KIND WORDS

 

“I’ve been doing Pilates for years and can say an instructor like Missoni is hard to come across. Her level of expertise is simply unmatched. She has a keen eye for movement and makes sure they are executed correctly and safely. Before I met Missoni, I struggled with back pain from surgery along with poor body mechanics. I have had other Pilates instructors give me advice on how to stretch and exercise which unfortunately, made the condition worse. Missoni’s understanding of anatomy and the musculoskeletal system is on another level. My back pain has diminished and my posture has never been better. Pilates can sometimes do more harm than good if done incorrectly which sadly is the case these days. On the other hand, Missoni is truly a master in her field. She is the Pilates instructor’s instructor. Her brilliance and talent changes the quality of your workout. Movement Bottega is the pinnacle of Pilates and I can’t recommend her enough!!”
- Celine C.


“I was referred to Movement Bottega (and Missoni) by a friend who suggested she could help me cope with unbearable pain from an injury.
The pain and strain had been ongoing for almost three weeks when my emergency appointment was scheduled. It took a matter of minutes for her to identify the source of the issue and begin working to correct it (I had sought other care which has functionally done nothing to help).
Within two sessions, she helped reset my body and the pain. She gave me exercises and tips on how to keep my body in the right form and to keep it from reverting into the position that was so excruciating.
Missoni has remarkable skills and I cannot encourage you more to visit her for private sessions or any classes she's teaching.”
- Anthony W.


“I have been working out with Missoni for the last couple of years. I have done Pilates for the last 20 years and yet the work with Missoni has improved my posture and my overall fitness. Thanks to the disciplined approach and the exactness of the training. Missoni has shown an incredible amount of patience in helping me master my technique. I would highly recommend Missoni to anyone of any age who wants to be and remain in shape. Thank you Missoni!”
-Alain P.


“Missoni is spectacular. A spiritual goddess crossed with a movement specialist. She will leave you feeling better than ever. I would go everyday if I could. Highly recommend to anyone looking for Pilates and more.
I love that the classes are always tailored to the areas I want to work on and Missoni always has unique and interesting workouts to target those areas. She is always coming up with fresh and innovative ideas to keep us engaged. The classes have helped me build strength in my glutes, arms and abdominals while helping me strengthen my back with my scoliosis. I cannot thank Missoni enough as I always leave feeling better than I did walking in.”

- Emily Super (Fashion Model)


“Love this space to move! Such a beautiful class, the cozy aesthetic is wow and Missoni is such a great teacher and really hands on. I’ve done Pilates off and on for years and this is now my favorite place and I definitely will be making this a regular routine. Thank you for providing such a warm and safe space for us to move! You will feel it after one class!”
-Johanna Snyder (Baby’s Marche)


“Missoni helps you learn so much about your body. I take what she teaches me into my posture and movements at work and into other workouts I do.”
-Cleo Amelia (Cleo Amelia Wellness)


“I’ve known Missoni for 10+ years and watched her grow from being a naturally talented instructor to a great one. Through hard work and an insatiable curiosity about movement she has built a successful business with a deservedly loyal clientele. She has studied with masters in the industry to become one herself. She always gives her all and personalizes every hour for every client based on their individual needs at that moment. An impressive and rare quality.”
- Richard S.


“Movement Bottega = one of the best things I did for myself in 2021. This gave me a private training alternative to group classes that didn’t feel covid compatible. My beloved but sedentary job put me in a literal bind that my cherished trainer Missoni Lanza is helping me out of. I highly recommend this studio.”
- Kirsten H.P


“Movement Bottega is a sanctuary where a client will be expertly guided by Missoni on their unique pathway to improved body awareness and movement. I have worked with Missoni for several years and really appreciate her ability to incorporate multiple disciplines with an sharp eye for detail. Combining this with her great sense of humor makes for an extraordinary experience.”
- Wayne B.


“Thank you for all you are doing helping me stay active and in good shape. The zoom sessions are spectacular. I have joked that I may never go back to anyone’s studio because zoom has been very productive. The combination of slight stenosis and a high risk person with the pandemic really concerned me. You provided the solution on both my issues. I have seen very realistic improvements in my back while staying safe. What I am really impressed with is through zoom you are making sure my form is good at the same level as if I am in the studio. The real advantage for me is as summer heats up and I go to the beach, I no longer have an exude to not be doing my Pilates with you. You find me on zoom and it is working!!! You are the best in my 25 years of Pilates. Thank you!!!”
- Steve P.


