Hi there! I’m Nicole, founder of NJOY Pilates. I opened the Studio because I wanted to create a community that makes YOU feel empowered, confident and connected to be part of. I completed my initial instructor training with Barre Body. I’ve also taken continued education through Kane School Pilates certification, a training program that combines the classic principles of Pilates with a modern, clinical perspective on the body. I love learning, and have also been trained in The Carolyne Anthony Method of The Center for Women’s Fitness from the USA. Read on to find out a little more about my story and what inspired me to open my own Studio…

I had a unique upbringing - my Dad was in a wheelchair when I was growing up. He was paralysed when someone spear tackled him playing rugby, which left him a Quadriplegic (he never walked again). Yet he was never bitter about the accident, never complained, and never bad-mouthed the man who injured him. He still loved the game, and always said he’d go back to playing again tomorrow if he could.

My Dad lived the rest of his life unable to run, jump and hug – all seemingly small things we so often take for granted. His attitude taught me to be forever grateful that I can move my body, and helps me remember what a privilege that is.

My relationship with my body and exercise hasn’t always been healthy, though. In my early twenties I exercised excessively, spending hours at the gym lifting weights and running 10km daily. From overly restrictive dietary habits, I developed an eating disorder. There’s nothing wrong with lifting weights and running, but in this phase of my life, I wasn’t honouring the values imparted to me by my Father.

I knew I had to change, and for me that was discovering Pilates. This style of movement was low impact and focused on mindful movement (as well as being fun!) It offered me a different challenge from what I was used to, was enjoyable and brought balance to my life.