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Excel Pilates DC
3407 8th St NE
Washington, DC 20017
Uber
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Class Schedule
Teacher Training
Class Schedule
Tuesday, March 3
Mat - Level 2/3 Mat
Time: 07:00 AM – 07:45 AM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Pilates - Define and Refine
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM; Teacher: Lesa McLaughlin.
Mat - Level 1 Mat
Time: 06:00 PM – 06:45 PM; Teacher: Renee Gerardo.
Reformer - Level 1 Reformer
Time: 06:00 PM – 06:50 PM.
Mat - Level 2 Mat
Time: 07:00 PM – 07:45 PM; Teacher: Renee Gerardo.
Thursday, March 5
Mat - Level 3/4 Mat
Time: 06:15 PM – 07:00 PM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Mat - Intro Level Mat
Time: 07:00 PM – 07:45 PM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Saturday, March 7
Mat - Level 1 Mat
Time: 09:30 AM – 10:15 AM; Teacher: Stefanie Covey.
Reformer - Level 1 Reformer
Time: 09:30 AM – 10:20 AM.
Reformer - Level 2 Reformer
Time: 11:30 AM – 12:20 PM.
Tuesday, March 10
Mat - Level 2/3 Mat
Time: 07:00 AM – 07:45 AM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Pilates - Define and Refine
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM; Teacher: Lesa McLaughlin.
Mat - Level 1 Mat
Time: 06:00 PM – 06:45 PM; Teacher: Renee Gerardo.
Reformer - Level 1 Reformer
Time: 06:00 PM – 06:50 PM.
Mat - Level 2 Mat
Time: 07:00 PM – 07:45 PM; Teacher: Renee Gerardo.
Thursday, March 12
Mat - Level 3/4 Mat
Time: 06:15 PM – 07:00 PM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Mat - Intro Level Mat
Time: 07:00 PM – 07:45 PM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Saturday, March 14
Mat - Level 1 Mat
Time: 09:30 AM – 10:15 AM; Teacher: Susan Reynolds.
Reformer - Level 1 Reformer
Time: 09:30 AM – 10:20 AM; Teacher: Jacqueline Emanuel.
Reformer - Level 2 Reformer
Time: 11:30 AM – 12:20 PM; Teacher: Jacqueline Emanuel.
Tuesday, March 17
Mat - Level 2/3 Mat
Time: 07:00 AM – 07:45 AM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Pilates - Define and Refine
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM; Teacher: Lesa McLaughlin.
Mat - Level 1 Mat
Time: 06:00 PM – 06:45 PM; Teacher: Stefanie Covey.
Reformer - Level 1 Reformer
Time: 06:00 PM – 06:50 PM.
Mat - Level 2 Mat
Time: 07:00 PM – 07:45 PM; Teacher: Stefanie Covey.
Thursday, March 19
Mat - Level 3/4 Mat
Time: 06:15 PM – 07:00 PM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Mat - Intro Level Mat
Time: 07:00 PM – 07:45 PM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Saturday, March 21
Mat - Level 1 Mat
Time: 09:30 AM – 10:15 AM; Teacher: Stefanie Covey.
Reformer - Level 1 Reformer
Time: 09:30 AM – 10:20 AM; Teacher: Laurelle Lo.
Reformer - Level 2 Reformer
Time: 11:30 AM – 12:20 PM; Teacher: Laurelle Lo.
Tuesday, March 24
Mat - Level 2/3 Mat
Time: 07:00 AM – 07:45 AM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Pilates - Define and Refine
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM; Teacher: Lesa McLaughlin.
Mat - Level 1 Mat
Time: 06:00 PM – 06:45 PM; Teacher: Renee Gerardo.
Reformer - Level 1 Reformer
Time: 06:00 PM – 06:50 PM.
Mat - Level 2 Mat
Time: 07:00 PM – 07:45 PM; Teacher: Renee Gerardo.
Thursday, March 26
Mat - Level 3/4 Mat
Time: 06:15 PM – 07:00 PM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Mat - Intro Level Mat
Time: 07:00 PM – 07:45 PM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Saturday, March 28
Mat - Level 1 Mat
Time: 09:30 AM – 10:15 AM; Teacher: Stefanie Covey.
