Club Pilates

My philosophy in life, “Go for your goals – believe in success!” Hello, my name is Kelley Gannon and I have been a Fitness Professional for over 20 years. I graduated in 1993 with a B.S. in Exercise Science. I was born and raised near Philadelphia, PA. I moved to Houston, Texas in 2001. In 2006, I completed my personal training certification from A.C.E (American Council on Exercise. Following this certification in 2007, I completed my group aerobics certification from N.E.T.A (National Exercise Trainer Association.) Recently in 2019, I completed my Club Pilates teacher certification. In September of 2021, I am back in my hometown near family, and I will be working at the CP Springhouse location. I enjoy helping all age individuals with their personal fitness goals. Some of these individuals that I have helped achieve their fitness goals include younger children, middle age adults and active older individuals. I have helped a wide variety of individuals with their weight loss goals, functional and muscular endurance goals, core specific goals, post-orthopedic goals, and sports-specific goals. I especially enjoy helping individuals with their functional and core specific goals. My primary goals as a fitness professional are to help educate, motivate, and inspire all individuals so they can live a happier, healthier, and more active lifestyle. Please let me know if I can help you with your own personal fitness goals! “Do Pilates and Do Life”- a wonderful quote by Joseph Pilates

Keara McDermott first started taking Pilates classes when she attended college at Drexel University in 2015 for Dance. She instantly fell in love with how it helped improve her dance technique and as a whole how it made her feel physically and emotionally. Keara immediately enrolled in the Drexel Pilates Training Program but was unable to complete due to an injury. Even though she could not complete the training program, Pilates became a huge part of her rehabilitation process. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Dance and a concentration in Movement Therapy in 2019, Keara took a break from the Pilates world and found herself missing the joy of movement that Pilates gave her. After moving out of the city, she went in search of a Pilates studio closer to home and found Club Pilates in the summer of 2021 where she discovered she could finish her certification. Keara completed her certification with Club Pilates in early 2022

Laura Stimson received her certification through Club Pilates in 2021. Having had a near death car accident in her mid twenties, she’s been moving to manage her chronic pain ever since. In February of 2023, she was diagnosed with spondylolisthesis and had undergo lumbar fusion surgery. Having developed a deep understanding of the challenges and limitations that come with this procedure, she is passionate about helping individuals regain strength, flexibility, and overall well-being through the practice of Pilates. After personally experiencing lumbar fusion surgery herself, she understands the physical and emotional journey that accompanies this procedure. This personal experience has fueled her dedication to finding effective ways to support and guide individuals to achieve their goal with Pilates. Laura received her certification through Club Pilates in all pieces of apparatus and is also certified in the Pilates Suspension Method (PSM). She has completed specialized courses and workshops that focus on adapting Pilates exercises to accommodate the unique needs and limitations of individuals so they can achieve their goals. She is well-versed in modifications and variations that can be made to ensure a safe and effective workout for her clients. Laura prioritizes proper alignment, core stability, and controlled movements to help strengthen the muscles that support the spine. She emphasize the importance of maintaining a neutral spine and avoiding excessive flexion or extension that may put strain on lumbar area of the spine. She also incorporates exercises that target the deep stabilizing muscles of the core, as well as the muscles of the hips, glutes, and legs, to provide additional support to the spine. Laura believes in creating a supportive and inclusive environment where her clients feel comfortable and empowered to work towards their fitness goals. She’s committed to helping members improve their posture, reduce pain, increase mobility, and enhance their overall quality of life. Striving to create Pilates classes that will help you regain strength, improve flexibility, and manage your health effectively, Laura is constantly continuing her education. Having started Pilates for fitness, and now using her training during her recovery, she knows how beneficial this method is for your health… Pilates it truly is for everybody!

Michele-Olivia Francois has been teaching Pilates for six years. She went through the Pilates training at Drexel Pilates training program under Jennifer Morley. Michele-Olivia is a professional dancer, dance instructor and choreographer who was introduced to Pilates after many knee and back injuries that should have ended her dance career. Pilates not only helped her stay in shape during her recovery periods, but she found that Pilates also improved her dance technique, strength and moving pain free. Pilates is truly helping her be able to perform today for different Philadelphia based dance companies. Aside from Pilates and dance Michele-Olivia has completed her undergrad with a Bachelor of Science in dance with a concentration in physical therapy, followed by a Masters degree in Sport Physical Conditioning, and lastly graduated the end of 2020 with a Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy all from Drexel University. Michele-Olivia’s main goal is to teach movement as a source of strength, discovery, communication, and healing. “Change happens through movement and movement heals”- Joseph Pilates.

Kristin played competitive volleyball for 13 years of her life. It left its wear and tear on her joints, leaving her with limited exercise options. Kristin has always loved Pilates, but it wasn't until she attended a Pilates reformer class that she actually appreciated the work out. Now she is a Pilates addict! Kristin received her certification through Club Pilates Teacher Training, in Los Angeles CA, and was teaching there for over 6 years. She has recently relocated to the Philadelphia area and now is teaching at our studio! She was also Junior Olympic volleyball coach for Division One prospects at Synergy Volleyball Club in Philadelphia, PA. Kristin loves challenging her clients and keeping variety in her classes. She wants you to feel the burn and have fun! When she is not teaching, Kristin is spending time with her cute dogs and her family.

