Alexis Arnold

A Bit About Me

While living in Portland, Oregon, from 2001-2016, I was a full-time wedding and portrait photographer. I loved it so much, my dream job, doing something I loved. I would often be out shooting for up to 8 hrs or more at an event, capturing the moments as they happened. One day, I was at a reception shooting with a good friend and colleague when it just hit me, I'm done with weddings! I was worn out, had learned so much, and done a lot as a photographer; I was ready for a break. 

​

Fast forward, and soon I would find myself opening a martial arts studio with my now ex. I would start training daily and help teach the kids' classes. It was a big change from being in the arts, but also a mental and physical challenge. I have never been super athletic. I enjoyed sports in my youth. I was a great supporting player, but never the star. Martial Arts was a personal journey, no competition with others, and it pushed me to levels I didn't know I could go. It was here that I really learned how to teach. Guiding people to have confidence within themselves to try and try again was and is truly a gift. Seeing shy kids who lacked confidence transform into leaders for their class and helping others was an amazing experience. 

​

It was one of the students' moms who owned a Pilates studio that introduced Pilates to me around 2012 or 2013. I attended my first class with no idea what it was or what I was in for. At that time, I considered myself fairly strong from daily training. That Pilates class humbled me in ways I didn't know it could! Unfortunately, it would have to take a back burner at that time since I was busy running the studio, teaching, and training. I never forgot it.  

Fast forward to today, and I have completed my teacher training and am now helping others learn the benefits of Pilates. It has helped me become stronger, find my flexibility again, and start to tone my body. As an aging adult about to turn 50, I knew I needed a fitness practice I not only enjoyed but that also helped me to age gracefully.

​

I am so grateful for Pilates and hope to share that inspiration with you!