Reformer - Level 1 Reformer
Time: 09:30 AM – 10:20 AM; Teacher: Susan Reynolds.
Reformer - Level 2 Reformer
Time: 11:30 AM – 12:20 PM; Teacher: Susan Reynolds.
Tuesday, March 31
Mat - Level 2/3 Mat
Time: 07:00 AM – 07:45 AM; Teacher: Brianne Barrow Little.
Pilates - Define and Refine
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM; Teacher: Lesa McLaughlin.
Mat - Level 1 Mat
Time: 06:00 PM – 06:45 PM; Teacher: Renee Gerardo.
Reformer - Level 1 Reformer
Time: 06:00 PM – 06:50 PM.
Mat - Level 2 Mat
Time: 07:00 PM – 07:45 PM; Teacher: Renee Gerardo.
Class Description
Intro Level Mat
Intro Level Mat is a great entry-level class for the individual that is new to Pilates Mat work. This class will define proper alignment and explore body awareness while gaining strength and flexibility. Learn the foundations of the Pilates Method of Body Conditioning and build up your core strength preparing you to advance to higher levels. No matter your current fitness level, learn how you can empower your body and empower your mind through the Pilates work.
Level 1 Mat
This class introduces the basic principles of Pilates breath, precision, centering, flow of movement, balance, and flexibility through a series of exercises performed on a mat. Attention is given to details of the movement to provide each student with a foundation to build on in preparation for advancing levels. Modifications to exercises are also taught to accommodate a variety of skill levels. If you are new to Pilates Mat, you could start here or in Intro Level Mat!
Level 1 Reformer
This beginner level class is an introduction to the Pilates Reformer. In this class, you are introduced to a variety of exercises that increase flexibility, core strength, and overall balance. Students can expect to learn the Level 1 Reformer exercises as well as basic equipment set up. EQUIPMENT CLASSES: If you need to make-up a missed class, you may reschedule the class in the same level or lower based on availability. Cancellations not made at least 24 hours in advance will be ineligible for a make-up.
Level 2 Mat
This class introduces a new level of exercises as well as increased intensity and range of motion. In this class, you will explore the next level of Pilates while building on the foundations from Level 1. Students enrolling in this class should know all of the Level 1 Mat exercises by name and be able to successfully execute The Hundred, Roll Up and Rolling Like a Ball. MAT CLASSES: If you need to make-up a missed class, you may reschedule the class in the same level or lower based on availability. Cancellations not made least 12 hours in advance will be ineligible for a make-up.
Level 2 Reformer
This class will begin to layer in new Pilates Reformer Exercises. Additional Pilates apparatus such as Wall Unit, Wunda Chair, or Magic Circle may be used from time to time to deepen the student's knowledge of the Reformer Exercises. Permission of instructor required. EQUIPMENT CLASSES: If you need to make-up a missed class, you may reschedule the class in the same level or lower based on availability. Cancellations not made at least 24 hours in advance will be ineligible for a make-up.
Level 2/3 Mat
This class will combine Level 2 and Level 3 Mat work, focusing on rolling over and overhead prep work to prepare you for the successful accomplishment of Level 3 exercises. With an emphasis on strengthening and stretching, students will be prepared to advance into the upper levels of Pilates practice. Students enrolling in this class should be able to perform all Level 1 exercises with precision and clarity as well as know Level 2 exercises by name and be able to execute Open Leg Rocker, Corkscrew, Teasers, and Push Ups. MAT CLASSES: If you need to make-up a missed class, you may reschedule the class in the same level or lower based on availability. Cancellations not made least 12 hours in advance will be ineligible for a make-up.
Level 3/4 Mat
In this class the student will deepen his or her knowledge of all Pilates Mat exercises as well as learn the highest-level work. This class is physically demanding and invigorating. Students enrolling in this class should be familiar with all Level 3 exercises. Teacher permission required. MAT CLASSES: If you need to make-up a missed class, you may reschedule the class in the same level or lower based on availability. Cancellations not made least 12 hours in advance will be ineligible for a make-up.in the same level or lower, during the current session based on availability. Cancellations not made at least 24 hours in advance will be ineligible for a make-up.
