Tell us about your new studio, and how it reflects your wider ethos or philosophy as a movement coach.

I have dreamt about an AJP Studio for years. This is my dream location and my dream fit out. The space is light, elevated, and sophisticated and is truly an extension of our home. My hope is that everyone who comes to Anna Jane Pilates feels welcome, inspired, and appreciated (with an AJP burn included!).

What benefits do your clients typically experience from your practice? Is there anything specific to your approach that differs from other trainers?

An AJP class supports you physically, mentally, and emotionally. Anna Jane Pilates helps you tone, build strength, and improve mobility and flexibility, but also provides amazing mental and emotional benefits. The difference with an AJP class is the tempo and control I require from my clients. The burn is more intense, the shaking is longer, the fatigue is stronger, and my focus for every single class is purely on form. 

Why does spring feel like a particularly powerful time to commit (or recommit) to Pilates?

Spring is a shift in energy for everyone, and many of us decide to prioritise our wellness at this time of year. The amazing thing about Pilates is it’s for everyone. Whether you want to enhance your posture and agility, support your postpartum recovery, feel your best in a swimsuit, or improve your golf swing, Pilates is amazing for everybody, at every age. Spring is the perfect time to commit to regular Pilates as I find most clients see noticeable improvements after a month of regular classes. So by summer you should be feeling your best.

What sets your one-on-one sessions apart from a group class experience? What are the benefits of both?

I truly love both, which is why I have always taught private and group Pilates. A private class allows you to have undivided attention from your instructor and you tend to progress faster. However, a small Pilates group class with an experienced instructor is a perfect solution for those that don’t want to pay private fees, but still want the attention to detail and form and expertise that Pilates requires. The energy in a group class is always super fun and uplifting too. 

Can you walk us through what a typical session with you looks like, and how it evolves over time?

AJP classes are 45 minutes, with only nine reformers in the class, and the time truly does fly by. A typical class consists of a warm up, glutes, inner thighs, upper body and lots of core! I’m known for being incredibly particular about form and technique, and it’s something I’m very passionate about.

What’s your approach to tailoring sessions — how do you meet clients where they are
physically, energetically, or emotionally?

Honestly, I love private Pilates because of the amazing connections you make with people. I
have been beyond lucky to have the most beautiful group of private clients over the last three
years. Having said that, many of my group clients have been with me for 5+ years and I will
always personalise their classes to meet them where they are at. Sometimes clients will need more
support, but more often than not, my clients need to be pushed, challenged, and encouraged
to get to the next level of fatigue that achieves amazing results.

What are the most noticeable shifts you see in clients who commit to a regular practice?

Twice a week you feel a difference. Three times a week you see a difference. Of
course wellness is nutrition, sleep, stress management, and much more, but most of my
clients do Pilates 2-4 times a week and the results show.

Find the Anna Jane Pilates studio at 171 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland.