Pilathon (pilathon.com) founder Emily Bench shares her insider tips on fitness and her newest venture expanding Pilathon across South Florida.
Emily Bench’s Pilathon studio has become a fan-favorite across South Florida. PHOTO BY ALEXANDRA PEDREGAL, @ALEXANDRAPEDREGAL
Tell us about your transition from dentistry to Pilates instructor.
I worked as a dentist for five years and wasn’t enjoying life. It was lonely and so hard on my body; it didn’t feel natural to sit and bend my neck all day. My Pilates teacher helped me figure out how miserable I was. She suggested becoming a teacher since I knew the movements, had the skill and understood the body. I had never taught anything in my life! By the next day, I had a Pilates anatomy book. I knew I wanted to approach Pilates from a rehabilitation lens, not just as a fitness routine. After a year, I sold my dental practice and quit the industry. Two years later, Pilathon was born.
What makes Pilathon special?
Pilathon is more than Pilates. We teach it in a fun and intelligent way. It’s about posture, anatomy and alignment, but our students get much more. They find community, family and friendship in the studio and the class. Pilathon is more than a workout; it is a complete experience where we allow our students the opportunity to grow.
Emily Bench’s Pilathon studio has become a fan-favorite across South Florida. BY KAY GUENTHER, @FUNGUYKAY
What is your favorite thing about Pilates?
For me, Pilates is mediation through proper movement. It makes you reconnect and understand your body through movement, literally from head to toe. In one class, you move everything from your toes to your ankles, knees, whole vertebrae, fingers and wrists to your head. I am obsessed with Pilates, and I think that is part of the success of Pilathon. Anyone can be passionate, but this is my life.
What does Pilathon’s expansion mean to you?
We have been working on a possible expansion for years. Thanks to our partnership with long-term clients, we have expanded to Little River. This is only possible because of trust in clients and teachers. Hopefully, it will be the first of many future locations.
Pilathon founder Emily Bench. BY ALEXANDRA PEDREGAL, @ALEXANDRAPEDREGAL
What are three words you use to describe yourself?
Loyal, positive and a hard worker
Photography by: Photo By: Alexandra Pedregal
