Sara's Experience
Professional Ballet Dancer & Certified Classical Pilates Coach
I’m Sara Ouwendyk, an Australian professional ballet dancer and Classical Pilates coach with a deep passion for movement and the human body. My journey with Pilates began at age 12, alongside my dance training. While Pilates initially served as a supportive practice for dance, it wasn’t until my professional career that I truly understood its profound impact on performance, injury prevention, and overall body awareness.
I spent three formative years training at the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), where I also began working with my first personal trainer in the gym. This introduction to strength training deepened my commitment to physical conditioning. As I progressed in my dance career, I discovered how Pilates could complement and enhance my training, helping me stay strong, recover from injuries, and develop a greater understanding of my body.
After completing my studies, I joined the West Australian Ballet (WAB) and later moved to Geneva, where I’ve been based for the past five years. Living in Geneva has allowed me to continue my ballet career and deepen my connection to Pilates, which has become an essential part of my daily routine. Pilates supports my dance performance, injury prevention, and overall physical well-being in the demanding world of professional ballet.
In addition to dance, I’ve developed a passion for weightlifting, and Pilates has proven to be the perfect complement to both my gym workouts and dance practice, providing balance and support across all aspects of my fitness journey.
As a Pilates instructor, I’m excited to share my experience and help others embrace the power of movement. My goal is to inspire you to understand your body, stay strong, and find joy in your own practice—whatever your fitness goals may be.
Sara x
Classical Pilates...
Classical Pilates is the authentic method established by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. It focuses on a particular sequence of exercises aimed at developing core strength, flexibility, balance, posture, and comprehensive body control.
A central tenet of Pilates is the emphasis on precise and controlled movements. Each exercise is executed with a strong focus on technique, alignment, and breath control, which enhances its overall effectiveness.
In our Pilates coaching sessions, we will work with all the classical Pilates equipment, such as the Reformer, Cadillac or Tower, Wunda Chair, and Magic Circle. These tools were created by Joseph Pilates himself and are designed to support and challenge the body in specific ways.
What are the Advantages of Pilates?
Pilates offers a multitude of benefits, ranging from improved posture and flexibility to increased core strength and stress relief. It is more than just physical exercise; it fosters mental focus and breath awareness, promoting a mind-body connection that enhances overall well-being.
This practice is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it accessible whether you are a novice or an experienced practitioner. No matter your current fitness level, Classical Pilates can be customized to meet your individual needs. The technique provides a solid foundation of fundamental movements that, through consistent practice, will deepen your mind-body connection and overall wellness.
"Pilates is a method created to enrich your daily life. You should engage in movements that inspire joy and comfort. Move to keep enjoying the activities you cherish, to manage everyday responsibilities with ease, and to cultivate new talents while striving for your dreams."
Reformer
A versatile piece of equipment featuring a sliding carriage, adjustable springs, and straps. The Reformer provides resistance and support, allowing for a wide range of exercises that improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination.
Cadillac & Tower
Cadillac and Tower consist of a vertical frame attached to a mat or table. They allow for a variety of exercises using springs and bars, providing a focus on controlled movements, alignment, and muscle engagement.
Wunda Chair
A compact, box-like piece of equipment with a padded seat and a spring-loaded pedal. The Wunda Chair is excellent for building strength, especially in the core, legs, and arms. It offers a challenging workout that emphasizes balance and control.