“My regular ZOOM sessions with Missoni have enabled me to continue to progress with Pilates keeping my body limber and gaining strength. Missoni really knows her stuff and is able to communicate her instructions in such a clear and concise manner that I don’t have to spend time thinking about her directions. This is a real art. I look forward to my fun sessions with her and value both her expertise and her friendship.”
- Jim J.


“Missoni is such an invaluable teacher. She has such a skilled eye and unique toolkit to address some of the more complex issues happening in the body. My body feels amazing every time I work with her. She's been a big part of overcoming some of my body "quirks" that have stumped many others.”
- Jenny Redford (Pilates Instructor + Movement Specialist)


“Working with Missoni has been such a gift for me! I’m so grateful for her technique and approach to our sessions. As an instructor myself I am so grateful for her kindness, empathy, and expertise that have allowed me the freedom to relax, focus, and work hard in our workouts! During sessions it is priceless to be able to get in the zone and work hard knowing she is basing my movements on specific goals for maximum benefit. Sessions with Missoni have helped me reconnect to my body in areas where I have challenges in movement. I have quite a few complications with my body, including Scoliosis, and I leave sessions feeling like those issues have been recognized, respected, and understood throughout my workout. I love to move, and no matter how well I think I know my body I really love that in sessions with Missoni I regularly have an “Ah-ha!” moment where I discover something new thanks to her cues! Beyond being a wonderfully experienced Pilates professional, Missoni is a genuine, talented, and fun loving person! Thank you Missoni for doing all that you do!”
- Laura Hausler (Pilates Instructor + Movement Specialist)


“I came to meet Missoni soon after I moved to the Low Desert. I was hopeful to begin an exercise regiment of some sort. I was concerned as I had had a bowel obstruction and thus scar tissue throughout my abdomen. Additionally, I had a weak back, and my balance was not very good. I played golf and walked, daily.
Never having done pilates, I decided I'd give this a try. My first visit, feeling quite insecure - I walked out of the studio with my endorphins exploding! Four years later, I'm still in love with pilates and Missoni. She has done everything to support my lack of coordination and make my body stronger and my self confidence high. My stamina has increased, as has my strength and balance. I've had several friends notice the difference in my body, muscle tone, etc. What a compliment to Missoni. I "zoomed" through COVD, which as ineffective as I thought it might be, it was totally an advanced workout. When I wasn't able to perform as instructed, she would draw pictures for me!!! It kept me sane, and we had many laughs throughout each session. Now that her studio is complete, so is my three time a week workout. Most importantly, I know I am having a great, SAFE workout. Missoni's attention to detail is unsurpassed. She's just fabulous, and makes a workout challenging and fun.
Thank you, Missoni”
- Cindy K.


“Being a woman of a ‘certain age’ I am well acquainted with the real struggles that exist between mind and body. We all want too be healthy and we all want our bodies to be strong and as close to pain-free as possible, but age and time often with the struggle. Or so I thought. Then I met Missoni, it was as if the clouds parted and there before me was the answer to all my questions. She listens to my litany of ailments and simply says, ‘We can work on that.’ She penitently works with me, movement by movement, and has made me more patient with my body. She is very mindful of every move I make and has made me more mindful of how I sit, walk, and stand, Pilates is not a sprint, Pilates is not a ‘quick fix,’ Pilates is not easy. But for me, Pilates has been what I’ve been looking for for a long time and working with Missoni is a joy. I actually look forward to our sessions! When was the last time you were excited about exercise?”
- Robin B.


“I've been attending Missoni's classes for almost 3 years and have been impressed with her from the beginning. She brings her expertise in body movement to each session and uses descriptve phrasing to help you understand how to properly perfom pilates moves to prevent injury and improve form. I have been taking pilates classes for over 10 years to strenghten my back, recover from sciatica and for overall body toning, Missoni is by and far the best instructor I've had.”
- Elle O.E.


“I just had my first session at, Movement Bottega. It was absolutely lovely. Missoni is incredibly articulate and considerate in her guidance and very supportive the entire time. She is concise and informative as well, which, as a nurse, I very much appreciate. The space is beautiful and as I was stretching at one point, I looked towards the window and the view was magical as the sky and Palm Trees smiled back at me. I’m definitely looking forward to my next session. Thank you, Missoni.”
- Talia L.


“On a Danube cruise, last fall, I was fortunate to have a week of Pilates instruction from Missoni Lanza. I have had some Pilates classes previously but they did not compare to this experience. In a fun, relaxed way, Missoni was able to emphasize the finer points of the exercises. I really think I found my abs for the first time ever! Last but not least, Missoni is one of the most lovable people I have ever met and I know plenty of people share my opinion.”
- Marianne A.


