The Pilates Center of Ooltewah: Your Pilates Studio in Ooltewah, TN

I have learned that Pilates is not just a “workout” but a true form of healing and whole life wellness. My own Pilates journey began twelve years ago when I began working under Colleen Carboni. I could see the positive effects it had in my life almost instantly; it gave me relief in my problem areas - my knees and shoulders - which allowed me once again to enjoy activities I hadn’t been able to do like running and climbing. Being able to do those physical activities resurrected my love of the outdoors and brought the balance and quality of life I was missing.  My overall health (and my career) seemed to flourish. These improvements lead me to further my education through certifications from Balanced Body. While I was in the program out West, Ilearned that Pilates was being prescribed by medical professionals to treat patients experiencing a variety of issues from arthritis to severe back pain.Convinced of its many benefits, I’ve been practicing Pilates ever since.

 My Pilates journey has had its ups and downs! Once I had my first child, and continuing to work a full-time job, my schedule did not allow me much extra time at first to practice Pilates.  Within a short time, I realized I needed to get back to my program for my physical and mental health. I reached out to a friend who also had recently had a baby, to see if she’d be interested in doing Pilates with me. We began duo sessions with Mary at the Pilates Workshop, and I knew instantly this was the missing link!

Soon I felt strong enough to take 2 to 3 classes a week. When I received an email announcing that Mary was doing teacher training, I immediately signed up! I’ve been mentoring under Mary ever since, and my love and passion for the Pilates Method grows deeper and deeper. I am so excited Mary and I have the opportunity to share all of the possibilities Pilates has to offer here in our own community through offering classes at the Pilates Center of Ooltewah.

Tucker Knox, a Nashville native, began his journey in movement as a competitive gymnast and dancer. He trained at Juilliard while simultaneously pursuing studies at Columbia University through dual enrollment, where he developed a profound interest in the connection between the mind and body. Tucker performed with renowned companies such as Gallim Dance and the José Limón Dance Company and worked internationally with choreographers Ohad Naharin and Mauro Astolfi.

At 19, a life-changing car accident left Tucker partially paralyzed for six months. During his recovery, his love for Pilates deepened as he discovered it was far more than just fitness—it had the power to transform not only the body but the mind as well. This realization ignited his lifelong passion for Pilates and its ability to affect holistic change. Under the mentorship of Irene Dowd, Tucker honed his expertise in Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) and collaborated with physical therapists at Boston Ballet, where he tailored Pilates programs for elite dancers. He also worked as a Pilates instructor for the New England Patriots, helping professional athletes enhance performance and recovery.

Tucker’s career expanded into the entertainment industry, earning two Emmy Awards for his choreography and where he worked with global icons such as Madonna, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, and Rihanna. He appeared in productions like La La Land, Bridgerton: A Queen’s Ball, and Dancing with the Stars. In 2013, Tucker competed on Season 10 of So You Think You Can Dance, serving as the dance captain for the SYTYCD tour.

Tucker’s Pilates foundation was established early, studying with Ron Fletcher every summer from the age of 10. At 15, he met Mary Bowen, whose mentorship inspired his ongoing exploration of somatic practices and the unconscious mind. These formative experiences led him to integrate the principles of Pilates with his background in movement, dance, and therapeutic approaches.

With over a decade of teaching experience, Tucker blends classical Pilates principles with therapeutic movement, helping clients build strength, balance, and mind-body awareness. He is thrilled to bring his expertise to a studio that values the intersection of physical therapy and Pilates, offering clients the tools to reach their full potential both physically and mentally.