Open Mat + Stretch
In this slightly longer Mat class, enjoy a full Mat workout followed by a stretch session. The Mat workout will be open level and catered to those who are registered for the class. Participants will focus on good movement flow to build up strength and warmth before stretching. The stretch session will work on lengthening tight muscles and releasing painful areas to set you up for a relaxing weekend. Simultaneously build abdominal strength while gaining flexibility to get a total body workout.
About
The Excel Pilates Teacher Training Program is dedicated to providing high-quality training in the original work of Joseph H. Pilates.
Our comprehensive and in-depth one-year training program requires a minimum of 700 hours of hands-on training in all levels of the Pilates mat and apparatus work. Apprenticeship involves seminars, observations and practice teaching.
n addition to Pilates exercises, seminar topics cover anatomy
Teaching skills and session design. The program involves readings, case studies and powerhouse-hour workshops, free solo workouts, teaching feedback and a Pilates teaching manual. There are prerequisites and testing requirements.
Excel is ideal for a quality learning experience
With a fully equipped studio (reformers, cadillacs, wall units/towers, wunda chair, electric chair, ladder barrel, spine corrector, small barrel, foot corrector, toe exerciser, ped-o-pull, magic circles, bean bag, hand weights) and a dynamic teaching and client base.
Why Complete a Teacher Training Program?
The entire Pilates method, both mat and apparatus, consists of over 500 exercises and is systematically ordered and layered. Pilates has been in existence for over 75 years. To preserve its power, it is important to study the complete Pilates Method. The exercises should be studied authentically and in person. Being a Pilates teacher offers the opportunity to assist individuals to be in control of their own health and well-being, and to provide an opportunity for clients to grow, learn and be guided toward a fitter lifestyle. The Pilates Method of physical and mental conditioning is mutually empowering for clients and teachers.
How to Apply
Please contact Excel Pilates DC for an application form and program requirements. Upon approval of the application, an evaluation session and interview will be scheduled. The evaluation session and interview will determine acceptance to the program. Acceptance into the Teacher Training Program is based on, but not limited to, level of skill and physical integration of Pilates exercises. Criteria also include the ability to articulate existing knowledge of the Pilates Method and professionalism. Prerequisite requirements include a daily study of the Pilates Method of Body Conditioning, both mat and apparatus, consistently for a minimum of one year or over 60 sessions. Applicant must be at an intermediate/advanced level in mat and apparatus work with basic knowledge of apparatus setups and safety features.
Our mission is to preserve and share the life's work of Joseph Pilates with the integrity and spirit in which it was taught to us as second generation teachers.
Joseph Pilates spent a lifetime developing his method of physical and mental conditioning. The sophistication of his work necessitates intense study.
There are three different format options for Teacher Training
Seminar Format, Independent Study, and Immersion Independent Study.
Seminar Format
Is done in groups with specific seminar dates for Teacher Training hours. This is for the advanced Pilates student.
Independent Study
Allows the participant to establish and coordinate Teacher Training hours independently with the Director. This is for the advanced Pilates student.
Immersion Independent Study
Allows the participant to establish and coordinate Teacher Training hours independently with the Director and has an added 30 hours in the program for additional personal skills development. This is for an intermediate level or higher Pilates student.
Seminar Format
Excel pilates teacher training program seminar format. Our current program fee is $5,200. Program fee includes.
Ten One-On-One sessions at Excel Pilates
Powerhouse-hour sessions (scheduled throughout apprenticeship)
Practice and Practice Teaching Hours
Pilates Teaching manual
Free solo workouts
Feedback on teaching
Seminars 1-4
Observation hours
Certificate of completion of Pilates Teacher Training Program upon passing all examinations with grade 85% or higher
Sample Outline
Sample Outline
Four 20-Hour Seminars – Learning Beginning Through Advanced Systems.
