Meet Our Instructors

Paola Sutton, Reformer Pilates instructor at Integrative Physical Therapy & Wellness

Paola Sutton is our office and social media coordinator and a Pilates instructor at the clinic. She began her teaching career as a ballet instructor in Panama while earning her bachelor's degree with a major in ballet and a specialization in teaching techniques.

Over the past 10 years, Paola has taught students ranging from four-year-old beginners to adults. After moving to the United States, she discovered Pilates and fell in love with the similarities it shares with dance training, as well as its ability to make movement accessible to people with different needs and experience levels.

Paola is currently completing comprehensive teacher training across all Pilates apparatus while teaching at our clinic. She enjoys helping people discover new ways to move, build confidence, and improve their overall well-being.

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Hey there! I’m Jeanene - a lifelong mover and Pilates enthusiast. I grew up in Kansas City, where I basically sang and danced my way through childhood and I never really stopped moving!
Pilates first came into my life back in my New York City dance days. Between rehearsals, performances, and plenty of sore muscles, I discovered that Pilates wasn’t just cross-training. It was a secret weapon for keeping my body strong, balanced, and injury-free.
After more than 20 years as a professional dancer in NYC, I hung up my performance shoes and became a professor of dance at San José State University in California. Then, when my family landed in Knoxville in 2021, I felt a pull to dive deeper into what had always kept me feeling strong and centered: the magic of movement through Pilates.
I’ve had my share of injuries, and Pilates has always helped me to feel free and safe in my body again. That’s why I love helping others find that same spark! At Integrative Physical Therapy and Wellness our one on one sessions are a fantastic way to dive into movement patterns that may not serve your physical goals. I’m so thrilled to be part of the amazing team at Integrative PT, where I get to blend my love of movement, recovery, and connection every day. It’s such a joy to share this space with people who are passionate about helping others feel their best - body, mind, and spirit. My philosophy? Pilates is for every body. Come as you are! We’ll move, explore, and build strength from the inside out.

About Reformers Pilates

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 Reformer Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on strengthening and improving flexibility, balance and body awareness.

 

Key Principles of Pilates:
  • Core Strength: Reformer Pilates emphasizes strengthening the core muscles, including the abdominal muscles, back, and hips. 
  • Flexibility: Exercises are designed to improve flexibility throughout the body. 
  • Alignment: Proper posture and alignment are crucial to reformer Pilates. 
  • Breath Control: Breathing techniques are integrated into exercises to enhance movement and coordination. 
  • Whole-Body Approach: Reformer Pilates exercises engage multiple muscle groups and improve overall body function. 

Benefits of Reformer Pilates: 

  • Improved posture and body alignment
  • Enhanced core strength and stability
  • Increased flexibility and mobility
  • Reduced risk of injuries
  • Improved balance and coordination
  • Enhanced body awareness and mind-body connection
  • Stress reduction and relaxation

 

Types of Pilates Classes: 

 

  • Reformer Pilates: Uses a specialized machine called a reformer to add resistance and variety to exercises. 
  • Private Reformer Pilates: One-on-one individualized sessions with a certified instructor for personalized guidance that focuses on upper/lower body and core strength. 
  • Semi-Private Reformer Pilates: Two to three-person sessions, with a certified instructor and personalized guidance. 
  • Group Reformer Pilates: Four-person sessions, with a certified instructor and personalized guidance.

 

Who Can Do Reformer Pilates: 

Reformer Pilates is suitable for people of all ages, fitness levels, and abilities. Modifications can be made to accommodate different needs. However, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting reformer Pilates if you have any underlying health conditions. 

Conclusion: 

Reformer Pilates is a versatile and beneficial exercise form that promotes strength, flexibility, and overall well-being. It is a great option for individuals seeking to improve their posture, core strength, and body awareness. With proper instruction and modifications, reformer Pilates can be enjoyed by people of all backgrounds. 

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