Alexandra Hutchins
Certification
I was first introduced to Pilates matwork as a young dancer during a summer intensive at CalArts in 2006 and continued taking mat classes while attending UC Santa Cruz. During that time, I decided to pursue a career in Pilates instruction. In 2013, I completed STOTT Pilates Mat Training at Marshall Eklund Pilates. Wanting to expand my experience beyond matwork, I began taking classes through Club PIlates and enrolled in their teacher training program in 2015. After completing the 500-hour certification in 2017, I began teaching professionally.
About a year later, I was introduced to the classical method through classes at Studio Flo, and a Reformer workshop with Andrea Maida. I continued to independently study the classical repertoire and gain experience on classical apparatus while teaching at Janae Luxe Pilates. As my understanding of the method deepened, my teaching gradually evolved towards a classical approach. In 2025, I began attending lessons and teacher labs with Andrea Maida. In 2026, I started teacher training through Studio Flo to formally bridge my contemporary certification to a comprehensive classical certification.
Education
- B.A. in Psychology, UC Santa Cruz
- STOTT mat Pilates training
- Club Pilates teacher training (500-hour Certification)
- Studio Flo teacher training (700-hour Certification, in progress)
Teaching experience
I have been teaching for various Club Pilates locations since 2017. Since then, I have also taught for a number of independent studios throughout San Diego ranging in focus from contemporary to classical Pilates.
Teaching style
I aim to lead classes that are focused, engaging and approachable. Using concise cueing, precise corrections and tactile feedback, I guide practitioners to build sensory awareness and find deeper connection to movement. My goal is to facilitate the practice of the Pilates method in a way that empowers each individual in their pursuit of physical and mental wellbeing.
What inspires you about Joseph Pilates or your mentor?
What inspires me the most about Joseph Pilates is his creative genius. I will often joke when an exercise gets challenging, “Don’t look at me, I didn’t make it up! Joseph Pilates did.” It is remarkable that he developed an entire system of progressive, interconnected exercises across many different apparatus of his own invention. The depth of the method is also a continual source of inspiration for me. I’ve been practicing matwork for 20 years, and I find that my execution of the exercises continues to improve. Pilates is truly a lifelong practice!