Meet Chelsea Wissink
How did you first discover Pilates, and what drew you to teaching it?
I discovered pilates in 2011 when I was living in Toronto and one of my best friends / roommates came home from a mat pilates class at our yoga studio and said “you need to try this thing pilates, you’ll love it” and she couldn’t have been more right! The magic of pilates and how it changed my mentally and physically was unlike anything else I had experienced in the “fitness” world and I wanted to share that magic with others.
What do you love most about being a Pilates educator?
I love learning and I feel that every time I educate I continue to learn. I love being a part of people’s journey towards something they are passionate about, whether they just want to learn more about Pilates for their own practice or if they are looking to follow that calling to share the magic of Pilates with others.
How would you describe your teaching style?
My teaching style always comes from a place of joy and laughter with a hearty side of sarcasm…haha I am passionate about deepening peoples connection to their bodies and the exercises through enhancement cues and encouragement.
What’s one thing you wish every new student knew before their first class?
Pilates is hard and it isn’t just stretching.
Do you have a favourite exercise or piece of equipment right now? Why?
The. Chair. That little devil is so versatile, humbling and fun!
What’s something you’re currently learning or exploring in your practice?
I am always working on extension and finding more of it in a balanced way from one end of my spine to the other. It’s so freeing when you find it
How has Pilates influenced your life outside of the studio?
DEEP question! Pilates has changed my life. It’s such a huge part of who I am it’s hard to say exactly…..It made me a better runner, cyclist, swimmer….etc. A more patient human, more passionate…and it opened a career door that I never knew existed.. Pilates is life!
What can students expect when they take a class with you?
Students can expect to work hard, sweat, laugh and find teeny tiny muscles they may not have previously known existed. And likely be sore for a day or two…in the best way ;)
What’s a small cue or concept you find yourself coming back to often?
“Hug your organs in and up” (thank you Lauren Brandt lolz) that cue has blown my mind and core connection and I am yet to have a client not connect deeper to their inner unit after hearing it.
Outside of Pilates, what brings you joy?
My dog Carl, if you know you know … my friends and family, running, cycling, hiking and living this wild life I created.