0-200 Hours After First Semester
Solo Practice and Observation of Pilates Sessions with Certified Instructor
Practice teaching on friends and family (under supervision of certified instructor)
Maintenance of log and journal, regular Check-In with advising instructor (20 Hours)
Powerhouse-Hour sessions (scheduled throughout apprenticeship)
Weekly One-On-One sessions with certified instructor (highly encouraged)
Testing on Basic Systems at 200 hours
200-400 Hours
Practice Teaching, Apprentice Teaching with approval (under supervision of certified instructor)
Observation of Pilates sessions with certified instructor
Maintenance of log and journal, regular Check-In with advising instructor
Powerhouse-Hour sessions (scheduled throughout apprenticeship)
Minimum of two solo workouts per week
Testing on Intermediate Systems at 400 hours
400-600 Hours
Total: 700 hours.
Practice Teaching, Apprentice Teaching with approval (under supervision of certified instructor)
Maintenance of log and journal, regular Check-In with advising instructor
Powerhouse-Hour sessions (scheduled throughout apprenticeship)
Minimum of two solo workouts per week
Final testing at 600 hours
Independent Study
Excel pilates teacher training program independent study format. Our current program fee is $5,200. Program fee includes:
Ten One-On-One Sessions at Excel Pilates
Powerhouse-Hour Sessions (Scheduled Throughout Apprenticeship)
Practice and Practice Teaching Hours
Pilates Teaching Manual
Free Solo Workouts
Feedback on Teaching
Seminars 1-4
Observation Hours
Certificate of Completion of Pilates Teacher Training Program Upon Passing All Examinations with Grade 85% or Higher
Sample Outline
Sample Outline
50 Teacher Training Hours with Director – Learning Beginning Through Advanced Systems
0-200 Hours After Beginning Systems Complete
Solo practice and observation of Pilates sessions with certified instructor
Practice teaching on friends and family (under supervision of certified instructor)
Maintenance of log and journal, regular Check-In with advising instructor (20 Hours)
Powerhouse-Hour sessions (scheduled throughout apprenticeship)
Weekly One-On-One sessions with certified instructor (highly encouraged)
Testing on Basic Systems at 200 hours
200-400 Hours
Practice Teaching, Apprentice Teaching with approval (under supervision of certified instructor)
Observation of Pilates sessions with certified instructor
Maintenance of log and journal, regular Check-In with advising instructor
Powerhouse-Hour sessions (scheduled throughout apprenticeship)
Minimum of two solo workouts per week
Testing on Intermediate Systems at 400 hours
400-600 Hours
Total: 700 hours.
Practice Teaching, Apprentice Teaching with approval (under supervision of certified instructor)
Maintenance of log and journal, regular Check-In with advising instructor
Powerhouse-Hour sessions (scheduled throughout apprenticeship)
Minimum of two solo workouts per week
Final Testing at 600 hours
Immersion / Independent Study
Excel pilates teacher training program immersions/independent study format. Our current program fee is $7,600. Program fee includes:
Forty One-On-One sessions at Excel Pilates
Powerhouse-Hour sessions (scheduled throughout apprenticeship)
Practice and Practice Teaching Hours
Pilates Teaching manual
Free solo workouts
Feedback on teaching
Seminars 1-4
Observation hours
Certificate of completion of Pilates Teacher Training Program upon passing all examinations with grade 85% or higher minor spacing issue after bullet points
Sample Outline
Sample Outline
50 Teacher Training Hours with Director – Learning Beginning Through Advanced Systems + 30 One-on-One Hours Private Instruction.
0-200 Hours After Beginning Systems Complete
Solo practice and observation of Pilates sessions with certified instructor
Practice teaching on friends and family (under supervision of certified instructor)
Maintenance of log and journal, regular Check-In with advising instructor (20 Hours)
Powerhouse-Hour sessions (scheduled throughout apprenticeship)
Weekly One-On-One sessions with certified instructor (highly encouraged)
Testing on Basic Systems at 200 hours
200-400 Hours
Practice Teaching, Apprentice Teaching with approval (under supervision of certified instructor)
Observation of Pilates sessions with certified instructor
Maintenance of log and journal, regular Check-In with advising instructor
Powerhouse-Hour sessions (scheduled throughout apprenticeship)
Minimum of two solo workouts per week
Testing on Intermediate Systems at 400 hours
400-600 Hours
Total: 700 hours.
