Holly Murray Owner & Steward of Pi Teacher Training Academy

Holly discovered Pilates in Seattle USA in early 2000, and along with a small handful of others was amongst the first in the UK to offer a fully equipped Pilates studio after completing her Training with **Romana Kryzanowska** in 2003.
In 2009 Holly launched the first UK teacher Training for the Pilates Method. Pi, and the Pi Teacher Training Academy is now internationally recognised as a fully comprehensive training centre for The Method of Joseph Pilates.
Holly continues to stay true to her belief in the healing process of The Method and its ability to re-educate the body and remind it of the care-free movement of youth. Trusting in the client’s own ability to return to wholeness.

Holly is also part of the alumni for the **Flow Genome Project**, and one of the first to be recognised as a UK mentor for accessing Flow. She has worked with Steven Kotler and Jamie Wheal. Flow is a state in which higher performance is accessed, and available to all. In flow we experience greater, creativity, problem solving increased learning capacity. See our Mind Gym for more information.
Also, Holly has worked with **Gabor Mate** understanding that that the body holds deep patterns rooted in our childhood experience - understanding this lead to a full a deep return to wholeness, 100% in alignment with the Pilates Method. looking at the hidden drivers that keep us from reaching our true potential.
‘Never has a day gone by when I have not been grateful for the Method and the steadying foundation it has provided in my life. Through its process and my own natural journey, I see Pilates in its full potential - ***It is ‘a Return to Life.’***
**If you would like a private 1:1 with Holly, please email the studio -**
**theconservatory@pistudios.co.uk**

Sophia More
Classical Teacher & Teacher Trainer

Sophia More, a seasoned Pilates practitioner and longtime Pi Studios teacher, has over 20 years of experience. Originally training under Holly Murray, she embraced Classical Pilates as both a practice and a philosophy. Now a Teacher Trainer on Pi’s Full Comprehensive Teacher Training Programme, she mentors aspiring instructors while continually refining her practice through advanced training. Passionate about movement, Sophia’s personalised approach helps clients unlock strength, flexibility, and vitality. She has trained with esteemed figures like Bob Liekens and Kathi Ross Nash.
**Pi Teacher Training**

Max Lobatto
Classical Teacher

From an early age, Max has practised martial arts and discovered Pilates to help him regain his strength and rehabilitate after an injury required surgery. He soon realised that Pilates not only helped him restore balance and strength in his body, but also created great focus in the mind. As a result, Max decided to embark on his own Pilates certification journey. Now a Pilates instructor, Max works extensively with athletes from a wide range of sports using Pilates to help them restore, rehabilitate and strengthen their bodies. His broad experience includes a 5 year spell with Brighton & Hove Albion football club.
**Pi Studios Teacher Training**
**Javier Velazquez** **Immersive Training**

**Nasia Grimani**
**Classical Teacher & Teacher Trainer**

Nasia holds a Bachelor's in Physiotherapy and she has three Pilates certifications: one in contemporary and two in classical method (Power Pilates and Pi). She has trained with esteemed figures like Kathi Ross Nash, Sonje Mayo, Javier Velazquez, Jean-Claude Nelson, Saul Choza. To further her expertise in the method and be able to deliver it in the purest way, she trained as a Teacher Trainer on Pi's Full Comprehensive Teacher Training Programme by Holly Murray.
She loves sharing her knowledge and help people explore all the possibilities and what their bodies can do. As an ex-athlete she uses the method to discipline the body and make it healthier and stronger. She has been using the method on clients ranging from 83 years old with musculoskeletal problems through young dancers, runners, cyclists, triathlon athletes, volleyball players, pre and post-natal women, paraplegic people, cancer survivors, and many more. She supports her students grow physically and mentally. Classical Pilates is for everyone and can benefit everybody.
She is based in London and you can find her at North West London, South London and in the City of London.
Teaching is her passion and a way of expression, awakening joy and inspiring others.
Next to Pilates some of her favourite sports to keep her active and switch off from her day is boxing, kick boxing, parkour, yoga
**Power Pilates Teacher Training**
**Pi Teacher Training**

