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Melody Nehls

Reformer, Jumpboard, Trampoline

10 years of experience

Laura is a certified reformer and mat Pilates instructor in Los Angeles, originally from Miami, Florida. Laura became obsessed with Pilates after her first class over 5 years ago, and completed Avenir's 250-hour teacher training program to become an instructor and share that passion with others. She creates an inclusive, welcoming space where every client feels empowered to move with strength and purpose. One of her favorite parts of Pilates is the variety and creativity - she creates dynamic flows mixing classical and contemporary exercises, and her goal in every class is to have fun and teach her clients something new.

  • — What first brought you to Pilates?

    I first discovered my love of Pilates in my hometown of Miami, FL at a local classical studio and was hooked after my first class. After moving to LA two years ago and trying out dozens of the amazing studios here, I got inspired to become an instructor myself through Avenir’s teacher training program.

  • — What do you enjoy most about teaching?

    One of my favorite things about Pilates, especially at contemporary or athletic studios like Springbom, is that every single class you take is unique and feels like a new workout every time. I rarely teach the same flow twice and my clients will always learn something new with every session!

  • — How would you describe your teaching style?

    My teaching style is contemporary but integrates classical Pilates exercises in every class. My classes are challenging but I always provide modifications if a client isn’t feeling their strongest on a certain day. I love to teach to the beat of music and use quick transitions so we can always get the most of the 50 minute class.

  • — What do you like to focus on in your classes?

    All of my classes are full body so you will always work your core, upper body, and lower body. I focused on slow and controlled movement and connecting breath to movement so that every exercise can be done as effectively as possible.

  • — What do you want clients to feel when they take your class?

    I want my clients to feel strong and empowered and develop their own love of Pilates just like I did. I focus on effective cueing, calling out what muscle group every exercise is targeting and the objective of the exercise, so that my clients can really start to develop the mind to muscle connection. I want my clients to always have fun in every class as well which is the most important part!

  • — Is there anything about you or your background that you’d like clients to know?

    I’m always here to answer any questions before or after my classes - I love to get to know my clients so please never hesitate to chat with me!