at RTR Pilates. Before coming to RTR, Helen was an Operations Manager for several commercial cleaning companies and staffing companies, as well as, a Hotel General Manager. Helen was born in Cleveland, Ohio, but raised in Caracas, Venezuela. She fell in love with RTR Pilates on her first visit, she says that, “clients, instructors, and admin are lovely and provide a great atmosphere!” 

Ceara

Hi there! My name is Ceara, and I’m a Pilates enthusiast-turned-instructor. I’ve been practicing Pilates for over 10 years, and it has been a passion of mine ever since I first discovered it. Recently, I decided to take a leap and turn my passion into a career by becoming a certified Pilates instructor.

One of the reasons I love Pilates so much is because of the way it benefits both my mind and body. It helps me feel centered and focused, while also improving my strength, flexibility, and posture. As an instructor, I’m excited to share these benefits with others and help them achieve their own health and wellness goals.

I currently teach at RTR, where I have the opportunity to learn and grow alongside other experienced instructors. I’m grateful for the supportive community and the chance to continue deepening my knowledge and skills. If you’re interested in joining me for a Pilates class, I’d love to have you!

Helena

I discovered Pilates just by chance! Several years ago my mom was raving about the wonders of pilates after dealing with back pain for almost a decade, and stubborn me needed a good push before I tried something new. However, safe to say, I have not looked back! Thanks mom! 

I love the feeling Pilates gives you during and after. I struggled for so long to find a movement that wouldn’t leave me feeling drained and weak. In Pilates, the core challenges in every movement make me feel so much more confident in not only my intentional movement but also my day to day! 

Outside of teaching, I work as a licensed dietitian supporting clients recovering from eating disorders by building a long lasting relationship with food and their body. Working at RTR is such a beautiful compliment to all my work!

Anna

 

Although a native Bostonian and diehard Red Sox fan, Anna has now lived in DC for more than 20 years. A former college swimmer and Ashtanga yoga devotee, she has always enjoyed athletic pursuits. Anna discovered Pilates after a shoulder injury in 2017 and quickly became hooked! She did classical Pilates for a couple of years but missed the energy of group classes and was thrilled to discover RTR in 2019. Anna became an instructor in 2023 and hopes to pass along her passion for precise movement and balance challenges (among other things).

 

When not doing Pilates, Anna loves all kinds of live music (but especially Pearl Jam), walking her dogs, traveling to just about anywhere, and spending time with her husband and three kids. She is currently learning how to play tennis and bridge and her goal is to ski and do headstands until she’s at least 75.

Dolci

Growing up in Potomac and being a health and fitness enthusiast it was inevitable that I eventually found and fell in love with RTR. I started coming to RTR (when it was Potomac Pilates) back in 2012 and was instantly hooked. The classes left me feeling strong, motivated, mobile, and rejuvenated and I knew this was something that will be long lasting. RTR was always there to help me recover from injuries and imbalances caused by heavy lifting and high intensity group workouts so once the timing and opportunity arose I knew I wanted to share my love of RTR by becoming an instructor and help others feel strong and challenged while still being functional and balanced.  When I’m not focusing on my health and fitness, I can be found deep into a Netflix binge, cozied up with a good book, or walking around downtown Bethesda with my giant sheepadoodle, Henry.



Genevieve

Genevieve got her start in the fitness industry through sales and management in 2018. Having tried various workouts, she finds that low impact training is best for her body. During the pandemic, she started mat pilates and barre at home -with time, she hoped to get on a reformer. After researching studios, she found that RTR provided the uplifting and supportive community she had been looking for in a fitness environment. In Genevieve’s free time, you can find her spending time with family & friends, baking, or learning how to play tennis.

Monika

Monika started at RTR Pilates as a client, and soon discovered that Pilates is not only a great workout — it can also be a way of practicing mindfulness and self-awareness through movement. Hoping to share this experience with others, Monika joined the RTR Pilates instructor training program in Spring 2023. In class, she strives to create accessible routines that can be challenging as well as relaxing — with the hope that clients will leave her class feeling stronger and more relaxed.

Aside from Pilates, Monika practices as a health coach, and runs her charity-driven, sustainable womenswear line.

Deborah

A native of Charleston, SC, I moved to Washington, DC by way of Boston to attend graduate school. Nearly 30 years later, here I am still! I met my husband and raised a daughter here (and a couple of awesome dogs too), and enjoyed a long career in communications with a focus on environmental and social justice issues. I first tried Pilates on the Reformer about 5 years ago at another DC gym and fell in love with its unique combination of strength training, balance, flexibility, and mental focus. I truly believe it’s a form of exercise that people of any age and fitness level can benefit from throughout their lives. I’m so excited to take my career in a healthy and challenging new direction with RTR Pilates.  Mad respect & gratitude to all the amazing and supportive RTR instructors I’ve had the pleasure to train with, and to my fabulous fellow graduates of the Spring 2023 Training Session.