“Missoni Lanza teaches with competency, passion, and enthusiasm that has positively influenced the value I place on my health. Her warm spirit and individually targeted strategies made my Pilates experience addictive. I have noticed positive changes in the way I feel, how I look, and the way I live my life since working with Missoni. I do not think twice about recommending her as a Pilates/Fitness Instructor to anyone who is serious about changing their health for the better.”
- Christina L.


“Missoni Lanza is THE best person to go to if you have pain! She will help you restore and regain your life back. I have had pretty bad lower back pain for who knows how long. I’m the type of person who just pushes through and doesn’t take the time to really focus on taking care of myself. Not after working with her! I am more motivated and feel better than I have in a long time! This woman knows what she’s doing. She will teach you tips and tricks on how to make your body stronger and healthier with every session. In ONE session she was able to look at me, knew exactly where to start, and what we needed to do to release this pain. In ONE session my lower back pain was gone,. I could walk and bend without being in constant pain. I can’t wait to keep working with her and learn how to release my pain/stress the right way so I can get back to living my fullest life. This girl is my miracle worker! Let her be yours too! She works hard to get you where you need to be. All you have to do is put in the work with her. You won’t be disappointed!”
- Brittany B.


“Missoni recently provided Pilates instruction on our river cruise up the Danube and it was a resounding success! Her first class was well-attended, and only increased in numbers throughout the week as word quickly spread among our guests. We will look forward to having her join us again in the future!”
- Matt Montgomery (Castles and Concerts)


“I absolutely love ALL of Missoni’s classes! These classes have done so much for my recovery, keep me injury free and I get stronger every week! Being a runner and a mountaineer, this has done wonders for me… I’m faster, have more endurance and just overall more solid in my athletic abilities. Missoni helps you to push past plateaus you didn’t know were there… cannot say enough good things!”
- Gretchen S.


“Missoni is quite literally the best. She knows how to push you to achieve while remaining sensitive to any injuries or other limitations and she is remarkable in her ability to shape and re-shape a program to suit your evolving needs. She is also a really lovely, lively person, which makes any training session or class much more fun!”
- Barrett C.


“I highly recommend Missoni Lanza as an instructor. She is very knowledgeable about Pilates as well as the human body. What is so enjoyable about her approach to teaching is her ability to get you to go beyond what you think is possible. Her ability to inspire you to see your potential, and to do it with grace and humor is one of the things that makes her stand out as an instructor. When I was having trouble with a torn rotator cuff, she was kind enough to see me before classes to give me hints and exercises to support strengthening my shoulder. Now my pain is almost entirely gone, but she continues to check to see if there is any issues before starting exercises. This is the kind of customer focused attention she gives, and I’ve seen the same attention to detail in other clients as well.”
- Tim R.


“I’ve studied movement my entire adult life- including 14 years of tennis, 9 years of rock climbing, 21 years of Aikido, and a few years of Gyrotonics- so I feel qualified in a few different ways to evaluate Missoni’s abilities as a Pilates instructor. I am deeply interested in and attentive to body internals and Missoni is clearly is full of knowledge about these things. I am continually amazed at how she notices seemingly the most minor adjustments I need to make and offers me guidance that tunes my practice.
I’ve seen her in Private lessons and Group lessons. She is always positive and welcoming and generous. She converts high expectations in a relaxed and upbeat way. She obviously has a breadth and depth of experience that makes it possible for her to adjust her lessons to meet the needs of students with different experiences, abilities or health.
With movement arts, I know there is no end in what one can learn. I have a great respect for teachers who continue to crave knowledge and expertise, such as Missoni. Without reservation, I can recommend her as an instructor.”
- Brian F.


“Missoni’s character, humor, sincerity and thoughtfulness makes every Pilates class more than just a workout. She care so deeply about her students—from Pilates and beyond. She’s reliable and most importantly, honest.”
- Adriana W.


“I ADORE Missoni! Her style of teaching is so fun and challenging! She has show me so many NEW exercises, and made them so fun!! Missoni is warm and easy going… And your body will sure know that you’ve met her! Sweet and cute and professional, you will be hooked too!”
- Melanie L.


