Meet The Mobilates Team
We are proud to have the following teachers, facilitators, volunteers and directors supporting Mobilates.
Each of our freelance teachers has their own companies, employment, or work as sole traders elsewhere and we are honoured that they have chosen to provide services to Mobilates CIC as well.
Our volunteers and directors gift their time to helping to make Mobilates a CIC. Thank you.
We could not do this without you!
Evaluation and Impact Intern
During my internship at Mobilates I hope to gain more insight into making movement accessible for people, and assessing the impacts for customers. I look forward to meeting everyone, and promote their experiences to other investors and prospective customers!
I am a BA Politics and International Relations student at the University of Exeter and I am passionate about creating welcoming and inclusive spaces like here at Mobilates.
Physical activity has always helped me manage my anxiety and vertigo, even if I am not able to do much at the time. Movement should not be taken for granted, and the work Mobilates does through making exercise more accessible and safe, I believe, paves a new path in the fitness industry, which should be more readily adopted.
During my internship at Mobilates I hope to gain more insight into making movement accessible for people, and assessing the impacts for customers. I look forward to meeting everyone, and promote their experiences to other investors and prospective customers!
Volunteer Relaxation Specialist
I am Hazel. I used to be a counsellor and hypnotherapist, but retired many years ago.
I am Hazel. I used to be a counsellor and hypnotherapist, but retired many years ago. I use the gentle introduction I used in hypnotherapy to relax you and then take you on a guided journey. It does not matter if you cannot follow the imagery as the subconscious part of the brain will take over. The relaxation I do is quite repetitive from session to session because that makes it easier for you to relax with practice. It is not for everyone, and I will not mind if you try it and decide it is not for you. Each session will be about half an hour to allow five minutes before and after to chat. Once the relaxation session has started no one will be admitted as this will disturb those already relaxing.
Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
Alex has joined us from the recommendation of one of our members and through his interests in working with people with long term health conditions and persistent pain. Alex will be offering online physiotherapy to our members and running Body Doubling sessions to enable our members to regularly work through their physio exercises with support and encouragement.
I am a physiotherapist with specialist experience in assessment, diagnosis and complex pain management.
My approach is all about treating people rather than pathologies, and am passionate about helping people to get back to whats important to them.
Good health requires a holistic and non-judgemental approach, of which physiotherapy is one component, and I have spent several years working alongside other professionals such as dieticians, psychologists, occupational therapists, clinical specialists and doctors giving me a wide range of skills and experiences.
I split my time between providing clinical assessment and treatment to patients at ABPT physiotherapy, and lecturing to physiotherapy students in Birmingham. I also run the physi-ed YouTube channel and podcast, which aims to educate healthcare professionals and students on the wider determinants of health.
When I'm not working, I love spending time with my family and playing guitar. You can find out more about my experience and what I'm involved in at https://www.youtube.com/@Physi-ed.
Body Doubling Facilitator
Anne is one of our members from Wales. She runs a small business, PinkGold Ltd, that supports neurodivergent entrepreneurs and academics to find ways of working that enable them to thrive. Now semi-retired due to health, she is delighted to be able to use some of her skills to support Mobilates.
Anne is one of our members from Wales. She runs a small business, PinkGold Ltd, that supports neurodivergent entrepreneurs and academics to find ways of working that enable them to thrive. Now semi-retired due to health, she is delighted to be able to use some of her skills to support Mobilates.
Marketing and Communications Assistant
I started off as an intern at Mobilates focusing on Marketing and Communications, you might not get to see me but you will see my impact on the website, social media and other forms of communication.
I am a Bsc Business student at The University of Exeter and love exercise in many forms (mainly tennis) but I have recently done a few classes with Mobilates which has ignited my passion for Pilates!
I have lived experience through my experience with IBS and chronic anxiety, these are greatly helped through exercise and it is truly inspiring to see the amazing work that happens here at Mobilates and how so many peoples lives have changed.
I am dedicated to bring more attention to this wonderful organisation throughout my time in this internship and look forward to look forward to helping more people discover the benefits of Pilates and the supportive community here at Mobilates.
Executive Assistant to the CEO and Directors
As a volunteer I support a lot of the background running of Mobilates including writing the newsletters, assisting with book-keeping, helping members book classes and administering the booking system as well as writing the minutes for the director meetings.
Hi there. I'm Alex and Leanne says I am totally awesome!
British Gymnastics Love To Move Deliverer, Creative Content Writer & Website Development
I deliver the Love to Move classes as well as volunteer for Mobilates writing content for the website and newsletters.
