Maria is fantastic! Attentive to my needs, kind and a great listener. She pushes me out of my comfort zone through positive reinforcement. She is able to adjust her teaching style to fit me and my Pilates journey! Maria's wonderful and fun personality creates a safe space during each Pilates session. She's absolutely incredible and I highly recommend her! 

Andreea Dumitru

After my back surgery I began to worry about the lack of mobility again. Pilates, but above all María, her experience, dedication, her understanding of my needs, her expert and kind treatment were decisive for me not to relapse into my back pain. I do not have enough words of gratitude. I wish she would be closer to where I live to have her Pilates sessions.

Tomás Díez Guerra , Madrid, Spain

Taking Maria’s Pilates classes has been nothing short of life-changing for me. Over the past two years, I've not only gained strength and confidence but also lost 30 pounds along the way. Her guidance, encouragement, and tailored approach made all the difference. The way she pushes us to go beyond our limits, while still being mindful of our bodies, has helped me achieve things I never thought possible. I'm stronger, more toned, and healthier, both physically and mentally.  Her classes have transformed my life, and I’m forever grateful for her support on this journey!

Amina Muhammed

To say that Maria Fernandez saved my life, is not an overstatement. I started taking Pilates with Maria in 2015 at a gym and was initially terrified of her and the reformer; however, that soon changed because of her encouragement, knowledge and patience. I had just recovered from a seizure, brain lesion and DVT which seriously impacted my balance. Maria was determined to help me overcome my fears and build confidence to envision a new reality with repetition of movement done in a safe environment. Over time, I gained muscle mass and strength, looking forward to each new exercise.  The most astounding factor of her classes is that they are never the same routine, so you cannot anticipate the challenges. How does she do it? When Maria set up her own studio, I happily followed her because she had become an irreplaceable teacher and friend. Her continued pursuit of body mechanics, nutrition and the latest evidence-based practices for healthy living is admirable and beneficial to all. During these past ten years, Maria has helped me heal from a fractured elbow, fractured humerus, total knee replacement and an osteoporosis diagnosis. She adjusted workouts to ensure that I move in ways to help, not hinder, recovery. I was also dealing with pelvic floor issues, and she incorporated strengthening exercises which I continue to do as this practice has enabled me to avoid corrective surgery.  When Maria moved to North Carolina in 2020, all her clients/friends felt immeasurable loss. However, she found a way to stay connected with us on Zoom classes, for which I am so very grateful. Because of my medical history, you might think that I am fragile and move slowly  – but you’re very wrong.  Since my time with Maria, I have lost 40 pounds, gained muscle strength and energy.  My doctors do not believe my age and encourage me to continue with Pilates. Most importantly, I have gained an irreplaceable friend who ensures that I stay healthy and upright!

Mary Parkhill

My wife Margo was with Maria about 10 years and I was with her about 7 years. We both were extremely pleased with the effect Maria had on our health and lifestyle. We both lead active lives as Margo has done over 50 half marathons along with other races and I have about 400 races including 17 marathons and 132 half marathons. We have also done a number of bike tours internationally. We both also have had regular therapy massages to complement our Pilates. One of the attributes that Maria brought to the table was her constant desire to learn about her profession which always changes. Another attribute was her ability to adjust to her client. Margo and I had different issues and we had individual sessions which addressed our individual needs. We both can honestly say that if Maria had not moved from Michigan we would still be with her on a weekly basis and we have had difficulty in finding an alternative. Maria has our highest recommendation and we would go back to her in a heartbeat. Thank you this opportunity to tell you our experience.

John & Margo Hebert

I am now 67 years old, but I met Maria two years ago, with spinal and diffused arthritic pain after 8 auto accidents. various medical issues and surgeries.  I had been a dancer in early life, but the accidents reduced my functionality and participation in regular exercise to minimal at best for at least the last 30 years. Maria started working with me with the pain of arthritis, uneven strengthening after a shoulder repair and hamstring therapy, and while taking shots to numb back pain, amongst other complaints, and as a serious fall risk.  Maria has special knowledge and training that she used to help me restrengthen via a balanced approach, which has increased my mobility, reduced my fall risk, and allowed me to improve my core strength.  With her large collection of equipment & pilates tools, exercises, stretches, and home exercise program, I no longer need the pain numbing shots for my spine, and have gone from as few as 1000 steps a day, to a one time high of 16000 steps in one day, while I was on a recent vacation, and did not need meds for the pain. We are growing my core strength, building up neck and back strength and working on a whole body approach for my legs and arms.  She has helped me improve my flexibility and strength, while still managing the unrepairable issues that remain, while focusing on my future safety as I continue to age. She works closely with my chiropractor and spinal doctor to make sure updates, corrections and issues we encounter are part of a team approach to my goal of eventually hiking up to the top of a beautiful North Carolina waterfall!  All of this has been hard work, but she has guided and taught me with positivity, kindness, a sense of humor, and a clear message, of "You've got this!"  I highly recommend Maria Fernandez and her techniques to all those who want to move, improve strength, and of course find improved life as we age! 

Arlene Filkoff

I have had the privilege of knowing many Pilates instructors, but none like Maria. Her dedication to her clients goes beyond physical training; she genuinely cares about each person’s well-being and takes pride in their recovery and quality of life. Whether helping a professional athlete reach peak performance or assisting an elderly woman in regaining independence, Maria's impact is remarkable. Her warmth and empathy create a safe space for clients to open up, heal, and truly transform. Maria's ability to remember even the smallest details of her clients’ lives reflects her commitment to providing an exceptional and personalized experience. She's more than just an instructor—she's a life-changer who blends the art of movement with the heart of therapy. Thank you, Maria, for the lives you’ve touched and continue to change every day.

