An open letter to every teacher navigating struggles, doubts, and the pursuit of something more meaningful.
There was a time when I believed there was a formula for everything. When I first started as a Pilates teacher, the path seemed clear: systems to follow, steps to master, and an ABC approach to the method. But as I grew, not just as a teacher but as a person, I realized there was no manual for navigating the doubts, fears, and struggles that inevitably come with building something meaningful.
I’ve faced moments when I felt so small—comparing myself to mentors with decades more experience, questioning if I was ever going to be enough, wondering if the path I had chosen was even worth it. I felt so overwhelmed at times and discouraged. Maybe you’ve felt the same. Maybe you’ve heard the whispers of doubt:
“Why are you working so hard and investing so much in this? You’re JUST a Pilates teacher.”
But here’s the truth I’ve learnt through every tear, every challenge, and every moment of doubt: we are NOT just Pilates teachers.
We are changemakers. Problem solvers. Optimizers in the lives of the people we serve. We show up when others give up. We bring confidence, relief, and hope to our clients where others didn’t trust. And we do it because we believe in something greater—a vision of movement, connection, and transformation that changes lives.
Struggles Are Our Greatest Teachers
The moments of doubt, the fears, the struggles—they aren’t signs that you’re failing. They’re the stepping stones to growth. Through every misstep, I’ve learned resilience, courage, and the beauty of believing in something bigger than myself. I built an immense faith in what we can create as an impact in people’s lives being a Pilates teacher.
But here’s something even more profound: my greatest teachers haven’t been mentors or workshops. They’ve been my clients. Through them, I’ve discovered what it truly means to show up for someone, to guide them in their journey, and to be part of their transformation.
These moments—when clients find relief from pain, rediscover confidence, or simply feel seen—are why we do what we do. They are the proof that the work we put in matters.
The Value of Investing in Yourself
As Pilates teachers, we spend so much of our energy pouring into others—our clients, our families, our studios. We strive to meet the needs of everyone around us, often without stopping to ask: When was the last time I poured into myself?
I understand the hesitation. Investing in yourself can feel indulgent, even unnecessary at times. The voice of self-doubt might whisper, Is it worth it? Shouldn’t I focus on others instead? But let me ask you this: How can you continue to give your best to others if you’re not replenishing your own strength?
For years, I resisted investing in myself. I prioritized everything and everyone else. But the moment I gave myself permission to focus on my own growth—through deeper learning, mentorship, and community—everything shifted. The transformation was profound. It wasn’t just about becoming a better teacher; it changed how I approached my business, connected with my clients, and showed up in my life.
Here’s the truth: investing in yourself isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. It’s how you stay aligned with your purpose, deepen your expertise, and expand your impact. And the ripple effect is undeniable. When you grow, so does everything and everyone around you. Your clients feel it. Your business thrives. And most importantly, you feel more connected to the reason you started this journey in the first place.
The Eternal Student: Always Learning, Always Growing
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned from my mentors is this: we must never stop being students.
Be a student of the work.
Be a student of yourself.
Be a student of life.
True growth comes from curiosity, commitment, and the willingness to stay open. When we stop learning, we stop growing—and when we stop growing, we lose the spark that makes us exceptional teachers.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
For too long, I believed I had to carry this journey alone. That I had to be strong, avoid showing vulnerability, and figure it all out by myself. But who was I kidding? the truth is, the most meaningful growth doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in community.
That is why I wished to create a space where teachers can be heard, seen and understood, uniting their forces with me to bring even more good to the Pilates Industry and to this world.
IVA Pilates would not be what it is today without the incredible teachers who have chosen to trust our movement and join our Inner Circle community. These Visionaries and Pioneers have played an integral role in our growth, placing their confidence and belief in a shared vision—a greater vision for the Pilates industry and Joseph Pilates’ dream that his exercises could make the world a happier place.
I want to honor Kristin, Stephan, Cristiane, Rachel, Daniela, Vanessa, Caz, Claudia, Guri, Aleksandra, Rebecca, Aïda and Anna. These exceptional teachers chose to step up for themselves, embracing a venture rooted in togetherness and faith. They embody the belief that we can reshape the Pilates industry to serve people better—those who are in need of reconnecting with themselves and their bodies.
An Invitation to Complement Your Journey
Pilates is one of the most transformative methods I know, capable of changing lives in profound ways. And with your guidance, it can go even further—helping people live free of pain, worry, and doubt, and finding their path to happiness through movement.
This is your invitation to join a community of continuous education—where learning isn’t just about adding tools to your toolbox but about investing in the person and teacher you want to become.
Imagine being part of a space where:
- You connect with like-minded and like-hearted individuals who value transformation and impact.
- You learn and grow—not just in technical skills but in emotional resilience, somatic understanding, and business success.
- You’re encouraged to embrace vulnerability and strength, creativity and structure, and success on your own terms.
Final Thoughts: Together, We Rise
To every teacher who has felt overwhelmed, doubted their path, or dreamed of doing more—know this: you are not alone.
IVA Pilates was born from my own struggles and breakthroughs. It’s here to support you, help you navigate doubts, and empower you to build something extraordinary—not just for your clients but for yourself.
We’re a community of problem-solvers, amplifiers, and optimizers. Together, we can create a brighter future for Pilates—one that empowers teachers, transforms clients, and leaves a lasting impact on the world.
You don’t have to face this journey alone. Here, you’ll find a space where your voice is valued, your “why” is celebrated, and your dreams are nurtured.
If this resonates with you, I invite you to take the first step. Let’s connect and explore how we can support you on your journey. Whether it’s refining your purpose, deepening your expertise, or creating extraordinary experiences for your clients, I’d love to learn more about you—your vision, your challenges, and your unique gifts.
When the moment feels right, book a call with me. Together, let’s explore the next chapter of your journey—a chapter filled with growth, collaboration, and the extraordinary impact you’re capable of creating.
You are enough. You are capable. And together, we’ll build a brighter future for Pilates, for you, and for the world.
With all my heart,
Iva
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.