My bone density was alright for a woman my age until Graves' disease came along. I came to MGayle Studio to rebuild my body. I have never been athletic. I didn't know the difference between a dumbbell and a doorbell. Weight lifting is now one of the most fun things that I do. Never did I realize how much better it could make me feel. I should have done this long ago. Marlo is a vivacious personal trainer who is patiently teaching me the 'language' of working out. She has given me good advice about nutrition and how to navigate the equipment. - Cynthia Smith 12-20-2010

I came to MGayle Studio in summer 2011. At the time I was suffering from joint and tendon problems and was limited in terms of my physical activities. Although I was seeing a therapist recommended by my doctor I also began taking Pilates lessons from Marlo Brewitz. She communicated with my therapist and used her knowledge to create a program ideal for my body. While the therapist focused on the problematic areas of the body Marlo focused on related areas which helped to facilitate what the therapist was doing. Also, she taught me ways I could exercise without stressing the joints and tendons, remaining physically active during recovery.

She pushed my body in our sessions and I was very surprised in the mornings to find that there was no noticeable soreness from the workout in any part of my body. I also discussed with Marlo some back problems I have had for decades. Although my problems are not considered serious they are very annoying. I have mentioned them to different health professionals over the decades and have received various tips, but it was only through Marlo that the problems cleared up. She identified problems with my posture, giving me insights no one ever had, and taught me exercises to help me maintain proper posture.

On a final note, I was distressed about my joint and tendon problems, but Marlo gave me perspective on them. Also, she brought a spirit of fun to the sessions which was uplifting during recovery and made class fly by. I will miss my visits!

I chose MGayle Studios on the advice of my massage therapist who suggested I consider Pilates for posture and muscle strengthening. I had done Pilates mat work before and some Power Yoga but had never used the Reformer or Cadillac. I recently traveled to Europe and carried a 30-pound backpack along with a 60-pound roller suitcase up and down train stairs many times. I was able to do this more easily than I thought because of the strength I have in my core, legs and arms. And, I attribute that strength to my Pilates work with Katie and Marlo at MGayle. In my daily life, I have an overall sense of increased strength in opening doors and carrying bags. I am looking forward to running this summer and extra power generated by strong core muscles. The power of Pilates is in its "low-high impact" meaning you get high impact from a low impact workout. I have recommended Pilates training to some friends and would encourage anyone who is looking to improve their strength and posture to do Pilates. - Laura Delavie

I decided that I needed to get stronger and more flexible given I am not getting any younger. I heard Pilates focuses on your core and can improve balance. I feel stronger each day. Katie has taught me how to exercise my muscles without causing pain. I used to work out sporadically on my own and I'm very lucky that I didn't hurt myself. I have a lot more energy and feel better throughout the day. It is a great way to start the day. I would absolutely recommend Pilates and I talk about my experience with friends and colleagues. I seem to be better focused, able to concentrate longer and I don't tire so easily since I began training. I also pay more attention to my breathing.

Katie has been a joy to work with three times a week. She is personable and a real cheerleader in helping me achieve my goals. It is evident that Katie takes fitness seriously and is a master of well being. She takes the time to listen and willingly adjusts the workout to suit my needs. She cheers me on to do more than I think I can do and is personally committed to helping me be as fit as possible. - Hylda Perry

I've been working with Katie on the Pilates reformer for several weeks, and have never felt better. Katie is a knowledgeable Pilates professional, who works with you to get the most out of your sessions while also making each session fun. She has a trained eye for weaknesses in your body and in your form, and knows exactly how to address them. She can work with you on a variety of Pilates equipment, but she can also take a creative approach to address individual needs. My Pilates sessions with Katie have been productive and enjoyable, and I'm looking forward to continuing. - Warren S.

Katie is a perceptive, patient and knowledgeable Pilates trainer. Katie worked with me to understand the physical side of Pilates, but equally importantly, she helped me gain better awareness of my body - this was very helpful to me in progressing so I could do the work on my own. Finally, Katie has a great mindset – she has kept me motivated and I continue to enjoy working with her. - Stephan

I have osteopenia so I started my Pilates training seeking better posture, alignment and bone strength. Maggie has been an absolute delight; challenging me when I thought I couldn't do something and encouraging me to believe in myself. I feel stronger, leaner, healthier and am so much more confident in how I carry myself. She truly has a passion for teaching Pilates and I would recommend her to anyone! - Dorothy Meyer

After working with Maggie my shoulder injury was no longer holding me back. I was able to practice and complete my circus training without pain. She has also taught me how to initiate movement from my core, which in turn has made me feel stronger than ever. She helped me focus on my recovery instead of focusing on my injury. -Harper Long

Upon retirement, I was seeking guidance on how to build my strength back and how to create a viable exercise program to restore my strength. I wanted a program that was sustainable. Maggie Christopher is a determined personal trainer who will guide and seek to help you. Maggie is helping me to uncover the mystery of pain and then to restore and strengthen the critical muscles. She is a persistent learner who excels at providing the critical skills for learning about one's body and then pursuing the goals of the client. She gently and skillfully pushes and challenges one to perform at levels that one does not realize they can achieve. She is gracious in her support and affirmations that build one's confidence in their own skills. Maggie understands the importance of providing the right tools of information and skill performance. I am most grateful for her challenging me to create routines that will be sustainable. As a personal trainer, she is willing to build her own learning so that she can best guide, teach and facilitate the growth of the client. Maggie is an exceptional teacher and guide. I strongly recommend Maggie Christopher as a personal trainer to teach, guide, challenge and facilitate one's personal growth and attainment. -- Jan O.

• Breanna Hemstrom

Breanna Hemstrom is a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Additionally, she holds an advanced certification to work with the elderly and special populations. She attended both Northwestern Christian College and Normandale Community College emphasizing in health, nutrition, wellness, and behavior psychology. She has owned her own personal training company, with the goal of helping people enhance their physical wellbeing and overall self-confidence. She believes in the connection between mind and body and strives to help people achieve and feel their best in both areas.