OUR INSTRUCTORS

Melissa Murray certified Pilates instructor and studio owner at Studio Verve in Phoenix AZ

Melissa

Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher, PMA-CPT
Melissa, Studio Verve Owner, was first introduced to Pilates by way of a DVD in college at a time when Pilates was an “alternative” fitness regimen. She knew the technique and teachings of Joseph Pilates would be life changing.
The years following proved this to be true and were spent immersed in the Industry, learning various Pilates methods, including Power Pilates, Balanced Body and Stott.

Melissa’s style of teaching focuses on the mind body synergy of Pilates and aids her clients in perfecting their muscle recruitment patterns, awareness of body response and control such that their work in the studio stays with them outside of the studio, enhancing their everyday life.

She has a keen ability to push clients to their personal limits, making for great results and changes they love, while staying safe, low impact and kind to the body – the essence of Pilates!

Born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, Melissa has lived in the valley of the sun since 2004 and calls Arcadia her home. Melissa graduated with a BS in Marketing and Minors in both Chemistry and Biology from DeSales University in Allentown, PA. She has held Corporate Marketing, Sales Management and Corporative Giving positions with Fortune 500 Companies but it was her entrepreneurial spirit and passion of Pilates that, ultimately, gave her the gusto to boot strap her way into the wonderful world of Pilates Studio ownership.

Outside of the studio, Melissa loves to travel, spend time with her family, friends and is a self pro claimed Juice/Smoothie junkie.  Need a smoothie recipe – ask her!

David certified Pilates instructor at Studio Verve in Phoenix AZ

Lauren

Lauren was first certified in New York City through Romana Kryanowska in 1995. Romana was one of Joe’s elders to pass on the method of study. In 2005, Lauren received another certification from Power Pilates. She has also studied through the IMX method of Pilates. Lauren enjoys teaching people and seeing the progress they can make through this method. She also still enjoys studying ballet, hiking and learning any new method of movement.

David certified Pilates instructor at Studio Verve in Phoenix AZ

David

Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher, PMA-CPT

David was born and raised in Lake Havasu City and currently lives in Lehi (North Mesa) with his wife and 3 dogs.  He is currently in Physical Therapy school at A.T. Still University in Mesa and passionate about getting and keeping people moving through Pilates and overall healthy activities.  He is passionate about learning about the body and has completed many certifications over the last few years

  • Polestar Pilates & Rehabilitation Certified in 2014
  • Pilates Method Alliance Certified Pilates Instructor PMA-CPT
  • TPI Golf swing analysis certified
  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
  • Posture Restoration Institute certified in Pelvic Restoration and Myokinematics

Outside of  his Pilates life, he enjoys being outdoors, gardening and woodworking projects and loves to run, hike, travel, and swim.  He ran track for Arizona State University focusing on mid distance (800m and 1500m) and coached distance events at Mesa Community College for 4 years while in college.