Growing up as a dancer, fitness was a huge part of my career. I began training in pre professional dance and studied in Australia for two years. With over 10 years of dance teaching experience, my love for teaching movement came natural and I wanted to create a space that is for everyone. I believe Penché Pilates is just that. Within the past few years I have attained certifications to teach both Barre and Pilates (Mat and Reformer). I am STOTT Pilates trained. You can expect a dynamic approach of contemporary Pilates with some extra spice in every workout!

I danced (primarily ballet) and occasionally taught classes for 10 years, so when I graduated from my studio I always missed how strong and flexible my body felt from ballet. I started going to the gym and rebuilding muscles but still didn’t feel flexible or motivated to work out, until Carli started teaching Reformer Pilates. I became so excited going to class twice a week and saw such a difference in my flexibility, core strength, and even posture. I have completed the three month certification process through Penché Pilates and started teaching in October 2022. I have loved getting to watch so many of our clients regain their strength and love for exercise.

I recently completed the ASFA Advanced Pilates Certification and have gone through the 3 month certification process at Penché Pilates to become an instructor with Penche’ Pilates. Teaching was the next logical step having previous reformer experience, and a renewed obsession with it since beginning privates with Carli in April 2022. I have been teaching dance in this area for the last 36 years with ballet being my primary focus, so my body responds well to pilates because of the strengthening and stretching of the muscles. Also, it is easier on joints compared to other methods of exercise. My husband of 29 years, James McCrate, and I are both Broker Associates with RE/MAX ONE and have a 22-year-old daughter and 24-year-old son. I enjoy teaching Pilates and helping other people gain strength and flexibility.

My journey in dance began when I was almost two years old, and by fourteen, I was already sharing my passion through teaching. Growing up as an athlete, fitness was ingrained in my life, both on the field and in the studio. At eighteen, I felt a strong desire to deepen my knowledge and enhance my teaching skills, which led me to earn my certification through Dance Masters of America. After a life-changing health scare and realizing how much I missed the physical and mental benefits of regular movement, I knew I needed to refocus on my well-being. In early 2022, I joined Penchè as a client, and it’s been an incredible journey ever since. The positive changes I’ve seen in my body and mind reignited my passion for fitness. I have completed the three month certification process through Penché Pilates. Now, I’m dedicated to helping women strengthen both their physical and mental wellness, using my background in teaching to make a lasting impact.

I began my fitness journey back in 2015 with a strong focus on gym workouts/weightlifting. Over time, I discovered a deeper connection to movement through Pilates that brought me back to my ballet dance past as a teen. I love Pilates because it helps me feel grounded and connected emotionally and physically. Plus, it makes me feel stronger than I have ever felt in the gym, even when I would lift heavy. The transition to Pilates caused a shift in how I view fitness. The emphasis on control, strength, mindful movement, and body awareness has profoundly resonated with me, and I’m thrilled to channel this passion as a member of the Penché Pilates team. I have completed the three month certification process through Penché Pilates. I’m so excited to contribute to and grow within a community that shares my love for this transformative practice!

Being involved in sports growing up, over the time span of 15 years started my passion for fitness, wellness and recovery. Recently moving from Georgia to Texas after helping start a previous business; it brought a greater awareness to the importance of maintaining mental and physical wellbeing. Cold Plunge, Infrared Sauna, and Contrast Therapy include a wide variety of benefits for mind and body. Such as improving mental health, detoxification, and reduces inflammation. I enjoy helping others boost confidence, regain mobility, and relax while recovering with each wellness studio session.