Aimee-Rose

DC native Aimée Rose discovered her love of Pilates after a serious dance fall. When her injury required dedicated physical therapy and rehabilitation, she looked for a gentle re-entry into movement. Pilates was an obvious choice to regain her fitness while simultaneously allowing her to heal. Stronger than ever thanks to her practice, she along with the rest of the Customer Care Team [and the entire RTR Squad] are passionate about helping others love their body’s strength and live well as their best selves! She’ll see you at HQ reception and in the email inbox or be the friendly voice at the other end of the phone. Stop by and say hello!

Alyson A

Alyson has always had a love for movement and balance training. While living in New York City in 1998, she found her way to the reformer and began using Pilates to minimize stress and offset the stiffness that came from sitting at a desk all day long. That’s when her love for Pilates officially took hold and began to be woven into the fabric of her exercise routine. In 2003, she moved to the Washington, DC area with her husband and stumbled upon a Pilates studio in Bethesda. While pregnant with their first son, she found Pilates to be extremely helpful with her growing body and shifting center of gravity. In 2018, she took her first RTR class and fell in love with the style of Pilates being taught as well as with all the RTR instructors. Then finally in 2022, Alyson decided she was ready to go from a client to an instructor and enrolled in the fall training class. She is excited to be part of the RTR family where she can continue to follow her passion and love for movement, balance, and focus.

Regina D

Regina joined RTR as a client in 2020 soon after moving to Northern VA, and then jumped at the opportunity to become an instructor in 2022. She fell in love with Pilates during her years as a former Professional Ballet Dancer after suffering from neck and shoulder injuries and hypermobility. After trying many different forms of cross-training, she always returned to Pilates because it promotes strength, flexibility, balance, and connects the mind and body. She is originally from Cincinnati OH, where she attended the University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music for a BFA in Ballet Performance. Regina loves the inclusivity of Pilates and looks forward to teaching clients of all levels!

Rachel B

Rachel joined RTR as a client in November 2021 looking to build strength and mobility. She found Pilates not only offered both but was also incredibly engaging – she couldn’t get enough. Rachel became certified in Fall 2022 and is excited to help others’ gain functional strength useful for everyday life.

Quintus C

Quintus, a native Washingtonian, comes to RTR with a background in teaching, coaching, and personal training. For the past 10 years, he has coached soccer, basketball, and baseball at several local independent schools, and youth sports organizations. A RTR client since 2017, who found pilates to strengthen his core and prevent injury while playing high impact sports. He believes Pilates is for everyone and enjoys making classes both accessible and challenging.

Mufeng L

Mufeng’s first encounter with Pilates was through reading scholarly articles about the components and effectiveness of this system of exercise. When she was intrigued by the literature that there were benefits from this method, she went into the RTR Pilates studio to give it a try. To her surprise, she started to feel stronger than ever, both mentally and physically, after only a few months’ practice. She inevitably became a true enthusiast for Pilates and wanted to help others achieve the same results. Mufeng designs every class to be a balanced mind-body workout that incorporates the six principles of Pilates: centering, concentration, control, precision, fluidity, and breathing. She wants to help clients achieve balance, strength, and health through fun classes. When not wearing her Pilates instructor’s hat, Mufeng is busy juggling between being a scientific officer and a mother of two girls.

Danielle B

A native Washingtonian, Danielle joined RTR as an instructor in the Fall of 2022 after ten years as a client. It took just one class for her to get hooked, and over the years she has found Pilates to be a crucial practice benefitting both her physical and mental health. Danielle attended Georgetown Visitation in DC and the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, NC, and also works in marketing and interior design.

Barbara B

Barbara started teaching at RTR in 2022 after becoming certified through RTR’s in-house training program. She was drawn to reformer Pilates in 2014 as a way to strengthen her core while completing yoga teacher training in Miami, Florida. She aims to make every client feel simultaneously challenged and supported. Before moving to the DC area, Barbara taught English as a Second Language (ESOL) at the University of Miami and in Japanese public schools. She currently runs training programs for the federal government. Outside of Pilates, Barbara enjoys spending time with her husband, stepdaughter, and two chihuahuas. She is an Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN) certified health coach who is passionate about yoga (yin and power/vinyasa), cooking, nature, and travel.

Lorena RD

Lorena loves Pilates because it’s a fun way to stay in shape, working out on the machine makes every exercise enjoyable. Her favorite Pilates exercise is long spine. She hopes clients leave her classes feeling good about themselves.

Quyen T

Having done mat Pilates on and off since she was 14, Quyen finds that she always comes back to it no matter how many other types of exercises she tries. She felt that it was one of the few things she can do that will improve her energy, strength, and durability. When she discovered RTR Pilates during the pandemic, her passion for mastering reformer Pilates began as it was true therapy for her. She found that reformer Pilates allows her to push herself further and find more trust and strength in her mind and body. Her goal as an instructor is to help clients do just those things: learn to trust their own minds and bodies and find their limits. She also moonlights as a software product manager, and, in her free time, Quyen can be found eating and laughing with friends and family in many corners of the world.

