Pilates instructor guiding a student through a workout

The nearly century-old practice of Pilates provides a low-impact, full-body workout that can help with:

  • Pain Relief

  • Low Back Pain

  • Core Strength and Posture

  • Flexibility

  • Balance and Coordination

  • Breath Control

  • Mental Health and Well-being

MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Maria Fernandez

Maria Fernandez, a seasoned and dedicated Pilates instructor with over 20 years of experience, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Red Sky. Born and raised in Madrid, Spain, Maria's journey with Pilates began after a serious neck injury led her to discover the transformative power of the practice. Adding to her extensive experience in Pilates, Maria practices a personalized, fascia-based holistic approach to guiding her clients towards better physical and mental well-being.

Having owned two Pilates studios in the past - one in Madrid, Spain, and the other in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan - Maria understands the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive community within the Pilates industry. Maria excels in designing wide or laser-focused programs, ranging from rehabilitation for the general public to professional athletes, showcasing her versatility and expertise in the field.

Her commitment to ongoing education and research, including yearlong mentorship programs led by world-renowned experts like Wendy Leblanc-Arbuckle and Jaap van der Waal, further sets her apart as a knowledgeable and compassionate instructor.

Classes available in Spanish.

Our Studio

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WE ARE THE FIRST PILATES STUDIO IN CHARLOTTE TO USE KONNECTOR®

Konnector takes Reformer Pilates to a dynamic new level. The single rope system engages your entire body -- lift your legs, and you will feel it in your arms! The continuous feedback challenges the body to coordinate between core stability and limb mobility. Four loops are attached through pulleys to one rope. This integrates the action of the limbs and the torso in every movement allowing for closed chain activity in your back and core while allowing open chain in your limbs.

Perform the full Reformer repertoire and more with Konnector!

Testimonials

  • Maria is fantastic! Attentive to my needs, kind and a great listener. She pushes me out of my comfort zone through positive reinforcement. She is able to adjust her teaching style to fit me and my Pilates journey! Maria's wonderful and fun personality creates a safe space during each Pilates session. She's absolutely incredible and I highly recommend her! 

    Andreea Dumitru

  • After my back surgery I began to worry about the lack of mobility again. Pilates, but above all María, her experience, dedication, her understanding of my needs, her expert and kind treatment were decisive for me not to relapse into my back pain. I do not have enough words of gratitude. I wish she would be closer to where I live to have her Pilates sessions.

    Tomás Díez Guerra , Madrid, Spain

  • Taking Maria’s Pilates classes has been nothing short of life-changing for me. Over the past two years, I've not only gained strength and confidence but also lost 30 pounds along the way. Her guidance, encouragement, and tailored approach made all the difference. The way she pushes us to go beyond our limits, while still being mindful of our bodies, has helped me achieve things I never thought possible. I'm stronger, more toned, and healthier, both physically and mentally.  Her classes have transformed my life, and I’m forever grateful for her support on this journey!

    Amina Muhammed

  • To say that Maria Fernandez saved my life, is not an overstatement. I started taking Pilates with Maria in 2015 at a gym and was initially terrified of her and the reformer; however, that soon changed because of her encouragement, knowledge and patience. I had just recovered from a seizure, brain lesion and DVT which seriously impacted my balance. Maria was determined to help me overcome my fears and build confidence to envision a new reality with repetition of movement done in a safe environment. Over time, I gained muscle mass and strength, looking forward to each new exercise.  The most astounding factor of her classes is that they are never the same routine, so you cannot anticipate the challenges. How does she do it? When Maria set up her own studio, I happily followed her because she had become an irreplaceable teacher and friend. Her continued pursuit of body mechanics, nutrition and the latest evidence-based practices for healthy living is admirable and beneficial to all. During these past ten years, Maria has helped me heal from a fractured elbow, fractured humerus, total knee replacement and an osteoporosis diagnosis. She adjusted workouts to ensure that I move in ways to help, not hinder, recovery. I was also dealing with pelvic floor issues, and she incorporated strengthening exercises which I continue to do as this practice has enabled me to avoid corrective surgery.  When Maria moved to North Carolina in 2020, all her clients/friends felt immeasurable loss. However, she found a way to stay connected with us on Zoom classes, for which I am so very grateful. Because of my medical history, you might think that I am fragile and move slowly  – but you’re very wrong.  Since my time with Maria, I have lost 40 pounds, gained muscle strength and energy.  My doctors do not believe my age and encourage me to continue with Pilates. Most importantly, I have gained an irreplaceable friend who ensures that I stay healthy and upright!

