Instructor Trainer bios

Ashlee Richardson holds a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, USA. Her professional interests include women’s health and orthopedics. Ashlee utilizes her extensive Pilates knowledge with her clients and patients to emphasize posture and movement re-education, core stability and pelvic health. She became a Certified STOTT PILATES^® Instructor in 2006 and a Lead Instructor Trainer for Merrithew^®, specializing in STOTT PILATES. Ashlee is co-owner of Pilates Center of Omaha, the home of Victory Pilates Education Centers and CoreWorks Physical Therapy.

A former professional dancer trained in ballet, jazz, modern, and tap, Bernadette transitioned to teaching after years of experience in dance and fitness. Following an injury, Bernadette discovered STOTT PILATES^®, sparking a deep passion that led her to complete advanced training in 2005. Known for her energy and dedication, she now owns a thriving Pilates studio that has earned multiple awards, including the Reader's Choice Award, Quality Business Award, and Canadian Choice Award. Bernadette enjoys working with a wide range of clients of all ages and fitness levels, from rehabilitation to athletic conditioning and believes that fitness should be enjoyable, not a chore.

A dedicated lifelong learner, she regularly attends workshops and courses worldwide to explore diverse movement modalities. In April 2019, she was honored with the Pink Tea Party International Women’s Day Award by the Canadian Member of Parliament for her meaningful contributions to the Pickering community. Before committing fully to Pilates, Bernadette worked as a buyer in the fashion industry for companies like TJ Maxx, gaining valuable international business insights. Her global experiences now add a unique perspective to her Pilates practice.

Bernie Sidney is originally from Mexico City and earned her STOTT PILATES^® certification at John Garey Pilates Studio in Long Beach, Ca. where she was employed from 2000-2010. She became an Instructor Trainer for Merrithew^® specializing in STOTT PILATES in 2002 and has had the great opportunity to travel to Mexico, Spain and South America to teach courses. Bernie is a long distance triathlete and coach and has completed seven Ironmans and many Half-Ironmans. She now lives in San Diego, Ca. where she trains most of her clients.

Bianca Bolissian has been a devoted dancer since the young age of four. This is exemplified by her graduation in 2004 from the Dance University in Campinas, Brazil where she expanded her knowledge of classical ballet and contemporary dance. In 2006, Bianca moved from Brazil to Toronto, Canada, becoming a fully certified STOTT PILATES^® Instructor by 2007 and moving further to become a Lead Instructor Trainer for Merrithew^® Specializing in STOTT PILATES and Total Barre^®. Her passion for teaching and body movement is displayed by her outgoing and caring demeanor, always putting her clients first and providing them with an enjoyable and productive workout.

Bridget received her first STOTT PILATES^® certification in Matwork in 2002 and became a certified Instructor Trainer for Merrithew^® in 2006. Located in Long Beach, California, Bridget is the owner of her own studio “The Studio by Bridget”.