Stacey McKenzie RN, BSN is a certified classical Pilates instructor and has been studying and teaching Pilates for over 20 years. Her first introduction to Pilates was while she was a dance student at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. While suffering a tendinitis injury, Stacey started to study Pilates as a form of rehabilitation. Her classical Pilates instruction, began with master teacher, Deborah Lessen of Green Street Studio in SoHo, NY.
Upon graduating, Stacey apprenticed and taught for Ms. Lessen while dancing professionally with various NYC-based modern dance companies. After relocating to Southern California, she taught Pilates for former Martha Graham Dancer and master teacher, Julian Littleford in San Diego.
In Los Angeles, Ms. McKenzie worked as a medical-surgical nurse at Keck Hospital of USC and Cedar Sinai Medical Center. She took care of an array of patients including orthopedic, trauma, and liver transplant. Ms. McKenzie also continued her pilates practice with Jill Cassady, from whom she received her Pilates Technique Certification. As an instructor at My Pilates Body studio in LA, her clients included mature adults, pre & postpartum women, professionals, Hollywood personalities and NBA basketball players.
Ms McKenzie’s professional, albeit unique, background make her a stand out among Pilates instructors. Continuing in the tradition as a 3rd generation Pilates Instructor, she is committed to its classical form, but also incorporates contemporary physiology and science into her instruction. Known as a stickler for technique and form, Stacey challenges the most expert client, yet her medical background has given her a skill set to work with all levels of ability and disability.
Stacey absolutely loves Pilates and all forms of movement. Pilates develops strength, agility, and balance; three important cornerstones to not only improving function and performance, but in aging gracefully. She is passionate about instilling in clients an understanding of how one’s body works and flows, and how that carries over to daily life.
Stacey considers herself a lifelong student in the art of Pilates and movement. Currently, she resides in Red Hook, New York, where she works privately, both in person and virtually, from her home studio. She enjoys cooking, exploring the beautiful Hudson Valley and training for her second 10K race.