    Mary Parkhill

  • My wife Margo was with Maria about 10 years and I was with her about 7 years. We both were extremely pleased with the effect Maria had on our health and lifestyle. We both lead active lives as Margo has done over 50 half marathons along with other races and I have about 400 races including 17 marathons and 132 half marathons. We have also done a number of bike tours internationally. We both also have had regular therapy massages to complement our Pilates. One of the attributes that Maria brought to the table was her constant desire to learn about her profession which always changes. Another attribute was her ability to adjust to her client. Margo and I had different issues and we had individual sessions which addressed our individual needs. We both can honestly say that if Maria had not moved from Michigan we would still be with her on a weekly basis and we have had difficulty in finding an alternative. Maria has our highest recommendation and we would go back to her in a heartbeat. Thank you this opportunity to tell you our experience.

    John & Margo Hebert

  • I am now 67 years old, but I met Maria two years ago, with spinal and diffused arthritic pain after 8 auto accidents. various medical issues and surgeries.  I had been a dancer in early life, but the accidents reduced my functionality and participation in regular exercise to minimal at best for at least the last 30 years. Maria started working with me with the pain of arthritis, uneven strengthening after a shoulder repair and hamstring therapy, and while taking shots to numb back pain, amongst other complaints, and as a serious fall risk.  Maria has special knowledge and training that she used to help me restrengthen via a balanced approach, which has increased my mobility, reduced my fall risk, and allowed me to improve my core strength.  With her large collection of equipment & pilates tools, exercises, stretches, and home exercise program, I no longer need the pain numbing shots for my spine, and have gone from as few as 1000 steps a day, to a one time high of 16000 steps in one day, while I was on a recent vacation, and did not need meds for the pain. We are growing my core strength, building up neck and back strength and working on a whole body approach for my legs and arms.  She has helped me improve my flexibility and strength, while still managing the unrepairable issues that remain, while focusing on my future safety as I continue to age. She works closely with my chiropractor and spinal doctor to make sure updates, corrections and issues we encounter are part of a team approach to my goal of eventually hiking up to the top of a beautiful North Carolina waterfall!  All of this has been hard work, but she has guided and taught me with positivity, kindness, a sense of humor, and a clear message, of "You've got this!"  I highly recommend Maria Fernandez and her techniques to all those who want to move, improve strength, and of course find improved life as we age! 

    Arlene Filkoff

  • I have had the privilege of knowing many Pilates instructors, but none like Maria. Her dedication to her clients goes beyond physical training; she genuinely cares about each person’s well-being and takes pride in their recovery and quality of life. Whether helping a professional athlete reach peak performance or assisting an elderly woman in regaining independence, Maria's impact is remarkable. Her warmth and empathy create a safe space for clients to open up, heal, and truly transform. Maria's ability to remember even the smallest details of her clients’ lives reflects her commitment to providing an exceptional and personalized experience. She's more than just an instructor—she's a life-changer who blends the art of movement with the heart of therapy. Thank you, Maria, for the lives you’ve touched and continue to change every day.

    CL 

  • Life Changing!  I met Maria, and was introduced to Pilates, when she owned her studio in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.  Without any reservations, I can honestly say I've never been in better shape nor had a more educated, dedicated and caring instructor.  Her passion for Pilates is only surpassed by her commitment to ensuring her students benefit from the experience.  From customizing exercises to providing genuine and caring support, she was the catalyst for my best efforts and the reason behind my physical accomplishments at levels I never previously achieved or have since replicated.  I was truly heartbroken when she left Michigan - but my loss is Charlotte's gain.  She is a gem. and I can't recommend her enough to anyone looking to improve their health.  Life Changing!  

