Clare Axon-Saunders - Founder & Head of Teacher Training

Clare’s Pilates journey started almost 20 years ago when she took a Pilates class to improve her horse riding and unexpectedly fell in love with the Method. After becoming hooked on the benefits of Pilates – increased strength and flexibility, but more importantly, an improvement in her horse riding – she underwent contemporary Pilates training. After some time, she found Classical Pilates and found that it connected all the missing pieces, further deepening her knowledge and understanding of Pilates. 

Dedicated to continued growth and improvement, Clare continuously refines her expertise. She recently completed training in evidence-based Pilates, integrating the latest scientific insights with traditional Pilates principles. This unique blend makes Clare possibly the only Classical, evidence-based Pilates teacher in the UK, offering an unparalleled depth of instruction.

Clare possesses an eye for detail, ensuring her classes are both challenging and progressive. Yet, her support throughout your Pilates journey is unwavering. Expect her sessions to be filled with laughter (and the occasional F-bomb), as she firmly believes that working hard should always be enjoyable. Her kind manner and engaging teaching style consistently make her classes exceptionally popular. 

Clare Axon-Saunders, Pilates Barns lead teacher, in her Pilates Barns St Albans Studio

Clare works closely alongside leading Physiotherapists, Osteopaths, and other healthcare professionals. This ensures clients with ongoing health conditions receive the most comprehensive and integrated support possible, fostering holistic well-being.

Beyond the studio, Clare finds balance with her two horses and two dogs. She’s also a passionate enthusiast of Calisthenics – a demanding form of body-weight training – and a regular at music festivals, truly embodying her philosophy of working hard and playing hard. Join our vibrant community on Facebook or Instagram and be part of our journey towards better health and fitness.