Tiffany L

Tiffany discovered Pilates in early 2019 when a new studio opened up near her house in San Diego and fell in love with the way the exercises transformed her body. When Tiffany found RTR near her house in McLean in 2021, she immediately signed up for a membership. She knew right away that RTR was a supportive and encouraging place to call her new Pilates home. Intrigued by the way the mind and body work in concert, and eager to share her love of Pilates with others, Tiffany trained with RTR shortly after joining the studio. She hopes her clients enjoy the feeling of accomplishment after each class as well as the benefits Pilates provides to a person’s mental health and physical fitness. Tiffany looks forward to meeting new clients each week and helping them grow stronger with every class.

Debbie M

Debbie is our Client Relations Manager & Director of Administration here at RTR Pilates. She handles and oversees the administrative duties of RTR and keeps all of our members happy. Before coming to RTR, Debbie worked as a Territory Manager Assistant for Weight Watchers International. She loves working with people and providing the best customer service she can on a daily basis. Born and raised in Maryland, and now residing in Delaware, she enjoys traveling to the West Coast and loves hanging out with friends and family whenever she can (preferably on a beach).

Ulrick R

Ulrick has a lifelong passion for fitness and has dedicated 15 years to all aspects of the profession. He is a strong advocate for an active lifestyle and healthy nutrition. Prior to becoming a fitness professional, Ulrick earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and a Masters in Management Information Systems from The American University. Ulrick quickly realized that Pilates was the missing piece in his comprehensive training regimen and could only benefit his background and help with clients. His positive outlook on life and training allows him to seek many different aspects of the fitness world. He is the founder and owner of URFitness and has worked as a fitness trainer at health clubs throughout the greater DC area. Ulrick’s background includes expertise in group training, boot camp programs, boxing classes, sport specific conditioning, and rehabilitation exercises. Ulrick’s certifications include: Balanced Body Pilates Mat and Reformer, Fitness Instructor and Conditioning Specialist with the National Strength Professional Association, and Post-Rehabilitative Breast Cancer Exercise Specialist with the Pink Ribbon Program.


Tom B

Tom enjoys creating new Pilates classes with different balance and symmetry challenges, focusing on proper form and safety.
He loves to travel and play golf, enjoy spending time with his family, and walking his dog.

Susan D

Susan joined the RTR instructor family in 2021! Susan’s Pilates journey started when the Great Falls studio opened up. Following her retirement as an executive at a major telecommunications company, she could be found almost daily at the studio. Pilates erased years of sitting in front of a computer and Susan was hooked! A native to the DC area, Susan has been an avid athlete all of her life – swimming, soccer, cheerleading, volleyball – and now alternates her athletic pursuits between golf and Pilates. Susan’s other passions include her family and friends, her numerous pets (cats and dog), cooking, and Virginia Tech sports, especially football and the tailgates.


Sheri F

Shelley B

Shelley Brown is an alpine skier, year-round swimmer and RTR Pilates client and teacher since 2017. An avid exerciser and dedicated health and fitness practitioner, Shelley enjoys tri-training, especially swimming and biking, and participated in the Hagerstown Sprint Triathlon in 2012 and 2016 and 2021. In 2014, Brown trained in The Esmond Technique of Classical Stretch given by Miranda Esmond White. She participated in the Classical Stretch program including appearing in a live program on WETA -TV as part of the Aging Backward series. A varsity high-school gymnast, Shelley trained in ballet for 8 years and taught gymnastics at family gymnastics programs at Denver University and Connecticut College. In October 2015 Shelley Brown became Managing Director of Dumbarton Arts and Education, Inc. From August 2003 to 2015, Ms. Brown served as the VP for Programming and Artistic Director for Strathmore Hall Foundation, Inc. where she oversaw the planning and implementation of Strathmore presentations in the Music Center (1800 seats) and the Mansion at Strathmore. From August 1988 – 1997 Ms. Brown worked at The Kennedy Center as Festival Manager. Ms. Brown, a native of Denver, Colorado, holds a B.A. from Connecticut College and an M.B.A. from George Washington University.

Sarah G

Sarah G. danced at the Washington School of Ballet for ten years. It was during this time, at the age of eleven, that she began her journey with pilates. Pilates complimented her dance, strengthening her core and furthering her understanding of form. While she moved on from the dance world her involvement with pilates never ceased. She returned to the DC metropolitan area after graduating magna cum laude from Connecticut College and quickly began studying with RTR and happily took the opportunity to become an instructor.

Sara L

Sara started teaching at RTR in 2018. She was drawn to reformer pilates as a fun way to find more strength, flexibility, and better posture. She strives to make every client feel strong and accomplished. She strongly believes that Pilates is for every body. In her classes, she enjoys finding new and fun ways to challenge the body. Before moving to Virginia, Sara attended law school in Vermont. After she graduated, she decided to put her legal career on hold to focus on her family. Sara enjoyed continuing Pilates throughout both of her pregnancies. She strongly believes in the importance of Pilates for both pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Outside of Pilates, Sara enjoys spending time with her husband and two kids. She loves hiking, traveling, cooking, and reading. Sara is also the Director of Training for new instructors.

