Kim started teaching pilates when her first son was born back in 2001 and has been pursuing her passion ever since.
Karen is a Physical Therapist with nearly 20 years of experience in medical, orthopedic, and neurological rehabilitation.
Louise is a Physical Therapist Assistant combining her experience in Physical Therapy with her training in Pilates.
Alice is a Physical Therapist with a specialty in Women’s health and pelvic floor. Her PT experience combined with her Pilates training and ability to intuitively sense the energy and movement in the body has changed many clients lives and quality of living.
Mary Kate is a Physical Therapist with Connections Physical Therapy in Harvard, Ma. Her passion is within the outpatient orthopedic setting.
Julie is a Physical Therapist with Connections Physical Therapy in Harvard, Ma. She is certified in therapeutic yoga and incorporates a mixture of manual therapy, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, and therapeutic exercise prescription for each of her patients.
Leah has a passionate commitment to growth in her personal practice and teaching of Pilates, Yoga, Barre, and Zumba.
Krissy has been working in the fitness industry since 2003. Krissy believes the recipe for happy life is simple nutritious eating, exercise, and mind body movement.
Nickie attended her first Pilates class at Bodylines over 10 years ago! She quickly became enamored with both Bodylines and the Pilates method as she watched her body transform and heal before her very eyes.
Meghan McCaffrey is a certified Power Pilates Instructor and has been with the Bodylines team for 3 years.
Rachel began her fitness teaching journey in 2016 as a kickboxing instructor but had previous teaching experience as a children’s swimming instructor.
Division 1 athlete, Mom of 4, and new Grandma! Linda discovered Pilates about 20 years ago.
After Heather’s first back surgery, she researched safe, non-extraneous ways to build her core strength for protecting her back and stumbled upon Pilates. She loves that she can get a full workout without overexerting/overstraining her body.
Kim Casto
- Bodylines Founder & Owner
- Power Pilates Teacher Trainer
- N.C.P.T.- Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher
Kim started teaching pilates when her first son was born back in 2001 and has been pursuing her passion ever since. Pilates changed her life after suffering from Post-Partum Depression, in which it created her purpose: to positively change the lives of others and empower them through pilates, fitness, and wellness.
Bodylines was created in effort to spread the Pilates vibe by making it more affordable to access in the area.
Kim’s Pilates training is in classical and contemporary styles of Pilates. Her teaching honors the original work by Joseph Pilates while respecting the individual needs of the client. Kim education includes:
– Teacher Trainer for Power Pilates. Teaching pilates certifications internationally.
– (3) 600-hour certifications with Polestar Pilates, Power Pilates, and Balanced Body.
– Master trained through The Pilates Center of Boulder CO.
– Numerous PMA conferences and continuing education programs over the last 20 years.
Kim is passionate about coaching clients and mentoring instructors for success. Kim has been teaching Pilates since 2001; continuing to educate herself by regularly attending workshops and taking lessons with premier instructors.
- Loves: All things Strawberry Shortcake (the cartoon character)
- Perfect Morning: Sunrise, deck, coffee in hand
- Unknown fact: Went to college to become an FBI agent
- Hidden Talent: Previous Table Tennis Champion
Karen Luchini
- Physical Therapist
- N.C.P.T.
- Power Pilates Comprehensive Certified
Karen is a Physical Therapist with nearly 20 years of experience in medical, orthopedic and neurological rehabilitation. She is a lifelong athlete with over 10 years of martial arts training and black belt in Taekwondo, an experienced cyclist and has competed in many triathlons. She is versed in weight lifting and olympic style lifts. Her passion for Pilates came about after she was diagnosed with Leukemia. Pilates helped tremendously with her physical rehabilitation and road to recovery. Karen is inspired by helping others to meet their goals while improving their strength and fitness.
Karens depth of knowledge and ability to connect to others is impressive in addition to her zest for life and the energy she exudes.
Also trained/certified: Functional Movement Screens, TRX, Personal Trainer, Buff Bones- Pilates with Osteoporosis,
Louise Helmer
- N.C.P.T.- Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher
- Power Pilates Comprehensive Certified
Louise lives in Groton, MA with her husband, two children and two dogs. Louise is a Physical Therapist Assistant combining her experience in Physical Therapy with her training in Pilates.
“I love the way these two careers have combined so nicely into one!” Louise has a passion for teaching and loves that Pilates can be used by all levels of ability to improve one’s health and well-being. “I want clients to experience how movement can heal them! My journey continues in my own personal Pilates practice and in my teaching … the learning never ends!” Louise loves the outdoors, staying active and spending time with her family!
