Instructor Spotlight: Priya Chisti

1.     Tell us a little about yourself and your Pilates background

I'm Priya Chisti, and I live in Orange County, California where I've taught Pilates for over 10 years. I started my own business 4 years ago to focus on rehabilitative and sports comprehensive Pilates. My friends and clients would describe me as easy going and upbeat; I love bringing a good time to all situations!

2.     How did you discover Pilates?

I've been a dancer since I was five years old and practiced Pilates since I was 12. I dealt with many injuries while touring in a professional dance company, and Pilates was the one form of exercise that always kept me healthy. While earning my degree from California State Long Beach in Dance Science/Kinesiology, I was able to appreciate the balance of art and science within Pilates.

3. How do you keep learning?

I am a huge believer in continuing education! I love learning from (and collaborating with) instructors of all different specialties and backgrounds. Dance is still a huge part of my life and brings out the creativity in my teaching. My clients range from professional athletes to recovering stroke patients, and their challenges/needs inspire me to create unique workouts for each individual body. 

4.     The best advice you were ever given as a teacher…

BE YOURSELF! Putting out good energy returns good energy.

5.      Is there something you try and instil in each of your clients?

As an instructor who works mostly one-on-one, it's incredibly important to have a good relationship and create trust with my clients; many of whom have become close friends. It's important for me to instil confidence in their movements whether they're in a professional sport or just trying to play with their (grand)kids.

6. The best Pilates course you ever did was…

I always want to create a safe environment for everyone, so understanding the body assists with injury prevention. I attended a course called "Anatomy in Three Dimensions Modeling Clay" with Karen Clippinger, and it really dove deep into understanding how muscular fascia/striations complement each other, along with the importance of understanding the body to improve functional movements. Overall, this provided many insights into deepening my knowledge of Pilates and anatomy.

7. What’s your favourite piece of equipment to use with clients in studio and why?

CoreAlign is my favourite piece of equipment because of its versatility and ability to provide dynamic movements. It can reteach someone to walk, or it can be used for challenging athletic exercises. 

8. How do you stay motivated?

My clients constantly inspire me and motivate me to improve myself along with them.

9. What makes you laugh the most?

Being silly with my clients is always fun, and I laugh when we try new things (not being afraid to fail or look like a hot mess!)

10. What’s your favourite way to spend a day off?

Spending time with my husband, John, and dog, Macaroni, is my ultimate relaxation. We love good food and good times!

11. How many pairs of grip socks do you own? 

Oh gosh, I have too many grip socks to count! Pointe Studio happens to be my favorite brand because of their fun designs. I love stretch bands because of their ability to reinforce proper movement while providing fun "torture" for those up to the challenge.

12. Does your family ‘really know’ what’s involved in your job? 

It's taken a while, but most of my family has learned through experiencing one of my classes. They may be slightly terrified of me haha!