Reina O

Reina Offutt is both the creative mind and owner of RTR Pilates. Since 2006, Reina has worked continuously to ensure a thriving business for both her employees, and her clients.  With six intimate, inspiring, and accessible locations, Reina plans to expand her business and personal goal to sculpt both the mind and body. She places a high importance on philanthropy. She firmly believes in giving back to the community, both personally, and professionally. Annually, Potomac Pilates donates more than $5000 worth of services to schools, charities, and organizations. The MOM-trepreneur is a proud mother of 2 two-legged children and 2 four-legged fur babies.  Reina holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from Tulane University and a Masters in Business Administration from George Washington University.


Rebecca R

Nardia B

Nardia B. is a professional ballerina, and currently performs as a company member with The Washington Ballet.
 
Nardia has had a long standing relationship with Pilates. Pilates was always a part of her ballet school conditioning training. Pilates conditioning was essential to bettering her ballet technique and helped her learn to control her long extremities.
 
Pilates also helped her address muscle instabilities, scoliosis and hypermobility issues that could have led to injuries. Nardia was very inspired by her personal Pilates instructor and always dreamed of helping others to create beautiful, strong bodies through pilates.
 
When the opportunity to train and teach through RTR was presented, she couldn’t resist and dove into the work.
 
Nardia is also a signed model with The
Wilhelmina Modeling Agency in New York and is also a college student, pursuing a degree through LEAP program at St. Mary’s College of California. Nardia loves her clients and is very happy to be a part of the RTR family.

Mikayla M

Mikayla found RTR Pilates when she was looking for an enjoyable workout that enabled her to strengthen her body and protect it from injury. She fell in love with RTR’s contemporary style of teaching and is so glad to have received her RTR certification in the Fall of 2021.
Mikayla is also the Marketing Director of RTR Pilates.
 Mikayla graduated magna cum laude from George Mason University with a B.F.A in Dance in 2017. Since graduating, she has been a freelance dancer for choreographers in both the DMV (Washington area) and New York City. In addition, Mikayla spent 2017/18 dancing with Company Danzante and Metropolitan Ballet Ensemble. In 2019 she danced and choreographed for RawArts Dance. Since 2020, Mikayla has been a Principal Dancer and Resident Choreographer for Ash & Elm Dance Company. She is also the co-director of Kaleid Dance Company. In addition, before becoming Full-Time at RTR Pilates she spent 2 years as the Office & Studio Manager at James School of Dance Arts, and has used her Social Media Skills for many part-time gigs. 

MC B

Got into Pilates because I found it to be sustainable than weight lifting then I liked it so much I became an instructor. Currently working on my Masters in Interior Design & Architecture and when I’m not studying or teaching I’m hanging out with my greyhound, Bubba.

MC B. instructs the following:
 

Level 2+ Pilates

PREREQ for this class: All clients must submit a Covid vaccine card. Please email info@rtrpilates.com with a copy of your vaccine card & the email address associated with your MindBody Account to get the restriction lifted.

The Level 2/3 Pilates class is for clients looking to challenge themselves and work at their own pace. The instructor uses effective exercise techniques, offering modifications so that intermediate to advanced clients can work at their own skill level for a tailored workout that is individualized to their needs. This is a great transitional class that is sure to give you a tough workout. If you are ready to push yourself, try this class to sculpt your body, develop strength, and improve your posture.

Masks/face coverings are option for participants in classes starting March 1, 2022.


Level 1+ Pilates

PREREQ for this class: All clients must submit a Covid vaccine card.  Please email info@rtrpilates.com with a copy of your vaccine card & the email address associated with your MindBody Account to get the restriction lifted.
 
Need a higher fitness level than our intro class? This class is for you. This 55-minute long Pilates class uses the Balanced Body Allegro II Reformer to teach proper alignment and the fundamentals of Pilates. We incorporate traditional Pilates principles with innovative strength training and cardio exercises to give you a total body workout that will strengthen and lengthen your muscles. This class focuses on the basics and is designed to leave you feeling refreshed while also helping to improve strength, flexibility and core stability. The class will have the complexity of a Level 1 class, but the fitness level/pace of a Level 2 class.
 
Masks/face coverings are option for participants in classes starting March 1, 2022.

Level 1 Pilates

PREREQ for this class: All clients must submit a Covid vaccine card. Please email info@rtrpilates.com with a copy of your vaccine card & the email address associated with your MindBody Account to get the restriction lifted.

New to Pilates? Need a gentler workout? This class is for you. This 55-minute long Pilates class uses the Balanced Body Allegro II Reformer to teach proper alignment and the fundamentals of Pilates. We incorporate traditional Pilates principles with innovative strength training and cardio exercises to give you a total body workout that will strengthen and lengthen your muscles. This class focuses on the basics and is designed to leave you feeling refreshed while also helping to improve strength, flexibility and core stability.

Masks/face coverings are option for participants in classes starting March 1, 2022.


Level 2 Pilates

PREREQ for this class: All clients must submit a Covid vaccine card. Please email info@rtrpilates.com with a copy of your vaccine card & the email address associated with your MindBody Account to get the restriction lifted. 

If you’re looking to kick your workout up a notch, then this 55-minute intermediate Pilates class is for you! Designed for the more experienced Pilates-goer, our Level 2 classes incorporate new exercises and increased repetitions to keep your workout challenging and fresh. Traditional Pilates principles are combined with innovative strength-training and cardio exercises to give you a serious full-body workout.

