Rafael believes in getting the most out of your life by staying healthy in body, mind, and soul; and that the key to staying healthy is to be open to new experiences, continually learn and grow, and do what you love so that you never have to work.
Rafael's passion is to inspire others to lead healthier lives. To this end he practices a range of disciplines including Pilates, Yoga, Martial Arts and Meditation. He also regularly attends industry workshops, seminars and conferences to ensure that he remains abreast of the latest medical and mind-body research and movement techniques. Rafael draws upon this diverse knowledge base and movement background to bring a unique perspective to his clients.
Rafael specialises in teaching the Pilates Method, having started learning the method after experiencing recurring lower back pain himself. Rafael's own experiences with the efficacy of the Pilates Method inspired him to continue his education in the Method so that he could assist others in overcoming and managing their own physical ailments successfully.
Rafael has been teaching Pilates full time since 2002 in a range of professional environments and opened Living Energy Pilates Studio in 2006.
Rafael is currently completing a Masters in Clinical Exercise Practice, however his existing qualifications include : Grad Dip in Exercise Science, Advanced Diploma of Professional Pilates Practice and is a certified Studio Pilates Rehabilitation Instructor. He likes to keep busy! Rafael is a full member of the Pilates Alliance, is a qualified Personal Trainer, Sports Massage Therapist, Shiatsu Therapist and accredited Workplace Trainer and Assessor. At Living Energy Pilates Studio, Rafael is the Principal Pilates Instructor.
Michelle Toppi
I started attending Pilates classes in 2004 because of lower back problems I had after having children. I found I really enjoyed it and more importantly, it helped alleviate the pain. Whilst on maternity leave, I commenced my training to become an instructor.
In 2005 I completed my Certificate III in Fitness followed by a Mat Pilates course and then went on to complete my Studio Pilates Instructor training. It is really satisfying to know that Pilates makes a difference to people’s health and that I can be a part of that.
I have been teaching at Living Energy Pilates since 2008.
Shonadh Toon
I started Pilates work on my own body over 15 years ago to address the inevitable aches and pains associated with poor posture due to hours sitting at a desk and one too many falls from young horses! After a short six weeks my shoulder, that had been causing me a great deal of pain over several years, had pain free mobility and from then on I was hooked.
In 2002, I gave up corporate office work to study anatomy and then teaching the Pilates method. I have an Advanced Diploma of Professional Pilates Practice. I am also a member of the Pilates Alliance and regularly attend workshops and conferences to keep learning and be inspired by some of the truly amazing practioners that are around. I really enjoy teaching the method and sharing its benefits with others. There is nothing more satisfying than helping people achieve their goals of improving their health and fitness and general well being.
Kelly Ferella
Growing up in the dance world I always loved stretching and being flexible. I have always had an interest in, and surrounded myself in the world of natural therapies, remedial massage and dance practices.
I rediscovered Pilates a few years ago after having our two kids and wanting to work on strengthening pelvic floor and regaining my flexibility. After completing my Certificate IV in Matwork Pilates, I decided to continue my studies and obtained my Diploma of Studio Pilates. The Pilates method of mind body connection is now a discipline I am committed to and want to share the benefits with everyone!
I have been teaching at Living Energy Pilates Studio since 2011.
Lalie Nickless
I started practicing Pilates at the Living Energy Pilates Studio in 2008 after trading in an accounting career to be a stay-at-home mum for my two girls. I initially started Pilates classes as a student to address long time back pain, which has since improved immeasurably.
I’ve since become a real believer in the health benefits of Pilates, as it is as much a mental challenge as a physical workout. I love it so much I undertook a Pilates Instructor course and began teaching in 2012 to help others just like me. I still practice Pilates twice a week in classes lead by other instructors for my personal fitness and development. For me, it has become a way of life and there is always something to learn.
Emma Glynn
Emma graduated from RMIT University with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Movement) in 2010. Since then Emma has further pursued her interest in the Exercise Science industry at Deakin University where she graduated with a Masters in Clinical Exercise Physiology.
Emma's experience in working with sporting clubs such as the Carlton Football Club and Dandenong Rangers WNBL team have lead Emma to be very passionate about exercise for injury prevention and management. Emma is also very passionate about the benefits exercise has in the management and treatment of those with chronic diseases, particularly musculoskeletal conditions. Since finishing her postgraduate studies, Emma has worked as an Exercise Physiologist Pilates in the prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions/injuries. It was from this experience that Emma’s passion for Pilates as a form of effective rehabilitation took off.
Emma began teaching at Living Energy Pilates at the start of 2013.
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