Practice Teaching, Apprentice Teaching with approval (under supervision of certified instructor)
Maintenance of log and journal, regular Check-In with advising instructor
Powerhouse-Hour sessions (scheduled throughout apprenticeship)
Minimum of two solo workouts per week
Final testing at 600 hours
TTP FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About the Pilates Teacher Training Program (TTP).
Why complete a Teacher Training Program?
The entire Pilates Method, both mat and apparatus, consists of over 500 exercises and is systematically ordered and layered. Pilates has been in existence for over 75 years. To preserve its power, it is important to study the complete Pilates Method. The exercises should be studied authentically and in person. Being a Pilates teacher offers the opportunity to assist individuals to be in control of their own health and well-being, and to provide an opportunity for clients to grow, learn and pursue a fitter lifestyle. The Pilates Method of physical and mental conditioning is mutually empowering for clients and teachers.
Does the Pilates Teacher Training Program at Excel involve both mat and apparatus work?
Our TTP is a comprehensive, 700-hour, one-year training program. It covers all apparatus and mat exercises, anatomy and session design. The program includes a teaching manual, required readings and weekly apprentice meetings. Apprenticeship involves practice teaching, observation and the continuation of the study and practice of Pilates. There is written and practical testing at the 200-, 400-, and 600-hour intervals. There are four 20-hour weekend seminars. All hours are completed in the studio. We do not offer partial certifications, i.e., "mat certification" .
What are the prerequisites?
To apply, one must practice at a strong intermediate/advanced level in all apparatus and mat work. Applicants need to have studied Pilates (not Pilates-based exercises) and possess excellent knowledge of at least the intermediate system. This enables the focus during the program to be on learning how to teach. If you are interested in applying but are not at the required level, you should take the time to better increase your knowledge so as to gain significantly more from the program once you enroll. Prerequisite Workshops are offered at all three Excel Pilates locations. There are no exceptions to the qualifications necessary for admission.
What are the backgrounds of the directors?
Lesa McLaughlin and Kerry DeVivo offer over 40 years of combined Pilates experience. Kerry earned her certification from the Pilates Center in Colorado and the Pilates Studio in New York. Lesa earned her certification from the Pilates Studio in New York. Both Lesa and Kerry are considered second generation teachers.
What makes our program unique?
Excel is the ideal setting for a quality learning experience, providing access to a fully-equipped studio (reformers, cadillacs, wall units/towers, wunda chairs, electric chair, ladder barrels, spine corrector, small barrel, foot corrector, toe exerciser, ped-o-pull and more). Excel offers a small class enrollment for each apprentice session and therefore is able to provide substantial individual attention. Additionally, we have a dynamic teaching base and clientele. Each apprentice is assigned to an advisor in order to best utilize these resources and maximize learning potential.
Is our program affiliated with other programs?
Our program is affiliated with no other programs. We teach Pilates in its traditional form, which makes us similar to only a few other programs. Additionally, Excel's TTP offers comparatively more individual attention and significant coverage of anatomy and special client issues.
What kind of apparatus do you have?
In the Washington DC studio, we have traditional apparatus (leather straps, four springs and single-level foot bar) from Balanced Body. In the Annapolis studio, our apparatus is from Gratz and Peak's classical line. Excel Pilates Nova has apparatus from Gratz. At all studios, we have reformers, cadillacs, wall units, wunda chairs, barrels, high/electric chair, ped-o-pull, magic circles and more.
How do I apply?
Please mail/email the completed application with required materials and a check for the evaluation session to Excel Pilates DC at 3407 8th Street NE, Washington DC 20017. If your application is approved, an evaluation session will be scheduled. The cost of an evaluation session is $100. The evaluation session and interview will determine acceptance to program.
Directors and Faculty
Program Directors and Faculty.