    Sean Youngren

  • My sessions with Maria have been more than just a physical “to do list of movements” but spiritual and mental as well in such a way that I can once again be me as I see myself interacting within the world…..learning to trust my body and quiet my mind has come through my Pilates sessions with Maria. Through Pilates and being gifted to having Maria Fernandez as my mentor in seeing myself again has been one of the greatest blessings in my life. Anyone looking for an experience of connecting with self, I highly suggest training with Maria Fernandez.

     Edward Santora

  • I met Maria when I started doing Pilates at a chain studio about 2.5 years ago.  After taking numerous classes with various instructors, Maria quickly became my favorite instructor due to her passion for overall wellness and her commitment to her craft.  Even when teaching a group class, Maria is invested in each individual student and their practice as well as their safety.  She takes time to stop and explain maneuvers, so we understand why they are important and how to perform them correctly.  She has encouraged me to push myself during class and I have certainly seen improvement in my overall strength.  I personally do not enjoy working out, but I am committed to my health and attending her class is the only workout I look forward to each week.  She meets us where we are and inspires us to be better than we were yesterday; For that I am grateful. Thanks!

    Shauntel 

  • Maria has been working with me now for 6 months. I have difficulty with balance and leg strength resulting from severe spondylolisthesis and a spinal fusion  L4-S1 to correct the problem. To say that she has been enthusiastic and encouraging is an understatement! My balance has improved and the strength of my legs has improved. I am now more flexible and I stand and walk with much better posture. We work with the reformer and all the other devices for 55 minute workouts. I look forward to continued improvement  working with Maria.    

    HT

  • I have been a client of Maria's for a few years and she is the best Pilates Instructor I have had the opportunity to work with.  She knew exactly what I needed to work on or what might be bothering me simply by looking at my body.   She always meets me where I am and pushes me every time to get stronger and better at my practice.    I cannot say enough about Maria's sessions, demeanor, and client care.  I would recommend her over and over to anyone.  Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my experience. 

    Marnie Woodward

What is Pilates?

(Taken from Cleveland Clinic health essentials website and Balanced Body site)

  • Pilates is a form of exercise and body conditioning developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. Although it may not seem like it, Pilates is a form of strength training. It does not focus on building bigger muscles but rather on improving muscle tone. Pilates won’t bulk you up but typically creates a leaner, longer look.

  • Joseph Pilates didn’t name his method after himself but rather called it “Contrology” to reflect its core ideas: controlled breathing, precise movement patterns and concentration on each movement. As a young man growing up in Germany, he became enamored by the classical Greek ideal of a man balanced in body, mind, and spirit, and started developing his own exercise system based on this concept.  

    In 1912 he went to England and worked with detectives at Scotland Yard as a self-defense instructor.  In 1914 Germany attacked Belgium, which was a neutral country, and as a result Germans around Europe were put in intern prison camps. While imprisoned Joe Pilates developed his exercise ideas further and taught them to fellow German inmates.

     When he was released from his intern camp he returned to Germany. In Europe, his exercise method gained favor in the dance community, primarily through Hungarian Rudolf von Laban, who created the form of dance notation most widely used today. Hanya Holm adopted many of Joe’s exercises for her modern dance curriculum, and they are still part of the “Holm Technique.” When German officials asked Joe to teach his fitness system to the army, he decided to leave Germany for good.

    In 1926 he emigrated to New York City and set up an office near Columbus circle and Central Park at 939 8th Avenue. There, along with his third wife Clara, further developed his ideas mostly as a method of injury recovery for dancers sharing an address with the New York City Ballet. Joe and Clara trained many New York dancers. George Balanchine studied “at Joe’s,” as he called it, and invited Pilates to instruct his young ballerinas at the New York City Ballet.

    "Pilates" was becoming popular outside of New York as well. As the New York Herald Tribune noted in 1964: “in dance classes around the United States, hundreds of young students limber up daily with an exercise they know as ‘a pilates’, without knowing that the word has a capital P, and a living, right-breathing namesake.”

     Joe continued to train clients at his studio until his death in 1967, at the age of 87. When he passed away, he left no will and had designated no line of succession for the Pilates work to carry on. Nevertheless, his work would remain and eventually flourish in large part due to his protégés, referred to as the “elders.”

