From Modeling to Pilates: Jessica’s Journey to Becoming an Instructor

Taking the Plunge

For Jessica, certification took about eight months. The decision to sign up for training came on a surreal afternoon when the sky in NYC turned dark orange from the Canada wildfires.

At the time, Jessica was working as a model and taking Pilates classes regularly. Fitness had always been a part of her life, and she knew she eventually wanted to teach. When the opportunity to train in Pilates presented itself, she didn’t hesitate—she jumped in headfirst.

Training: Challenges and Breakthroughs

Like many instructors, Jessica’s training journey wasn’t without doubts.

“Pilates didn’t have the same visibility on social media that it has today,” she recalls. “I didn’t see many people like me in the space, and at times it felt intimidating.”

On top of that, training was rigorous. With her background in anatomy and biology from university, she felt like she’d been thrown back into accelerated science classes. Still, the more she practiced, the more things started to click. Eventually, everything aligned—Jessica realized Pilates wasn’t just something she loved, it was her calling.

A Day in the Life

Today, Pilates is Jessica’s full-time career. She works around 25 hours per week, balancing private sessions with group classes, while also collaborating with brands and hosting community events.

Her days start early—she’s up by 4 a.m. and teaching by 6:30 a.m. Depending on the schedule, it’s either a long stretch of group classes or hours of one-on-one sessions. After teaching, Jessica makes time for her own workout before diving into brand work, planning, and personal projects.

The Ups and Downs of Teaching

For Jessica, the best part of teaching is simple: connection.

“Pilates gives me the chance to change lives in such a tangible way,” she says. “Helping someone build strength and confidence never gets old.”

But with the pros come challenges. The schedule can be demanding, especially the early mornings and packed client blocks. Still, Jessica wouldn’t trade it—she thrives on the energy and momentum.

Teaching Style and Favorites

Jessica’s teaching style is dynamic, athletic, and challenging. With her strong fitness background, her classes push clients to build strength while staying deeply focused on form.

Her favorite exercise to teach? The classic Teaser. “It requires so much strength, and watching clients finally nail it after weeks of work is incredibly rewarding.”

When it comes to music, Jessica keeps it simple. She prefers tracks with a steady tempo that support focus, rather than songs that dictate the rhythm of the workout.

Looking Ahead

Jessica sees Pilates as more than a job—it’s her future. Over the next five years, she hopes to continue expanding her reach, both in-person and through larger community and wellness projects.

And of course, she’s always experimenting with creative props. One of her go-tos is the SQZ Ring, which she loves adding into a lunge series. “It instantly takes the movement up a notch. You’re working the lower body while also engaging the upper body—total focus from head to toe.”

Final Thoughts

From the runway to the reformer, Jessica has built a career that’s as fulfilling as it is challenging. Her journey is proof that taking the plunge—no matter how uncertain—can lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.