COLUMBIA - Athletic Progression


This class is taught by:

Joanna Gilmer

Joanna began her journey with Pilates in 2011 in Warsaw,Poland. On the first day of practice, her teacher started class by quoting Joseph Pilates “In 10 sessions you’ll feel the difference, in 20 you’ll see the difference, and in 30 you’ll have a new body”. As a “skeptical” beginner, Joanna was amazed that everything that was said about Pilates became true. As a result, she has become a committed practitioner of Pilates, and in convincing others that thanks to this method, not only the body movement and strength can improve, but you will also gain greater balance and energy. You simply start feeling better!. Joanna is Comprehensively Certified by Balanced Body and teaches Mat, Reformer, Tower and Chair. In addition to practicing Pilates, Joanna also enjoys running, biking,cooking, reading, and traveling with her husband and spending time with her family.

Doreen Sheppard

Doreen Sheppard has over fourteen years teaching experience in the fitness industry. She enjoys working with clients one-on-one or in a group setting. She is certified in person training (NASM and ACE), group fitness (AFAA) Resist-A-Ball, and Spinning. She is currently pursuing a Balanced Body Reformer certification. Doreen enjoys running and road cycling in her spare time.

Lana MacDonald

Lana has been teaching Reformer Pilates in her homeland of New Zealand since 2020, now a recent resident in Maryland she is keen to share her passion for gaining strength and stability through Pilates. She loves being part of clients Pilates journeys and enjoys encouraging clients to challenge themselves and never be afraid to try something new. Lana also has a love of yoga and has recently completed her 200hr YTT.

Maya Bullock

Maya Bullock is an advocate of living a healthy lifestyle and supports all things that promote health, wellness and fitness. She has a B.S. in Kinesiology with a focus on Movement Science and a Dance Minor. Maya has past experience teaching group exercise, water aerobics, and chair aerobics and working with the aging population. She has participated in the bbareless training by Tracey Mallett and is working towards her certification. She currently teaches Barre Sculpt in our Columbia studio and always promises to provide our clients with a good, effective workout.

Sara Raymond

Sara is the Program Director at Coreworks. Sara is a Comprehensively Certified Pilates instructor and Master Instructor. Sara has been practicing and studying Pilates and yoga since 2000. Sara brings the variety in her education background to her teaching style and enjoys working with all levels of students. Additionally, Sara works with individuals and small groups to make changes and improve lives as a Hypnotherapist and Transformational Life Coach.

Yara Brown

Yara’s journey to become a Pilates instructor was driven by a desire to share the transformative power of movement. Drawing from her dance experience, she prioritizes precision, grace, and discipline in her teaching. Her approach is to empower clients, whether beginners or experienced enthusiasts, to discover their inner strength, improve flexibility, and cultivate a balanced, functional body. She is always excited to make new connections with those she works with and uncover their limitless potential!

Kathryn LaRusso

From a young age, movement has been at the heart of my life. Growing up as a dancer, cheerleader, and stage performer, I’ve always felt connected to the power of movement. After a fulfilling 22-year career as a hairstylist and salon owner, I decided to make a career change and pursue my passion for health and wellness.
In 2024, I was led to become a certified comprehensive Pilates instructor—a career change that has brought me new purpose and joy. I am also a certified holistic health coach, guiding others to live healthier, more balanced lives.
In my classes, students can expect a focus on the mind-body connection, with movements designed to foster both physical strength and mental clarity. My goal is to empower clients, helping them leave each session feeling strong, confident, and more in tune with their bodies. Longevity is a key principle in my teaching, with an emphasis on sustainable practices that support long-term health and vitality.
Outside the studio, I love cooking nutrient-dense meals, hiking, traveling, and enjoying quiet moments at home with my husband and our dog, Luna.

Miete Georgewill

Miete fell in love with Pilates after her first Coreworks Class in 2022, and has been dedicated ever since. She lives by three words "FORM IS KEY" and over her years of practice, has developed the ability to strengthen and lengthen, while maintaining a mind-body connection. Her comprehensive Pilates practice has allowed for increased control, flexibility, and balance - with enhanced performance, improved posture, and better focus. Miete shares her love for Pilates with family, friends, colleagues, strangers, and anyone who is willing to listen.  Miete is Balance Body trained and is qualified to teach Reformer, Tower, Chair, and Arc Barrel.
This class is held at the COLUMBIA Studio.
9160 Rumsey Road, Suite B4
Columbia, MD 21045
 
A full-body class designed to build strength and endurance using Pilates principles combined with functional strength elements. This class bridges the gap between traditional Pilates and strength-focused formats — all while maintaining alignment, breath, and control. Expect compound movements, core integration, and a steady pace to challenge muscular stamina without sacrificing form.

Who it’s for: Students with a strong foundation and at least 10 Foundation classes completed.

Upcoming classes:

  • Thu Oct 30 8:30 am - 9:30 am with Joanna Gilmer
  • Thu Oct 30 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm with Doreen Sheppard
  • Fri Oct 31 7:30 am - 8:30 am with Lana MacDonald
  • Fri Oct 31 10:30 am - 11:30 am with Maya Bullock
  • Sat Nov 01 9:30 am - 10:30 am with Sara Raymond
  • Sun Nov 02 8:30 am - 9:30 am with Yara Brown
  • Mon Nov 03 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm with Lana MacDonald
  • Tue Nov 04 6:30 am - 7:30 am with Kathryn LaRusso
  • Tue Nov 04 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm with Miete Georgewill
  • Wed Nov 05 6:30 am - 7:30 am with Lana MacDonald
  • Wed Nov 05 8:30 am - 9:30 am with Lana MacDonald