The iFIT Pilates Instructors Who Will Actually Change Your Practice

The instructor behind a Pilates session shapes more than the exercise list. It shapes how you're cued, how the sequence is paced, and whether the session actually fits where you are right now. That match matters more than most people realize when they're building a consistent practice.

The iFIT Pilates library has nine instructors, each with a background that shows up in how they teach. Here's how to find yours.

If you've just set up your NordicTrack reformer and want to know where to begin on the platform, this guide has the full picture.

If you want to move with precision

Jeni DelPozo has 18 years of dance and movement experience, and it comes through in every session she builds. Her focus is body control, alignment, and the kind of precision that reduces strain over time. If you want to feel technically correct as much as physically challenged, Jeni's sessions are a good fit.

Abe Ahern came to Pilates through the US Army, and that background gives his teaching a distinctive quality: disciplined, athletic, and controlled. He has a particular talent for making difficult exercises feel structured rather than overwhelming, and his sessions reward people who want to be pushed thoughtfully.

Yvette McGaffin is the Director of iFIT Pilates Product Marketing and the founder of Reform RX. With 15 or more years as a Pilates authority and functional movement expert, her sessions cover everything from foundational work through advanced powerhouse training. If you are figuring out where to start, Yvette's library will meet you there and take you further.

Sara Colquhoun has been teaching Pilates and dance since 2004. She holds a Diploma of Pilates Instruction, a Diploma of Dance and Performing Arts, and is a certified Master Instructor. Her sessions bring classical grounding together with contemporary movement, and twenty years of teaching means the structure behind them is genuinely refined.

If you're cross-training from another sport

Ashley Paulson is an elite endurance athlete and Ironman triathlete who uses Pilates as her ultimate cross-training tool for injury prevention and mental resilience. Her sessions are built around what runners, cyclists, and triathletes actually need: mobility work, stability training, and the mental focus that keeps a high-volume body going. If your primary training is cardio-heavy, Ashley's sessions address the things it tends to leave out.

Laine Karwoski's background spans hiking, biking, rowing, running, barre, Pilates, and strength training. She treats Pilates as one part of a broader movement life, and that comes through in how she teaches. Her sessions feel approachable for people who don't think of themselves as Pilates practitioners first.

If you're navigating pregnancy or post-natal recovery

Kelsey Sheahan is a certified Pilates, barre, and pre- and post-natal group fitness instructor. Her crossover certifications mean her programming draws from multiple movement disciplines, and her pre- and post-natal training means she knows how to build sessions that are safe, effective, and genuinely supportive at every stage.

Laine Karwoski is also certified in pre- and post-natal fitness. Her multi-sport background gives her sessions a grounded, encouraging feel, and her prenatal programming is designed to leave you feeling challenged and empowered.

If you're focused on longevity or feeling better in your body

Pearl Fu focuses specifically on fitness after 50. Her sessions are built around quick, effective bodyweight exercises designed to support long-term health and function. Pearl makes that work feel accessible, not intimidating.

Jacquelyn Umof's sessions are built around helping people heal pain, reduce stress, and love their bodies through easy-to-follow mindful movement. Her certifications span mat and reformer Pilates, barre, and Kundalini Yoga. If you are coming to Pilates for recovery, stress relief, or a more restorative practice, Jacquelyn's approach is made for that.

One membership, every instructor

All nine instructors are available on demand with an iFIT membership. Mat Pilates sessions are accessible through the iFIT app on any device. Reformer sessions are available directly on the machine console, with new series added throughout the year.

If you are looking for a reformer to train on, the NordicTrack Ultra 1 Reformer and the Ultra 1 Reform RX-S both carry the full iFIT Pilates library.

Start your iFIT membership and find the instructor whose approach fits where you are right now.

Frequently asked questions

Which iFIT Pilates instructor is right for beginners?

Yvette McGaffin's sessions span foundational through advanced work, making them a natural starting point for any level. Jacquelyn Umof's mindful movement focus is also well suited to people who are new to Pilates or returning after time away.

Can I access iFIT Pilates instructors without a reformer?

Yes. Mat Pilates sessions from every instructor are available through the iFIT app without any equipment. Reformer sessions require a NordicTrack reformer and an iFIT membership.

Which iFIT Pilates instructor is best for runners and cyclists?

Ashley Paulson's programming is built specifically around the needs of endurance athletes. Her sessions address the mobility, stability, and mental focus work that supports high-volume cardio training.

Does iFIT have Pilates instructors who specialize in pre- and post-natal fitness?

Yes. Kelsey Sheahan and Laine Karwoski are both certified in pre- and post-natal fitness. Their sessions are designed to support training through pregnancy and recovery after it.

Which iFIT Pilates instructor focuses on older adults?

Pearl Fu specializes in longevity and fitness after 50. Her sessions are built around movement that supports long-term health and function.

Disclaimer: The primary purpose of this blog post is to inform and entertain. Nothing on the post constitutes or is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided on the blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, and please consult your doctor or other health care provider before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information available on this blog. iFIT assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner's manual of your fitness equipment.