About Us
We, Moira and Yannis, have had the pleasure of knowing Astarti since 2015 when we first crossed paths at the Pilates studio where she was teaching at the time. What began as weekly Pilates mat classes has evolved into a dedicated Pilates practice several times a week. Over the years, Pilates has been instrumental in helping us navigate various health challenges, as well as counterbalance our screen-centric lifestyles and family responsibilities. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that Pilates is integral to our lives. We not only rely on it for our well-being but are also deeply passionate about continually exploring and strengthening our bodies year after year.
More about Astarti
Astarti's journey into Pilates began during her dance education in Athens, Greece, where she personally experienced the transformative benefits of Pilates, including full-body strength, heightened awareness, and improved posture.
Inspired to share these benefits with others, she embarked on her path as a Pilates instructor. She completed her mat and equipment training at Smartbody Pilates Studio in Amsterdam in 2009, under the guidance of Jelena Petrovic and Anna Levin. Astarti furthered her education by graduating from the BASI Pilates comprehensive training and pursuing post-graduate studies with Heritage Training, a program dedicated to the work of legendary dancer and Pilates teacher Kathy Grant, where she studied under the mentorship of Kathy’s long-time student, Cara Reeser.
Astarti has also participated in workshops and training sessions with renowned instructors worldwide, including Kirk Smith, Sharon Gallagher, Tom McCook, Jessica Cresey, Amit Younger, and Jessica Fundim. Additionally, she integrates other relevant somatic approaches into her practice, including the Alexander technique, Rolfing, Feldenkrais, and martial arts.
Astarti currently teaches in her own studio in Amsterdam, and worldwide online. Beyond Pilates, she is actively involved in dance and performance projects and serves as a lecturer at ArtEZ University of the Arts, Home of Performance Practices in Arnhem, the Netherlands.
Astarti Athanasiadou
“What I find most gratifying about teaching Pilates is its multifaceted nature, offering invaluable learning experiences. Learning is a transformative process that brings about positive change, not only in one's body but also in one’s mood and overall life. I cherish the continuous learning curve within my own practice as much as witnessing my students grow and evolve, gaining strength and resilience throughout life.”
“During the retreat, we will embark on a journey of learning Pilates skills, a profound exploration of understanding your own body, posture, and ever-evolving movement strategies. As your teacher, I will be there to ensure you gain a deep understanding on an individual basis, which you will further apply as we collaborate in couples and small groups. You will have the space to ask questions and discover the art of learning from each other's bodies.”
Testimonials
The sessions with Astarti have always been a great combination of fun and challenge. She is a very social, engaging and supportive teacher, and she will also make sure to keep pushing the envelope and try new exercises every time. After each session, I always feel a combination of being tired but also refreshed. Doing Pilates with her results in a wholesome development of being aware of your body, your positions, your movements, and your challenges. Recovering from a serious accident, that has helped me a lot to 'get back on my feet' in so many ways!
Bram R., Netherlands
Astarti is very professional; she has the ability to change and adapt her class to every need the student has. She can provide a variety of exercises at short notice and construct a class with everyday items like towels and sticks if the proper tools are not available. She has a great knowledge of human anatomy and can, in a pedagogical way, explain and show with her own body which muscles should be used in an exercise and why. She can show you how to use your body in the best possible way. Astarti has made me believe in myself and my abilities!
Alicia K., Sweden
Astarti's deep understanding of Pilates has helped me connect with my body on a profound level and has brought me back into a shape where I feel strong and confident in my movements. I cannot recommend taking her classes enough!
Kostas S., Netherlands
With Astarti, I realised that Pilates is not only a balanced form of exercise that safeguards you from injuries but also supports your body holistically. Astarti is always well-prepared for the class, explains each exercise in detail, observes, and provides precise feedback. After each session, you eagerly look forward to the next one!
Aspasia T., Netherlands
I have been taking lessons with Astarti for years and I love it for so many reasons; her very professional and knowledgeable approach, her inspiring and energising attitude, and because she always offers personalised exercises.
Zafira K., Sweden
Having had the privilege of being tutored by Astarti for quite some years now, I cannot thank her enough for how she has supported my increasing awareness of the strengths and opportunities of my body and how to work on them. While I greatly enjoy each session - she is a lovely and warm person who is really interested in her students - she always nudges you to give that extra bit and surprise yourself. At the same time, it’s like she has infrared eyes as she is continuously scanning you and correcting you when necessary to prevent injuries. And it goes without saying that she really knows her stuff and keeps updated, looking for new challenges that fit the goals we set for the season.
Karen B., Netherlands