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MEET THE TEAM
Fun. Playful. Warm. Welcoming. And they love a good burn.
This is our team.
OUR INSTRUCTORS
Emily
OWNER, INSTRUCTOR
Emily is a longtime Ann Arborite, UM grad and former ICU nurse who brings a deep understanding of the body to every session. After teaching over 10,000 classes, she’s developed an exceptional eye for movement and has become known for helping clients reach goals they didn’t think were possible.
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She founded Core Collective to create an athletic, modern approach to Pilates - a space grounded in smart movement, real-body mechanics, and an emphasis on building lasting strength. Emily’s vision shaped a studio where clients feel seen, supported, and challenged in all the right ways.
Lindsay
LEAD INSTRUCTOR
Lindsay began teaching Pilates in Fall 2021. Having tried other group fitness studios in the past, nothing compared to the encouraging and welcoming atmosphere at Core Collective.
Lindsay received her doctorate in audiology and works as an audiologist specializing in intraoperative cranial nerve monitoring. When not teaching or at the hospital, you will often find Lindsay taking class on the carriage next to you (we can’t keep her away)!
Cassie
INSTRUCTOR
Outside of her time at Core Collective,Cassie is a Registered Nurse at Mott Children’s Hospital in PACU. She completed her nursing degree at GVSU in 2021 and has been living in the Ann Arbor area ever since. Aside from working, she enjoys spending time with her boyfriend, Josh, and their dogs, Ollie and Moose. In the summer they're frequently boating, and are BIG Michigan football fans in the fall. Cassie loves hanging out with her family and friends. She's so excited to meet you, and is really looking forward to working out with you in her next class!
Giselle
INSTRUCTOR
After many years of searching for a workout that she truly enjoyed, Giselle discovered Pilates and fell in love.
The studio quickly became one of Gigi’s favorite places as it allows her escape from the busyness of the world, a place to improve upon herself, and a space to empower others.
If she’s not at the studio, you can catch her selling real estate all around southeast Michigan as a Realtor, designing creative work for local businesses as an Art Director, or munching on delicious foods as an avid foodie.
Gigi prides herself on her positive energy and inclusivity making each workout accessible and fun while also a teensy ;) bit challenging for all. Workouts with Gigi are the perfect way to start your day off right!
Jessica
INSTRUCTOR
Jessica joined Core Collective as an instructor after quickly falling in love with pilates in 2023. She was immediately drawn to the studio’s supportive and encouraging atmosphere, which made even the most challenging classes enjoyable.
Outside of the studio, Jessica works as a mental health counselor and clinical supervisor. In her spare time, she enjoys reading fiction, hanging out with her rescue pets, and watching guilty-pleasure TV.
Olivia
INSTRUCTOR
From Plymouth, Michigan, Olivia has long been passionate about health and fitness. With a background in ballet, she was in search of a new and exhilarating challenge that would reignite her passion for movement. After hitting a rut in the gym, Olivia discovered Pilates and was instantly intrigued by its dynamic blend of strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. She now finds great joy in helping clients push their limits and achieve their fitness goals at the studio.
Olivia holds a master’s degree in marketing research from Michigan State University and works as a consumer market insights analyst. In addition to her professional life, she enjoys hiking, traveling with her fiancé, knitting, experimenting with new recipes, and spending time with her pets.
Sierra
INSTRUCTOR
Sierra is a big believer that movement should feel good - and that’s exactly what brought her to Pilates. After trying just about every workout class under the sun, she found her perfect match at the start of 2024 and never looked back. Why? Because Pilates brings
the challenge without the joint drama. Outside of the studio, you can typically find Sierra reading, enjoying the great outdoors or spending time with her cat, Socks 🧦. Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned pro, she’s here to cheer you on, keep it real, and help you feel stronger from the inside out. Sign up for an AM class with Sierra for an extra boost to your mornings!
Kira
INSTRUCTOR,
FRONT DESK
Kira first discovered reformer Pilates as a member at Core Collective and quickly fell in love with how much stronger and more confident she felt after each class. Inspired by the supportive community, she joined the front desk team before becoming an instructor, and now enjoys connecting with clients both at the front desk and in class. Outside of the studio, Kira is pursuing a nursing degree and enjoys reading, rock climbing, traveling, and spending time with loved ones.
Alyshia
INSTRUCTOR
Originally from Canada, Alyshia moved to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to pursue her passion for both athletics and academics. She attended Lake Superior State University where she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing while also playing collegiate golf. She now
works as a Registered Nurse in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at the University of Michigan and is furthering her education at Wayne State University where she is completing her Doctorate of Nursing Practice to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.
After discovering Core Collective in 2024, Alyshia was instantly drawn to the supportive environment and welcoming community. She especially loves the immediate sense of accomplishment, leaving every class feeling both physically challenged and mentally refreshed.
She is dedicated to bringing that same experience to every client who steps into her class.
Alyshia is passionate about creating an inclusive environment where clients of all levels feel seen, encouraged, and empowered to achieve their fitness goals!
