From The Center Pilates Studio

Patrick O'Brien is the President and Director of From The Center Pilates Studios and FTC Pilates Teacher Training Program in Chicago, IL. His business is Chicago's longest opened and largest Pilates Studio business with two Chicago locations.

Patrick began studying the Pilates Method in 1991, working with clients since 1993, opened his first Pilates Studio in 1994, certified in 1995 from the Institute for the Pilates Method (Santa Fe, NM), teaching and certifying some of Chicago’s most reputable Pilates Instructors since 1999 and began FTC Pilates Teacher Training in 2002. From 1999-2002, he hosted and co-taught Core Dynamics Pilates Teacher Training Program, directed by Michele Larsson; protégé of Eve Gentry and former Director of The Institute for the Pilates Method.

He has consulted for Core Dynamics Pilates, Powerhouse Pilates, Barrington Athletic Club, Cheetah Gyms, Mike George Fitness Systems and Wheaton Sports Center. Patrick is a contributing writer for Pilates Style Magazine and an educational presenter with The Pilates Method Alliance and Pilates on Tour. His studio produces and hosts a wide variety of continuing education workshops for the Pilates Instructor including, Mechanics of Gait, Posture Analysis, Spinal Conditions, Pre & Post Natal, Conceptual Exercises, Body Assessment, Scoliosis, Anatomy, Neuromuscular Massage Therapy and West Coast Pilates. Patrick is twice certified in ZenBody Therapy®, has taken workshops in Ohashiatsu Massage, Orthobionomy®, Trigger Point Anatomy and Neuromuscular Massage Therapy. He has studied various methods of martial arts, Zen meditation, danced professionally with Zero Moving Dance Company and Mordine & Company and received a BA in Dance from Columbia College of Chicago, IL.

He believes that when teaching any person Pilates exercises and challenging them to harder more complex movements, emphasis should be placed upon the concepts that are inherent in each exercise so that each client understands them and can house them in their bodies. Patrick then teaches his clients how the body moves in space, anatomical language and correct bio-mechanical placement. Once these have been established - through the use of verbal cueing, imagery, hands-on techniques, props & tools and modifications - anyone can do any movement!