Masks/face coverings are option for participants in classes starting March 1, 2022.

Lisa J

Lisa Johnson joined the RTR Pilates team in 2011 as a trained Pilates instructor through Balanced Body. She has an extensive background in exercise, dance and yoga with experience teaching students of all ages and levels of ability in both studio and private settings. This experience includes over ten years as a yoga teacher trainer with a focus on functional anatomy and techniques for managing stress.

Lindsey F

After Lindsey retired from swimming, she hoped to find something she could be as passionate about and do every single day to stay in shape. Lindsey started with RTR as a client, and it was love at first class! After a few years, Lindsey became one of our instructors and taught at both the Chevy Chase and Palisades studios before quitting her day job to move across the country and manage our studio in Highlands Ranch, Colorado! After Covid closed our beloved Highlands Ranch Studio, Lindsey’s back in Maryland now and helping out with our Administrative Team as our Sales Manager and Client Relations Support staff.

Lindsay D

Lindsay grew up in the DC area and became one of the very first members of RTR (Potomac Pilates at the time) in 2007 when she was in high school. Her love of and commitment to Pilates continued for many years which led her to eventually complete one of the very first RTR instructor training programs in 2013. Lindsay taught classes part time in Chevy Chase and the Palisades while also teaching preschool full time. In 2017, Lindsay moved to Baltimore where she earned her master’s degree in Early Childhood Education while also teaching at a reformer Pilates studio in Baltimore City. During her time in Baltimore, Lindsay went through a comprehensive Pilates training program through The Lab and is currently working towards her comprehensive certification on every Pilates apparatus. She moved back to DC in 2021 and rejoined the RTR team in January 2022. Lindsay is thrilled to be back at her original Pilates home! When not in the studio, you can find Lindsay working out at the gym, cooking and spending time with family and friends. Check her out on the schedule at Great Falls, Potomac and Chevy Chase!

Leeor K

Leeor’s passion for Pilates began the moment she looped up for her first class! She trained with RTR Pilates in fall 2013 and left the corporate world to join RTR Pilates full time as the Director of Instructor Development. Since, she’s had the honor of training and onboarding 50+ RTR Pilates Instructors, hosting educational workshops, and instilling her passion for Pilates technique and client care in each and every one. In 2021, inspired by Reina’s entrepreneurial spirit, Leeor made the difficult decision to step down from her administrative role at RTR Pilates to pursue her own business, her career as a nutrition & fitness coach. Supporting others in their health and fitness goals and creating a safe and supportive space for clients in and out of the Pilates studio fulfills Leeor every day.

Kristen R

Kristen first started taking Pilates classes at RTR ten years ago hoping to help her aching low back and in order to tone up for her wedding.
 
She has continued exclusively with RTR over the years and is in awe of how it helped her prepare for and recover from her two pregnancies and to give her the strength to raise two little boys.
 
When the time was right, Kristen jumped at the chance to join the RTR team and to teach classes to this awesome community. Kristen is a certified hatha yoga instructor and brings a strong body awareness and flow to her classes.

Kris S

Kris S is a Balanced body certified Pilates instructor. She is a psychology major turned Pilates instructor and has been an instructor with RTR for just over 6 years. She creates her classes to be tough, full body workouts that are creative and fun. Fair warning… she loves a good plank series.
 
Kris S. instructs the following:
 

Level 2+ Pilates

PREREQ for this class: All clients must submit a Covid vaccine card. Please email info@rtrpilates.com with a copy of your vaccine card & the email address associated with your MindBody Account to get the restriction lifted.

The Level 2/3 Pilates class is for clients looking to challenge themselves and work at their own pace. The instructor uses effective exercise techniques, offering modifications so that intermediate to advanced clients can work at their own skill level for a tailored workout that is individualized to their needs. This is a great transitional class that is sure to give you a tough workout. If you are ready to push yourself, try this class to sculpt your body, develop strength, and improve your posture.

Masks/face coverings are option for participants in classes starting March 1, 2022.


Level 2 Pilates

PREREQ for this class: All clients must submit a Covid vaccine card. Please email info@rtrpilates.com with a copy of your vaccine card & the email address associated with your MindBody Account to get the restriction lifted. 

If you’re looking to kick your workout up a notch, then this 55-minute intermediate Pilates class is for you! Designed for the more experienced Pilates-goer, our Level 2 classes incorporate new exercises and increased repetitions to keep your workout challenging and fresh. Traditional Pilates principles are combined with innovative strength-training and cardio exercises to give you a serious full-body workout.

Masks/face coverings are option for participants in classes starting March 1, 2022.


Level 1 Pilates

PREREQ for this class: All clients must submit a Covid vaccine card. Please email info@rtrpilates.com with a copy of your vaccine card & the email address associated with your MindBody Account to get the restriction lifted.