Sonya started her Pilates journey while attending Drexel University as an undergraduate dance major. She has been practicing and teaching Pilates for over 10 years, receiving her training and certification through the Drexel Pilates Training Program. Sonya enjoys combining her love for expressive movement and patterns and organization within her Pilates practice. She aims to teach clients about how their bodies move and why, with focus and attention placed on the smaller muscles of the body. In Sonya’s classes, you will WORK! In addition to teaching Pilates, Sonya continues her life journey as a board-certified dance/movement therapist and licensed counselor, working in private practice.

Olivia began instructing Pilates in 2015 after years of training in both ballet and modern dance. She had been working in the realm of informal history education for about 10 years and developed her teaching skills. Since her first love was movement, she circled back and applied what she had learned of teaching to Pilates. Coming off of a living history farm, her Pilates fashion left something to be desired. Nowadays, it has improved as she also sells the latest activewear fashions. In addition to sporting her fashions at the Pilates studio, Olivia can be found kayaking, hiking and ice-skating in her activewear.

Christopher received his certification in Pilates in 2003. He immediately began teaching to group and private clients in Philadelphia. He holds a certification in Yoga and Yoga for Trauma from Kripalu, along with a certification in Positive Psychology. He has been studying Meditation and Mindfulness for over 25 years as well. Being one of the only males in Philadelphia teaching Pilates, he brings a unique perspective to his classes. He has taught to corporate as well, including a program at CHOP. Christopher can be found in his garden that he shares with his neighbors or hiking the many trails in his neighborhood. He is also a board member of MALT (Mt. Airy Learning Tree), a community based educational system.

Sheryl teaches at Club Pilates.

Leah teaches at Club Pilates.

Chris teaches at Club Pilates.

Ginny teaches at Club Pilates.

Becca has been practicing Pilates and toga actively since her late teens to provide an energetic lifestyle. In 2013, she entered into a comprehensive Pilates teacher training program though a local studio in West Chester, PA. She is trained on all the classical Pilates apparatus including the reformer, Cadillac/tower, chair, and mat. Over the 400+ hour training, she feel deeper in love with the practice and the principals leading her to regularly teach privates and group classes since June 2013. Since then, she was trained in Barre, TRX, and Yoga and has ventured into Master Training. When not teaching, Becca loves to travel around the world, already having visited New Zealand, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Costa Rica.

Francie teaches at Club Pilates.

Diane teaches at Club Pilates.

Private Training Room teaches at Club Pilates.

Meet Vee a Club Pilates Certified Instructor with over 500 hours of training! Vee was looking for something that wasn’t going to bulk her body up. After years of doing other fitness training, she realized quickly that although she was strong and fit, she didn’t like the bulk muscles and read about Pilates elongating muscles, so she gave it a try and was hooked. When you take her classes, you can expect to sweat! Her teaching style changes for her. She falls in love with a particular apparatus for a few months then she will switch to something new that she is loving. She also loves class participation so if you request it – she will give you what you are looking for. Her style is Athletic and fun, while being challenging and pushed! Do you have any advice for an individual thinking about starting a career as a Pilates Instructor? Your personality is just as important as the flows that you teach. Why should people adopt Pilates as their primary exercise program? I personally love that Pilates is personal. You can come into a group class and work on your personal goal. I also love that your see results early on. I love to see members after a few months looking good and feeling even better. Do you have any advice for people considering taking up Pilates for the first time? Try it! You have nothing to lose but a Pilates body to gain. Outside of Pilates Vee lives a very busy life. She runs two companies, so Pilates is part of her fun. Pilates is also rewarding when she gets to spend time with the members - we laugh and joke in classes. They bust my chops for counting too slow (I do it on purpose) it feels like hanging out with friends!

Fitness has been an important part of Tina's life since her childhood. When her daughter left for college, Tina tried Pilates to fill the gap left by no longer attending games 3-5 nights a week. She was immediately hooked as Pilates provided a strengthening, toning, challenging workout limiting wear and tear on joints beat up after years of sports and fitness. Interested to learn more, she completed the training to became certified in reformer and mat Pilates. She has also completed the Club Pilates 500 hour certification process and holds a Pilates suspension method condensed foundation certificate. When she's not teaching or working her "day job", Tina enjoys time with her family, traveling and anything outdoors. Tina loves challenging her clients while supporting them on their fitness journey.

Jaclyn teaches at Club Pilates.

Maria teaches at Club Pilates.