**Leila Daaboul** Classical Teacher

Growing up I wasn't always sporty, but Pilates taught me the transformative power of movement, both mentally and physically. As an instructor, my goal is for you to leave each session feeling even 1% better. I use Pilates to enhance mobility, strength, and balance, always working toward your personal goals. I believe there’s no ‘Pilates body’—everyone is welcome.
**Equinox Teacher Training**

Lucy Zhara
Classical Teacher

Lucy’s journey into Pilates began with a desire to feel stronger, more confident, and more connected to her body. After exploring different forms of exercise, she found that Pilates offered a unique balance of challenge and clarity. It helped her not only improve her physical strength, but also build focus and calm in her daily life.
Training with Pi Studios inspired Lucy to become an instructor so she could share this powerful method with others. Her classes are welcoming, empowering, and focused on helping clients build strength, stability, and confidence from the inside out.
**Pi Teacher Training**

Rose Lewis

Classical Teacher

After moving to London in 2020, I discovered Pi as one of few truly classical spaces in the city, and started the process of training to become a classical teacher in the studio. I aim to bring positive, bright, and focused energy to my clients, meeting people where they are and grounding them in a meaningful experience in their bodies. and when not at Pi I enjoy coxing on the Thames, being a law student, and traveling as much as possible.

Pi Teacher Training

Cialann Mckeating Classical Teacher

Like so many people, for years I struggled to find the right balance between exercise and "wellness". Pilates became my answer, offering a full mind-body connection that challenged my strength and control. I completed my Full Comprehensive Course with Equinox during maternity leave, and it was the best decision. I aim to improve strength, mobility, and flexibility while helping you achieve personal goals and feel stronger after each session.
**Equinox Teacher Training**

Christos Niaros
Classical Teacher & Teacher Tainer

Christos began his Pilates journey in 2010. He holds two comprehensive Pilates certifications and was selected as part of the inaugural LEAP Masters Program, created and taught by legendary teacher **Bob Liekens.**
A graduate of the Classical Syllabus®, Beyond the Syllabus®, and PPATT™ programs, Christos has invested deeply in his education. He studied extensively with master teachers **Bob Liekens**, **Mejo Wiggin** and **Kathryn Ross-Nash**, and has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education with some of the most influential teachers in Classical Pilates.
Christos is committed to preserving and sharing the legacy of the Classical Method.
As a **teacher of teachers**, he works closely with both instructors and clients, offering guidance rooted in years of study and hands-on experience. His approach is thoughtful, precise, and driven by a genuine passion for the original work of Pilates.
**The Leap - Bob Liekens**
**Red Thread - Kathy Ross Nash**

Pooja Valechha
Classical Teacher

With over a decade of experience as a dedicated Pilates student, I discovered my true passion for movement while on a sabbatical from my corporate career. What began as a personal journey led me to certify in Mat Pilates and dive deeper into the classical method through my training at PI studio. Having experienced the effects of a sedentary lifestyle firsthand, I’m passionate about helping others reconnect with their bodies, build strength, and find confidence through mindful movement.
I also have a keen interest in how nutrition supports movement, and believe in a holistic approach to wellness that nurtures both body and mind. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, focused, and empowered one hour at a time.
**Pi Teacher Training**

Trevor Schoonraad
Classical Teacher

Trevor first came to Pilates during his training at English National Ballet School where he was taught by the legendary Alan Herdman, who is credited with being the Father of British Pilates.
Since then Trevor has always relied on Pilates to maintain and strengthen his technique as a professional dancer and to prevent and rehabilitate from injuries that are all too common in the dance profession.
He certified comprehensively with Peak Pilates® in 2007 during which time he studied under Claire Dunphy (who studied directly with Romana Kryzonowska).
Trevor subsequently became a Master Instructor and Teacher Trainer for Peak Pilates® and presented courses and workshops internationally. He has also developed and presented CPD courses for The APPI Health Group(London).
Trevor has taught in studios around the world and loves nothing more than sharing the knowledge and many benefits of the Pilates method.
He is passionate about preserving the classical Pilates method and passing it on to future generations of Pilates practitioners and instructors alike.
Trevor is currently working on developing a Pilates for Dancers program in collaboration with Pi Pilates Studio which will launch in the coming months.