- Louise was born in England, immigrated to Canada at 8 years old and now lives in the U.S.
- Has 4 college degrees!! Graphic Design, Law Clerk, Teacher, & Physical Therapist Assistant
Alice Thompson
- Physical Therapist
- Power Pilates Comprehensive Certified
Alice is a Physical Therapist with a specialty in women’s health and pelvic floor. Her PT experience combined with her Pilates training and ability to intuitively sense the energy and movement in the body has changed many clients lives and quality of living.
Graduated 1985 from the University of Florida. Initially worked at Shands teaching Hospital as a Neuro team supervisor and treatments of burn patients. She was a guest lecturer in the PT curriculum on burns and spoke in a continuing Ed programs on the treatment of heart transplant patients. She has been working in outpatient since 1990. Her Continuing Ed has been in manual therapy with a special interest in the SI. In 2006, she began treating woman with incontinence and pelvic floor pain. Alice has also taught lab classes at U Lowell for first year PT students.
Alice is available for pilates private lessons & private coaching for incontinence and women’s health issues, S.I. dysfunction assessment, and manual treatment for thoracic and lumbar spine.
In addition to her Physical Therapy & Pilates education she has years of studying the practice of mindful based stress reduction and has completed: (2) six week courses in mindful based stress reduction, Level 1- Cranio sacral therapy combined, 8 week conscious manifestation course with Eckart Tolle & many other workshops.
Love to dance & trail run
Dr. Mary Kate Camara PT, DPT, Physical Therapist
- Physical Therapist
Mary Kate graduated from University of Vermont in 2013 with a BS in Exercise and Movement Science before continuing her education at UVM to receive her Doctorate of Physical Therapy.
After graduation, Mary Kate found her passion within the outpatient orthopedic setting. Mary Kate joined Connections Physical Therapy in Harvard, MA in 2018 to continue to provide the high level of care she expects for her patients.
Mary Kate brings a wide variety of experience and utilizes manual therapy, differential diagnosis, and therapeutic exercise prescription to maximize the effectiveness for each patient. She has built her reputation through compassionate and caring physical therapy.
How did you discover Pilates and what do you love about it?
I love how Pilates is a whole body exercise without heavy impact. There is so much that you can do at any stage of life even if you are recovering from an injury. You can really see improvements in your body and practice with each session, which is so fun!
Tell us a bit about your life story
I grew up in Somerset, MA and went to college at UVM. After college, I landed a job in NH for a few years. Then I wanted to move back closer to my family when my niece was born and I found a new job in Acton and have been here for a little over 3 years now and absolutely love the area!
What is life like for you outside the studio?
I have a 4 year old rescue dog who takes up all of my free time! We enjoy going hiking up in the White Mountains of NH. My boyfriend and I are still new to the area, so we love to try different restaurants (I absolutely LOVE to eat). I also say that I exercise to eat all the delicious food 🙂
If you were stranded on an island, what 3 things would you want with you?
Unlimited books to always have something to read, dogs because they are great company, food (I love food)
You’re dream vacation…
Portugal! My family is from the Azores and it has always been a top place I would love to go to.
Fun fact?
My dream would be to open a farm and rescue as many dogs as I can.
What’s one thing that people don’t know about you?
My motivation to exercise is so I can eat any food I would like.
Julie LaSante PT, MSPT, Physical Therapist
- Physical Therapist
Julie received her Masters of Physical Therapy in 2009 from Quinnipiac University. Julie has taken over a dozen continuing education courses since graduation, demonstrating her commitment to always providing best practice care to her patients.
Julie is certified in therapeutic yoga and incorporates a mixture of manual therapy, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, and therapeutic exercise prescription for each of her patients.
How did you discover Pilates and what do you love about it?
I have always been a fitness enthusiast (running, yoga, field hockey, soccer, swimming, biking, skiing) but had never tried Pilates. When Kim approached me about training to become a Pilates instructor, despite never having taken a Pilates class, I decided to give it a try and instantly fell in love with it and the way it resonates with me as a
runner and as a physical therapist.
What do you love most about teaching?
I love watching people learn how to move their bodies in new ways and challenging them to help them discover what they are capable of. I love to see how the power of touch can completely change the way the body moves and help people move better. It is so rewarding helping people meet their fitness goals and feel good about themselves.
Describe the type of client you are uniquely qualified to teach?
As a physical therapist, I utilize my rehabilitation background when working with clients with injuries or physical limitations and in finding modifications that work for them. With my in-depth knowledge and training in orthopedics and years of experience treating all types of musculoskeletal injuries, postural dysfunction, and movement disorders, I am highly qualified to work with clients with physical limitations/injuries in meeting their fitness goals.
