Experience and Dedication
We continue to explore the Classical Method through teaching, training and ongoing study. We walk the walk and honor the original method.
Robert Surenbroek
Robert brings his expertise in business as well as his extensive background in sports to Square 1 Pilates. Growing up in the Netherlands Robert received his bachelor’s degree in business management from the Amsterdam Economic School. Robert had a career as a director of photography for film, video and television working both in the USA and Europe. Robert worked for a variety of networks and production companies such as the, BBC, Deutsche Welle, MTV, Reuters and A & E.
Robert holds two comprehensive Classical Pilates Certifications, Power Pilates and Romana’s Pilates. He was a Teacher Trainer for the Power Pilates Teacher Trainer Program working internationally and in the US. Robert has been the Pilates’ trainer for the professional soccer team LAFC located in Los Angeles, CA. In addition, he is a certified snowboard instructor from the Austrian Snowboard Association.
Robert has an extensive background in swimming and water-polo, including being a member of one of the top water-polo teams of the Netherlands. Robert’s many years working as a cameraman and hands on knowledge of the sporting world gives him a unique understanding of the problems to be addressed both by working individuals as well as athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
interview
Krisna Hanks
Krisna and Robert were the founders/owners of East Bay Pilates in the San Francisco Bay area for thirteen years. During this time, they directed the onsite Pilates’ program for Pixar Animation Studios in Emeryville, CA and offered the Power Pilates Teacher Trainer Certification program at their studio. Besides her background in Pilates and Health Coaching Krisna holds certifications in Iyengar Yoga, Worksite Wellness and Senior Fitness.
Her background as a professional dancer extended over many years and countries. Ms. Hanks professional dance career includes performances with renowned directors and companies such as Twyla Tharp, Lucinda Childs, Lisa Marcus, Peter Greenaway, The Dutch National Opera & Aspect Theater London, in Europe and Akasha & Co. and Frey Faust Dance Collective in the USA.
During her time living and working in Europe Krisna was an executive coach for Executive Performance Training, an international company specializing in communication and coaching courses for CEO’s and senior executives. Krisna led courses for McKinsey & Co., ABN/AMRO Bank, Corus Steel, Findus Foodservices, Insinger De Beaufort Investment, DSM, Sabic and others. She specialized in both physical and vocal training for leaders across the globe.
For a close up interview with Krisna in the online magazine Pilates' Bridge click interview button below.
Interview
The Test of Time
Joseph Pilates came to the USA in 1925 and opened his studio in New York City along with his wife Clara. He remained at the helm until his passing in 1967 at the age of 87. Clara continued to run the studio for ten more years and then Romana Kryzanowska took over the helm.
The original method and apparatus as designed by Joe Pilates has proven successful for all types of individuals, ages, professions as well as athletes and dancers. When applied in its’ authentic order, systematic approach and use of equipment it is the ultimate full body workout combing stretch and strength with control.
Experience
Robert Surenbroek and Krisna Hanks have both been teaching Classical Pilates for more than twenty years each respectively. They were the owners/founders of East Bay Pilates and together ran the Pilates program for Pixar Animation Studios. Robert was an International Teacher Trainer for Power Pilates and their studio was a host center for the teacher trainer program training apprentices in the Classical Method.
They are both certified by Romana’s Pilates and Power Pilates and share their experiences through workshops, trainings and individual instruction. They are passionate, devoted and believers in the power of the original method.