Lesa McLaughlin
Program Director, is the owner of Excel Pilates DC and was certified as a teacher in The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning by The Pilates Studio in New York in 1995 under the tutelage of Romana Kryzanowska. She received a Gold Certification by the Pilates Method Alliance in 2005. She holds a BFA in Dance from George Mason University (1984) and has taught dance, movement and exercise for over 30 years. In 1998, together with Kerry DeVivo she opened Pilates at Excel Movement Studios, now known as Excel Pilates DC, in Washington, DC. In 2002 they co-founded another Excel studio in Annapolis, MD. Lesa has worked with clients for over 20 years in The Pilates Method Of Body Conditioning. Ranging in age from 10-85, clients have included athletes such as dancers, gymnasts, swimmers, ice skaters, runners, golfers, equestrian jumpers, and bodybuilders, all working to achieve better performance or to gain a competitive edge. Lesa has worked with clients at a rehabilitative level as well as injury prevention. Conditions and issues have included herniated discs, arthritis, Parkinson's disease, MS, knee surgery prevention, knee and hip replacement, and pregnancy. In 2001 she collaborated with Kerry DeVivo to create and establish a comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Program at Excel Movement Studios in which she developed the curriculum, program outline, and training manual. Currently, she teaches all system levels as well as continuing education. Lesa McLaughlin's experience is that of a Master teacher. She considers her strength in teaching to be a deep understanding of the work of Joseph Pilates and helping each client to see, feel and reach his/her fullest potential. Lesa considers the work of Joseph Pilates to be an inspiration. She has experienced personally the depth and power of the work and considers her ability to practice and teach Pilates a true privilege. The most satisfying aspect of her Pilates experience is to see daily, through her teaching, the meaningful impact it has on others.
Kerry De Vivo
Program Director and Owner of Excel Pilates Annapolis, is the only second generation Pilates teacher in the Annapolis area. She is a certified teacher of The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning by The Pilates Center in Boulder, CO (1995) and by Romana Kryzanowska at The Pilates Studio in New York, NY (1996). She holds an MFA in Dance and a BS in Arts Management. She is Pink Ribbon Program certified. Kerry is currently serving as the Treasurer on the Board of Directors for the Authentic Pilates Union. Kerry began studying Pilates in 1986 with Steve Giordano at SUNY Purchase. In 1998, after completing her Pilates certifications, she co-founded Excel Movement Studios, a 5,000-square-foot Pilates studio, with Lesa McLaughlin in Washington, DC. In 2002, she co-founded Excel Pilates Annapolis. The DC and Annapolis, MD, studios now operate as "sister studios." Kerry is co-director of Excel's Pilates Teacher Training Program established in 2001. The Pilates Teacher Training Program at Excel is dedicated to providing high quality training in the original work of Joseph H. Pilates. It is a comprehensive and in-depth one-year training program requiring a minimum of 700 hours of hands-on training in all levels of the Pilates mat and apparatus work. Kerry works directly with apprentices to help them reach their goals of teaching Pilates. In 2009, Kerry helped develop Excel's Pilates Teacher Mentor Program designed to offer high level continuing education to area Pilates teachers. In 2012 Kerry developed The Pilates Principles Program, a high-caliber continuing education program. Kerry is co-author of the research study, The Benefits of The Pilates Method for Shoulder Stabilization in Dancers, which was presented at the Annual Symposium on Medical Problems of Musicians and Dancers in Aspen, CO. She is also co-author of Excel's Pilates Teacher Training Program Manual and Excel's Pilates Mat Guide. Kerry is also a featured contributing writer in Peter Fiasca's book, "Voices of Classical Pilates". From 2009 – 2011, Excel Pilates Annapolis was an official studio of The Pilates Center's Masters Program. During this time Kerry participated as an approved presenter for continuing education workshops for The Pilates Center's Masters Program. Kerry has taught the Pilates Method to clients who range in age from 12-80, applying Pilates in its original form for performance improvement, injury prevention, rehabilitation, and fitness. Her clients have ranged from professional athletes including runners, dancers, gymnasts, football players, cyclists, and rowers, to individuals with specific health issues, to those simply looking for an alternative fitness program. Kerry has worked with clients in pre- and post-surgery situations. Kerry has presented workshops on Pilates at Physical Therapy clinics and at the University of Colorado/Boulder, the University of Maryland/College Park, the University of Florida/Gainesville, and Shenandoah University. She taught Pilates in Relation to Modern Dance, a semester long class at George Washington University. Kerry was a Panelist on the Careers in Dance Board, representing Pilates, for the 8th Annual Dance Medicine Symposium at Goucher College in March 1998. In addition to Pilates, Kerry had a professional career in dance. She served on the dance faculty at George Washington University and the University of Maryland at College Park. She performed with Deborah Riley Dance Projects for three years as a principle company member and has performed with Liz Lerman, Adrienne Clancey and Mim Rosen. Her choreography and performances have been viewed in Colorado, New York, Maryland, Washington DC, the U.K., and Australia. Kerry's teaching is inspired by the life's work of Joseph Pilates as well as her clients. "It is a gift to work with a client for years and assist them in their journey to meet their health goals. Pilates is a sound method of body conditioning that is rich with detail and powerful with results. It is a method that is applicable to all bodies." Kerry is dedicated to the original Pilates method and to offering clients an empowering fitness experience. She only employs teachers who share the same commitment.