Tell us a bit about your life story.
I was born and raised in Littleton and then moved to Hamden, Connecticut where I got my Masters degree in physical therapy from Quinnipiac University. My husband and I lived in Connecticut for a couple years before we moved back to Massachusetts and started our family. I have worked as a physical therapist in outpatient orthopedics for the past 13 years.
What is life like for you outside the studio?
My husband and I are just enjoying our busy life with our three young children and 2 dogs. I am an avid runner and like to sign up for all the local races from 5Ks to half marathons. I also love spending time outside with my family, whether it be hiking, camping, swimming, biking, skiing, or just reading a good book with my cup of coffee.
How would your family describe your personality?
My family would describe me as an easygoing person with a good sense of humor, lots of enthusiasm, and too much energy!
Leah Cullinane
- Power Pilates Comprehensive Certified
- Licensed Zumba Instructor
Leah has a passionate commitment to growth in her personal practice and teaching of Pilates, Yoga, Barre, and Zumba.
As an artist and art educator, Leah has explored creative forms of movement for most of her life. As a little girl and teenager, she enjoyed cheerleading, dance, and sports. During her college years, she delved into Yoga. Later, she fell in love with Pilates and Zumba. Now a certified Comprehensive Power Pilates instructor, licensed Zumba instructor, and trained Barre instructor, Leah has found the perfect balance for her body, mind, and spirit! She is honored to empower clients to find theirs.
For 17 years, Leah has taught full time K-5 and 9-12 Art in the Nashoba Regional School District.
When Leah isn’t teaching or taking classes at Bodylines, you might find her out with her family on an adventure, upgrading her home, or working on creative projects.
- Her very first Pilates experience was presented as an opportunity to barter private reformer/tower lessons in exchange for modeling for a fellow Painting major at Massachusetts
- College of Art in 2001. A lifelong interest was born!
- Cleaning relaxes Leah.
Krissy Berthoud
- N.C.P.T.- Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher
- Power Pilates Comprehensive Certified
- MS in Clinical Nutrition & Integrative Health
Krissy has been working in the fitness industry since 2003. Krissy believes the recipe for happy life is simple nutritious eating, exercise, and mind body movement. These three pillars fuel each other and balance each other. She is a firm believer that a powerful strong body brings a clear sound mind. She has an MS in Clinical Nutrition & Integrative health from Maryland University of Integrative Health as well as a certification in holistic health coaching from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. She will personalize your nutrition plan by analyzing your genetics, lifestyle, and diet. She is a PMA certified Pilates teacher. She has trained extensively in yoga with Baptiste Power Yoga Institute.
Also trained/certified in: 200 hour Baptiste Power Yoga Institute, TRX, Barre, Centergy, Ride, ACE Personal Trainer, Certified Health Coach from Institute for Integrative Nutrition, & Bodylines Clean Eating Coach.
- Loves: Live music, coffee in bed, Simon Pearce hand blown glass
- Movies: Caddyshack, Mrs. Doubtfire, The Grinch (with Jim Carey)
- Songs: Higher Love (Steve Winwood), Tangled Up in Blue (Bob Dylan)
- Love/Hate: Skiing/the Cold
Nickie Scesny
- Barre Certification
- Comprehensive Certification in Classical Mat and Reformer through Power Pilates
- Comprehensive Certification in Reformer through Power Pilates
Nickie attended her first Pilates class at Bodylines over 10 years ago! She quickly became enamored with both Bodylines and the Pilates method as she watched her body transform and heal before her very eyes. To this day, Nickie feels that her Pilates practice truly allows her to live her most authentic and best life. Nickie has found great joy, strength, and health in her Pilates practice and in the wonderful community she has found through Pilates. She feels truly blessed to be able to share all of this with her clients!
Nickie’s passion for movement arts led her to initially seek certification in Mat Pilates through Balanced Body. Her love of teaching movement to children and adults alike later inspired her to obtain her Master’s in Education with a focus on Creative Arts in Learning through Lesley University, a Barre certification, and most recently a Comprehensive Certification in Classical Mat and Reformer through Power Pilates.
Meghan McCaffrey
Meghan McCaffrey is a certified Power Pilates Instructor and has been with the Bodylines team for 3 years. She is passionate about the healing power of movement and whole body wellness. Her favorite part of working with clients is forming a connection and partnering together to achieve their goals. When not teaching, Meghan can often be found taking class alongside you, knowing firsthand the challenge of that Five Ab Series. Outside of the studio, Meghan works full time as a Product Manager at UKG. She loves spending time amongst nature, a good book, and most importantly, her morning coffee.