New to Pilates? Need a gentler workout? This class is for you. This 55-minute long Pilates class uses the Balanced Body Allegro II Reformer to teach proper alignment and the fundamentals of Pilates. We incorporate traditional Pilates principles with innovative strength training and cardio exercises to give you a total body workout that will strengthen and lengthen your muscles. This class focuses on the basics and is designed to leave you feeling refreshed while also helping to improve strength, flexibility and core stability.

Masks/face coverings are option for participants in classes starting March 1, 2022.


Level 1+ Pilates

PREREQ for this class: All clients must submit a Covid vaccine card.  Please email info@rtrpilates.com with a copy of your vaccine card & the email address associated with your MindBody Account to get the restriction lifted.
 
Need a higher fitness level than our intro class? This class is for you. This 55-minute long Pilates class uses the Balanced Body Allegro II Reformer to teach proper alignment and the fundamentals of Pilates. We incorporate traditional Pilates principles with innovative strength training and cardio exercises to give you a total body workout that will strengthen and lengthen your muscles. This class focuses on the basics and is designed to leave you feeling refreshed while also helping to improve strength, flexibility and core stability. The class will have the complexity of a Level 1 class, but the fitness level/pace of a Level 2 class.
 
Masks/face coverings are option for participants in classes starting March 1, 2022.

Ketrina S

Ketrina is a certified Pilates instructor and has been with RTR since 2018. She is passionate about instruction, with a flair for helping those recover from injuries. Ketrina loves helping clients achieve their goals and pushes them to stretch beyond their mental hurdles.
Ketrina lives in Potomac with her husband and two sons.


Julie S

Julie was an original client of RTR Pilates when the studio first opened in Potomac. In 2017 she decided to pass along her love of pilates by becoming a certified instructor. She believes Pilates is for everyone. As a native Washingtonian Julie has also lived in New York City, Connecticut and Atlanta. She has a supportive husband and three wonderful sons. In her spare time Julie loves to bike, walk and is learning to play golf.

Jordan M

Jordan is a teacher for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. She found that her job, while rewarding, could also be pretty stressful. She was never super into fitness, but was looking for something to help calm her mind and spirit after those long stressful days. Jordan had tried many different workouts and classes, but nothing ever stuck. Then her friend, who was an instructor at the time, recommended trying a class at Potomac Pilates. After that first class, she was hooked. Jordan loved that she had an hour every day where she could unplug, unwind, and focus on getting her mind and body healthy. Her love for Pilates, and the entire Potomac Pilates team never stopped after that. She continued to take classes regularly and decided that she had to join this hardworking, dedicated team! She hopes to help other’s find the amazing release that Pilates has brought to her own life.

Joanne G

Joanne’s journey to Pilates began as a client in 2013. An avid fitness enthusiast, tennis player and runner, Joanne began to feel that her weight training and cardio regimen had hit a plateau. Her work out routine had become too predictable and was getting stale. She needed a jump start so she set her sights on Pilates.   After her first month, she began to see uniform changes in her body that was the result of challenging specific muscles groups in a different way. More importantly, she had renewed energy and a deeper focus during her sessions that proved to be the key difference. Her strides piqued her interest to understand more about the discipline, so she enrolled in the training course offered through Potomac Pilates. “I learned that when you work your body without fully engaging your mind, fitness goals can be left unmet. The manner in which exercises are performed is much more significant than time spent.” With a Master’s Degree in Education, Joanne’s decision to instruct was a natural progression. “My goal is to help clients realize that Pilates strengthens and nurtures the mind as well as the body, and is beneficial for everyone, regardless of their fitness level. It improves flexibility and develops a strong powerhouse which is the corner stone of movement in our daily lives.”   Joanne has two children who have since left the nest and lives in McLean with her husband Steve.

Jillian D

After having her second child, Jillian fell in love with Pilates as a way to get back in shape and clear her mind. Appreciating the connection between mind and body is what drove Jillian to become an instructor herself. Providing a challenging, yet approachable workout for her clients, Jillian wants you to leave her class feeling healthy, strong, and happy!
 

 

Jessica S

Jenna M

Jenna joined RTR as an instructor in April of 2021. In addition to teaching Pilates, Jenna has worked in media for the last ten years, and is currently a Senior Program Manager at Industry Dive. Jenna is a native Washingtonian who moved back to the DC area in 2013 to be closer to her family. As a dancer for most of her young and adolescent life, Jenna turned to barre and cardio based classes as her dance chapter of life came to a close. After suffering many injuries from weight lifting and HIIT group classes, Jenna turned to Pilates as a way to exercise and tone, without putting added stress and pressure on her body. After her first class, Jenna’s obsession began. In addition to Pilates, Jenna is an avid Peloton rider and runner, and enjoys skiing and hiking out west.

Jean Marie D

Jake T

Jake T. instructs the following:
 

Friday Night Fever | Pilates Level 2

Join RTR Pilates’ favorite dance leader for a heart-pumping, music filled Friday afternoon pick me up. The perfect end to your week.

 


Friday Night Fever | Pilates Level 2+

Join RTR Pilates’ favorite dance leader for a heart-pumping, music filled Friday afternoon pick me up. The perfect end to your week.

