MARISSA MCRAY, MA

Marissa discovered Pilates in 2007 during her rehabilitation from a back injury.  In addition to the therapeutic benefits of Pilates, her strength, control and skill in her other activities improved.  A rock climber and all-around active person, she enjoys dance, hiking, backpacking, tennis, skiing, running, and cycling and she noted significant benefits in all areas of her physical agility.  A medical speech-language pathologist and clinical researcher, Marissa was pursuing a PhD in Neuroscience when she realized her love of Pilates, teaching, neuromotor sciences and people could synthesize in the Pilates instructor profession.  The evidence-based science and biomechanical focus behind the STOTT PILATES® method was a perfect match to her educational background and she completed her first certification in 2014.  Soon after she was invited to become a STOTT PILATES® Instructor Trainer (IT) with Merrithew Corporation, an international leader in contemporary Pilates.  Additionally, she holds certifications in Injuries and Special Populations, Athletic Conditioning Specialist, Group Equipment Specialist; and Halo® Training 

  

Marissa loves to challenge herself and her clients while using her knowledge and skills of neuromuscular control and motor learning to build a solid foundation of strength to improve biomechanics.  A consummate student, she pursues new activities and studies movement patterns of various sports and activities to identify muscle loading patterns, areas of risk and cross training paradigms to improve movement and prevent injury. She brings precision, a highly discerning eye and a unique ability to identify individual learning styles and translate the work accordingly in a fun way that builds confidence and independence.  She especially loves working with other athletes from pros to the weekend warriors and helping those transitioning from post-injury back to full activity.