About

The Studio

We believe that everyone deserves a chance to explore their own strength potential and invest in their health. There are no prerequisites to begin your movement journey. You can choose to practice Pilates with us, build up your squat or deadlift with us, or try a combination of both! What ever you choose to try, we're here to support you and coach you along the way!

emBRACE Pilates was born in 2019 and based inside of Elite Strength and Conditioning, a powerlifting gym in Tampa, FL. The initial intent was to share the Pilates Method with the strength training world and the studio grew it's reach past the gym walls and into the Tampa Bay community. Rachel, the owner, has coached (and practiced) both Pilates and strength training for over 6 years and strongly believes that both methods of movement can provide significant benefits in one's life. Through her years of working with her clients, Rachel has grown to appreciate the notion that strength is not just about how much weight is on the barbell or how many roll-ups you can do in a row. Strength can also be found in stepping into a gym for the first time, trying something new, committing to something challenging, and sticking with it when the motivation fades and the obstacles of life enter the chat.

Studio Owner: Rachel Jimenez

Comprehensively trained Balanced Body Pilates Instructor
MS Exercise Science
ACSM-Certified Personal Trainer
Precision Nutrition: Level 1 Coach
Girls Gone Strong Pre/Post-Natal Certified Coach
Competitive Powerlifter
Bodybuilder
former Strongman competitor
Dancer

Why Pilates?

It is a "tried and true" method.

Formally known as "Contrology," Pilates was designed in the early 1900's to help increase your strength & flexibility. It is based around 6 core Principles: Breath, Concentration, Centering, Control, Precision, and Flow.

It involves the entire body.

Pilates is all about whole body integration and developing a deeper connection between the mind, the body, and the breath. By doing this, the student can build a better awareness of where their body is in space and move with more intent.

It is for everyone.

It doesn't matter if you are a powerlifter, a dancer, a bodybuilder, a weekend warrior, or someone who can barely touch their toes. Anyone can benefit from Pilates in some way, you just have to give it a try!

See if Pilates is right for you!

Why Strength Training?

To improve muscle function. To increase muscle mass. To build functional skills. To improve confidence.

Strength training is great for those looking to improve their overall strength, build muscle mass, and improve their quality of life. Not only is strength training appropriate for all ages, but also for all skill levels. Want to carry all of your groceries in one trip? We can build that grip strength for that skill. Planning to hike a bucket list trail? Let's strengthen those step ups.

The benefits also go beyond simply building muscle mass and strength. Strength training can help improve one's balance, bone density, mind-body connection, and overall confidence. Not only are strength-based goals a good thing, but they are encouraged when you're in this studio. Trust us when we say that your capabilities are far greater than you think, and you are much stronger than you think.

See if strength training is right for you!