This class will be a higher fitness level than a typical Level 2, but will incorporate moves that an intermediate client can master


Friday Night Fever | Pilates Level 1+

Join RTR Pilates’ favorite dance leader for a heart-pumping, music filled Friday afternoon pick me up.  The perfect end to your week.
 
This class will be a higher fitness level than a typical Level 1, but will utilize simple moves that a beginner could master.

Level 2 Pilates

PREREQ for this class: All clients must submit a Covid vaccine card. Please email info@rtrpilates.com with a copy of your vaccine card & the email address associated with your MindBody Account to get the restriction lifted. 

If you’re looking to kick your workout up a notch, then this 55-minute intermediate Pilates class is for you! Designed for the more experienced Pilates-goer, our Level 2 classes incorporate new exercises and increased repetitions to keep your workout challenging and fresh. Traditional Pilates principles are combined with innovative strength-training and cardio exercises to give you a serious full-body workout.

Masks/face coverings are option for participants in classes starting March 1, 2022.


Level 1 Pilates

PREREQ for this class: All clients must submit a Covid vaccine card. Please email info@rtrpilates.com with a copy of your vaccine card & the email address associated with your MindBody Account to get the restriction lifted.

New to Pilates? Need a gentler workout? This class is for you. This 55-minute long Pilates class uses the Balanced Body Allegro II Reformer to teach proper alignment and the fundamentals of Pilates. We incorporate traditional Pilates principles with innovative strength training and cardio exercises to give you a total body workout that will strengthen and lengthen your muscles. This class focuses on the basics and is designed to leave you feeling refreshed while also helping to improve strength, flexibility and core stability.

Masks/face coverings are option for participants in classes starting March 1, 2022.


Level 1+ Pilates

PREREQ for this class: All clients must submit a Covid vaccine card.  Please email info@rtrpilates.com with a copy of your vaccine card & the email address associated with your MindBody Account to get the restriction lifted.
 
Need a higher fitness level than our intro class? This class is for you. This 55-minute long Pilates class uses the Balanced Body Allegro II Reformer to teach proper alignment and the fundamentals of Pilates. We incorporate traditional Pilates principles with innovative strength training and cardio exercises to give you a total body workout that will strengthen and lengthen your muscles. This class focuses on the basics and is designed to leave you feeling refreshed while also helping to improve strength, flexibility and core stability. The class will have the complexity of a Level 1 class, but the fitness level/pace of a Level 2 class.
 
Masks/face coverings are option for participants in classes starting March 1, 2022.

Friday Night Fever | Private Party Level 1

Gina

Gina is originally from the UK! She grew up in England and lived and worked in London until 1997. She moved to Paris, France, learning French and studying at the Sorbonne. She then moved to Washington DC with her Italian husband, where she worked for the World Bank Group in Human Resources. Gina is a mom of three children, the firstborn in DC and the other two born in Bulgaria, where they relocated for work. While in Bulgaria, Gina played a key role for the International Women’s Committee, supporting different charities with a particular focus on orphanages. She came back to the USA in 2009 and lives in Great Falls, Virginia. Gina fell in love with Pilates as a client of RTR and later trained to become an instructor, which she has been since 2019. Other than teaching Pilates and raising her three teenage children, Gina loves to go hiking, play tennis and meet up with friends.

Gayle C

After a couple of car accidents and a few lingering injuries, Gayle C was looking for a workout that was both athletic and functional. As an entertainment reporter, Gayle C. had long heard the Hollywood types praising the benefits of Pilates. She began her own Pilates journey more than 17 years ago, becoming first a student of classical and then more innovative and modern classes around the Washington, D.C area. After discovering RTR Pilates, Gayle was motivated to share her enthusiasm and appreciation of Pilates by training to become an RTR instructor. Teaching since March 2019, Gayle draws on both her diverse Pilates background and her lifelong devotion to group exercise classes [Barre, Spin, Weight Training, Dance, Aerobics, etc.] to create her energetic classes at RTR.
 


Felicia C

Felicia C. is currently not instructing any classes.
 

Erin O

Erin was a long-time RTR client before becoming an instructor. Growing up in the DC area, she studied ballet, played soccer, and was a nationally ranked tennis player. Now, tennis and platform tennis, a super fun winter sport, are still her passion and she loves how pilates has kept her body aligned, strong, and injury-free for so many years.

Erin has had a lifelong interest in how the body moves and she trained in pilates through Balanced Body and is working towards a certificate in Functional Movement. Erin enjoys teaching ALL levels of Pilates because of the positive way it helps clients no matter where they are in their journey toward feeling healthy. Erin has an MBA in Marketing and Corporate Communications and is happily married to a wonderful husband, is mother to two amazing boys, and is dog-mom to a very smart Australian Shepherd.


