About Spiritus Pilates
Spiritus Pilates Studio focuses on the power of movement while simultaneously creating connections within our community. We welcome ALL individuals to our practice. Our method is for EVERY body; old, young, new, and advanced. Pilates is designed to meet you where you are, whether you are a high-level athlete or an “average Joe”. Our tailored approach aims to meet your needs while following the Classical Pilates Principles.
Our mission is to create a supportive, boutique community where movement is for everyone, learning is fun, and Pilates becomes a lifelong practice that empowers both body and mind.
Michelle Stutesman Gears
Owner, Licensed Teacher Trainer
Michelle embarked on her dance journey at the Classical Ballet Academy of Minnesota, where she honed her skills in the intricate world of ballet. This early exposure to the grace and discipline of dance set the stage for her future endeavors in movement and physical fitness. Driven by her passion for dance, Michelle pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Modern Dance at Texas Christian University, adding a contemporary flair to her artistic repertoire. Her dedication to the art form led her to explore the world of Pilates, a discipline that would become an integral part of her professional identity.
In 2004, Michelle graduated from The Pilates Center, immersing herself in the lineage of Romana Kryzanowska. Under the guidance of esteemed instructors like Kathy Grant with Kim Haroche and Eve Gentry with Debora Kolwey, Michelle delved deep into the roots of Pilates. This lineage traced its origins back to Joseph H. Pilates himself, forming the foundation of Michelle’s expertise.
In 2008, Michelle’s commitment to Pilates was recognized when Amy Alpers and Rachel Taylor Segal of The Pilates Center handpicked her to become a Licensed Teacher Trainer. Alongside this prestigious appointment, Michelle completed her Masters in Pilates, showcasing her dedication to both teaching and personal development. Eager to share her passion globally, Michelle seized an opportunity in 2013 to bring The Pilates Center teacher training program to Paris, France. This move marked a significant chapter in her life, as she blended her international experiences with her rich background in Pilates and dance.
For over two decades, Michelle’s dream of Spiritus Pilates Studio has been evolving. A culmination of her love for Pilates and dance, the studio reflects her commitment to uniting these two disciplines for the first time. Michelle is not just a teacher; she is a purist, with a keen eye for detail whether she’s guiding clients in person or through virtual sessions.
Known for her energetic and compassionate approach, Michelle believes that learning should be enjoyable. She brings her unique style, informed by her background in dance, understanding of body mechanics, and Pilates expertise. Her classes are a fusion of imagery, pulling from her dance knowledge, and integrating other modalities while staying true to the essence of Pilates.
Michelle’s teaching philosophy is characterized by partnership, hands-on guidance, and, above all, having fun. From trainees to regular clients, she makes Pilates approachable for everyone, ensuring that her classes are not just workouts but transformative experiences. Michelle’s ability to pull in various elements while always bringing it back to the core principles of Pilates sets her apart as a dynamic and holistic instructor in the world of movement and fitness.
Kelly Sams
Pilates Instructor
Mary Tomback
Pilates Instructor
From courtroom to Pilates studio – Mary’s path to becoming a Pilates instructor is anything but typical! After years as an attorney and busy mom, she knows firsthand the challenges of managing joint pain, weight struggles, and hormone imbalances. When her mid-40s hit, Mary was determined to find a fitness approach that wouldn’t just be another temporary fix. Enter Pilates – and everything changed.
Completely transformed by her practice, Mary took a leap of faith and earned a spot in The Pilates Center’s elite Advanced Teacher training program, where she’ll graduate in spring 2025. With nearly 1000 hours of education and experience, she’s already worked with a vast variety of clients, from first-timers to seasoned practitioners. Her teaching style? Think infectious enthusiasm meets deep empathy – because she’s been exactly where many of her clients are. Mary’s mission is simple: help every person who walks into her studio discover their strength, leave with a smile, and feel absolutely fantastic about themselves.