I joined Mobilates in December 2023 having tried a free class offered through EDS UK. I signed up to a week’s trial and then had no hesitation in joining. I love the variety of sessions on offer and look forward to every class. I love the structure and support as well as the connection with others and find the attention to detail and careful adaptations so helpful and beneficial.
Mobilates now plays a huge part in supporting my Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Neurological Movement Disorder, Addison’s Disease, Chronic Pain and Fatigue and Psychosis. Since joining Mobilates I have made significant progress and learnt so much from other members about my conditions and how to manage them.
I am privileged to be a part of a team that can help you to achieve your exercise goals but will also enable you to connect with others who really understand what it’s like to have lived experience of chronic health conditions, disabilities, mobility problems and mental health conditions.
I teach the British Gymnastics Love to Move programme every Thursday. Additionally, I volunteer as creative content writer – producing content for the newsletter and blog page as well as supporting with the development of some new website pages.
Away from Mobilates I work as a Peer Support Worker with Sport for Confidence and Activity Alliance on a programme called Include to Improve, that aims to increase high quality opportunities for disabled people to participate, volunteer and work within the sport and physical activity sector.
In my spare time I’m an Ipswich Town football fan, love to watch gymnastics and enjoy walks and cake by the sea.
Recent training includes:
Strategic Business Support & Body Doubling Facilitator
I'm Mobilates' first official volunteer and I support with the volunteering programme, funding bids and many other things as and when I can.
Hi, I’m Lisa – a neurodivergent (AuDHD) single mum living with multiple complex health conditions, including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), CPTSD, and PMDD. I was only diagnosed in 2022/2023, and my amazing son Jacob, who experiences many EDS symptoms, is currently awaiting diagnosis too.
I discovered Mobilates in February 2023 through a free class offered to EDS Support UK members. At the time, I had just received a diagnosis from a rheumatologist who referred me for six NHS physio sessions—but also advised me to research the condition online and find a private hypermobility specialist, as that was all the NHS could offer.
Trying that first class through a trusted organisation gave me the confidence to join. The free trial allowed me to explore membership without pressure. I struggle with traditional group classes and in-person exercise for various reasons, including proprioception issues—so remembering physio exercises and doing them "correctly" was really challenging. Mobilates was a game-changer. Being able to see myself on screen, receive live guidance, and ask for adaptations based on what my body needed that day made all the difference.
The structure of booked classes, with email and text reminders, creates anchor points throughout my week. The classes provide not just movement but a positive, uplifting reset. Even on difficult days where I can barely move, I benefit emotionally—and on better days, I revisit class recordings to rebuild strength.
Since starting regular 1:1 sessions in June 2023, my physical health, strength, and mobility have significantly improved. But the impact goes far beyond the physical—my mental health has benefitted hugely. The genuine warmth and support from instructors and the wider Mobilates community has given me something I didn’t know I was missing. From the Saturday socials to the Facebook group, I’ve found a safe space where I can laugh, vent, learn, and connect.
Because of the incredible support and transformation I’ve experienced, I became Mobilates’ first official volunteer in July 2024. I have complex health needs which sometimes limit my capacity—but I’m always made to feel valued and included, even when I need to step back.
Before having my son, I worked as a Service Development Manager at Citizens Advice, leading on funding, volunteering, social policy, and communications. I also spent eight years as a Local Councillor, holding Cabinet roles including Assistant Mayor for Communication & Engagement, Lead Member for Health & Wellbeing, and Lead Member for Children’s Services. After stepping down from public office in 2019, I worked as a governance and project management consultant, supporting Citizens Advice Bureaux through a merger.
Now, I’m proud to bring my lived experience, strategic insight, and practical skills to support and grow Mobilates. It’s a joy to play a small part in such a life-changing organisation.
Pilates Instructor
I teach Lite Pilates and Seated in-person classes in Paddock Wood, Kent
Hi. I'm Sophie, I’m 52 and married with 3 children.
I love all things fitness related and am a personal trainer, fitness instructor, nutrition advisor, holistic masseur and teach many varied classes.
In the last few years I have become qualified in level 3 Pilates and yoga and currently studying for a further yoga qualification.
I have lived experience supporting people close to me with illness and mental health issues and have persistent back pain which I manage holistically with stretches, Pilates and restorative yoga. I love how yoga and Pilates balance me internally as well as strengthening and soothing my body.
My aim is to help people with clear, precise guidance and I would love to help you all if I can.
