WHO WE ARE
With roots in the Near Southside community since 2014, Southside Pilates is a boutique studio serving all who desire to explore the beauty of Pilates. Our certified instructors bring years of experience to help you achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Our technique driven, individually focused classes are more than a workout; they’re an education to better understand your body.
LEAD INSTRUCTOR
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About ValerieVal has been in the fitness industry for nearly 25 years, initially teaching Jazzercise.
She studied ballet through her early childhood, then turned her focus to music and ultimately to music therapy. When she discovered Pilates, she became a believer. This was solidified when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 and Pilates was her rehab salvation. That is why she chose to share the benefits of Pilates with others. |
ASSOCIATE INSTRUCTORS
Sarah AyalaHowdy! My name is Sarah, and I am a Fort Worth native. I have been teaching group fitness classes for 7 years now. I made the commitment to guide women of all shapes and sizes on their journey to becoming the best version of themselves: fit and fierce.
I truly believe there is a power in Group Fitness! In 2010, I was introduced to one of my favorite Group Fitness classes, Barre. With so many variations of Barre, I promise to keep this class interesting for you, though you can count on me to work squats into every workout. If you know you know, I love rocking a fun workout outfit as well. All black is my favorite combination, but there are days when you just need to be a little extra, so a pop of green it is for me! When I am not teaching class, I balance life between my two loves. It’s true that having a dog means maintaining an active lifestyle. My love for Chuck Bass, my Great Dane, means long walks are part of our daily routine. To reward our efforts, Chuck takes a nap and I bake for my family and friends. I love trying new recipes and sharing the results with others while watching a sports game and hanging out with some friends. |
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Audrey LakerGrowing up, you could always find me at a dance rehearsal or at cheer practice. Fast forward to college, and I had no semblance of a fitness routine. I tried different things here and there but nothing really stuck.
By chance, I happened upon a barre class, and it just felt right. It felt like home. Three barre classes later that first week, and I had fully embraced “the shake.” 8 years later, I was approached to be a barre instructor and jumped right in. I gained so much confidence in myself and my body through my barre journey, that I was eager to help others feel the same way. Not only do I love sharing my love of barre, but I find such joy being beside my clients as we all work to better our health and bodies. There is strength and comfort in the community we have created. When I’m not teaching class, you can find me at home baking or reading. I am the ultimate homebody and am most content when I have a good book, a cup of tea, something sweet, and a candle burning.” |
Carole SellersI took my first Pilates class in the late 90s and fell in love from day one. I appreciated the attention to proper form and left my first class feeling taller, leaner, and stronger.
After taking classes on and off over the years, I dreamed of becoming certified as a Pilates instructor as a second career, but my primary career as an educator and other family obligations got in the way. In 2013, I had just retired from FWISD and was tutoring at my old school part time. I met another tutor and we hit it off immediately. It turned out she was taking Pilates classes from a lady named Valerie Pfaff. She asked if I was interested in trying a class, and long story short, my forgotten dream was recalled. Pilates is essential to my well-being, and I love watching students’ lives improve as a result of being introduced to this amazing exercise program. When I’m not teaching, I enjoying spending time with my human and animal family, traveling, (especially near the ocean) reading, and enjoying the outdoors. |
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Katrina PittmanI’m Katrina. I’m a graduate of Texas A&M University, and I’ve lived in Fort Worth for 25 years. I studied ballet when I was younger, drifted away, fell into distance running, and then drifted back to ballet as an adult. My husband actually encouraged me to try barre after my second child was born—he’d read it was ballet based and thought it sounded like me. He surprised me and signed me up for a class. After two classes, I was absolutely hooked. After three years of taking classes, the owner of the studio tapped my shoulder and asked me if I’d like to teach. After sleeping on it, I thought, “Why not?” Fast forward, and I’ve been teaching barre and mat Pilates for 9 years. I’m honored to share my love of barre and ballet with our clients!
My barre classes combine traditional ballet and Pilates with the fiery moves that give you a deep burn. It’s true, my classes are intense, but you’ll gain strength and confidence each time you return. You’ll be surprised how quickly your tone, sculpt beautiful lean muscles, and even improve your posture. I promise, barre works! When I’m not at the studio, I enjoy baking and cooking (my pizza and cinnamon rolls are famous!) between homeschooling my children. I also enjoy traveling around our beautiful nation, studying history, watching Aggie football, and shopping. I also serve as Advisory Chair on the board of Fort Worth’s Ballet Concerto. Our studio is such a fun and energetic place. I can’t wait to meet you at the barre! |
Jacque CrossinBio Coming Soon
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Sarah SillsI grew up in Midland and moved to Dallas in 2017. After working in downtown Fort Worth and living in Dallas, I decided to make the move “back west” this past September and have loved every minute of it.
I started taking barre classes in college and completed my instructor certification shortly thereafter. Southside Pilates is such a gem in FW and I’m excited to join the team! The best part of class is the encouraging atmosphere and getting to know students! You can always expect a fun glute series in my classes! When I’m not at the studio I love spending time with my fiancé, Brent, and our two dogs. We love traveling and being outdoors, especially when it involves good food and drinks! If you love an early morning workout you can catch Sarah at 6 class! |
Danielle Milner |
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Victoria HancockBio Coming Coon
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Mariana BlessingMariana embarked on her Pilates journey in St. Louis, MO while she was training as a pre-professional ballet dancer. She quickly discovered the magic of this movement practice as a cross training method that helped her feel prepared to tackle rigorous rehearsals, but also adopted Pilates as a healthy lifestyle. While pursuing her BFA at Texas Christian University, Mariana had the opportunity to turn her love of Pilates into a career to help others with their movement practices. She currently holds her degree in Ballet as well as a comprehensive Pilates teacher training certificate, culminating in over 650 hours of coursework.
Additionally, Mariana earned her NCPT (Nationally Certified Pilates Instructor) credential. She has experience working with athletes, dancers, pre and post-natal clients, as well as those with various injuries. Mariana is excited to continue learning from the other remarkable instructors at Southside Pilates. She hopes to help her clients find a greater sense of mobility after each session, a blend of strength and flexibility, and to walk out of the studio feeling on top of the world! |
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Francis BerryBio Coming Soon
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Aja BilodeauBio Coming Soon
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Isabella RansonIsabella started her dance journey at the age six at stage canvas dance studio in Kingsville, Texas. At the age of 13, Isabella started a pre-professional dance program at yapp 361 dance studio in Flour Bluff, Texas for three and half years. She has performed in multiple different ballets, musicals, and events since the age of six. She has also choreographed a few numbers that have been performed in her hometown of Corpus Christi, Texas. She enjoys playing with her three terrier dogs, crocheting, watching movies, writing stories, and spending time with family on her free time.
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