Who we are

Hi, I’m Kristine. I’m a certified Pilates instructor with over 20 years of teaching experience, and a deep belief in aligning mind, body and spirit. I opened my boutique studio in 2012 with the intention to create a warm, welcoming, supportive space for all abilities. We offer small classes, personalized attention, and genuine connection. Today, I bring that same dedication and energy to my teaching in Guatemala. Whether it’s your first time on a reformer or are deepening an established practice, I look forward to guiding you every step of the way.

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Meet the Team

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    Kristine Schanstra

    FOUNDER & INSTRUCTOR

    Kristine is a certified STOTT Pilates instructor, having completed her training at Pilates Academy International in New York City. Her certifications include Mat, Reformer, Tower, Cadillac, Stability Chair, Anatomy, and Biomechanics, and she is also certified in TRX and spin.

    Kristine’s classes are grounded in strong Pilates fundamentals and informed by her lifelong passion for fitness. She enjoys exploring many forms of movement, including yoga, hiking, aerial arts, and skiing, which influence her dynamic and thoughtful teaching style.

    Outside the studio, Kristine loves cooking, traveling, reading, watching basketball, and volunteering with animals. Most of all, she enjoys spending time with her husband, four children, and her furry family members.

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    Leslie Simmons

    INSTRUCTOR

    Leslie has been teaching Pilates for over 20 years and brings a rich background in professional dance to her instruction. Her career as a Broadway dancer and Radio City Rockette is what first introduced her to Pilates, and she quickly discovered that consistent Pilates practice kept her body strong, balanced, and resilient throughout her demanding dance career.

    Leslie completed her Pilates teacher training through STOTT/Merrithew and incorporates those principles into her classes with a strong focus on alignment, control, and longevity. Her teaching reflects both her extensive movement experience and her passion for helping clients build strength and stability that supports everyday life as well as performance.

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    Susan Keller

    INSTRUCTOR

    Susan is a certified Pilates instructor who has been with Pure Pilates since 2020. She earned her Pilates certification in 2008 through Pilates Academy International (Pilates on Fifth, NYC).

    With over 45 years of classical ballet and pointe training under professional instructors around the world, Susan brings a deep understanding of alignment, strength, and graceful movement to her teaching. In addition to Pilates, she also teaches ballet at studios across Long Island, sharing her passion for movement in multiple forms.

    Her Pilates classes are thoughtfully influenced by a blend of STOTT apparatus work, XLS Total Gym, and Ballet Barre, creating a well-rounded and dynamic approach to movement.

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    Lauren Wiener

    INSTRUCTOR

    Lauren is a new addition to the Pure Pilates teaching team, though she has been part of the Pure Pilates family since 2012. She received her certification through the Balanced Body Reformer program.

    Lauren’s classes blend traditional Pilates principles with a modern twist, incorporating elements of yoga and weight training for a challenging, well-rounded workout.

    Outside the studio, Lauren enjoys traveling and attending concerts.