Our Instructors
Olga Harkola, NCPT
Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher, Olga began her Pilates training in 2003 at Pilates Plus where she completed her first comprehensive teacher training program. She then proceeded to receive comprehensive training through Power Pilates, internationally-recognized Classical Pilates teacher training program. And in 2018, Olga graduated from the master-level program - Pilates Professional Advanced Teacher Training The Red Thread ® (PPATT) with the worldwide renowned second generation teacher, Kathryn Ross-Nash. After completion of PPATT, Olga was invited to study and is currently studying under Kathryn Ross-Nash in her highly selective PPATT Teacher of Teachers program.
Olga’s thirst for knowledge and desire to bring the best to her students led her to Vintage Pilates, where she completed the WWJ program with the first generation (taught by Joseph Pilates) teacher, Jay Grimes.
Olga’s enthusiasm, constant drive to learn and improve, dedication and passion for the Method are evident in her teaching. She builds strong relationships with the clients with diverse backgrounds/needs, and creates positive, enthusiastic and supportive environment for the students. Able to share the value of the method and develop both appreciation and love of Pilates in students new to the practice as well as seasoned athletes.
Olga holds a MBA from University of Rochester, New York and degree from Moscow State University of Higher school of Economics. Olga currently owns and operates Pilates Focused home- studio in Cary, North Carolina.
Pilates Focused is a Classical Pilates home studio, fully equipped with classical apparatus from Gratz and Pilates Designs.
Note from Olga:
I started teaching Pilates 18 years ago because I wanted to share the incredible benefits that I personally gained from practicing Pilates. Pilates kept me strong and feeling great through 3 pregnancies, helped me recover and manage diastasis post-partum, but more importantly helped manage my husband’s back condition and prevent injuries for my son, who at the time was a competitive gymnast, now Lacrosse Player, and daughter, who was a young dancer and is now a Cheerleader.
I continue teaching because I see the changes and impact Pilates has on my clients’ health, physical fitness, and overall well-being.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to have worked with variety of clients: athletes and fitness enthusiasts as well as clients with various health conditions.
I am grateful to all my teachers and my mentor, Kathi Ross-Nash, for sharing knowledge, commitment, and love of the Method with me.
I would love to be part of your Pilates journey.
Get in touch.
If you have questions, would like to receive free tips to improve your Pilates practice, interested in an online or in person private, semi-private or group class - send me a note here!
Let me be a part of your journey to a stronger, more confident you!