My name is Rita English, and I fell in love with Pilates while studying at art school in Richmond, VA. Moving from Jacksonville, Florida, I found myself in a season of isolation and decided to try a $30 Pilates class. The way my body felt afterward completely drew me in — strong, centered, and deeply connected. From that moment, I couldn’t get enough.

What began as a workout quickly became something deeper: a practice that helps me feel grounded, confident, and fully present.

I take pride in studying and teaching classical/Contemporary Pilates, the original method created by Joseph Pilates — a system built from creativity, resilience, and innovation. During World War I, he began teaching movement and rehabilitation to fellow internees, even attaching springs to hospital beds to help soldiers rebuild strength. That ingenuity evolved into the modern Pilates Reformer, the foundation of how we move today.

As both a creative and a teacher, I’m inspired by his creativity and purpose. Through Ri Collective, I carry forward that legacy — bringing people from all backgrounds together to feel grounded, strong, and connected in their bodies.