When she’s not studying, at the hospital, or teaching pilates, you can usually find her on the reformer next to you, taking long walks with her husband and dog, getting lost in a book, exploring new coffee shops, and spending time with friends and family.
Alyshia is so excited to be a part of the Core Collective team and can’t wait to help others feel stronger and confident in their fitness journey. She is looking forward to having you in class!! :)
Lauren
MANAGER, INSTRUCTOR
Lauren has been teaching with Core Collective since 2019 and is both an instructor and manager. If you've spent any time around the studio, you've probably seen her helping behind the scenes, planning events, or jumping into class.
Her favorite part of teaching is getting to know the people who walk through the door. Whether it's welcoming someone to their very first class or celebrating a longtime client's progress, Lauren loves helping clients feel comfortable, supported, and excited to come back!
As a busy mom of two little girls, Lauren knows life can be hectic and believes taking 45 minutes for yourself can make all the difference. Her classes are encouraging, hands-on, and thoughtfully challenging. Expect plenty of positive energy and smiles!
Angela
INSTRUCTOR
Angela has been a member of the studio since shortly after it opened, and began teaching in early 2025. She appreciates how adaptable and accessible Pilates is for all bodies while being consistently challenging! It helps build strength and mobility which supplement her weight training and yoga practices - elements of which she tries to incorporate into her classes.
Originally from Ann Arbor, Angela returned to her hometown after completing her master’s degree at the Sorbonne in Paris, and works as a software designer. When she’s not at the studio, you can find her at the river with her dog, knitting at home, or camping up north.
Dale
INSTRUCTOR
Dale started teaching at Core Collective in Summer, 2024. She loves the friendly, inclusive atmosphere of the studio and the constantly changing (but always challenging) workouts!
Outside of pilates, Dale works remotely in Ann Arbor as a product manager. She spends her free time exploring local coffee shops and farmers markets, doing lots of reading, visiting family and friends, and going on adventures with her fiance and dog.
Gemma
INSTRUCTOR
Gemma is a Michigan State University graduate and Ann Arbor native who returned home for work while continuing to pursue her passion for fitness and movement. She found Core Collective in July 2024 and was instantly drawn to the welcoming environment, supportive community, and the encouragement and expertise of the instructors.
With a lifelong love of fitness and a background in figure skating and dance, Gemma brings an athletic yet approachable style to her Pilates teaching. Her classes focus on intentional movement, building strength, and moving with confidence—supporting clients in feeling capable, comfortable, and connected in their bodies. Outside of the studio, Gemma works as a Customer Success Manager, spends time with her two dogs, enjoys trying new coffee shops around Ann Arbor, and you just may see her taking a class right next to you.
MacKenzie
INSTRUCTOR
MacKenzie was born and raised in Kalamazoo, moved to Ann Arbor for college & grad school, and has lived in the area ever since. She took her first Core Collective class when she started feeling uninspired by her longtime yoga & gym routines, and immediately loved the engaging classes, exceptional instructors, and welcoming studio community. Over time, she developed a deep appreciation for Pilates and the positive impact it has had on her strength, focus, flexibility, and mental well-being. She feels honored and excited to help others discover & enjoy Pilates as much as she does.
Outside the studio, MacKenzie is the UX Director at a digital agency and enjoys biking & playing tennis with her husband (also a CC member!), hands-on projects like floral arranging & home DIYs, reading, traveling, and exploring with her dog, Romy.
Pavlina
INSTRUCTOR
Pavlina is originally from Czechia, but life has taken her on an incredible journey, living in China, Germany, and Brazil before settling in Michigan, USA with her wonderful husband and their two amazing children.
Pavlina's Pilates journey began while she was living in China, and from the very first class, she was hooked.
Over the years, Pilates became an essential part of Pavlina's active lifestyle, complementing her love for all kinds of exercise, outdoor adventures, and baking. In 2024, she joined Core Collective, and instantly fell in love with the studio, the community, and the energy of the space.
Pavlina has a master’s degree in chemical engineering, but movement and wellness have always been her passion. As an instructor, she is so excited to meet new people, build connections, and help clients achieve their personal Pilates goals. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve flexibility, or simply feel better in your body, Pavlina is here to guide and support you every
step of the way.
Riley
INSTRUCTOR
Riley first tried pilates back in the summer of 2023, after her first class at Core Collective she was hooked and has been coming ever since. She loved how pilates made her feel and the changes she quickly saw mentally and physically. Core Collective has become a staple in her workout routine. Riley loves the energy and support the studio provides. Riley strives to create a supportive and fun environment where clients of all levels can feel empowered and achieve their fitness goals!
Outside of Pilates, Riley is a Registered Nurse, with a passion of working with Pediatrics. She loves connecting with people and making a positive impact in their lives. You can find her taking her dog (Lola) on walks, watching reality TV, traveling anywhere warm, and trying new restaurants. Riley is excited to be a part of the Core Collective team and to continue helping others feel strong and confident through PIlates. She can’t wait to see you in class!