Rachel Fratantonio
Linda Bailey
- TRX Certification
- Comprehensive Certification in Classical Mat through Power Pilates
How did you discover Pilates and what do you love about it?
I discovered Pilates about 20 years ago after my 3rd child was born. Up until then, I had worked out at a traditional gym, lifting weights and running on the treadmill or outdoors. I bought a Winsor Pilates set which included 3 DVDs and a mat. I was drawn to Pilates because it is an ever evolving exercise for all people in different ways.
You may take the same class weekly and each week a new cue will affect you differently recruiting deeper muscle connection, increasing flexibility, etc.
What do you love most about teaching?
I love helping clients work toward their goals. Seeing them have an eureka moment-after emphasizing anchored hip pockets and abdominals in and up during a private session, the client looks at you during a group class and says “thank you for the emphasis, my back doesn’t hurt anymore while doing swan.” I also love sharing my experiences and growth in Pilates to help others expand their depth.
Describe the type of client you are uniquely qualified to teach?
Because of my love of sports and experience in sport I am uniquely qualified to teach those who want to practice Pilates to improve their performance in the weight room, on the court, field, or track by improving their strength, stability, stamina and flexibility. I also think it’s important for clients to be excited to come to their workouts so I keep it upbeat and fun while working hard.
Tell us a bit about your life story
I grew up NYC, went to college and played volleyball at the University of Pittsburgh where I met my husband who was a member of the men’s basketball team. After college, I
continued to workout and stay active while working as a realtor. We moved from Pittsburgh to Ohio and then to France for 3 years in the early 2000s. We always wanted to get back to the northeast so finally in 2016 we had an opportunity to move back, ultimately settling in Harvard.
What is life like for you outside the studio? (Hobbies, family, pets)
My husband and I have 4 children, all who have played or are playing sports in college. We’ve spent most of the last 12 years coaching and traveling with them. We have
2 doodle pups, Ollie and Rubie.
How would your family describe your personality?
I think my family would describe me as fun or funny (Bodylines team agrees-you are funny!), hard working and determined.
If you were stranded on an island, what 3 things would you want with you? and why?
1. My husband and 4 kids (oops that’s already too many)
2. A box of matches
3. A Pilates mat
4. (2) 15 lb. dumbbells
You’re dream vacation…(and why)
Sailing the British Virgin Islands with my family. Sailing is a work/play type of vacation. Sail to a new harbor, helping the captain with sails and ropes. Arrive at your destination for play and relaxation.
What’s a Fun (or funny) fact?
I ran a half marathon in 2014 and haven’t run since.
When you were little you thought you were going to grow up to be?
I wanted to be a lawyer but instead I married one.
Heather Sequeria
- Comprehensive Certification in Classical Mat through Power Pilates
How did you discover Pilates and what do you love about it?
After my first back surgery, I was researching safe, non-extraneous ways to build my core strength for protecting my back, and I stumbled upon Pilates. I love that I can get a full workout without overexerting/overstraining (except when I don’t breath) my body. The breathing really helps cleanse the mind and cleanse the heart.
What do you love most about teaching?
I have a love/hate relationship with teaching. I have such a fear of being in front of people that it causes me great distress however, I am drawn to sharing my experiences/struggles living with chronic pain, in hopes of inspiring/helping others. It is the passion of sharing that pushes me to get in front of the class.
Describe the type of client you are uniquely qualified to teach?
I have been through a lot of trials and tribulations to learn how to manage my chronic pain without prescription or OTC drugs but through Pilates. I know how hard (mentally) it can be to do any extra moving and even to take a class and having that fear of not being able to keep up. That fear has kept me from joining classes for years. Due to the awesome instructors at Bodylines, I have learned modifications that allow me to still feel that depth within my body which gives me the confidence to join classes. All of this is what I strive to bring to anyone I have the opportunity to work with.
Tell us a bit about your life story
I was born in the Berkshires (Western Mass), grew up in Daytona Beach, FL. Moved back to MA in High School years, attended University of Massachusetts Lowell and lived in the area ever since… I started my career off as a Mechanical engineer in the automated industry. I transitioned to a computer software engineer, and then progressed into the medical device sector specializing in Quality systems. Currently I work for a global organization as a Quality site lead for our local office in Boston (although I am lucky I work from home and don’t have to drive into Boston).
What is life like for you outside the studio?
I share a home in Ayer with my partner, Jim, and our dog Sukii, who is an Akita. I have two kids, both are in college, Dante is at University of Massachusetts, studying Computer Science and Cheyenne left me to go to University of Pennsylvania @ Johnstown, studying Occupational Therapy. I enjoy cooking, scrapbooking, puzzles, gardening and Pilates.
