Posture & Back Health
Corrects muscular imbalances, supports healthy joint function and helps reduce chronic lower back pain and tension.
Tess Whelan
A second-generation teacher and international teacher trainer
Originally from the United States, Tess has practised Pilates for 40 years and has accumulated more than 20,000 teaching hours with clients and teacher trainees. Certified in 2000 by Romana Kryzanowska, Joseph Pilates’s closest student, she is now one of the few second-generation teachers in Europe—meaning she was trained directly by one of the seven first-generation masters, Joseph Pilates’s historic students.
As a Power Pilates Teacher Trainer (New York), she trains and certifies Pilates teachers internationally, faithfully transmitting the classical method with precision and respect for its original architecture.
Tess is one of the few teachers in France certified by the prestigious National Pilates Certification Program (NPCP) in the United States. She is also a member of the Fédération des Professionnels de la Méthode Pilates (FPMP).
A precise and personalized approach
Precise, deep and lasting Pilates
Every session is designed to create lasting improvements in posture, mobility and deep strength. With Tess, you practise Classical Pilates in accordance with Joseph Pilates’s original method, through precise, attentive guidance adapted to each body.
In semi-private sessions, she brings the same exacting attention to clients with different profiles, levels and goals, ensuring that each person receives individual guidance and an optimal practice within the group.
Her distinctive approach draws on a background in the performing arts and sixteen years of clinical nursing experience in the United States. This combination of artistic movement intelligence and clinical and anatomical knowledge enables her to lead sessions that are both fluid and exceptionally safe.
The original method
The Pure Classical Pilates Method: The Art and Science of Contrology
Don't just do Pilates. Practice the Method.
Classical Pilates is the method developed by Joseph Pilates, built upon concentration, control, breathing, flow, precision and centering. Structured through a rigorous progression, it develops strength, mobility, coordination and efficiency of movement while respecting the body's natural design.
Body Shape & Conditioning
Strengthens the deep abdominal muscles, improves posture and creates a longer, leaner and more toned silhouette.
Vitality & Sport
Enhances coordination, flexibility, strength and recovery. Particularly beneficial for golfers, tennis players and anyone seeking improved physical performance.
Apparatus & studio
Apparatus & mat: the complete Pilates ecosystem
Apparatus and mat work are inseparable within Joseph Pilates’s original method. The two approaches complement and reinforce one another to develop a stronger, more balanced and harmonious body.
The Reformer, Cadillac, Wall Unit, Wunda Chair, High Chair, Ladder Barrel, Spine Corrector and Classical Mat help lengthen the back, align the spine, release the shoulders and strengthen the centre with precision. Through their springs in particular, the apparatus guides the body, limits compensations and develops exceptional body awareness.
Discover the apparatus and experience Joseph Pilates’s original method in its most authentic form in an intimate Pilates studio in the heart of Paris’s 7th arrondissement. Private and semi-private studio sessions, as well as in-home sessions.
Teacher Training
Transmission, precision and professional expertise
Tess teaches movement education to Pilates professionals and certifies future instructors internationally. Her teaching remains faithful to the original systemic approach developed by Joseph Pilates. Exercises are not selected à la carte; they follow a precise and logical sequence in which every movement and every transition serves a specific purpose. This methodical progression creates strength, control, fluidity and efficiency throughout the entire body while preserving the integrity of the Classical Pilates system.
Classes & rates
Find the right format
Each session lasts 50 minutes and is adapted to your individual needs: children, adults, seniors, athletes, prenatal and postnatal Pilates (reserved for clients with previous regular Pilates experience). Sessions are available by appointment in the studio, at home in Paris or online.
| Format | Standard rate | Loyalty Rates | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private session | 120 € | 110 € | Exclusive work through the complete system, with adjustments and modifications tailored to your health, needs and goals. |
| Semi-private duet | 80 € / person | 70 € / person | Classical Pilates apparatus sessions, open to all and multi-level, using the full studio system. Synergy work or individualized apparatus programming, adapted to the group dynamic while respecting each person’s specific needs. A balance of group exercises and personalized coaching for optimal progression. |
| Semi-private trio | 65 € / person | 60 € / person |
Conditions: purchases are valid for 6 months and are non-refundable. Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance; otherwise, the session is due. Payment by cash or card.
Learn more about Loyalty Rates →
Booking
Schedule a Pilates session
A dedicated space for lesson requests only: private, duet, trio or in-home Pilates. Your request is sent with the subject “Pilates booking”, separately from general contact messages.
Testimonials
What clients say
“Through Mat and apparatus work with Tess, my posture was transformed and my pain disappeared.”Dr. Carolyn Webber
“In one month with Tess, my chronic pain disappeared. My golf swing became much more fluid.”Ray Zasoski
“My flexibility improved and I have greater range of motion in my joints.”Estelia Mesimer
Contact
A question before booking?
This form is for general questions: practical information, level, health, in-home Pilates, teacher training or professional requests.
American Classical Pilates
Studio Flower
32 avenue Duquesne
75007 Paris, 7e arrondissement de Paris
americanclassicalpilates@gmail.com
01 83 89 97 39
06 95 62 01 78
US: (904) 615-6742