Our Instructors
Katie Brady
Studio Owner & Certified Pilates Instructor
Katie’s love of pilates began when she was just 16, and she’s been hooked ever since. Her fitness career spans nearly a decade, earning her certification to teach classical Pilates through The Pilates Standard’s 600+ hour comprehensive training course and working as a trainer at the top classical and contemporary studios in Manhattan.
This makes Katie uniquely qualified to create results-driven programs for her clients, borrowing methodology from both schools of practice. Her passion for the art drives her to continuously expand upon her education and bring innovative tools and techniques to her sessions.
Katie is so excited to bring her passion of Pilates to downtown Mystic where she currently resides with her hubby Henry & their baby boy!
Kristen Helal
Certified Pilates Instructor
Kristen Helal is a somatic movement educator and Pilates instructor. She has a comprehensive certification from STOTT Pilates and has been teaching since 1998. In 2008, Kristen was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, which led her to explore how Pilates and somatic movement practices could help reduce pain in the body and ultimately restore joy in movement.
Kristen trains a diverse range of clients, including dancers, equestrians, seniors, and individuals with chronic pain. She uses a nervous system-centered approach to reduce pain and tension in the body and restore strength. Her ultimate goal is to help people feel more ease, joy, and freedom in their bodies.
Ali Keil
Certified Pilates Instructor
Ali’s love for Pilates began as a personal outlet and quickly grew into a passion. Growing up as a competitive gymnast, movement has always been a central part of her life-shaping her discipline, body awareness, and appreciation for strength through control. What started as a way to feel stronger and more confident in her own body became something she knew she wanted to share with others.
Classically certified through Peak Pilates, Ali brings a strong foundation in technique, form, and intentional movement to every session. After fully immersing herself in her training, she developed a deep appreciation for the power of Pilates to transform both body and mind.
Outside of the studio, you can find Ali on the beach, spending time with friends and family, or trying out a new restaurant!
Pilates Instructor in Training
Megan Merkler
Megan is currently in training with Balanced Body to earn her Mat Pilates certification. She first fell in love with Pilates during a fusion class on Block Island a few years ago and hasn’t looked back since. Megan has always enjoyed being active—whether it’s walking, running, surfing, skiing, and more—and believes Pilates is the perfect combination for a full-body workout that leaves people feeling fantastic, energized, and ready for any activity.
She is excited to continue this journey and get bodies moving together, and she can’t wait to meet everyone!