Meet Our Instructor: Denise Foltz

This month, we get to know Denise Foltz! Originally from Southern California, we get find out more about our newest Instructor; what inspired her Pilates journey and her activities outside of the studio.

Hi Denise! Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from and how long have you lived in Singapore?

Born in Newport Beach California and raised in  a small surf town San Clemente California. January will mark our seventh year in Singapore! 

When did you realise that you wanted to be a Pilates Instructor? + What keeps you inspired? 

I fell in love with Pilates while at University taking the class as an elective but it wasn’t until 2018 that my instructors in the US prompted me to get certified. As soon as I found out what certifications I needed the journey began! Honestly it’s the clientele that constantly keeps me motivated. I’m always inspired by fellow instructors in the industry and social media makes it easy to get new ideas.

Why did you choose to train at Breathe Pilates? Can you tell us a little bit about your experience training with us? 

After finding out that STOTT was the best certification I looked into the studios that offered the courses. I toured the studio and had a chance to speak with Thicha and knew right away Breathe was where I wanted to be. Training at Breathe pushes you and challenges you. As a perfectionist this encourages me to want to perform at my best.

Can you share your most meaningful milestone?

Aside from graduating from University,  completing my STOTT level one training was turning something I love into a potential career. 

What do you hate the most about Pilates? 

The only thing I can think of is the perception that either it’s not a real workout or it’s solely for women. 

So what does a typical week look like for you? 

Every week is different but for the most part I start my day prepping for Pilates and talking with family, teaching and practicing pilates, going to the gym to walk on the treadmill, and spending time with my husband when he gets home from work which involves at least two restorative yoga classes to meditate and relax at the end of the day or week. I also live to be near water so getting in the pool is also something I try to do often.

Dream holiday destination?

Dream holiday would be either Machu Picchu or Maldives. Both are so unique and won’t be around forever. 

Favourite food?

Favourite food is a toss up between smoothie bowls I make at home and grain bowls for dinner.

Favourite quote?

I love Maya Angelou and her “Mission in life is not merely to survive but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour, and some style.” That pretty much sums up my goals in life.

If you had one piece of advice to give any aspiring Pilates Instructor out there, what would it be? 

Anyone wanting to become an instructor I would advise that it starts with a passion and love for Pilates first and then that passion develops into the desire to share with others. I was once told introverts can’t become instructors but I don’t believe that to be true. I think if you love something enough, it’s easy to convey that message to others.

Thank you Denise!