How would your family describe your personality?
Both of my children refer to me as “stubborn” which I like to think of as more determination. However they also describe me as a sarcastic, strong, dependable, caring and thoughtful individual.
If you were stranded on an island, what 3 things would you want with you? and why?
(1)Radio, because sometimes you just have to turn the music up and dance!!
(2)My best friend Cassandra, we have been friends for about 4 decades, we are complete opposites which makes everything way more interesting.
(3)Tea, I prefer tea over coffee and I really enjoy trying different varieties of teas.
You’re dream vacation…(and why)
Portugal. My ex husband’s family is from Portugal, all of the pictures I have seen of family vacations are just breath taking and I LOVE Portuguese food and Portuguese wine, so it seems like it would be a fabulous vacation spot.
What’s one thing that people don’t know about you?
There is nothing better than vanilla frosting from a can, and I have already said too much…
Fun fact?
People perceive me as very quiet and reserved when they first meet me, but once they get to know me, they see the fun, silly, laughter side of me.
When you were little you thought you were going to grow up to be….?
I dreamed of two things, a Radio City Rockette or a racecar driver
Brenda Doben
- Comprehensive Certification in Classical Mat through Power Pilates
How did you discover Pilates and what do you love about it?
Living in town I have always known about Bodylines Pilates, but it wasn’t until a promotional sign caught my eye that I decided to give it a try in February of 2020. My goal with joining was to strengthen my core with the focus to reduce chronic pain in my neck and lower back. Right off the bat, the class was invigorating and the instructors were warm and welcoming. From that moment on I was hooked!
What do you love most about teaching?
While I teach, I can help others fulfill their individual goals they hope Pilates will accomplish. I hope to use the art of Pilates to help others strengthen their mind, body and soul. Pilates has helped me to become stronger, more flexible, improve my posture and the chronic pain that I was experiencing when I first joined Bodylines Pilates has now become almost non-existent. I feel better day-to-day and enjoy daily life activities. I love that I can provide others with that same feeling.
Describe the type of client you are uniquely qualified to teach?
I have always been physically active either at my home or at the gym. I have taken a variety of classes over the years including kickboxing, step aerobics, circuit training, dancing, and I have recently started playing pickle ball. Partaking in various forms of physical activity has allowed me to develop a vast knowledge surrounding exercise. Mentioned previously, I have lived with chronic back pain; and, one of my goals going into Pilates was to reduce its prevalence. I am thrilled that this goal has been achieved by practicing Pilates, allowing me to become the best version of myself. Thus, I full heartily believe I am qualified to teach clients who also want to achieve their specific goals. Clients and I will work in tandem to ensure their desired outcomes are achieved.
Tell us a bit about your life story
I was born and raised in Central New York and moved to Massachusetts due to my job relocation. I was a project manager in both the banking and pharmaceutical industries before pursuing my love of art. I ran my own design business, providing custom painting/murals in residential homes and small businesses for many years.
What is life like for you outside the studio?
I believe being physically active and eating nutritiously allows one to achieve equality in mind and body. I also enjoy cooking and baking for my family and friends. To excel my knowledge surrounding nutrition and food science, I have completed two educational programs. Nutrition and Healthy Living, through eCornell allowed me to gain biochemical understanding of how our bodies process food and use it for energy. The second course I took, Forks Over Knives from Rouxbe Online Culinary School, challenged my culinary skills for the better. I learned how to make delicious whole food plant based dishes that my family and friends truly enjoy.
Lastly, My husband and I enjoy taking our two golden doodles on long walks. We have two daughters, one who lives in California and works as an ICU nurse, and one who lives in Boston pursing a DPT.
How would your family describe your personality?
My family would describe me as compassionate, energetic, interested in learning; everyday is an opportunity to learn and/or experience something new. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.
If you were stranded on an island, what 3 things would you want with you? and why?
Water to drink until I was rescued, a Swiss Army Knife to prepare food and magnifying glass to start a fire to be able to stay warm and cook.
You’re dream vacation:
Rent a villa in Tuscany with my family and emerge into the culture by meeting people, enjoy the local cuisine, sip wine at the vineyards and explore the countryside. Years ago, we went to Rome and Florence and always wished we had extra time to travel out to the beautiful countryside.
What’s one thing that people don’t know about you?
I teach cooking classes to individuals who are interested in learning about whole food plant based cooking.
Fun fact?
Over the recent years, I have accumulated many different household plants and I enjoy propagating them to share their beauty with family and friends.
When you were little you thought you were going to grow up to be….?
A Veterinarian.