About Carla
Meet Carla, the heart and soul behind Vivo Pilates. With fifteen years of Pilates experience, Carla brings a unique blend of Contemporary and Classical Pilates expertise to the studio, complemented by her advanced qualification in physiotherapy. Her journey into Pilates began as a personal quest to alleviate back pain and combat sedentary habits, which not only transformed her health but also ignited a passion for the discipline's dynamic and diverse exercise regimen.
Carla's professional credentials extend through a wide spectrum of specialised areas, including:
Pre and postnatal care
Diastasis recovery
Osteoporosis management
Scoliosis support
Hypermobility strategies
Programs for the elderly population
Injury rehabilitation
Movement and fascial training
For Carla, Pilates is more than exercise; it's a tool for empowering individuals to move freely and without pain, embodying her belief in movement as the cornerstone of rehabilitation and injury prevention. Her path from Salvador, Brazil, to London was initially intended as a brief sojourn. Yet, life had other plans. After immersing herself in London's Pilates community and meeting her future husband, Emile, Carla's one-year stay has blossomed into a fulfilling life and career in the UK.
Outside the studio, Carla's joys include baking, leisurely walks with their dog, Simba, and nurturing connections with family and friends around the globe through marathon video calls back home to Brazil.
About the studio
At Vivo Pilates, our studio is a sanctuary where individual attention is paramount. Clients enjoy the luxury of having the space and instructor’s undivided attention, ensuring personalised guidance and access to a comprehensive range of Pilates equipment tailored to meet specific needs. The studio spans over 430 sq ft, providing ample space to navigate between equipment in a setting that balances comfort with an invigorating workout environment. The atmosphere is carefully controlled, maintaining an ambient temperature with a constant flow of fresh air for optimal comfort.
We’ve meticulously curated every aspect of the studio to ensure a serene and inviting environment. From the soft lighting and exclusive Brazilian fragrances that fill the air to the vibrant greenery that brings the space to life, every detail is designed to enhance your studio experience. Our commitment to cleanliness is unwavering, with all equipment sanitised immediately after use and a shoes-off policy to keep our floors pristine.
Located on the second floor of Harbour Yard, the studio boasts views of a spacious atrium and is conveniently situated above a quaint café — perfect for a peaceful respite before or after your Pilates session. Accessibility is a breeze, thanks to the nearby spacious glass-backed elevator, welcoming guests of all abilities and ages.
Nestled in the heart of the community, Vivo Pilates is a gem within Chelsea’s Harbour Yard, easily accessible for residents of Chelsea, Kensington, Battersea, Fulham, Earl’s Court, Knightsbridge, Belgravia, and beyond. The studio is a great place for those seeking a retreat dedicated to wellness.
About Pilates
Developed in the 1920s by Joseph Hubertus Pilates, originally named Contrology, Pilates is a comprehensive exercise system that harmonises body and mind, offering a holistic workout even without specialised equipment. This practice emphasises the unity of the body, focusing on precise, controlled movements over repetition, to foster strength, flexibility, and mental discipline.
What Makes Pilates Unique?
Whole Body Focus: Unlike routines that target specific body parts, Pilates considers the body as an integrated whole.
Mindful Movement: It requires mental focus to perform each exercise with control and precision, enhancing body awareness.
Adaptability: Pilates meets you where you are, making it accessible for every "body," regardless of fitness level or experience.
Low-Impact, High-Performance: It's an effective form of physical and mental conditioning, excellent for rehabilitation and improving overall fitness.
Beginner-Friendly: Ideal for those new to exercise or seeking a less strenuous activity.
Transformative Benefits of Pilates:
Enhances body awareness, promoting self-care and good posture.
Addresses and corrects postural imbalances.
Alleviates aches and pains while toning muscles.
Boosts flexibility, strength, and joint mobility.
Improves lung capacity through focused breathing exercises.
Increases energy and uplifts mood.
Fosters autonomy and self-awareness.
Stimulates the brain as the mind and body work in tandem.
Elevates overall well-being and life quality.
Builds discipline, aiding in personal and professional life.
Cultivates confidence and resilience through overcoming challenges.
Contributes to happiness and satisfaction.
Who Can Benefit from Pilates?
Pilates is universally accessible, suitable for nearly everyone from sedentary individuals to elite athletes, and beneficial across all ages. It's particularly advantageous for:
Pre and postnatal women
Individuals with back or chronic pain
Those recovering from injury
Elderly people and those with osteoporosis
Individuals with hypermobility or scoliosis
Children, teaching them early the balance between body and mind
Pilates not only enhances physical capabilities but also serves as a powerful rehabilitation tool and a means to improve performance in various activities.
Ready to experience the myriad benefits of Pilates? Book a session today and embark on your transformative journey towards optimal health and well-being.