Erika has been teaching Pilates in Manchester Center since 2008, with over 22,000 hours of experience instructing Pilates.
First exposed to the Pilates Method in 1989 at SUNY Purchase where she received a BFA in Dance, Erika was immediately drawn to the structured environment of Pilates, the natural progression of exercises, and the graceful fluidity of the movements. Purchase is home to one of the first Pilates satellite studios, which Romana Kryzanowska opened in 1976, and is still operating with some of the original apparatus developed by Joseph Pilates and Gratz!
The study of body mechanics and movement is an instinctive part of Erika's being, reaching as far back as her memory can take her. Like many young girls, she began dancing very young, at three years old. Her training became serious by the time she was twelve, dancing six days a week, performing, and studying at the Joffrey Ballet School. Afterwards more extensive study ensued, choreography, performance, and training with dancers from NYC Ballet, American Ballet Theater and Martha Graham and more. This left a huge impact on the way she sees a body move.
Erika became serious about her Pilates practice after rediscovering it some years later. Having had a child, some injuries and a little more age, the experience was completely different. The added perspective was transformative, and would further shape her teaching style. Reminiscent of college, she again trained with a Romana's Pilates instructor before becoming fully and classically certified by Power Pilates® in NYC.
Beyond being an invigorating workout, Pilates to Erika is preventative care that nurtures the mind, body and soul. It prepares you for the rigors of your life and it works for everyone! Knowing there is always more to learn about the complexities of the human body, Erika believes the focus must forever be about growing your knowledge. For this reason, she regularly attends specialized courses and workshops to continually expand her expertise. She seeks out 'second generation' master instructors whenever possible and those from different Pilates lineages, while emphasizing the classical form. Erika teaches with compassion, knowledge and experience to students of varying ages, athletic backgrounds, health conditions and fitness levels. Her instruction is lighthearted yet deep with the goal of providing the highest level of individualized training. Erika brings a smile and positive energy to every session, and is convinced Pilates can make an extraordinary impact in all her clients' lives, just as it has in hers.
Charlotte has been a Pilates enthusiast since 2008, having been trained under Erika's tutelage for the past 15 years.
Well known and admired at The Pilates Loft as a trustworthy guide and example of how to approach 'the work', she has enjoyed studying every detail of each exercise and apparatus.
In 2022 she expressed the desire to become formally certified through Power Pilates. Having completed her initial certification, she is currently pursuing her complete comprehensive training.
A lover of skiing, hiking, animals, gardening and cooking, she and her family have been part of the local Vermont fiber since 1981.