Redefining How You Move: Pilates Fit Studio Owner Erica Walters Talks Passion And Profession

By Remy Sisk • Photos by Matt Johnson

As the CEO and founder of Louisville’s Pilates Fit Studio, Erica Walters works to bring her community a world-class wellness experience defined by globally recognized standards and modalities of instruction that get REAL results. Her company now spans two locations, one in Pewee Valleyand one in Indian Hills, and thanks to her genuine passion for Classical Pilates and GYROTONIC®, her refined knowledge and dedicated team, she’s built a thriving business that continues to inspire and change all who walk through her doors.

Walters began her Pilates journey in 2002 while she was a student at Arizona State University. Working as a group fitness instructor, she discovered her passion for Classical Pilates. In 2005, she earned her comprehensive certification in Classical Pilates and taught while traveling across the country with her husband, an Air Force pilot. They lived in various cities, including Scottsdale, San Diego, Dallas, and Oklahoma City. 

In 2014, after her husband retired from the Air Force, they moved to Louisville, where Walters started training clients in her home studio. Due to high demand, Walters relocated her home studio to a commercial space in 2017 and expanded again in 2019 when she moved into her current location in Pewee Valley. Recently, recognizing the need for further growth, she decided to open a second location rather than expand her existing studio, which led to the establishment of the Indian Hills location. Walters is the sole owner of Pilates Fit Studio in Pewee Valley and the majority owner of Pilates Fit Studio in Indian Hills alongside co-owner, Andrea Camiolo.

“My passion for the original Pilates work runs deep,” Walters shares. “This work is very special to me, and I believe it deserves to be honored.” 

Clients can expect instruction in classical Pilates and the GYROTONIC® method. “As a private concierge studio, we prioritize your experience and offer private and semi-private lessons available by appointment. As the regional training center for New York’s renowned Real Pilates Teacher Training®, the studio offers professional certification for classical Pilates,” Walters says. Additionally, the Indian Hills location has physical therapy and comprehensive wellness services for women, which are provided by Dr. Sweeney and Dr. Carostello, both Doctors of Physical Therapy (DPT).

“The classical Pilates method is a systematic method that emphasizes the core muscles, called the ‘Powerhouse,’” Walters explains. “This group of muscles includes the abdomen, back, glutes, hips, and pelvic floor, all supporting the spine. This comprehensive and adaptable method emphasize slow repetitions and focuses on dynamics, rhythm, and flow with spring-driven equipment. The primary goal is to build strength, endurance, and stability.” 

The GYROTONIC® method goes beyond conventional strength training and uses a series of circular and fluid exercises that work the entire body through muscular, skeletal, and cardiovascular stimulation. The method uses tridimensional, circular movements on hand-crafted wooded equipment with friction, spring, and weight resistance. It helps develop a balance between maximum strength, flexibility, and spinal decompression.

Walters’s objective for her clients is consistent. “What sets us apart is that we will REDEFINE THE WAY YOU MOVE!” she exudes. “Our workout programs are uniquely designed to meet your goals and needs. We use spring-driven equipment and body weight exercises to transform your body by building strength, correcting imbalances and asymmetries, and improving mobility and stability. We will reshape your body, ensuring every muscle operates at peak condition, resulting in a complete whole-body transformation.”

Walters’s passion for Classical Pilates and the GYROTONIC® method is evident. With her exceptionally high-level training for herself and her staff, clients can rely on an exceptional experience at Pilates Fit Studio that will positively transform their bodies.

Walters is sought after for her keen eye, understanding of body mechanics, and skill in custom programming for her clients. Her teaching style is encouraging, motivating, and welcoming, emphasizing good technique, alignment, and control. 

“I established Pilates Fit Studio because the expanding wellness community in Louisville required high-quality training with globally recognized standards,” she says. “Bringing the gold standard of classical Pilates to Louisville was only natural. From our humble beginnings in a 500-square-foot space in Crestwood to our current location in the historic district of Pewee Valley and now our second location in Louisville (Indian Hills), our clients and students have grown to depend on the caring and professionalism that are ingrained in our culture.”

Erica Walters, CEO & Founder of Pilates Fit Studio in Pewee Valley & Louisville. 

Certified Classical Pilates Instructor, Real Pilates Teacher Training® Host & Lead Instructor Trainer, Certified GYROTONIC® Instructor. B.S. Exercise Science. Author and creator of the Better Back® Program: Exercising Safely with Osteoporosis.