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Old Town Pilates
Transforming Lives in Lansing Since 2007
Welcome to Old Town Pilates! Our mission is to provide high-qualityPilates instruction in a supportive and nurturing environment. Discover the transformative power of Pilates with our experienced instructors and join our vibrant community today.
Our Story
About Old Town Pilates
Founded in 2007, Old Town Pilates has been dedicated to teaching the classic Pilates method as intended by its creator, Joseph Pilates. Located in the heart of Lansing's historic Old Town neighborhood, our studio is a welcoming space where individuals of all ages and fitness levels can come to improve their body awareness, strength, and overall well-being.
At Old Town Pilates, we believe in the transformative power of Pilates. Our mission is to provide high-quality instruction in a supportive and nurturing environment. We focus on the six key principles of Pilates: Centering, Concentration, Control, Breath, Flow, and Precision, ensuring that each student receives a comprehensive Pilates education.
Meet Our Instructors
Rosanna (Nahnie) Barberio
owner and lead instructor
Rosanna, affectionately known as Nahnie, is the owner and master instructor at Old Town Pilates. With over 25 years of experience, she is a 2nd generation Pilates instructor trained by Romana Kryzanowska, a direct protégé of Joseph Pilates, and certified in 1999 from The Pilates Guild of New York City. Nahnie has a background in dance and received certification as a teacher trainee from Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance NYC.
Nahnie's passion for Pilates is evident in her teaching style, which combines her dedication to teaching the Classic Pilates matwork and her commitment to helping her students achieve their personal health/wellness goals.
Debra Dawsey
3rd generation instructor
Debra has always integrated physical fitness into her lifestyle and began practicing at Old Town Pilates in 2016. In 2018, Debra began her apprenticeship under Rosanna Barberio, completing 200 hours of observing classes, and received her certification in December 2023. A 3rd generation Pilates instructor, Debra is an excellent technician of the matwork method and shares her expertise with beginners in group classes and private sessions.
Jennifer Hanna
3rd generation instructor
A registered nurse with a background in cardiology, Jennifer has been practicing at Old Town Pilates for the past seven years. Jennifer has completed her apprenticeship of 200 hours and is now a certified instructor under the direction of Rosanna Barberio. A 3rd generation Pilates instructor, Jennifer is passionate about continuing the legacy of Joseph Pilates and excels in group classes that build on the foundation of core strength and flexibility.
The History of Pilates
“Ideally, our muscles should obey our will. Reasonably, our will should not be dominated by the reflex actions of our muscles.” Joseph Pilates.
Pilates, originally called "Contrology," which highlighted the use of the mind to control our muscles, was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. Born in Germany in 1883, Pilates was a sickly child who dedicated his life to improving his physical strength.
During World War I, Pilates refined his technique while working with non-ambulatory patients. He created exercises that could be performed with minimal equipment, using springs and resistance to build strength and flexibility. After the war, Pilates moved to New York City, where he opened his first studio in 1926. His method quickly gained popularity among dancers and athletes, who appreciated its focus on core strength, flexibility, and overall body conditioning.
Today, Pilates is practiced worldwide and is recognized for its numerous health benefits. It promotes physical fitness, improves posture, and helps prevent injuries. At Old Town Pilates, we honor the rich history of this practice by adhering to the original teachings of Joseph Pilates and providing our students with a comprehensive understanding of the Classic Pilates matwork method.
Join Our Community
At Old Town Pilates, we believe in the power of community. Our studio is more than just a place to exercise; it's a place to connect with others, share experiences, and grow together. We offer a variety of classes to help you feel supported and inspired on your fitness journey. Private lessons are also available!
Ready to transform your body and mind with the support of our dedicated instructors and welcoming community? Contact us today to schedule your first class or private session, and discover the benefits of Pilates for yourself.
