Q: You have a unique combination of working on yachts and being a Pilates instructor. What inspired you to merge these two worlds, and how did you get started in both industries?
A: I first became interested in yachts while working in retail, trying to figure out what else I could sell besides clothes. In 2023, I left my boutique job on Las Olas and considered selling yachts, but after little support from someone important in my life, I redirected my efforts to real estate. During this time, I started taking Pilates classes to stay active and quickly fell in love—it gave me energy, a sense of accomplishment, and a lifestyle I knew I wanted forever. After being mistaken for an instructor a few times and encouraged to get certified, I enrolled in teacher training. Around the same time, I realized real estate wasn’t for me and that I wanted to become a stewardess and then eventually a broker. I took my STCW, overcame my nerves about swimming and lack of service work, and started day working. I secured a yacht sales license while working for a brokerage but ultimately felt ready to focus on Pilates and stew work. Now, I live in Coconut Grove as a full-time stewardess and Pilates instructor on board. I bring mindful movement to owners and guests, helping them feel stronger and more balanced onboard while continuing to grow my vision for BodyPilates.
Q: Yacht crew often have demanding schedules with long hours and little personal time. How do you prioritize your own fitness and well-being while onboard, and what advice do you have for fellow crew members looking to stay active?
A: I am incredibly grateful to have a supportive captain who understands how important my physical and mental health is to me. I’m able to do Pilates on the flybridge and bow, though I prefer the flybridge (better view), before the owners and/or guests wake up. When there’s no one on board I make sure to do it before it gets too hot outside. I strive to do Pilates everyday but I'm human and as long as I’ve got 5 days out of the week I know I’ll feel good physically and mentally. I take supplements and vitamins daily that support my vegan lifestyle. I also have a therapist that I speak to weekly and my captain makes sure that I have the time to attend my sessions. My advice to fellow crew members is to talk with your captain about your needs. Discuss what will make you feel comfortable and perform at your best. Take any bit of free time you have to do a quick full body stretch. Maybe do squats while you’re brushing your teeth. Practice deep breathing before you have to show up on deck or while you’re setting the table. Engage your core while doing a wash down. So many moments can be filled with something that can benefit your wellbeing. You just have to find what works best for you.
Q:What are some of the biggest challenges of teaching Pilates on a yacht, and how do you adapt your sessions to suit the dynamic and sometimes unpredictable environment at sea?
A: I honestly have not had that experience of being at sea while instructing someone yet. It’s something I think about a lot even though the people I’ve encountered seem to only enjoy laying out while we cruise, and I don’t blame them. It’s very relaxing. I do look forward to making sure I can still deliver an exceptional session. Pilates has a focus on balance and control… it will be interesting to see how well future clients will accept or approach the challenges that being on open waters may bring.
Q: Many crew members struggle with back pain, tight muscles, and injuries due to the physical demands of the job. What are some of the most beneficial Pilates exercises for yacht crew, and how can they incorporate them into their daily routine?
A: I’d say some of the most beneficial exercises for back pain would be:
- Pelvic Tilts - helps mobilize the lower back and activate deep core muscles
- Single-Leg Stretch - strengthens the core while keeping the spine supported
- Bridging - strengthens the glutes and lower back while stretching the hip flexors
- Supine Spine Twist - relieves lower back tension and improves spinal mobility
For tight muscles, I’d say:
- Cat-Cow Stretch - improves spinal flexibility and reduces stiffness
- Standing Roll Down - lengthens the spine and stretches the hamstrings and back muscles
- Mermaid - opens up the sides of the body, improving mobility in the lower back
- Swan Prep - strengthens the back while stretching the front body to counteract poor posture
I would encourage crew members to wake up early enough to do these exercises because I’ve always felt that exercise is a great way to start your day. You get energized from it. However, there are people who prefer a night time exercise. I personally think it would be difficult as owners/guests typically stay up late and like to utilize the yacht’s features. Also, after a full day's work, the crew are usually exhausted and just want to rest. I guess the alternative would be to do these exercises on your break. It all depends on the size of the yacht, the itinerary, and the crew’s idea of what they want to prioritize.
Q: What does a typical day look like for you when you’re working on a yacht? Do you have a set routine, or does every day bring something different?
A: I do have a set routine and do my best to stick to it even when there are owners/guests on board. I simply can’t function without one. A typical day for me when there are no guests on board consists of me waking up at 7am, brushing my teeth, putting on workout clothes, grabbing a speaker and making a cup of tea. I bring my mat, props, and tea to the flybridge and start setting up my “studio”. I put on my BodyPilates playlist and start doing yoga for about 15-20 minutes before starting Pilates for about 50 minutes. I do my skincare routine and refresh myself afterwards. Then I change into my uniform, make a cup of mushroom coffee and start my tasks.
Q: Being in the yachting industry allows you to travel the world. What has been your favorite destination so far, and do you have any future aspirations—whether in yachting, Pilates, or beyond?
A: I’ve only done a trip to the Bahamas so far and I loved it! We were there for about two months and stayed on Harbor Island, Paradise Island (Atlantis), and Highborne Cay. I ate several blueberry muffins and this amazing coconut orzo dish from a local vegan cafe that I still think about almost everyday. For Pilates, I am currently working on a business plan to open a studio for BodyPilates with a unique niche that no other Pilates studio offers. I’m very excited about it. With yachting, I’d love to do a season in the Mediterranean, Africa and Asia. Thailand, Seychelles, Lagos, Greece, and Dubai are the places that intrigue me the most. I’d also love to curate yacht retreats and incorporate BodyPilates.
If you're looking for tips on staying fit while working on a yacht or simply want to follow her adventures, follow her @the.bodypilates on instagram.
