Meet Devra Swiger

Today we’d like to introduce you to Devra Swiger.

Hi Devra, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
In the late 90s, I was freelancing for an online fitness journal and teaching aerobics part-time. I got the idea to write an article about Pilates which, at the time, was relatively new to the public. I knew nothing about it so I thought it would be fun to research. I lived in Charlotte, NC and at that time, there was only one Pilates studio. I called and made an appointment with the owner and I interviewed her for the article. I also scheduled a session for myself for the following week. After that, I went to see her as often as I could. Within a year, several training classes and a lot of observation, I became an instructor too. Since that time, I have been certified in a variety of Pilates methods including both classical and more contemporary styles. I have a home studio near downtown Huntington Beach where I see clients of all ages and all fitness levels.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road at all. As soon as I got my suburban Charlotte studio going, my husband got a job out of state and we moved. I took my equipment with me and opened a studio in my Louisville, KY basement where I saw most of the neighbors and their friends and families. As soon as that was moving along smoothly, my husband moved us to the LA area. Needless to say, teaching in California was not the same as teaching in North Carolina or Kentucky I felt a lot of pressure to focus on a more contemporary or modern approach and much of what I had learned over the years didn’t seem to suit the LA audience. However, I learned to tweak a few things here and there and before long I was as busy as ever. I was even able to remain opened during Covid.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a linguist by education. I speak French and Spanish fluently and I am conversant in Russian and Italian. I was also a dancer in my youth and I continue to study dance when I have time. Right now, I am enjoying Latin dance – especially Salsa and Cha Cha.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I confess! I eat a lot. Most people in my profession are very guarded about eating, but I admit to enjoying pizza once in a while and I am crazy about chocolate

Pricing:

• Single Private Session $85
• Single Package Price $75
• Single duet Pricing (each) $55
• Duet Package pricing (each)$45

Contact Info:

• Website: www.Ab-Pilates.com
• Instagram: Devra5