Jackie Weiner, a nationally certified Pilates teacher, has been practicing since the mid-90s, beginning with mat classes in the Hamptons before completing her certification through Core Dynamics. She is known for her meticulous, highly individualized approach, building each program around a client’s history, goals, and specific needs. With advanced training in scoliosis, pre- and post-natal Pilates, and athletic conditioning, her sessions are both precise and deeply responsive. She is also the co-founder, with Louis Gonzalez, of The Pilates Place Studios, with locations in Miami and South Beach. Here, she shares her thoughts on health and wellness.
What does wellness mean to you?
To me, wellness is feeling connected — to your body, your mind, your community, and your purpose. It is not perfection or chasing trends. It is waking up and feeling strong, capable, energized, and grounded in who you are.
Is there a specific fitness activity that you love and why?
Classical Pilates will always be my first love because it is intelligent movement. It strengthens the body while teaching control, awareness, and precision. I love that it meets people exactly where they are — whether they are an athlete, recovering from injury, or simply trying to age well.
What is your greatest wellness achievement?
Building a studio community that has lasted for more than 20 years in Miami Beach is something I am incredibly proud of. We have had clients stay with us through pregnancies, injuries, career changes, aging, and major life transitions. Being trusted to support people through all those chapters is a privilege.
What person in wellness do you most admire and why?
I admire Joseph Pilates, because his work was so ahead of its time. He understood the connection between movement, posture, breath, and overall health long before it became mainstream. His philosophy still feels incredibly relevant today.
What is the best piece of wellness advice you have ever received and from whom?
One of the best lessons I learned through Pilates is that consistency matters more than intensity. Small, mindful practices done regularly create lasting change in the body and mind.
What is your idea of balanced healthy happiness?
Balanced healthy happiness is feeling peaceful in your body and present in your life. It is having enough energy to do the things you love, meaningful people around you, and the ability to enjoy life without constantly feeling like you need to “fix” yourself.
What do you think is the most overused word in wellness?
“Biohacking.” Sometimes wellness gets overly complicated, when many of the most powerful things are actually simple: movement, sleep, nourishment, sunlight, connection, and stress management.
Do you have a secret health or wellness tip you would like to share?
Slow down and breathe. Most people move through life disconnected from their breath and their bodies. Even a few minutes of intentional breathing and mindful movement can completely shift your nervous system.
What is your go-to for de-stressing?
Movement and nature. If I feel overwhelmed, I step away, go outside, walk, breathe, and reconnect with my body. Pilates has always been my anchor during stressful periods of life.
What brings you joy?
Helping people feel stronger and more confident in their bodies brings me the greatest joy. I also love seeing clients discover that movement can actually feel empowering and enjoyable, not punishing. Outside the studio, family, friendship, sunshine, music, and being near the ocean make me happiest.
