Profile

Helen Leahy is the founder and director of True Pilates NZ.

Helen's interest in Pilates began as a client while living in Florida, USA. After much support and encouragement from her teacher there, Helen moved to New York to complete the Pilates Instructor apprenticeship under the watchful eye of Master Teacher Romana Kryzanowska and Sari Mejia Santo.

Romana Kryzanowska was a protégé of Joseph Pilates and dedicated her life to teaching his methods and retaining the authenticity of the equipment he developed. With a series of over 500 documented movements engaging both the mind and body, the certification for Pilates Instructor is as rigorous as it is controlled. Helen became a fully certified Authentic Pilates Method instructor in 2006, and has been taking Continuing Pilates Education (CPE) seminars annually to intensify her knowledge.

Helen knows first-hand how Pilates can indeed change your body. She takes a personal interest in all clients and constantly encourages you throughout your session to achieve your very best. With her winning personality and the right mix of determination and humour, Helen's approach is hands-on, and she is focused on your goals as much as you.

Mandy Pope is a Certified Authentic Pilates Instructor Level 5.

After years of playing diverse competitive sports, Mandy developed a keen interest in wellness – which led her to Authentic Pilates. As a client to an Authentic Pilates Instructor in Christchurch, Mandy experienced the changes to the way her body felt and moved, and became increasingly intrigued with Pilates. She relocated to Auckland to undergo the intensive Authentic Pilates Apprenticeship Programme and thus began her career as an instructor.

Mandy is infectiously passionate about Pilates and enjoys seeing the growing positive changes and everyday awareness in her True Pilates NZ clients. Her bubbly and sympathetic nature will make you feel at ease, and her attention and drive will ensure you get the most out of your workout. No matter what brings you to Pilates, Mandy will see to it that you leave each session feeling uplifted and energized.