Alexandra Adams
Program Faculty, is a third generation instructor of Joseph H. Pilates and owner of Excel Pilates Northern Virginia. She has practiced Pilates for sixteen years, and has been a certified Pilates instructor for almost a decade. Upon graduation from The Madeira School in 1999, she went on to attend Goucher College. Alexandra graduated from Goucher College in 2003, with a Bachelor's Degree with distinction in Dance Performance and Choreography. After dancing professionally throughout the Washington DC area and continuing to study Pilates, she completed a rigorous, comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Program at Excel Movement Studios. In 2008, after four years of teaching Pilates, Alexandra completed the Masters Program at The Pilates Center in Boulder, Colorado. The Pilates Center is the first of its kind to offer a Masters Program to already accomplished teachers. At the time, Alexandra was one of ten instructors worldwide to complete the program. Since 2004, Alexandra has been teaching at the most respected Pilates studios throughout the Annapolis, Baltimore, and Washington DC areas. In 2010, Alexandra opened The Pilates Center at The Madeira School, a boutique Pilates studio on Madeira's campus. Shortly after opening, The Pilates Center at The Madeira School was voted Best Pilates Studio by Northern Virginia Magazine. After four years of teaching Pilates enthusiasts from the DC area, Alexandra has relocated and naturally renamed The Pilates Center at The Madeira School to Excel Pilates Northern Virginia! Affiliated with Excel Pilates DC and Excel Pilates Annapolis, Excel Pilates NoVA continues a fifteen year tradition of providing the highest quality of traditional Pilates training. Alexandra is a life long studier of the Pilates Method, a member of the Authentic Pilates Union and honored to be an alumna Pilates Ambassador to lululemon Tyson's Corner.
Peter Fiasca
Program Faculty, has a perspective that comes from years of experience as a Romana Kryzanowska certified Pilates teacher. Peter's many years of study culminate in intriguing and fun workshops that periodically highlight the interrelationship between traditional Pilates and overall health. Because of his extensive work as a teacher trainer, instructors, students, and the public can benefit from Peter's insights into the traditional Pilates method. Peter's devotion to Pilates began in 1988, when he took his first class at Wee-Tai Hom's studio in Manhattan. As his passion grew, he pursued teacher training at Drago's Gym, receiving certification in 1998 from famed master teacher Romana Kryzanowska. Over the years, he honed his teaching and his practice with regular lessons from Romana, as well as from master trainers Jay Grimes, Kathy Grant, and other distinguished, traditional instructors. Peter continues to study the work and has dedicated himself to the preservation of the Pilates method, creating the ClassicalPilates.net worldwide directory of traditional instructors. Producer and director of the award-winning Classical Pilates Technique series of six DVDs as well as author of their critically reviewed companion book, Discovering Pure Classical Pilates, and editor/contributor in Voices of Classical Pilates, Peter has been a frequent guest instructor at training centers throughout the U.S., Europe, and South America. He appeared in Romana Kryzanowska's first commercial DVD project, demonstrating the Pilates mat workout, as well as the DVD, "Pilates Revealed," with master teacher Jay Grimes.
Mentor Program
The Pilates Instructor Mentor Program at Excel Pilates
Is dedicated to providing high quality continuing education and mentoring to graduates of comprehensive classical Pilates teacher training programs. As a Pilates instructor, it is important to enhance the knowledge obtained as an apprentice through continuing education. Through the Pilates Instructor Mentor Program at Excel Pilates, participants will go beyond standard continuing education and experience the one on one attention only offered through a mentor. It is after graduation from a teacher training program that a Pilates instructor's education and experience is tested through a variety of clients and situations. Whether teaching individually or along with other Pilates teachers, a mentor can be a valuable resource for any level Pilates instructor, a recent graduate or a more experienced teacher.