Devon P

Christianne C

Christianne joined RTR as an instructor in August 2020. While teaching Pilates, Christianne also worked at Meridian International Center as Board Liaison and Executive Assistant to CEO Ambassador Stuart Holliday, and President/ COO Lee Satterfield. A native Washingtonian, Christianne has been a vibrant participant in the non-profit, political, and performing arts communities around DC and is thrilled to share her experiences to support RTR Pilates’ leadership and mission.A political strategist, ballerina, fundraiser, choreographer, and pilates instructor, Christianne has worked hard to balance her passion for both the arts and public service, sustaining a commitment to working across the aisle and advocating for the arts. Prior to her time at Meridian, Christianne was at The Washington Ballet as a marketing consultant and repetiteur, setting Septime Webre’s famous DC Nutcracker. She previously acted as a Presidential Campaign Liaison during the summer of 2019, organizing The Problem Solver Convention for the 2020 Presidential Candidates in Manchester, NH.Christianne’s political experience includes acting as finance and personal assistant to both Senator Evan Bayh and Susan Bayh for Senator Bayh’s 2016 Senate campaign in Indiana, as well as Finance Director for Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett’s Gubernatorial Campaign in Oklahoma. She was later appointed development director and choreographer for Vitam Musica Foundation’s 2019.20 season in Oklahoma City, and choreographed two new ballets for the University of Oklahoma School of Dance in collaboration with Vitam Musica’s full professional orchestra. She has been a ballet dancer for 18 years, dancing lead roles with The Washington Ballet. While a pre-professional student, she competed in numerous international ballet competitions winning scholarships and finalist awards. Christianne received her Bachelor of Arts in Political Theory and Arts Administration with a minor in Constitutional Studies from The University of Oklahoma.

Cathy S

Cathy discovered Pilates as a way to improve her strength and flexibility. After years spent weight training, playing golf, downhill skiing and practicing Tae Kwon Do, she loved the way Pilates helped improve her knee and hip injuries and improve her muscle strength while promoting balance and alignment. But more importantly, she discovered that Pilates is fun! Trained in mat and reformer through Balanced Body and a member of the Pilates Method Alliance, Cathy loves teaching ALL levels of Pilates because of the results it provides as well as the way it connects the mind and body. Cathy has a Master’s degree in speech/language pathology and loves to spend time with her husband, three children and three dogs at their home in Potomac.

Carly Y

Carly joined RTR Pilates when it first opened in 2007. Born and raised in Potomac, MD, she began as a member of the front desk team and went on to get certified through Balanced Body. She has loved all that Pilates has to offer and how well it compliments other forms of exercise. Outside of Pilates she enjoys walking, hiking and spinning. Carly is a graduate of the University of Dayton in Ohio and currently works for Lisa Stransky at Washington Fine Properties.



Caitlin B

Caitlin is a past client who has been teaching level 1, 1+, 2 and 2+ at RTR Pilates since 2019. She loves helping people at all stages of their lives connect with their own strength and power through Pilates. She is a mother and a former diplomat living in Washington, DC.


Brittany B

Brittany’s love for Pilates began during the 1st round of COVID-19 lockdowns. Looking for an exercise program that could be done from the safety of her home, she stumbled upon a virtual mat Pilates class and immediately connected to the simple but effective movements and the emphasis on a mind-body connection. From that first virtual class, she was hooked and continued to work diligently on her mat practice throughout quarantine. Once COVID-19 restrictions began to lift and encouraged by her progress at home, Brittany then took a private Reformer Pilates class and has hit with a whole new level of appreciation for Pilates. She was inspired by the accessibility and adaptability of the Reformer programming towards people of all fitness levels and body types. Brittany knew then that she wanted to be a part of an industry that could meet you where you are and then continue to build upon and improve both your physical and mental well-being. Brittany joined RTR Pilates in the summer of 2021 after becoming certified through RTR’s in-house training program. She truly believes that Pilates is one of the most effective forms of exercise and the progress that you make in class will positively translate into all aspects of your life!

Ayle J

Ayle (Ay-la ) is a native Washingtonian that recently moved back to the area after living in Israel for over six years. As a new mom, fitness junkie and Pilates addict, she found that Pilates helped shape her body both before and after pregnancy. She loves the enthusiastic environment of both the clients and instructors at Rock The Reformer and has set the goal to motivate herself as well as others on a daily basis. She earned her Rock The Reformer Instructor Certificate with hopes of helping all of the RTR clients find their Pilates passion. 
 

Alex GM

Alejandra (Alex) trained with RTR to become an instructor in 2018. She first started pilates to manage chronic pains and injuries. Through pilates, she’s been able to recover from injuries and get stronger and feel better than ever! She loves the core strength and flexibility she has gained through pilates, and that it’s a great complement to weightlifting. She’s passionate about helping others to integrate movement into their regular routines and loves helping clients find ways to modify for injuries. Outside of teaching at RTR, Alex has a Master’s in Public Health and works for an international development organization, supporting developing countries to improve maternal and child health services.

Alex A

As a lifelong athlete, after taking her first Pilates class at a Rock The Reformer studio, Alex knew that she had found a different kind of athleticism. Pilates helped to improve her running, prevented injury and she found all of that happened within a short time. The machine’s potential for an infinite number of movements and exercises blew Alex’s mind. The rest is history!

Aisha C

Aisha joined RTR Pilates as a client in 2010 and immediately fell in love. She couldn’t get enough and eventually got trained in mat then got certified in reformer through the RTR training program. Outside of Pilates, Aisha enjoys spending time at the gym and loves going to California to see her cutie pie nephew.