Instructor Spotlight: Nicole Monette
We speak with Pilates Instructor Nicole Monette about her Pilates career to date and her teaching focus.
1. Tell us a little about yourself and your Pilates background.
I'm Nicole, a Pilates instructor in Tampa, and I've been teaching for the past 6 years. I currently teach at the Pilates Haus, a studio that opened in 2023 and quickly became a special part of my journey. My friends would say I'm the one who marches to the beat of her own drum, and I think my independent spirit is what helps me create classes that are both fun and uniquely me.
2. How did you discover Pilates?
I discovered Pilates through my mom, who became an instructor when I was a toddler. When I got older, we would do Pilates workouts together in our living room. Those early experiences definitely sparked a lifelong love for movement and eventually led me to become an instructor myself.
3. How do you keep learning?
I'm always looking for opportunities to keep learning, whether that's through workshops, conventions, or taking classes myself. I'm especially inspired by instructors who can take traditional Pilates movements and combine them into fresh, creative, and effective flows. I love that Instagram gives me access to some of the best teachers!
4. The best advice you were ever given as a teacher?
Have a plan for class, but be willing to adapt to who's in front of you.
5. Is there something you try and instil in each of your clients?
You're not supposed to perfect every move on your first try. Pilates is a practice, and the strength, coordination, and body awareness it requires take time to build.
6. The best Pilates course you ever did was?
The best education I've received is through real-life experience. I love traveling to new areas and trying different classes - especially Miami!
7. What’s your favourite piece of equipment to use with clients in studio and why?
I'm a ball girl. The ball provides incredible support and can teach you a lot about your body.
8. How do you stay motivated?
I stay motivated by living an active lifestyle. My hobbies naturally keep me moving, so fitness isn’t something I have to force. It’s just part of my day-to-day life.
9. What makes you laugh the most?
My 14-month-old is hilarious. He finds joy in the simplest parts of our day and is so unpredictable.
10. What’s your favourite way to spend a day off?
I love an outdoor adventure, like a beach day, a long walk along the water, or even rollerblading.
11. How many pairs of grip socks do you own? Do you love or hate a stretch band?
I don't have as many grip socks as you would think! I have about 7 pairs. I love a stretch band. It helps add variety and challenge to familiar movements.
12. Does your family ‘really know’ what’s involved in your job?
Yes! Because my mom became a Pilates instructor in the 90's, Pilates has always been a part of my life. My family was well-versed in what Pilates was long before it became as popular as it is today. Growing up around it gave me an early appreciation for the method and the impact it can have on people's lives.