Hannah
INSTRUCTOR
After graduating from both Michigan State and Ohio State, Hannah found her home in Ann Arbor, and at Core Collective. She first stepped into Core Collective at the Packard locations grand opening in May 2025, and has been hooked ever since! Hannah love's Pilates focus on strength and stability, especially the variety and challenge that Core Collective brings to it. Outside of the studio, Hannah is a registered dietitian for the University of Michigan Athletic department, fueling the basketball and golf teams. She is passionate about health and wellness, with an emphasis on balance in all areas. She spends her free time on the lake, walking outside, and trying new recipes! Hannah can't wait to have you in class with her!
EMAA
FRONT DESK
Bio coming soon
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Luci
MANAGER, INSTRUCTOR
Luci attended her first class at Core Collective in early 2023, and was hooked from the start. The class proved to be the perfect combination of strength, core and balance work; it was exactly what she’d been looking for. The welcoming environment and beautiful studio further motivated her to begin a membership at Core Collective. Luci is excited to join the Core Collective team. When taking Luci’s classes, you can look forward to challenging classes appropriate for various fitness levels.
Outside of her time at Core Collective, Luci is a personal trainer and nutrition coach. Luci’s passion for helping people feel and look their best led her to pursue a career in the fitness industry. She enjoys helping her clients work towards their wellness goals by incorporating movement, strength training and nutrition guidance.
Avery
INSTRUCTOR
Avery discovered her love for reformer Pilates in 2023 after taking her first class at Core Collective and was instantly drawn to the dynamic, full-body workouts. Originally from Philadelphia, she has spent the past eight years in Michigan. As an instructor, Avery strives to make every class both challenging and accessible, and wants to help clients build strength, confidence, and consistency in their practice. Outside of teaching at Core Collective, Avery is an artist and designer whose work explores history, memory, and emotion through vibrant colors and textures. When Avery isn’t working she enjoys gardening, getting lost in a good book, and exploring the beautiful parks and nature preserves across Washtenaw County.
Elise
INSTRUCTOR
Elise has been a part of the Pilates community for over 5 years. She loves spending time in the studio any chance she gets, whether it be teaching, or taking a class!
Elise is a wife and a mom of two children and one dog. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, camping, and traveling.
Haley
INSTRUCTOR
Haley graduated with my Masters of Public Health degree from The University of Toledo and moved to Ann Arbor in 2018. Outside the studio, she works as a Care Navigator at Trinity Health and supports benefit plan members with finding the right providers for the care they need.
In 2023, Haley had a back injury that led her to Pilates and it instantly became something she absolutely loved. She truly believe she found Pilates at the right moment in life, and she's so excited to share her
passion and empowerment with clients!
Meghan
INSTRUCTOR
Meghan has long been a fan of group fitness classes, but she has found that no class is quite like one at Core Collective. She loves that classes here are inclusive of all levels, and that they combine low-impact movement with constant challenges to make it high intensity. They allow you to connect your breath to movement, break a sweat, and walk away with the perfect mood and energy boost for your day! :) In her free time, Meghan enjoys playing recreational soccer, reading (preferably outside), a crossword puzzle with a cup of tea, and spending time with her dog, Gibby. Meghan also works as a physician assistant and is passionate about the importance of supporting health with movement and strength training. She looks forward to meeting you in class!
Rebecca
INSTRUCTOR
Rebecca discovered Core Collective when a friend recommended the studio to her, and she instantly felt at home. Since taking her first class in 2024, reformer pilates has dramatically increased her strength, balance, and flexibility. An avid equestrian, she strongly believes it has improved her performance in the saddle, and will tell anyone who will listen that pilates is the best cross training for any athletic pursuit. When not at the studio, Rebecca is a creative director, editor, and wardrobe stylist whose work has appeared in Nearlywed, Ann Arbor City Lifestyle, Hour Detroit, Metro Detroit Weddings, and more. She spends her free time with her husband and two beautiful boys, and her rescue dog, Olive.
Taylor
INSTRUCTOR,
FRONT DESK
Taylor first joined the studio in August 2024 and immediately fell in love with the welcoming environment and the mind-body connection in pilates. You can find her at the front desk where she is always happy to answer questions and hopes to help make your experience at Core Collective as positive as her own has been!
Outside the studio, Taylor is a PhD student at the University of Michigan. She is an avid reader and enjoys floral arranging and spending time with her fiancé and two cats.
Andrea
INSTRUCTOR
Andrea started at Core Collective after feeling uninspired by her weight-lifting routine, and quickly fell in love with Pilates. It’s helped her improve her flexibility, balance, and overall strength. Every class brings a new challenge, and she leaves feeling stronger and more balanced each time.
When she’s not teaching, Andrea works as a nurse in the Pediatric Cardiothoracic ICU at Mott Hospital. Outside of the hospital and studio, you can usually find her reading (recommendations are always welcome), walking her chocolate lab, Luna, or traveling with her husband.
She aims to create classes that are both challenging and accessible for all fitness levels, where clients feel supported, motivated, and leave feeling stronger than when they walked in.
