Meet The Dark Horse Team

I am truly passionate about teaching Pilates the way it was intended to be taught. My goal is to empower you to feel this amazing work in your body and carry it with you throughout your day.

Nancy Hodges, a life-long resident of Virginia Beach, was certified in Pilates by Romana Kryzanowska. In 2018, Nancy opened Virginia Beach Pilates and is now teaching individuals (from age 8 to 80) the original Pilates method that she knows and loves. Nancy became a certified Dark Horse Pilates Teacher after studying with Janice which changed the way she thought about teaching Pilates.

Ashley has been a Pilates instructor for over 15 years. It is her greatest privilege and passion to help individuals improve their health and vitality.

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Karen was certified by Romana Kryzanowska and Sari Mejia Santo in 2009 at TPNY. She is currently working with Janice Dulak on a certification in Pilates for the Dressage Rider as an Associate Instructor.

In 2008 Sherry started teaching Pilates and continued with Romana's Pilates. Sherry has worked with a variety of clients ranging from those suffering from chronic pain to athletes.

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"I trained under Lisa Pellow of Touchstone Pilates in Pittsburgh.  I love teaching Pilates because I enjoy helping people of all ages and abilities develop their strength and posture."

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Lisa, owner of Touchstone Pilates, is a teacher trainer certified in 2006 via Romana’s Pilates. She maintains the philosophy of providing a safe, challenging, and fun experience and a desire for a lifetime of fitness.

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Heide is the owner of destination Pilates, LLC. In 2006 she completed her Stott Pilates certification level II and received her Romano's Pilates level V instructor certification in December 2019.

With 20 plus years of experience teaching and certifications in both classical and contemporary Pilates, Monica is proud to offer the commitment of excellence set forth by Dark Horse Pilates. 

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As a physical therapist assistant, I had an interest in health, fitness and Tai chi. I became a certified Romana’s Pilates instructor, but by studying with Janice, I truly understand Pilates to be a complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit. 

Bridget, RPI certified, owns Fountain Pilates and has been teaching for 10 years. Prior to that, she was the national fiction buyer for Borders Books and continues to freelance write and edit.

I trained in Dark Horse Pilates under Monica Hoekstra at Absolute Pilates in Charlotte, NC. Consistent Pilates practice has improved the way I move and feel. I love watching clients find joy and confidence in movement while training their mind and body with Pilates.

As a former science teacher, Dru brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to the studio. She offers a learning environment where students of Pilates gain a true understanding of the work.

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I've been teaching Pilates for nine years, and my passion for helping clients move better continues to grow. I became certified in Dark Horse Pilates to deepen my understanding of how to make the Pilates repertoire accessible to individuals at every stage of their fitness journey and to empower clients to move with purpose, control, and efficiency. For me, it’s not just about the exercises—it’s about teaching people how to move well for life.