Bio Coming Soon

When I was growing up I would watch my mom do mat Pilates at the house and was always fascinated by it even at a very young age! I then became a club Pilates member when one opened nearby. I’ve always been someone who enjoys the mental benefits of exercising. And Pilates especially helps me clear my head, just focus on the mind body connection, and distress. It also makes me feel great about myself! While being a member at Club Pilates I found out about the teacher training program that they had and I decided to get certified through Club Pilates. When teaching classes I make my own playlists for every class and according to what class I’m teaching, I match the vibe of the music to the atmosphere of the class. There will always be great music in my classes! Also, I end every class with this quote “Take a moment to appreciate your body and be thankful you got to move it today. Find that gratitude and keep it with you.” This quote I end class with means a lot to me because I think a lot of people take for granted the simple fact that they woke up that day and get to move their body. Not everyone has the ability of walking and/or exercising and we need to appreciate it that every single day. We don’t have anything without gratitude! Members can expect every class to be different! I have a creative background and I use my creativity in my class planning. I like to try new things often and utilize different types of props. They might have to clean a lot after class but they’ll definitely use multiple props and utilize a verity of equipment in the room. Also, I believe in everyone taking every exercise at their own pace! Members will never have to move to a certain pace or complete a specific amount of reps, every human body is different and completes things at their comfortable pace. Members can still expect a challenging class….but in the best way! Everyone should do Pilates! There are so many physical benefits like improving balance, flexibility, and mobility. These are all things that are important in everyday life especially as we age. And not only does Pilates have physical benefits, it has mental benefits as well. As I mentioned earlier the mind body connection of Pilates helps me clear my mind of stress and outside noise. Do you have any advice for people considering taking up Pilates for the first time? Take things at your own pace and do not worry what the person next to you is doing! Do it for yourself and don’t compare yourself! Outside of Pilates I work in social media and marketing and I really enjoy it. I’m a very creative person and I think it helps in both of my careers social media and teaching Pilates. I also love to exercise, if it’s not Pilates, its weight lifting, walking, or swimming. Trying new movements and forms of exercise is very interesting for me!

Jessica teaches at Club Pilates.

Michelle teaches at Club Pilates.

Jaimie graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1997 with a BS in Kinesiology. From there she pursued a BS in Health Sciences and MS in Physical Therapy from Touro College in Long Island, New York. There was a component to body awareness that was missing from her practice which is when Jaimie moved to Manhattan and found her love for Pilates. She received her Pilates certification from the Kane School for Core Integration in 2005. Since then, Jaimie has relocated to this area where she works as a Physical Therapist with certifications in Graston Technique, Kinesiotaping and Bone Health. Jaimie is a peer educator for the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation and believes that education is power. Jaimie is excited to begin teaching at Club Pilates where she can incorporate body awareness, core control, and correctives so that a person can better understand their movement patterns and achieve their physical goals.

I have been a Pilates teacher for 30 years, have trained other instructors, and have even been featured in Pilates Style magazine. I love the human body, its capabilities and possibilities. I was a dancer in college and during my senior year, had a car accident that broke my hip. Pilates is the reason I was back on stage choreographing for my college show within a few months. I wanted to give this gift to everyone. I have 2 masters’ degrees. One is in Dance movement therapy and the other is in education. I am comprehensively trained in all levels of classical Pilates and on all apparatus. I have a passion for helping people become healthier, happier individuals using the amazing form of movement and exercise. My teaching style is unique due to my training and degree as a dance movement therapist. I am able to look at a body and see areas of strength and areas that need improvement with great detail. I always provide the workout that every unique individual needs as well as the workout that each person desires, blending precise movement training and a fun workout that helps people leave with a feeling that they are stronger, more balanced and in better shape than when they came in. I see my clients as friends and family. In my free time, I love to paint. I paint every day and am self-taught. I love dogs and have even worked as a dog trainer.

Ari teaches at Club Pilates.

Jennifer teaches at Club Pilates.

Rebecca teaches at Club Pilates.

Taylor teaches at Club Pilates.

Alexis began practicing Pilates in 2007 after spending her life as a competitive gymnast. She suffered a severe hip injury after running a half marathon, and was only able to rehab completely by doing Pilates. After understanding and appreciating how it changed her health, she became a regular student with a passion to understand every aspect of it. Alexis relocated to Dallas from California with her husband and since has had two children. She practiced Pilates during both pregnancies and was able to bounce right back because of it. After realizing how it had changed her life, she decided to go from student to teacher...and is now a comprehensively certified STOTT Pilates instructor.

Margaret teaches at Club Pilates.

My background in dance influenced my interest in taking Pilates. I have experience with choreography, marching arts and I am also an educator. I was in a car accident years ago and it left me with a bunch of physical issues (Back, shoulders & neck). Finding Pilates was my path back to being fit after 50. This all led to me becoming a Pilates instructor. My Pilates training includes a foundation in classical Pilates repertoire with emphasis on proper form. I really enjoy learning about movement and fitness for all. Breaking movement down and establishing building blocks for movement is exciting to me. It is important to me to keep a little fun in FUNctional. I use my classical foundation with a contemporary blend to help each member be successfully challenged in their own body! I have a NPCP -National Pilates Certification and NASM - National Personal Trainer Certification