About Melissa Connolly

Primary Teacher Training: Julian Littleford Pilates

Melissa is a dancer-turned Pilates devotee and is dedicated to improving the body and spirit of herself and others through Pilates. As a dancer Melissa received a BA in dance from Bradford College and taught and performed professionally throughout the Northeast, London, and Southern California. Originally from Massachusetts, Melissa has been a Pilates instructor for over ten years.

She was first exposed to the Pilates method through her professional dance training. Excited by the changes Pilates made on her body and mind she has progressed from using Pilates to supplement her dance skills into a passionate Pilates instructor.

Melissa received her first Pilates certification through the Physical Mind Institute in 1999. In 2005 she met Julian Littleford, began studying under his guidance and while completing his certification program she began teaching at JL Body Conditioning. Pursuing her career as a Pilates instructor she became a Balanced Body faculty member in 2010 and has since instructed several teacher training courses.

Melissa continues to feel the benefits of Pilates while keeping up with her one and a half year old. When she is not instructing Pilates lessons she likes to spend time with her husband and son, taking walks, playing at the playground and dancing in the living room. She hopes to inspire others to take care of their bodies, feel good about themselves and enhance the quality of their lifestyles.

Melissa recently used Pilates in preparing her body for pregnancy and aiding recovery after giving birth. She found that while pregnant, Pilates was instrumental in helping to maintain her body. Pilates not only aided her recovery post natal, it also rejuvenated her spirit. She is now excited to be presenting her first video for Pilates Anytime geared towards post pregnancy.