My Journey Into Fitness: From Ballet Shoes to Pilates Studios
For as long as I can remember, movement has been part of who I am. My family still jokes that I learned to run before I could walk! At school, P.E. was always my favourite subject the freedom of moving, learning new skills, and pushing my body just felt natural to me.
Early Years: A Passion for Movement
My journey really began at the age of 8 when I started playing netball a sport I went on to play until I was 19. That same year, I also began dancing and later trained in classical ballet from the age of 10 to 18. When I was 11, I was fortunate to attend the Wells Royal Ballet Summer School, which was an incredible experience that deepened my love for disciplined, graceful movement.
Even as a child, I was fascinated by how the body works how strength, balance, and alignment all come together. I always knew I wanted to work in an environment that combined activity, healing, and human connection.
Education and Early Career
In 2012, I graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Sports Therapy, and that’s when my professional fitness journey truly began. I became a self-employed sports massage therapist and joined the University of Leicester Sports Centres, where I worked for 8 years as both a fitness advisor and sports therapist.
During that time, I expanded my skills and qualified as a:
- Pregnancy massage specialist
- Indian head and hot stone massage therapist
- YMCAfit Personal Trainer
I started teaching fitness classes and went on to gain qualifications in kettlebell training, spin, and TRX/suspension training, as well as ante and postnatal fitness with YMCAfit.
Outside of work, I loved challenging myself with events — completing several half marathons and long-distance bike rides, including the Leicester to Skegness ride.
Falling in Love with Pilates
As my career evolved, I discovered Pilates and instantly knew it was something special. I qualified as a Level 3 Mat Pilates Instructor with Future Fit Training and later gained additional certifications in:
- Pilates for common orthopaedic issues
- Pre and postnatal Pilates
- Pilates with small equipment
- Diamond (pelvic floor) course with Cherry Baker
- Hog Pilates teacher with Cherry Baker
In 2018, I even stepped on stage and competed in two bikini competitions, which required intense training and a highly disciplined diet…a true test of physical and mental resilience!
A Turning Point
Not long after that high point, my life took an unexpected turn. In late 2019, I suffered a herniated disc in my lower back, a serious injury that changed my path completely. I had to stop massaging and rethink how I worked.
That setback, however, became a turning point. It deepened my appreciation for functional movement, posture, and body awareness, and led me to focus more on Pilates and personal training areas that help people move well, stay strong, and prevent injuries.
New Chapters and Continuous Growth
I began working at Hamilton’s Honour Gym in Oadby and completed my Reformer Pilates qualification with Claire Wray. Eventually, I set up my own home studio, teaching both mat and reformer Pilates, and began working in a few boutique reformer studios around Leicester.
My passion for learning never stops — I completed a 10-week Functional Patterns course, which focused on alignment, posture, and strength, and I now integrate many of those principles into my Pilates and personal training sessions.
To continue expanding my offerings, I trained with APPI to become certified in:
- Arc Barrel Pilates
- Pre and Postnatal Reformer Pilates
- Split Pedal Chair Pilates
Where I Am Today
Every step of my journey — from dancing and sports therapy to injury and recovery — has shaped the teacher I am today. My goal is simple: to help people move better, feel stronger and live more comfortably in their own bodies.
Whether you’re an athlete, a new mum, or simply someone who wants to stay active and pain-free, I’m here to guide you with compassion, expertise, and experience.
Interested in joining one of my Pilates sessions or finding out how I can help you?
✨ Get in touch and let’s start your journey to strength, mobility, and balance.