“Missoni is a very gifted teacher. She has in-depth knowledge of Pilates which I believe to be considerably beyond what she had to learn to become certified. In group instruction, she never fails to recognize each individual’s form and provides encouragement and gentle correction when appropriate. She has an uncanny ability to recall each student’s physical challenges and make modifications as needed. Her cues are very easy to understand and translate into fine tuning one’s form. If a student is still challenged after receiving a verbal cue, Missoni immediately picks up on this and adds précised physical cues using touch. If a group of students are challenges by a new move or having difficulty with a particular move, nothing is more beautiful than watching Missoni demonstrate that move while verbally explaining what she is doing. I think all of her students aspire to mimic her form and strength. I have taken group classes with at least four or five other instructors, but I always prefer Missoni’s instruction because it is simply impossible to ever become bored or unmotivated while she is teaching. I believe her creativity as a musician/songwriter/artist spills over into her Pilates instruction as no two classes are ever the same. In addition to her unquestionable teaching ability, Missoni is a stellar individual. She treats each and every student with respect and warmth, and relates well to all students who range in age from young to “active adults;” men and women; and people with many different levels of fitness. She has a quirky sense of humor which always adds an element of fun to even the most intense workout. She is bright, caring and personable. I can recommend her without hesitation.”
- Judi B.


“Missoni is a knowledgeable and skilled instructor. She is knowledgeable about the benefits of Pilates and pays close attention to details of alignment and form to ensure you get a challenging, rewarding, and safe workout at every session. She is very patient and works with your individual physical restrictions to maximize the benefits of Pilates. I highly recommend Missoni for a unique Pilates experience!”
- Linda M.


“I’ve practiced Pilates with Missoni for about 1 year on a weekly basis. Missoni is a true professional, always working too create a safe and creative practice for me to improve my core strength and agility. I appreciate her ability to bring new ideas and diverse routines to our workout, and targets areas where I need the most improvement based on my current goals. She’s very attuned to my physical limits, knowing where to push me further and when to guard against injury.”
- Jeff F.


“After two car accidents, and three years of unsuccessful physical therapy, I looked for an expert in physical toning, core strength, and postural balance. Also, I wanted exercises that shaped my body to be long, lean, and shapely. My results exploded after starting weekly Pilates sessions with Missoni. At first, walking hurt, sitting hurt, standing hurt; and sleeping through the night never happened. My body had acclimated to the car accident injuries, and compensated with poor posture, excess weight, spinal misalignment, and weak core muscles- all which lead to chronic, daily pain. I, nor past physical therapists, knew where to begin, but Missoni knew. She began pointing out my body’s specific imbalances and then challenging me, teaching me, targeted exercises I can safely do to counterbalance past injuries and weaknesses. I have felt immediate relief, and growth over time while being transformed under Missoni’s instruction. My injuries are (were) complicates, so it continues to be a healing process, m but Missoni enjoys the challenge of supporting bodies and minds willing to fight for wellness! Her education, experience and intuitive nature has helped me become more mobile, rest through the night, live most days pain-free, and achieve a long, lean, able body I can be proud of. An insider tip, her booty, and waist shaping exercises produce results fast!!!! Simply put, Missoni is an expert Pilates Instructor who knows how to get results! I find Missoni’s demeanor to be approachable, trustworthy, professional, and passionate about helping others optimize their body’s strength and balance no matter their level of ability. As Missoni often says, ‘Everyone has their own journey; honor your body, listen to your body, and do what is best for your body!’ Working with Missoni is what’s best for my body and my results prove it!”
- Jenny L.


“Missoni is everything you want in a Pilates instructor. She pays close attention to your body which for me is very important having arthritis. Before a class she remembers everyone's needs for their bodies. Class is always fun, but it is also a great challenge and I say that in a good way. Missoni is a kind, compassionate and very intelligent person. She is also very strong! Highly recommend!”
- Giovanna W.


“After having a hip replacement I needed to regain strength and stability. Missoni has helped me achieve my goals. I have deep respect for the level of knowledge and specialized care Missoni took with me. Her experience with alignment and of anatomy is outstanding. I highly recommend Missoni. She is an amazing practitioner whos dedication to her field makes her a safe and reliable choice no matter what is bringing you to Pilates. As a bonus, her studio is beautiful with a calming atmosphere.”
- Jayne N.


“I take in studio and online classes with Missoni. She is very knowledgeable and detail oriented with the bodies anatomy. She knows what will work and what won't work because she is a great listener and is intuitive with the body's response. Whether you're in a one-on-one or group class if feels very personable. Sometimes you may be doing minimal movements, but WOW do they make a difference physically! She knows what's going on under all that skin and muscle! I always feel better after every class, but more importantly, my body feels better in the long term. She isn't someone you should limit yourself to just take one class with, if she is your personal movement specialist you will feel and see a difference in your overall phsycial health that will benefit you in the LONG TERM. - that is very important and she does that. I do not live in the same area so I try to take as many online classes as I can and when I visit I take her studio classes. A fun plus, I love being around the other clients too when I'm taking group classes.”
- Monet O.