Leila has been following me since the beginning of my career as a professional dancer. She has a unique way of teaching each body by focusing on individual “do’s” rather than “don’ts”. She has been an enormous support in gaining knowledge and control over the possibilities and limitations of my body; essential for a healthy journey through my versatile schedule as a freelance dancer.

Leila has guided me through my pregnancy with so much care and love. Doing Pilates with her was an incredible part of my day- communication with my body and most importantly with a new life growing inside me. Leila took care of both of us. She prepared her exercises thoroughly – I felt worked and the baby felt ‘embraced’ ( very comfortable). Everyone who needs a special hour of ‘me-time’ definitely should work with Leila, who will guide you gently, accordingly to your needs, and you will be amazed how much stronger you become within very short time. It is a great workout for the body and the mind.

Already for 6 years I have been working on a weekly basis on a with Leila. It helps me a lot to find the balance between strength and flexibility, what is very important for me as a ballet dancer. Also mentally I feel stronger after a session, because of the personal attention and the tranquil environment of the studio. Whether I work on simple exercises during the recovery of a severe injury or when I do the more complex exercises in preparation of a performance, I always come out of a session with a satisfied feeling.

Pilates is important to me because through my daily practice I have been able to live a healthy life. When I was young, I suffered a traumatic lower back injury. I was told by my doctors that I would never dance again and that I would also have pain for the rest of my life. Thankfully to Pilates none of this was true. In addition to having a pain free life, I also been able to have a successful dance career with many companies including Nederlands Dans Theater. As a dancer and as a human being I would fully recommend Pilates as part of an active lifestyle.

I enjoy my private class with Leila once a week firstly to keep my body in shape. As an ex-dancer and present teacher, keeping my body strong and flexible as I grow older is imperative. Leila guides me through each exercise, pointing out details with her hands-on approach, of where I can better activate deep, core muscles. Her knowledge of classical ballet strengthens our work. This is inspiring for not only for my sessions with her, but also for my own classes in my work with my students.

The Pilates Method is used worldwide by many physiotherapists used as a supplement to regular treatments. I give Pilates-exercises my selfas a part of the physio session, and I refer regularly the students of the National Ballet Academy to Leila. The training of Leila effective and safe, with personal attention. Thanks to the training on the various Pilates devices students with an injury can keep exercising during their recovery. They are given a tailor made program to suit their individual needs, which makes a very useful contribution to their healing process. I n my experience I found that Pilates has a great positive effect on the performance and well-being of the students.