Meet Shannon: Pilates Instructor at Isle of Wight Pilates and The Reformer Studio

Pilates is a powerful way to build strength, improve flexibility, and enhance overall well-being. Finding the right instructor can make all the difference in your Pilates journey. That’s why we will be introducing all of our pilates teachers individualy over the next few months so you can get to know them a little better and hear there pilates journey. We are excited to introduce Shannon, Shannon joined our teaching team at Isle of Wight Pilates in January this year. Shannon brings passion, encouragement, and a welcoming approach to her classes, designed to suit intermediate to advanced levels.

Join Shannon’s weekly Pilates classes on the reformer and the mat at Isle of Wight Pilates, Cowes and The reformer studio, Freshwater .

Shannon’s Pilates Journey

Hi I’m Shannon! 

I thought it was about time I properly introduced myself and shared a little bit about who I am and how I found my way into the wonderful world of Pilates.

I’m a paediatric nurse, and I’ve been qualified for the past three years. Nursing is something I’m really passionate about. Looking after children and supporting families is incredibly rewarding, but it’s also a busy and physically demanding job. Working as a nurse has given me a real appreciation for how important it is to look after our bodies, not just when something goes wrong, but every day.

I’ve always enjoyed keeping active and have been into fitness for around five years. Like a lot of people, I spent most of my time in the gym, lifting weights and pushing myself. Unfortunately, after picking up a knee injury, my physiotherapist recommended that I give Pilates a try. It was so different from what I was used to, but after just a few sessions, I completely fell in love with it

Pilates helped me rebuild my strength, improve my movement and gain confidence in my body again. It taught me that being strong isn’t just about how much you can lift—it’s about moving well, building stability, preventing injuries and creating strength that supports you in everyday life.

I think that’s where my nursing background and Pilates fit together so well. As a nurse, I see how important movement, strength and overall wellbeing are for our health. I also understand how injuries, pain or long-term conditions can affect people’s confidence and quality of life. That experience has shaped the way I teach. My goal is to help people move safely, feel stronger and leave every class feeling better than when they arrived. I love helping people understand their bodies and supporting them to build confidence, whether they’re complete beginners or have been doing Pilates for years.

In January, I qualified as a mat and reformer pilates instructor, and it’s honestly been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Every Sunday at 9:30am I teach my mat Pilates class at IOW pilates and I’ve been so lucky to build an amazing  group of ndividuals that work incredibly hard, they make every class such a lovely place to be. Watching everyone’s progress and confidence grow has honestly been one of the most rewarding parts of becoming an instructor.

I teach Reformer Pilates classes on Sundays at 8:00am at Isle of Wight Pilates, as well as Wednesday's as 8:00am and 6:00pm at The Reformer Studio . I absolutely love teaching on the reformer and helping people discover just how supportive yet challenging it can be..... as well as alot of fun.

Whether you’re completely new to Pilates or you’ve been practising for years, I truly believe there’s something for everyone. My aim is always to create classes that are welcoming, encouraging and fun, while helping you feel stronger, more confident and have you feeling taller and better than when you walked in!

I’m so grateful that a knee injury led me to discover Pilates—it completely changed my outlook on exercise, and now I get to help others experience those same benefits.

If you’ve been thinking about giving Pilates a go, improve your strength, recover from an injury, move with more confidence or simply take an hour for yourself each week I’d love to welcome you to one of my classes. I can’t wait to meet you!

Classes at Isle of Wight Pilates, Cowes

Shannon’s classes at Isle of Wight Pilates in Cowes are designed to accommodate intermediate to advanced fitness levels, making them perfect for anyone looking to build strength, tone or establish the deep core.

• Sunday 8am: All Levels Reformer Pilates

This early morning class uses the reformer machine to build strength, improve posture, and increase flexibility. The reformer’s resistance system helps engage muscles in a controlled way, ideal for those wanting a full-body workout.

• Sunday 9.30am: All Levels / Intermediate Mat Pilates

Mat Pilates focuses on bodyweight exercises using small pilates props that improve core strength and stability. Shannon’s class offers challenges for intermediate practitioners. Expect a balanced session that combines breathing techniques, controlled movements, and stretches.

 Isle of Wight Pilates, Cowes - Book a group class 

New Classes at The Reformer Studio, Freshwater

• Wednesday 8am: All Levels Reformer Pilates

Start your day with a dynamic session that focuses on alignment, strength, and flexibility. This class covers all levels of movment aincludig beginners to advanced and is a great way to energize your morning.

• Wednesday 6pm: All Levels Reformer Pilates

An evening option for those who prefer to fit Pilates into their after-work routine. This class maintains the same welcoming and supportive environment, helping students unwind while building strength.

Book The Reformer studio. Freshwater - www.reformerstudioiow.co.uk

1-2-1 classes or private small group sessions

For those who want more personalised attention, Shannon offers morning and afternoon 1-2-1 sessions on Wednesday's at The Reformer Studio and has availability for late morning sessions at IOW Pilates, Cowes. These sessions allow for tailored programming based on your goals, whether it’s, improving technique, or preparing for a specific event or to build confidence to move into a group class. Contact the studio to check availability and book your session.

Why Choose Shannon’s Pilates Classes?

Shannon’s classes are dynamic, expect an intermediate level workout. Here’s what you can expect:

• Clear, step-by-step instructions that help you understand each movement

• Modifications and progressions to suit your fitness level and any physical limitations

• A full body workout gain the benefits of each exercise

• Supportive community atmosphere where questions and feedback are encouraged

• Balanced workouts that improve strength, flexibility, and posture

  
  

What to Bring and How to Prepare

To get the most from Shannon’s classes, here are a few tips:

• Wear comfortable clothing that allows movement and please wear grip socks or saftey

• Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated (water and cups are also provided)

• Arrive a few minutes early to settle in and ask any questions

• If you have any injuries or health concerns, get in touch before joining any classes at IOW Pilates or The refromer studio classes so we can give you guidence and discus a great place to start.

  
  

No prior Pilates experience is necessary as long as you have a good fittness level, no injerys and have not had surgery in the last 6 months. Shannon welcomes beginners but asks that they arrive 10 minutes before the class is due to start so she can introduce you to the equitment and guide you through the basics with care

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Ready to feel stronger and more balanced? book your space Isle of Wight Pilates or The Reformer Studio today to reserve your spot in Shannon’s classes. Your body will thank you.