Today we’d like to introduce you to Ivy Baron
Hi Ivy, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I discovered Pilates in my early 30s, and it was a pivotal moment that reshaped my career path. At that time, I was searching for a way to help people but wasn’t sure how that would look. I pursued a Master’s in Social Work, thinking it would be a comprehensive route to supporting others. The emphasis on meeting clients where they are and building meaningful relationships resonated deeply with me.
However, during my second year of grad school, I took my first Pilates class, and it felt like a revelation. It was as if someone had turned on the lights! After completing my MSW, I followed my newfound passion and obtained my comprehensive Pilates certification. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to practice what I love.
Pilates was more than just a way to improve my strength and flexibility; it brought a sense of empowerment, playfulness, and deep understanding to my whole life. I felt firsthand how Pilates integrates mind and body, which informs how I move and guide my clients.
As I’ve evolved personally—with age, parenthood, illness, and all the beautiful and terrible experiences of life—so has my teaching style. I remain dedicated to learning and tuning into what my clients need: less pain, more freedom of movement, and relief from outdated tension patterns. My goal is to create a self-space to support people to feel truly at home in their unique and remarkable bodies.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey hasn’t been entirely smooth. For so long, I felt disconnected from the typical body type associated with Pilates and the classical Pilates culture. Feeling like I didn’t “fit” in my industry, led me to develop a more low-key solo practice. I centered my clients, some of whom had been with me for over a decade, and I loved helping them with their personal movement goals. It’s empowering to feel independent in your work but it can also feel isolating.
For me, the pandemic was a turning point. Fitness professionals were forced to move online, and for the first time, I saw a diverse range of bodies engaging in various movement modalities, including those that looked like mine. It was incredible, to see that other Pilates instructors from all over the world, who shared my desire for more inclusion in the industry. At first, it was terrifying to put myself online, but this challenge quickly became an opportunity to be a part of a like-minded Pilates community.
This shift towards community also allowed me to see the importance of representation. I realized it is my responsibility to show up and be visible, in my unique body, because people need to see themselves in others. Everyone deserves to move without shame or fear. Thus, from a place of isolation, I cultivated a sense of community and connection and embraced myself as I am.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Requisite Pilates is dedicated to the philosophy of “Pilates Without Judgment for EVERYbody.” Too often, people are curious about Pilates but feel out of place or uncomfortable in traditional studios. In a world where Pilates is currently trending, finding a truly safe, welcoming, and inclusive space can be challenging. That’s where I come in.
At Requisite Pilates, I specialize in a person-centered Pilates practice. I work collaboratively with my clients to adapt exercises to their unique needs, ensuring that they can engage in movement without experiencing strain, pain, or tension. This doesn’t mean the exercises are easy; rather, they are tailored to challenge the body in a safe and supportive way.
I offer a range of services including:
-1:1 private sessions in my home studio or online
-A sliding scale class subscription providing access to over 100 online classes
-Training for other Pilates instructors on how to create a more body-inclusive practice
What sets me apart is my commitment to body liberation and my trauma-informed approach. My goal is to provide a space where every individual can come as they are and explore movement in a way that feels right for them.
I am incredibly proud of how Requisite Pilates has evolved into a space where body inclusivity and personal well-being are at the forefront. I want readers to know that at Requisite Pilates, you can find a supportive environment that prioritizes your comfort and growth, no matter your body type, ability, or age.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
The notion of risk is relative.
For some, it may involve confronting trauma associated with exercise due to an insidious toxic fitness culture. For others, it might mean tackling extreme physical challenges. The truth is, our nervous systems respond to “risk” in the same way no matter how it shows up in our lives.
On a personal note, a recent risk I took was revisiting aerial arts after a 20-year break from static trapeze. Being up in the air was my passion—It was where I felt strong, graceful, and present. As the years passed, I became afraid to return, worried that my changed body would lead to perceived failure and feelings of shame.
Last year, I confronted my fear and tried the Lyra (aerial hoop) at Sky Candy in Austin. I rekindled my love for this movement and although the tricks and moves look different now I can still connect with the old FEELINGS of joy in my current body. This experience highlighted how challenging it can be to embrace risk in the context of movement and exercise.
When a client walks into my studio, I deeply understand that simply the action of crossing the threshold into this room with weird ‘machines’ can feel incredibly risky. This awareness, is always present, as I aim to create a supportive environment that encourages them to explore and take risks in their journey towards well-being.
Overall, risk-taking is a personal and transformative process. By facing my risks, I am better equipped to support others in their journeys and help them feel empowered to move forward.
Pricing:
- Introductory Private Session: $80
- Regular Private Session: $95 or 10/$900
- All Access Online Class Library: $15-30/mo
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.requisitepilates.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/requisitepilates/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@pilateswithivy
Image Credits
Minerva Villa: Lens of Athena Photography
