Sandy Shimoda visits Berlin

Date: April 4 - 6, 2025

Location: Core Pilates, Planufer 92d, 10967 Berlin, Germany

Sandy Shimoda is a renowned Pilates instructor, co-founder of Vintage Pilates in Los Angeles, and an expert in preserving the original Contrology method as taught by Joseph Pilates. As a private student and collaborator with Jay Grimes, one of Joseph Pilates' direct students, Sandy has gained deep insights into the authentic teachings of Pilates. She is also the author of the Contrology Handbook and is highly regarded for her ability to communicate the essence of the Pilates method to both teachers and practitioners alike.

I am honored to introduce Sandy Shimoda, my mentor, whose guidance has deeply influenced my Pilates journey. I am thrilled to offer you the opportunity to learn directly from her, as she brings her unparalleled knowledge and teaching to our community here in Berlin.

See VP Classes and Clubhouse booking in agenda details

Workshop Agenda

Friday, April 4

  • 9:00 - 9:50: VP Class
  • 10:00 - 12:00: Workshop 1 - The Art of Teaching the First-Time Student Discover how to introduce Contrology to beginners, laying a solid foundation for future success.
  • 12:00 - 14:00: Lunch Break
  • 14:00 - 16:00: Workshop 2 - The Power of Precision: Fine-Tuning Advanced Movements Learn how to elevate your practice through precise movements, perfect for advanced students and teachers.
  • 16:10 - 17:30: Teacher’s Club House (TCH)
  • 19:30 - 20:30: Contrology Handbook Lecture Book reading of the Contrology Handbook by the author Sandy Shimoda, followed by a Q&A session and book signing opportunity.

Saturday, April 5

  • 9:00 - 9:50: VP Class
  • 10:00 - 12:00: Workshop 3 - The Spine Shape in Motion: Understanding and Utilizing the Five Spine Shapes in Pilates Sandy Shimoda will explore the five fundamental spine shapes: Tall, Round, Arch, Side Bend, and Twist. These shapes form the foundation of the Pilates method, helping practitioners understand and organize the exercises to create a more efficient and connected practice.
  • 12:00 - 14:00: Lunch Break
  • 14:00 - 16:00: Workshop 4 - What Makes a Great Teacher? Understanding the Qualities of Effective Instruction Explore the essential skills that define an exceptional Pilates teacher and how to inspire your students.
  • 16:10 - 17:00: The Mat: Joseph Pilates' Original Outdoor Floorwork Experience the original mat exercises as envisioned by Joseph Pilates, focusing on technique and flow.
  • 19:30: Community Dinner Please let us know if you'll be joining and if there are any dietary preferences we should consider for the restaurant selection.

Sunday, April 6

  • 9:00 - 9:50: VP Class
  • 10:00 - 12:00: Workshop 5 - Contrology on the Reformer: Original Techniques and Transitions Focus on mastering the Reformer with the original techniques and transitions developed by Joseph Pilates.
  • 12:00 - 14:00: Lunch Break
  • 14:00 - 16:00: Workshop 6 - Restoring Contrology's Flow: Achieving the Rhythm and Dynamics of the Method Learn how to bring energy and fluidity into your practice, restoring the rhythm and flow integral to Contrology.
  • 16:10 - 17:30: Teacher’s Club House (TCH)

Surprise Guest: During lunch breaks, a special guest will be available for private training. Additionally, this guest will host a special event together with Sandy on Sunday. Stay tuned for more details!