ABOUT
Pilates
The Pilates Method is far more than a workout: it is a path to wellbeing that brings mind and body together, born in the early 1900s from the intuition of Joseph Pilates.
Through flowing, controlled movement, the method works the deep muscles, improving posture, balance and mobility, and helping you release tension and stiffness.
Suitable for every age and level of experience, Pilates teaches you to breathe better, to move with awareness, and to rediscover energy and harmony every day.
Today, just as a century ago, every class is an invitation to transform, inside and out. It is precisely this effectiveness and versatility that keeps Pilates practised all over the world by people who want to care for their body in an intelligent and lasting way.
Gyrotonic®
The Gyrotonic® Method is a unique movement experience that blends fluidity, strength and freedom of motion. Created in the 1980s by Hungarian dancer Juliu Horvath, it brings together yoga, dance, tai chi and gymnastics in a system that works the body three-dimensionally and harmoniously. Through specialised equipment and circular movement, the method helps improve posture, flexibility, coordination and body awareness, while releasing tension and stiffness.
Suitable for everyone, from beginners to professional athletes, it is also particularly well suited to pregnant women, thanks to its ability to strengthen the body gently and safely while improving breathing and balance.
Today Gyrotonic® is chosen all over the world by those looking for an innovative and deeper approach to movement, ideal for anyone who wants to strengthen their body while respecting its natural harmony.
Gyrokinesis®
The Gyrokinesis® Method addresses the entire body, opening energy pathways, stimulating the nervous system, increasing range of motion and creating functional strength through rhythmic, flowing movement sequences. It is an original and unique method that coordinates movement, breath and mental focus. It is practiced on a mat and chair without equipment. Without the feedback and guidance of equipment, participants in a Gyrokinesis® class are more dependent on their own proprioception to explore movement sequences.
Meet the Teachers
Chiara
Born and raised in Sicily, I have always had a strong passion for movement, nurtured through years of sport and in particular rhythmic gymnastics, which I have been teaching for over 20 years as an FGI-certified coach.
In 2008 I discovered Pilates, and in 2012 I became a Covatech® certified trainer. Fascinated by its effectiveness, I went on to expand my training with GYROTONIC® (2014) and GYROKINESIS® (2017), methods that complete my understanding of the body and of movement.
My approach brings these disciplines together to offer personalised, effective programmes, helping my clients move better, with greater awareness, freedom and wellbeing.
I graduated in Political Science and International Relations and in European Studies from the University of Catania in 2004.
Certifications:
Covatech® Pilates Trainer
GYROTONIC® Level 1 & GYROKINESIS® Instructor
FGI Rhythmic Gymnastics Coach
Floriana
Graduated in Media and Complex Organizations Communication from Università Cattolica in Milan, I have over 15 years of training in classical and modern dance, studying at the TMB Lo Giudice School with Silvana Lo Giudice, the Centro del Balletto with Antonella Nicosia, and furthering my studies in specialized centers abroad. My passion for movement and the mind-body connection led me to explore Pilates and deepen my practice with the Gyrotonic® method, in which I am now a certified trainer.
I guide clients through personalized sessions focused on well-being, body awareness, and intelligent movement.
Francesca
An Engineering graduate with a passion for art and movement, I combine technical expertise with sports experience. A former rhythmic gymnastics athlete and federal coach since 2005, I spent twelve years as Regional Technical Director of the Rhythmic Gymnastics Section of the Italian Gymnastics Federation – Sicily, handling program planning, consulting, and training coaches and judges. I'm an international rhythmic gymnastics judge with over fifteen years organizing sporting events.
In 2024 I discovered Gyrotonic, marking a new chapter: a more conscious, precise approach to the body and movement, focused on adult wellbeing. This led to my mission: guiding people toward mindful movement through a personalized method shaped by my background and experience in sport. Expertise, attention to detail, and listening to the body are the tools I use to create an authentic wellness experience, in the welcoming setting of Catania Pilates.
Birgitte
Born and raised in Denmark, Birgitte Hartmann Carlsen has always had a strong passion for movement, body awareness and wellbeing.
Her approach is rooted in many years of experience with movement and physical training, combined with a deep interest in how the body functions and how mindful movement can support both strength and balance.
Over the years, Birgitte has developed a broad understanding of movement and bodywork, continuously expanding her knowledge through education and professional training. Her teaching is characterised by a holistic and attentive approach, where precision, body awareness and individual needs are at the centre.
She is passionate about helping people move with greater ease, confidence and awareness, creating personalised programmes that support strength, mobility and overall wellbeing.
Her approach combines professional expertise with a genuine interest in each individual, making movement accessible, effective and meaningful.
Certifications & professional training:
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2009 educated Reflexologist
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2015 educated STOTT Matwork PIlates instuctor
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2017 educated Free Spirit Reformer Pilates instructor
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2017 educated Fascia reformer instructor
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2018 educated Group Fitness Academy Yoga instructor
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2018 educated Yin Yoga instructor