WE'VE CREATED SOMETHING SPECIAL...
A purpose built studio to learn & train with the original Pilates Method
At Amity Pilates, we’ve committed to creating a professional and empowering studio space
that is accessible and affordable for our community, so that training in this incredible method can be sustained over the long term.
We’ve invested in the highest quality classical apparatus from the few companies globally that specialise in this niche market, because the specifications of the equipment (like the exact spring tension, the angles of the footbar or straps, how the handles feed connection into our back, how dense the padding is or whether there is padding at all ) all make a profound difference in how the exercises affect the body.
We’ve also created an additional training space so that members can increase the frequency of their practice with minimal additional cost.
As teachers, we continue to invest in our own education and training, so we can share the depth, richness, and history of this brilliant method to the best of our ability.
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One of only a few studio's worldwide devoted to the practice of Contrology in an Open Studio format.
MEET THE FOUNDER
Gemma Duff
A Journey of Continual Learning
Gemma has been teaching Pilates since 2002, facilitating classes across Melbourne and the Bellarine Peninsula.
Gemma’s Pilates journey began with training in the contemporary Pilates system, where she gained a foundational understanding of the method. However, her desire to explore the authentic teachings of Joseph Pilates led her to further her education in the classical system of Pilates. She has studied under renowned instructors both in Australia & internationally in an ongoing journey to deepen her knowledge & understanding of Contrology.
People who studied directly with Joseph & Clara Pilates, and then went on to teach his method to others, are called Elders in the Pilates community. Each Elder has a slightly different perspective of the work. Gemma’s learning has primarily followed elder Jay Grimes teachings.
Her commitment to the authenticity of Classical Pilates is reflected in her ongoing study and practice of the method, which continues to shape the work at Amity Pilates. By historical lineage Gemma is qualified as a 3rd generation teacher.
Gemma acknowledges all of her teachers for helping to grow her understanding of the original system of Pilates. In particular her current mentor (since 2018) Wade Edwell (www.properpilates.com.au) through who's encouragement, guidance & generous sharing of the work, has been a pivotal influence on her understanding of the full system and how to teach in an open studio format.
“I deeply believe in the genius of the traditional method & it still inspires me daily as I observe how quickly and profoundly it can change the bodies that work with it — I am filled with gratitude that I get to share this incredible method with my community.”
—Gemma Duff
Founder Amity Pilates
A PERSONALISED APPROACH TO YOUR PILATES JOURNEY
Gemma has developed close relationships with a range of health professionals on the Bellarine Peninsula and in Geelong, and is always happy to collaborate with your health provider when creating tailored Pilates programs to suit your needs.
She takes a deeply personalised approach to your Pilates journey, ensuring that each session is designed with your goals and well-being in mind.
Gemma’s ongoing study and practice of the classical Pilates method continues to evolve her understanding of Contrology—shaping the teachings and experience offered at Amity Pilates.
EXPERTISE AND DEDICATION TO THE PRACTISE
Gemma's Qualifications
Over the course of 23 years teaching this incredible method of movement, Gemma has had the privilege of training under some of the most respected figures in the Pilates world:
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From 2018 - In person training and observation at Proper Pilates, Kyneton with Wade Edwell & Trevor Buckingham.
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2 year mentorship with Wade Edwell (Proper Pilates) A second generation teacher & graduate of “The Work” (Vintage Pilates) - completed in 2021.
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18 month mentorship with Karen Frischmann (2nd generation teacher who studied with both Jay Grimes & Romana Kryzanowska & co-founded Vintage Pilates) - completed in 2023.
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Currently completing an additional 2 year Immersive Coaching Program with Wade Edwell - for ongoing training and deep engagement in Contrology.
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Workshops, events & courses with esteemed classical Pilates teachers that include: Jay Grimes, Sandy Shimoda, Dena Drotar, Miguel Silva, Benjamin Degenhardt.
Gemma is proud to hold a range of qualifications that reflect her dedication to providing the highest standard of Pilates training:
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Comprehensive Studio Certification: BASI Pilates program, having completed the full comprehensive teacher training syllabus.
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Diploma in Contemporary Pilates: Nationally recognized in Pilates and Teaching Methodology.
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Level 4 Instructor: Recognized by the Australian Pilates Method Association (APMA).
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Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment (Melbourne University).
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Senior First Aid & CPR Qualifications: Updated annually.
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Certificate IV in Fitness.
GET STARTED
Gemma's Qualifications
Gemma is proud to hold a range of prestigious qualifications that reflect her dedication to providing the highest standard of Pilates training:
-
Comprehensive Studio Certification: BASI Pilates program, having completed the full comprehensive teacher training syllabus.
-
Diploma in Contemporary Pilates: Nationally recognized in Pilates and Teaching Methodology.
-
Level 4 Instructor: Recognized by the Australian Pilates Method Association (APMA).
-
Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment (Melbourne University)
-
Senior First Aid & CPR Qualifications: Updated annually.
-
Certificate IV in Fitness.
Gemma has had the privilege of training under some of the most respected figures in the Pilates world:
-
2 year mentorship with Wade Edwell (Proper Pilates) A second generation teacher & graduate of “The Work” (Vintage Pilates) - completed in 2021
-
18 month mentorship with Karen Frischmann (2nd generation teacher who studied with both Jay Grimes & Romana Kryzanowska & co-founded Vintage Pilates) - completed in 2023
-
Currently completing an additional 2 year Immersive Coaching Program with Wade Edwell - for ongoing training and deep engagement in Contrology.
-
Workshops, events & courses with esteemed classical Pilates teachers that include: Jay Grimes, Sandy Shimoda, Dena Drotar, Miguel Silva, Benjamin Degenhardt.
Contact
Come Find Us
Studio Hours
Monday - Friday
6.30am - 7.30pm
Additional workshops throughout the year