Trauma Informed Qigong Practitioner and Sound Therapist
I teach Qigong, with some elements of Tai Chi. I also run sound baths, mainly at Mobilates retreats.
I’m Santana, Trauma Informed Qigong Practitioner and Sound Therapist for Mobilates and my own Community Interest Company called Warrior Healing.
I’m a neurodivergent, queer, disabled parent with a lived experience of Chronic illness, pain and Trauma.
I have really struggled with debilitating chronic illnesses, mostly stemming from a genetic condition I have called Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and also due to having experienced severe trauma in my lifetime.
Since starting college as a teen mum, I have focused heavily on the social sciences and later went to University where I studied Social Work. I have worked at a charity I helped create for adult survivors of sexual abuse since university and more recently I have been a board member for a Social Housing group where I championed disabled and disadvantaged customers.
I’ve been practicing (mostly from my living room) Qigong for 10years, starting off as a wheelchair user who lived in constant pain and I could hardly move my body at all. Slow and steady, I have not only regained my mobility but I have reduced or removed medications too! 2 years ago I added in Mobilates classes to my routine after meeting Leanne through EDS UK and started with their seated classes. Now I’m able to do all the classes and I have recently joined a gym! I believe this type of movement is suitable for everyBODY and I am so excited to share this healing wisdom and form of relaxation with you, seated, supported or standing.
My hobbies include reading, podcasts, writing poetry, crochet, and spending time in nature and occasional these days I can go watch a band play!
Qualifications:
Transformation Coach & Hypnotherapist
Meet me in our community activities like Togetherness and Book Club.
my knees had given up on me: I was completely housebound & very frustrated
Pilates is my form of zen. My way to meditate, to find a sense of inner peace and calm, while ensuring my body moved well. What on earth was I to do now? In 2018 I found myself permanently on crutches after a diagnosis of severe osteoarthritis in both knees. My regular Mat Pilates classes were an impossibility – I physically couldn’t get to class, and getting down and hoiking myself back up off the floor was excruciatingly painful. No more Reformer classes, too *sob*.
After months and months of struggling emotionally and physically, I plucked up the courage to email Leanne. We’d met while training as NUTRIRI facilitators, and had just ‘clicked’. I trusted her not to laugh at me. Was there ANY possibility I could take part in her online Pilates classes?
After a one-to-one with Leanne, I was all set. And my love of stretching with pingy bands and balls (big and small!) was encouraged, meaning I was able to fully take part in Pilates doing all my favourite things! Everyone in class was so supportive, and even if I had a really bad “pain” day, I could just pop myself into a restorative pose with my beloved balls and still be part of the class.
Leanne and Kerry are currently helping me to to build a strong core, in preparation for a LOT of upcoming surgical procedures, while I chuckle and grunt my way through classes.
I have led occasional guided relaxation, creative meditation and hypnosis sessions for Mobilates members, which led to Leanne’s invitation to facilitate our Tuesday Togetherness sessions each week. (Leanne will also happily tell you herself that she and her beautiful Martha had hypnotherapy sessions with me, too, which is why she’s a big fan!)
As an ardent lifelong learner, my list is long – so here are the most relevant to my role in the Mobilates team:
Director
I'm one of the directors supporting the strategic direction of Mobilates so you probably won't get to see much of me apart from when I can make some of the socials and classes.
Hi I'm Mel and I am so happy to be a part of Leanne's inspiring journey and the vision she has for Mobilates.
I head up a Project Management Office within Market Research and and more than happy to offer my expertise to support Leanne's vision and make exercise and movement available for all.
Director
You probably won't get to see me much other than in classes as I work behind the scenes supporting the strategic direction of Mobilates and our amazing volunteers.
Hi, I'm Mary, a volunteer Director for Mobilates. You probably won't get to see me much other than in classes as I work behind the scenes supporting the strategic direction of Mobilates and our amazing volunteers. I also support Leanne with some book keeping and during events where I look after everyone to help things run smoothly and keep everyone happy.
I have worked in Higher Education for over 30 years supporting students and graduates. My qualifications are in teaching and psychology as well as first and higher degrees including Law.
Before and after hip surgery, it was Mobilates exercises, guided by Leanne, that enabled me to recover so quickly. The strength gained from targeted Pilates has kept my osteoarthritis at bay and I have seen the massive impact this programme has had on so many people.
I am honoured to be able to give something back by supporting Leanne in taking Mobilates to the next level.
Director, Pilates Teacher & Crafts Facilitator
I teach classes like Lite, Seated, some in person classes in Exeter and some of the specials such as Boost your bones and On the Ball. I also love a bit of craft and run Chat & Craft once a month for our members. I also support Leanne in the background with running Mobilates.