  • Ron Fletcher, one of the elders, was a Martha Graham dancer who studied with Joe in NYC starting in the 1940s due to a chronic knee ailment. Fletcher opened his studio in Los Angeles in 1970 and attracted many Hollywood stars. Clara was particularly enamored with Ron, and she gave her blessing to him to carry on the Pilates work and name. Fletcher brought some innovations and advancements to the Pilates work.

    Hollywood celebrities discovered Pilates in the 1970's via Ron Fletcher’s studio in Beverly Hills.  Where the stars go, the media follows. In the late 1980s, the media began to cover Pilates extensively. The public took note, and the Pilates business boomed. “I’m fifty years ahead of my time,” Joe once claimed.

    He was right.

  • The research on the health benefits of Pilates may be more confusing than helpful. On the one hand, there’s considerable research into its health benefits for a wide range of people and health conditions. However, most studies only have a small number of participants — and only monitor those participants for a short period of time.

    While the science may not be especially persuasive, 100 years’ worth of anecdotal evidence (from people’s personal accounts vs. research) is nothing to sneeze at. Like yoga, tai chi, qigong and other intentional movement exercises, the potential benefits and generally low risk make it worth trying. And like all exercise, what’s most important is whether you enjoy it and how it makes you feel.

    Pain Relief

    Pilates may help you recover from an existing injury or manage a chronic musculoskeletal issue. It may also help you establish a healthy baseline, so that when those injuries or issues arise, you’re able to bounce back faster.

    Low Back Pain

    Pilates is known especially for improving lower back pain, as seen in both this 2015 study and this 2020 study.

    Core Strength and Posture

    One of the reasons Pilates is such a good workout is that it specifically focuses on building core strength. Having a strong, fit and aligned core makes it easier to have good posture — a seemingly small change that can positively impact many areas of your life.

    Flexibility

    There’s quite a bit of stretching in Pilates — which translates to improved flexibility. In addition to expanding the range of activities you can do, flexibility may protect you from injury, help your muscles relax and help you retain both mobility and range of motion as you get older.

    Balance and coordination

    Once again, our core is exactly what it sounds like: Our center. When we’re weak or out of alignment, it makes it harder to find our center of gravity, which can make us more prone to injury, especially in moments when we’re trying to perform multiple movements at once (coordination). By strengthening your core, Pilates may make it easier to find your balance — and maintain it.

     As your balance and coordination improve, so does your proprioception (spatial awareness). The result is more effective, balanced movement and a reduced risk of falls or other accidents.

     Body awareness on your body and breathing is central to Pilates. That awareness will help you better understand your body, for instance: Which muscles are strongest and how they compensate for weaker muscles elsewhere, where you store tension and what makes you feel your best. That education can help you better understand the signals your body sends you every day.

    Breath control

    Like yoga and many other mindfulness practices, Pilates is as much about intentional breathing as it is about the body. Being aware of and controlling your breath doesn’t just allow you to deepen a stretch or perform at a higher level — research shows it can also reduce stress. If you allow the breath coaching you get in a Pilates class to spill over into your daily life, you may find yourself better able to handle difficult situations and emotions.

    Mental health and well-being

    The benefits of exercise for your mental health and well-being are, at this point, firmly established.

     While not a high-intensity workout, Pilates gets your heart pumping, and combines strength and resistance training with deep stretching. Think of Pilates as complementing — not replacing — any mental health support you’re already receiving.

    Keep exercising

    You may find that — after getting used to it — Pilates is your new favorite workout. That’s great … as long as you’re supplementing your Pilates workouts with other kinds of exercise.

     “It’s not necessarily a stand-alone exercise,” Barr explains. “Because you’re working your muscle groups, you’ll get your heart rate up. But Pilates is not as heavy a cardiovascular workout. There’s some deep stretching and some resistance, yes, but Pilates should still be part of a well-balanced exercise program.”

    In other words, doing Pilates three to five times a week is great, but make sure you’re also dedicating time to strength-building activities for your shoulders and arms (like resistance training) and aerobic exercise (like cycling) every week.