The Pilates Instructor Mentor Program at Excel Pilates offers access to the experience of Second-Generation teachers Kerry De Vivo and Lesa McLaughlin on a one on one basis.
This program is tailored to your needs (see sample program outline below) and is designed to deepen your level of teaching and understanding of the Pilates method. We believe the Pilates exercises should be studied authentically and in person as well as receiving individual feedback on teaching skills.
The program directors
Lesa McLaughlin and Kerry De Vivo, offer over 30 years of combined Pilates teaching experience. Both became certified teachers in 1995 with certifications from the Pilates Studio in New York and the Pilates Center in Colorado. Both directors trained with, and were certified by, master teacher Romana Krysanowska, protégé of Joseph Pilates. Kerry and Lesa have co-directed the Excel Pilates Teacher Training Program since 2001 and have been Pilates studio owners since 1998. Both Kerry and Lesa have extensive experience in teaching movement through their degrees and careers as dancers.
Teachers who register for the mentor program at Excel Pilates Annapolis will work with Kerry De Vivo.
Teachers who register for the mentor program at Excel Pilates DC will work with Lesa McLaughlin. Teachers who are interested in working with both program directors may inquire about that opportunity.
Sample Program Outline
Enrolled participants design their mentor program around ten 50-minute sessions customized to meet each participant's goals. Participants choose between:
One on one sessions at Excel Pilates DC or Excel Pilates Annapolis
Observation of program directors teaching
Assistance with session design or problem solving for specific exercises or clients
Exercise review/clarification sessions
Observation of participant teaching followed by post observation feedback sessions
Up to 6 post observation 25-minute feedback sessions
To Apply
To Apply
Mail the completed form with an $85 non-refundable application fee (made payable to Excel) to: 3407 8th Street NE, Washington DC, 20017. Upon approval of application, an evaluation session and interview will be scheduled, $85 non-refundable evaluation fee applies. The evaluation session and interview will determine acceptance to the program. Acceptance into the Pilates Instructor Mentor Program at Excel is based on, but not limited to, the completion of a classical, comprehensive Pilates teacher training program, level of skill and physical integration of the Pilates method, overall knowledge of the Pilates method and professionalism.
Program Fee
$1,000.00
Via check, credit card not accepted for this program. Program fee includes 10 sessions to be utilized as needed by participant.
Graduate List
Since 2002, graduates of the Excel Pilates Teacher Training Program can be found teaching Pilates worldwide. Many graduates have established successful Pilates careers. In addition to teaching, some are studio owners, conference presenters, teacher trainers and Pilates bloggers. Excel Pilates' TTP program is a physically and intellectually challenging experience from start to finish. No hours are wasted — from the beginning, you get real teaching experiences, almost limitless opportunities to improve your own practice, and access to some of the best teachers in the business. On top of all the substantive learning — from anatomy to classical Pilates to real-life teaching challenges — Excel provides the most supportive learning environment. Like almost all students who go through the program, I've had past careers in other disciplines but never have I had the pleasure of training and learning alongside professionals who really want their students to achieve. The cooperative atmosphere is beyond compare. -Laurelle Lo.
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General Info
Hours
Monday:
10:00am - 8:00pm
Tuesday:
10:00am - 8:00pm
Wednesday:
10:00am - 8:00pm
Thursday:
10:00am - 8:00pm
Friday:
10:00am - 2:00pm
Saturday:
8:30am - 1:30pm
Sunday:
-
About Us
Our studio has been established since 1998 and is fully equipped with Reformers, Wall Units, Chairs, Barrels, and Cadillacs. Our facility also has mat classes.
Excel Pilates DC is the Pilates studio of choice for many residents of Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Our clients range in age from 16 - 80 years old, and include all levels of fitness. Our fully certified teachers are committed to teaching quality sessions in the original Pilates Method of Body Conditioning in an empowering and non-competitive environment.