About Me
Movement has always been a way for me to listen.
Over time, I’ve become less interested in asking the body to fit a particular method, and more interested in listening to what is actually happening in the person in front of me.
Some days the body wants to move and feel strong.
Some days it needs space, support and release.
And sometimes it simply needs permission to slow down.
I enjoy exploring movement, noticing where the body feels free, where it holds back, and what changes when we approach it differently.
For me, working with the body isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about developing a deeper relationship with yourself through movement, touch, awareness and rest.
Listen · Feel · Move
My Background
I am a qualified Pilates instructor with experience in both individual and small-group sessions, working with a range of Pilates equipment.
My approach has been shaped by many years of exploring different ways of working with the body, including Pilates, stretching, Myofascial massage, Reiki, Qi Gong, dance, meditation and mindfulness.
Each has brought something different to the way I work — from strength and movement to stillness, awareness and touch.
I work from my private studio in St Ives, Sydney.
TESTIMONIALS
“ I remember my first lesson very clearly. It was my first time doing Pilates and I didn’t know what to expect. Afterwards, I left with a grin and warm glow, feeling like it had been a great use of an hour. Irina is such a lovely, supportive teacher with a dash of hilarity, making the time pass by much too quickly. She checks up on your condition and is approachable and flexible so that the lessons are tailored and personal. ”
— TRACEY C.
“ I take twice weekly classes with Irina. I can absolutely confirm that Irina is an outstanding Pilates instructor. She is not only extremely knowledgable about Pilates, but she understands the body and its complexities. Prior to starting Pilates I had experienced some back and neck pain which both have miraculously dissipated over the past 6 months. Irina listens with great care and offers meticulous corrections at every training session. At the end of every session I feel stronger, aligned, and rejuvenated. I very much look forward to training with Irina and can not recommend her highly enough. ”
— BRIGITTE GERSTL
“ I had my very first Pilates lesson with Irina. I wasn’t sure what to expect at first but Irina was amazing in guiding me through the class. I really enjoyed the lesson and my body felt relaxed and rejuvenated afterwards. Irina is professional yet still very friendly and approachable, I would definitely recommend Pilates Next Door to anyone! ”
— MICHELLE B.
“ My pilates lessons with Irina always leave me feeling incredibly relaxed and peaceful. Her incredible passion for pilates is so inspirational and she has the most beautiful way of making me feel comfortable to explore my body and learn about the ways that my posture can be corrected to ensure overall wellbeing and a greater state of relaxation. Having had lessons with a number of pilates instructors before,
I can say that Irina is a most caring and skilled teacher who I hope to continue to learn with for many years to come. From my heart, Thank you Irina for sharing your amazing gift. ”
— ALEXANDRA KNIGHT