Hi, I’m Kerry and thanks to Leanne and Mobilates, a long-held ambition and a wonderful training school, I’m a Pilates teacher with a level three Pilates teaching diploma.
Like many of you, I came to Pilates through injury. For me, it was postnatal joint and tendon issues, plus I have lived with migraine from a young age. I’ve always loved fitness classes from aerobics to Zumba and dance but in my 30s my body started to struggle and injuries became more frequent. So I tried my first Pilates class and I’ve been feeling the benefits ever since! My body has become stronger and more resilient so although I still have joint and tendon challenges, Pilates keeps me supported and active. In my 50s, Pilates is helping me through all the hormonal and physical changes and I can’t even imagine a time in my life when I’m not practising Pilates regularly!
I teach Mobilates Pilates classes alongside Leanne both online and in person. I love that it’s not just your physical body that benefits, but your mental well-being too. When I’m teaching Pilates I encourage you to be in the here and now, concentrating on what your body needs and how it feels and moves. You’ve created this time for yourself and whatever your challenges, you’re going to feel the benefits.
Training undertaken includes:
Community Lectures:
CEO, Founder, Pilates Teacher & Pain-Free Movement Specialist
You will mostly see me teaching Bed Pilates, Mixed Pilates, WalkFit and Equipment classes, and working hard in the background to grow Mobilates and keep it supporting our amazing members.
I'm Leanne, a Pain-Free Movement Specialist, Pilates Teacher, Fitness Instructor and Coach. I am also the Chief Executive Officer and one of the directors so I am working in the background on the strategic direction of Mobilates and the running of a thriving company.
I founded Mobilates as a sole trader in 2019. Then as Mobilates got bigger I realised it would be unsustainable to be solely in charge of such an important community, and also risky. If something happened to me I'd want everyone to still be able to access accessible exercise and the support associated.
So in 2024 I changed our constitution to a not-for-profit Community Interest Company. This means that everything we do is in the best interests of our amazing community – Da Mob, and not to make a profit. So all income gets fed back into paying the teachers, facilitators and running costs and enables us to grow so we can help more people than ever before.
I understand what it is like not to be the fittest in a fitness class or the person hiding at the back doing all the wrong moves. In my classes you won't experience any of this. Or if you are going in the wrong direction, I probably will be too! You will be fully included in the group. You may find you work hard but we will keep you safe and I can guarantee you will also have fun. Everyone who attends is so friendly and welcoming that you will soon start making friends and look forward to every class.
Having struggled for years with mobility issues and pain, I was very lucky to find Pilates.
In 2016 I was diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (the hypermobility type) after a lifetime of joint pain, headaches, and gastrointestinal and respiratory issues. It was amazing for me to finally know what was wrong. The only problem was, that there is no cure and no one really knows how to help. I had countless appointments with physios, occupational therapists, consultants, and doctors. I tried all sorts of medication, acupuncture, massage, osteopathy, and hydrotherapy and nothing was helping. I started looking for a wheelchair so that I could get around more easily and even that wasn't successful as the self-propelling wheelchairs hurt the joints in my arms and made everything worse. I was spending longer and longer in bed and was losing hope. I also have trouble with my lungs and was diagnosed with POTs and Endometriosis. A lot of us in mobilates have extensive lists of multiple long term health conditions!
Until, one day, my remedial massage therapist suggested I try Pilates. I joined a Beginners' class and pretty much cried my way through the first 6 weeks as it was so painful! However, I stuck at it as I'd learned that one of the biggest enemies for people with chronic health conditions is "deconditioning". I was very deconditioned after limiting my movement due to pain and on the ill-informed advice of many physios. From beginners, I joined a Pilates Lite class. This gave me the confidence to take part within my own limits as the class was specifically for people who needed to take it a bit easier. My confidence grew and grew and I found I was having fewer dislocations, the pain was reducing and I was feeling so much better in myself. It took a couple of years of Pilates classes and doing Pilates at home on a daily basis to become the person I am today.
That is when I realised I could help other people enhance their lives through Pilates and so trained to become a Pilates teacher. I'll never be the fittest "fitness instructor" that you meet. I still have the occasional injury and often I'll be breathless while teaching…. but I know that Pilates can help everyone to be the strongest they can be.
I have a dream of helping more people with long term health conditions and disabilities to become fitness instructors so that there are more people with lived experience able to deliver sport and physical activity for people like us.
Recent additional training undertaken includes:
