Jenn Berry has been practicing Pilates since 1993 and a certified Pilates instructor since 2002 via The Pilates Center of Orange County. She has a Masters degree in dance science and was educated by Joseph Pilates' protegé, Ron Fletcher and Diane Diefenderfer. As a member of the Pilates Method Alliance, Jenn invites you to train with her and receive the health benefits of Pilates: whether it's for specific training needs, to help with an injury, or for general health and flexibility advancement.

At 17, I wanted nothing more than to be a professional ballerina. I practiced for hours every day and, like most teenagers, I thought I was indestructible. One day, after much repetition, I attempted an advanced move that my body did not have the strength to support and I found myself unable to dance.

Devastated, I began a long road to recovery. It was along that road that I discovered Pilates. Before I began teaching, I practiced Pilates for over ten years. Although ballet had made me flexible and strong, I had been unaware of my body and unbalanced. Through Pilates, I entered a dialogue with my body, becoming aware of its alignment, points of strength and weakness, and limitations; as I grew this awareness, I also became stronger, more toned, and even more flexible.

I strive to create this sense of dialogue--between you and I, and between you and your body. My Pilates sessions are highly interactive, fun, safe, and challenging. We work together to create an individualized plan and help you engage your body, mind and spirit. You don't have to be an athlete or dancer to enjoy the benefits of Pilates. My clients include lawyers, nurses, doctors, nonprofit manager, and social workers in addition to professional athletes, circus performers, and actors. Whatever your fitness goals, Pilates can help achieve them.

With an extensive background in Pilates, Ballet and Modern Dance, Jennifer Berry holds two degrees: Master of Fine Arts from the University of California at Irvine in dance science and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in performance and choreography from the University of Cincinnati's College Conservatory of Music.

In addition to completing an advanced curriculum in anatomy, physiology and kinesiology courses, Jennifer has been formally certified in the original Pilates Method by master teacher Diane Diefenderfer, owner of The Pilates Center of Orange County, CA; Studio du Corps. She has also studied with Ron Fletcher, protege of Joseph Pilates. Jenn has been a Pilates instructor since 2002 and has been practicing Pilates since 1993. She is a member of the Pilates Method Alliance and is continuing her education though their curriculum.

With an extensive background in Pilates, Ballet and Modern Dance, Jennifer Berry holds two degrees: Master of Fine Arts from the University of California at Irvine in dance science and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in performance and choreography from the University of Cincinnati's College Conservatory of Music. Between degrees, Jennifer spent several years dancing professionally and training with prestigious dance companies including: New York City Ballet, Atlanta Ballet, Chattanooga Ballet, Lexington Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, Jacob's Pillow, Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, and New World Dance Experience. In 1999, she was awarded "Outstanding Teacher" in dance by the Tennessee Governor's School for Arts Education as well as, Emerging Artist of the Year in dance by Arts Association of Tennessee. Currently, Jennifer is expanding her performance vertically by Stilt dancing with Stilt Circus as well as Jumbo Shrimp Circus and Way Too Much Entertainment.

In addition to completing an advanced curriculum in anatomy, physiology and kinesiology courses, Jennifer has been formally certified in the original Pilates Method by master teacher Diane Diefenderfer, owner of The Pilates Center of Orange County, CA; Studio du Corps. She has also studied with Ron Fletcher, protege of Joseph Pilates. Jenn has been a Pilates instructor since 2002 and has been practicing Pilates since 1993. She is a member of the Pilates Method Alliance and is continuing her education though their curriculum. Throughout her degree and certification programs, Jennifer has had the benefit of working with leading orthopedic surgeons, chiropractors, circus acrobats, Olympic ice skaters, massage therapists, yogis, and martial arts masters to develop her strong understanding of the body and enhance her teaching philosophy. She has authored her own manual: Conditioning with Elastic Resistance Bands: For Ballet and Beyond. This manual, stemming from Jennifer's expertise in ballet technique and Pilates principles, includes a variety of exercises demonstrated with instructional text and photos. Jennifer was asked to present this material at The International Association of Dance Science and Medicine's 2004 conference in San Francisco, California. Additionally, she has been featured in Pilates-based exercise infomercials such as the Ab Rocker. Currently, Jennifer teaches Pilates at Cirque School LA's private and group programs.

An effective and experienced ballet and modern teacher for all levels and ages of students, Jennifer focuses on technical and performance quality in an intelligent and respectful manner while creating a fun and creative environment. She has provided instruction for some of the finest dance studios, elementary through college classes, and fitness clubs in the country including:

Performing Arts-Physical Therapy- Pilates Institute of Los Angeles

Universal Studios, Mad TV

HealthSouth Training Center

Body Basics Chiropractic and Fitness Clinic

Saddleback Community College

The Pilates Center of Orange County-Studio du Corps

Ballet Pacifica

Riverside Ballet, Ballet Conservatory.

A number of her younger students have pursued professional careers in companies and university dance majors. Along with developing dance programs for pre-professional students, she advocates community outreach programs merging dance with academics and was a guest speaker at the national 2002 Arts Bridge convention. Currently, Jennifer teaches social circus skills to homeless at-risk youth in Hollywood for Cirque du Soleils'- Cirque du Monde program

Jennifer has worked with great choreographers and teachers such as Donald McKayle, James Truitte, Oleg Sabline, Suzanne Farrell, Diane Diefenderfer, Dr. Janice Plastino, Ron Fletcher, Allen Arnett, and Kevin Martin to name a few. She has served as a demonstrator of the Lester Horton technique for Jacob's Pillow and the Philadanco Dance Company. Additionally, she has studied at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, Jacobs Pillow, and the Brainsky Saratoga Ballet Center in conjunction with the New York City Ballet.

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