CL 

Life Changing!  I met Maria, and was introduced to Pilates, when she owned her studio in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.  Without any reservations, I can honestly say I've never been in better shape nor had a more educated, dedicated and caring instructor.  Her passion for Pilates is only surpassed by her commitment to ensuring her students benefit from the experience.  From customizing exercises to providing genuine and caring support, she was the catalyst for my best efforts and the reason behind my physical accomplishments at levels I never previously achieved or have since replicated.  I was truly heartbroken when she left Michigan - but my loss is Charlotte's gain.  She is a gem. and I can't recommend her enough to anyone looking to improve their health.  Life Changing!  

Sean Youngren

My sessions with Maria have been more than just a physical “to do list of movements” but spiritual and mental as well in such a way that I can once again be me as I see myself interacting within the world…..learning to trust my body and quiet my mind has come through my Pilates sessions with Maria. Through Pilates and being gifted to having Maria Fernandez as my mentor in seeing myself again has been one of the greatest blessings in my life. Anyone looking for an experience of connecting with self, I highly suggest training with Maria Fernandez.

 Edward Santora

I met Maria when I started doing Pilates at a chain studio about 2.5 years ago.  After taking numerous classes with various instructors, Maria quickly became my favorite instructor due to her passion for overall wellness and her commitment to her craft.  Even when teaching a group class, Maria is invested in each individual student and their practice as well as their safety.  She takes time to stop and explain maneuvers, so we understand why they are important and how to perform them correctly.  She has encouraged me to push myself during class and I have certainly seen improvement in my overall strength.  I personally do not enjoy working out, but I am committed to my health and attending her class is the only workout I look forward to each week.  She meets us where we are and inspires us to be better than we were yesterday; For that I am grateful. Thanks!

Shauntel 

Maria has been working with me now for 6 months. I have difficulty with balance and leg strength resulting from severe spondylolisthesis and a spinal fusion  L4-S1 to correct the problem. To say that she has been enthusiastic and encouraging is an understatement! My balance has improved and the strength of my legs has improved. I am now more flexible and I stand and walk with much better posture. We work with the reformer and all the other devices for 55 minute workouts. I look forward to continued improvement  working with Maria.    

HT

I have been a client of Maria's for a few years and she is the best Pilates Instructor I have had the opportunity to work with.  She knew exactly what I needed to work on or what might be bothering me simply by looking at my body.   She always meets me where I am and pushes me every time to get stronger and better at my practice.    I cannot say enough about Maria's sessions, demeanor, and client care.  I would recommend her over and over to anyone.  Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my experience. 

Marnie Woodward

Pilates with Maria has been excellent for my husband. He is an 82-year-old war veteran who has many physical issues --4 knee replacements among them! Maria understands and I have never had to worry. She's very mindful and aware, she knows how much he can handle at any given time. She gives him great workouts (appropriate for his age andabilities). She gives suggestions about what he can work on at home. She engages with him. She makes him laugh. Most of all, he enjoys working with her- and that's everything. Honestly, I could go on and on! I can't say enough about Maria - we appreciate her so much! I recommend her highly!!!

 Tammy & Daniel Goode

 I have had the pleasure of Maria’s guidance weekly since early 2017 when she began a Pilates studio near my neighborhood. In the past seven years she has given me incredible feedback and expert supervision while training me. She is always tuning into the smallest changes in my body and movements, addressing the changes I have due to aging. She is very intuitive and positive and has a very in-depth knowledge of the body and its movement. She can help me strengthen specific muscles to address small things she sees in my body from week to week.

Barbara Woolf

“Without any hesitation my journey to better health could not have happened without Maria. First and foremost, she epitomizes professionalism with a caring heart. Her knowledge to achieve what is best for my individual needs is amazing and always with support and encouragement. I am very grateful and thankful for having the absolute BEST Pilates instructor!” There are not enough words to THANK YOU for all you do. I am so very blessed for your friendship and support.

Mary Fritz

Maria has taught me so much about not just Pilates, but the way my body moves. Two years after having my baby, I was fed up with being in constant pain and not feeling strong enough to chase around a toddler. I had a trial with Maria and that was it - I was hooked and have been seeing her for the last year now. I am now more mindful of how I walk, how I point my toes and hold my back and neck up and how I breathe. Maria can watch you walk and know exactly what needs to be worked on - it’s is truly a gift that she has! Outside of her vast knowledge and Pilates skills she just has the kindest soul and overall holistic outlook to living that I love. Maria is the best! 

Merri Bastone

After being a diagnosed with osteoporosis, I was told by the doctors the best thing I could do is develop my core to hold up my spine. I turned to Pilates and quickly found this was a perfect fit. But it’s not just doing Pilates workouts, it was also finding the right instructors who can challenge you to push yourself to become a stronger, better you. Good instructors that also correct your form and help with modifications based on any limitation you may be dealing with. Maria is that kind of instructor. I encourage any woman who has thought about needing to find something that can help with maintaining your best physical form while aging gracefully, find a Pilates instructor like Maria!

 Lisa Weller

When I retired late 2021, I promised myself that I would start working out again and decided to try Pilates.  The program fit my needs and the instructors were very good, but Maria stood out. She has keen observation of body movements, extraordinary knowledge of mind and body connections and is very creative regarding solutions to problem areas.  My posture, strength and balance have greatly improved with classes and private sessions. I did not realize it was possible to feel this good again.  Thanks so much Maria!  

Donna Garrison