Becky Uden
Classical Teacher & Studio Owner

Becky discovered Pilates while recovering from a snowboarding accident in 2008. Beyond physical healing, it brought emotional clarity, inspiring her to leave her digital media job and teach. As a full certified instructor, she works with diverse clients, personalising sessions to their needs. Becky believes Pilates is for everyone, offering transformation at any stage of life.
**Pi Teacher Training**

Zhana Leeson
Classical Teacher

Practising Pilates for over a decade, Zhana was originally introduced to The Method after experiencing pain from a herniated disc. She was quickly hooked and it became her retreat from London life. However, it wasn't until she relocated to Amsterdam that she certified as a Pilates teacher. Life has brought her back to London where she continues to teach, share her passion, and further her knowledge of both classical and contemporary Pilates.
**Pi Teacher Training**

Javier Toirkens
Classical Teacher - 2nd Generation Romana Kryzanowska

Javier trained with True Pilates New York and has been teaching worldwide since 2008. He is a long term friend of Pi and we are really happy to have him returned to London and to teach at Pi Studios, bringing his passion for preserving the authenticity of Pilates techniques, the classical method on Pilates apparatus, and advancing Pilates education. Hi is a **the real deal** - Full foruce classical!
**Romana Teacher Training**

Olivia Nixon
Classical Teacher

After suffering a debilitating prolapsed disc, Olivia found Pilates was the only exercise that didn’t worsen her injury. Training at Pi Studios, she rediscovered strength, confidence, and the joy of movement. An actress, writer, and comic, she believes Pilates brings mental clarity and presence. Her classes blend focus, breath, and plenty of laughter.
**Pi Teacher Training**

Luke Cook
Classical Teacher

I’ve taught Pilates since 2005, working with everyone from dancers to professionals, parents, and retirees. Many come to me to address injuries or improve flexibility, strength, and control. Using the Pilates apparatus, I tailor sessions to progress based on your achievements, focusing on specific goals when needed. Looking forward to seeing you for a workout!
**Romana Teacher Training**

Tala Barot
Classical Teacher

A swimmer and long-distance runner since childhood, I turned to Reformer Pilates after my swim coach recommended it for back issues. I became a certified teacher with Balance Body in Dubai and recently deepened my practice through a workshop with Gloria Gasperi, Jay Grimes, and Sandy Shimoda. My goal is to help clients feel connected and experience Pilates’ transformative power.
**Pi Teacher Training**

John Smelt
Classical Teacher & Triathlon Coach

As a competitive cyclist, GB triathlete, and triathlon coach, Pilates has been key in offsetting training overload, travel, and office life. I specialise in helping athletes integrate Pilates into their training to improve performance and reduce injury. Trained by Holly Murray at Pi Studios, my teaching focuses on giving clients the tools to become self-sufficient in their practice. Pilates is a lifelong skill that enhances body control and understanding.
**Pi Teacher Training**

Lily Wickens
Social Media Director
Classical
Teacher

Lily’s journey began as a professional dancer, which sparked her passion for Pilates. After training at Pi Studios, she developed a deep understanding of helping others engage their muscles. Her sessions focus on lengthening, strengthening, and increasing flexibility, while also promoting mental clarity. Lily’s expertise and passion will guide you to unlock your full potential and achieve your goals.
**Pi Teacher Training**

Flo Dowler
Classical Teacher & Teacher Trainer

Flo’s passion for Pilates developed following a sporting injury resulting in a stress fracture to her back. Determined to learn more about her body and how to heal it. She went on to qualify as a Personal Trainer, however it wasn’t until she trained completed 600 hours of training at Pi as a Pilates Instructor that she noticed a significant improvement to her body . She successfully works through clients injuries -back to being pain free and feeling stronger than ever before. Flo believes in both the mental and physical benefits of Pilates for every age group, and relishes helping her clients find their mind-body connection through movement.
**Pi Teacher Training**

Ashley Van Dyk
Classical Teacher

Ashley has over 10 years’ experience in both classical and rehabilitation Pilates. She discovered and immediately fell in love with Joseph Pilates' method of movement. The centring, concentration and breath control changed her perception of exercise. Ashley has furthered her education with pre- and post-natal Pilates, Yoga and Gait Therapy.
Through Pilates, Ashley has found her true mind and body connection and strives to help others find their proper body alignment.
**Pi Teacher Training**
**Javier Velazquez Immersive Training**