Hi, I'm Laura Shearer, and I have over 20 years of experience as a Pilates teacher. I'm incredibly passionate about Pilates, and in fact, I opened the first Pilates studio in Davis, California, in 2003. My goal was to create a space that was welcoming and inclusive to everyone, regardless of body type, where they could practice Pilates and feel their absolute best—body, mind, and spirit. With my extensive experience and training, you can be confident that you're in the hands of a skilled and dedicated teacher.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of witnessing incredible transformations in my clients, both physically and mentally. Pilates has helped them become stronger, more flexible, and more resilient. One of my favorite things as a teacher is watching my clients do exercises they never thought possible. I have been extensively trained in the Pilates method since 2001 and hold certifications from Polestar Education, a rehabilitative approach to Pilates, and Stott Pilates, a more choreographed approach. However, I needed to add something extra to take my students further in their wellness journey.

2017, I began working with Jay Grimes, a highly respected Pilates elder who worked with Joseph Pilates and Clara Pilates. Working with Jay, I learned the classical Pilates method through graduate-level courses at Vintage Pilates and its systematic approach to the method Joseph Pilates called Contrology. This original system of exercises is performed on specialized Pilates apparatus and has a clear structure and purpose. As a result, I got stronger, and my students experienced significant improvement in their strength and overall well-being. I am deeply grateful to Sandy Shimoda, founder of Vintage Pilates, who has also been a constant source of inspiration for me, from learning with her at Vintage on Sawtelle to doing her online workshops and Teachers Cub Houses - the learning never stops!

In 2018, Lift Pilates underwent a remarkable transformation, transitioning from a 'contemporary' to a classical Pilates/Contrology studio. Today, our studio proudly houses the new Contrology Reformer by Balanced Body, a revolutionary yet traditional piece of equipment that Jay himself had a hand in designing. Its unique features restore the original reformer feel, elevating the Pilates experience to new heights. We also boast a Contrology Cadillac and Wunda Chair, further enriching our repertoire. The Making of The Contrology Reformer was even partially filmed on location at Lift Pilates, a testament to our commitment to the classical Pilates method. In July 2023, we became the first Pilates studio in the area to introduce 'open studio', an innovative teaching style deeply rooted in tradition.

Today, I work with Wade Edwell, who runs a virtual immersive coaching program offering graduate-level education courses out of Australia at Proper Pilates. Wade helped me turn my studio into my open studio format, which places the onus on clients and promotes strong self-practice in a dynamic, community-oriented environment. Since I've implemented this format, my clients have made remarkable progress in their Pilates practice, both physically and mentally, in mere months that previously would have taken years to achieve.

I teach Pilates the way Joseph Pilates intended, where each person has a personalized workout tailored to their unique needs and goals in a dynamic, community-oriented small group setting. To be a part of my Pilates community, I ask that you commit to working out with me at least twice weekly and learning your workout to get practical and meaningful guidance. You are not just a number here but a valued community member. We'll build community, have fun, and, most importantly, you'll achieve your goals. So, if you're ready to take your Pilates practice to the next level, join me today!

Call me, and let's get started today! (530)220-4579

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