Today we’d like to introduce you to Olivia Obregon Bella Ponce.
Olivia Obregon, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Olivia: I’ve been teaching Pilates for going in 10 years now- in Boston, Chicago, Milwaukee and now Miami. I’ve taught various formats and styles but what has always stuck has been classical Pilates. Classical Pilates is a method based on the original exercises developed by Joseph Pilates. It uses a structured system of integrated, full-body movements that progress from basic to advanced levels. The exercises are performed in a specific sequence with low repetitions and emphasize rhythm, flow, and dynamic movement.
Upon moving to Miami, it became apparent that Pilates has become highly commercialized in the area. Many studios advertise Pilates but don’t actually teach the method as it was originally developed. We often work with clients who come from other studios feeling frustrated by a lack of progress or recovering from injuries. They’re surprised to discover how little they actually know about the Pilates system, despite believing they were regular practitioners. The growing presence of Megaformer and Lagree studios has added to the noise, as these methods are frequently mistaken for classical Pilates.
I met Bella through Pilates training and knew we needed to carve out classical Pilates in Miami. Bella is the granddaughter of Romana Kryzanowska, who alongside Joseph Pilates helped revolutionize Pilates to what it is today. Pilates is part of her lineage, and together we wanted to really help educate people on bringing Pilates back to what it was originally designed to be!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Bella: In Miami, many instructors teach fitness classes without proper certification, which often leads to confusion about what Pilates truly is. When new clients come to our studio, we dedicate time to educating them on the core principles of classical Pilates: stretch, strength, control, concentration, balance, and precision. Our studio is intentionally small, and we rely on word-of-mouth rather than heavy marketing. Fortunately, the word is spreading—clients feel better, faster, and our studio continues to grow. This momentum has inspired me to launch a mentorship program for instructors who want to deepen their understanding of classical Pilates and refine their practice through its authentic principles.
As you know, we’re big fans of Eleven Pilates. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Eleven Pilates helps clients build strength, mobility, and body awareness through structured, high-quality Pilates. Fitness in Miami has become very overcrowded and impersonal Pilates. Our average new client comes to us not seeing real progress due to generic workouts.
We offer private and small-group instruction that ensures real progress. Classical Pilates taught with integrity, not watered-down fitness trends. Our studio has really attracted clients seeking a premium experience, catering to high-achievers who value expertise AND effectiveness. Our studio is fully equipped with all apparatus handmade here in the US.
Our studio trains all types of bodies, which is the beauty of real classical Pilates. This includes pre/post natal women, clients with major spinal/disc issues, athletes, neurological conditions including Parkinson’s and stroke.
Pilates is not about an aesthetic, it is really part of a lifestyle and Joseph Pilates’ teachings can help so many populations.
What matters most to you?
Bella: Our clients’ progression! And not just in strength or flexibility, but in their understanding of their own bodies.. Whether they come to us to recover from an injury, deepen their practice, or simply feel better in their day-to-day, we’re committed to meeting them where they are and helping them move forward.
Olivia: Equally important is the community we’ve built around that journey. Progress feels more powerful when it’s shared. Adding in our small group classes (trios) and offering a referral only membership allows people to come regularly and get to know the other members of the studio.
Pricing:
- New Client Special: 3 Private Lessons – $270
- New Client Special: 5 Reformer/Tower Group Classes – $170
- New Client Special: 5 Mat Pilates Group Classes – $100
- Unlimited Class Membership: $300/month
- 10 Private Lessons: $1,000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.elevenpilates.com
- Instagram: @11pilates
Image Credits
Tabatha Loor – Loor Studios
