Our Story |

OUR STORY

Want to get to know us a little better? We’d love to share our story with you!

Hi, I’m Hollie, it’s so nice to meet you!

Over the last 12 years I have enjoyed the most incredible career in the fitness industry. After a short (and stressful) career as a pastry chef in London, I started my fitness journey as a receptionist in a London reformer Pilates studio and instantly fell in love with Pilates. I loved that Pilates focussed on how the body functions and moves, rather than how it looks or what it weighs. This emphasis on performance has inspired my whole career in fitness and is why I have never bored of teaching it.

I spent many years teaching Reformer and Mat Pilates and teaching thousands of classes across London, before being promoted to the head trainer of two London studios. In 2015 I started my own business, Pilates PT, and began opening my own studios across London. Alongside my studios I now teach Pilates and functional movement across the globe for hotels such as The Royal Mansour and The Mandarin Oriental, and have been lucky enough to write a book and launch online offerings such as The Bump Plan and The Pilates PT Method.

The Bump Plan was created in 2020 and came from a lifelong desire to help TTC, pregnant, and postnatal women enter into these amazing times of their life strong and prepared for the myriad changes that happen to their bodies along the way.

Whatsmore, I recorded all the workouts for The Bump Plan TTC, Pregnancy, and Postnatal whilst I was going through those stages of my motherhood journey. In creating and doing the plan myself whilst creating it I have never ever felt stronger or more prepared for the demands of pregnancy and motherhood.

The Bump Plan has now helped over 30,000 women around the world and it’s only just getting started. We have incredibly exciting things planned for the brand in the near future which are going to help women and mothers even more be the strongest and most prepared they can be during these incredible phases of their lives.

It is really important to me that everything we do at The Bump Plan showcases the positive relationship we can all have with exercise. Over the years I have seen the damage caused to women’s self-esteem and mental health by diet culture. I will never be a part of that industry and hope that we can reverse some of its effects. I don’t want my children growing up in a world that encourages women to abuse their bodies to stay thin. Exercise is a powerful tool to be used to promote better mental and physical health, and I’ll do everything I can to help you use it wisely.

The Bump Plan, and myself, are here to help you conceive, carry, and birth like the badass you are!

What our clients have to say

Lisa Tómas

Stay-at home Mum

★★★★★

The Pilates PT Method Online fits in very easily with my day. I can choose to do it wherever I am if away from home. It's a short burst and doesn't take much time out of my day

Talia Y

★★★★★

Thank you for creating The Bump Plan! I did your workouts most days during pregnancy, and it really helped me remain positive & strong both mentally and physically for the 9 months. My daughter Scarlett Olivia was born January 2022 in New Zealand via planned csection and I have just started the postnatal plan to continue recovering and rebuild my incredible body 💪☺️ So, thank you for the support on this motherhood journey!

Hannah S

★★★★★

I’ve been doing Hollie’s live pre-natal pilates workouts throughout my pregnancy so far and been absolutely loving them. I have learnt so much from her, she is unbelievably knowledgeable!

Stephanie Donat

★★★★★

Hollie's classes have been a godsend through 2020 and 2021, they have kept me moving and sane and have been a welcome distraction from all the doom and gloom. She clearly knows what she is doing and is happy to share her knowledge with you. Very inspirational classes that leave me feeling refreshed and reset each time!

Carolyn Breit

★★★★★

I began using the Bump Plan in probably the 4th month of my pregnancy and it was such a comfort and inspiration to me throughout my journey.

★★★★★

Hollie is a fantastic teacher. Her classes are always interesting and she explains everything in such detail so the technique and purpose of the exercise makes sense. The classes are always challenging but she does everything which such ease and fantastic technique. I can be swearing out loud and Hollie is perfectly poised, chatting throughout the exercise making it look so easy. I started doing Pilates with Hollie at the beginning of the 1st lockdown, I’ve done multiple classes before but she’s the best teacher I’ve had. My body feels stronger and my flexibility has improved. Thank you Hollie.

Isabel Holmquist

★★★★★

I discovered Hollie’s online classes while pregnant in the first lockdown and they have taken me from the second trimester through to birth and now to eight months postpartum. They are not only fun but have been perfect for keeping and gaining strength through all my body’s changes this past year. I also can’t thank Hollie enough for her knowledge and supportive attitude.

Keziah Collis

★★★★★

Thank you for hosting the workshops in the first place. I find I think about all the things I’ve learned even while I’m teaching, and using my learnings when explaining things in class - so it really has been super. I’ve loved the two workshops i've done so far so much that I’ve booked the shoulder workshop for this coming weekend too!

Angus Watson

Author

★★★★★

I've had about 35 sessions with Pilates PT and cannot recommend it more highly if you'd like to get thinner, fitter and stronger, generally feel much better

★★★★★

I never GOT Pilates - the breathing, the neutral spine, engage your core - what does all that mean? With Hollie - it all makes sense and the explanations are REAL life - I never let my glass of champagne or cup of tea slip off my back. Pilates is now a key part of my routine - and actually a key part of my life. Hollie - thank you

Rachel

★★★★★

I love Hollie’s classes - she’s a brilliant teacher who gives really clear cues, and paced the classes perfectly. I love being able to access high quality Pilates from home, and the PT method sessions are a genius mix of Pilates and HIIT. Highly recommend.

Camilla Ambler

★★★★★

I just want you to know how much I am enjoying the bump plan! In the 2 weeks that I have been using it I have noticed such a huge difference in my physical and mental well-being. I feel so calm and empowered.

Kate Stevens

★★★★★

As for The Pilates PT Method itself, the trainers definitely put you through your paces, but they are always super friendly, approachable and empowering. There's none of the focus on 'skinny' or a one size fits all approach you may have come to expect from a women's run studio...

Hanna

★★★★★

Hollie is a great Pilates instructor! I feel in such safe hands and all the things I have learnt since joining Pilates PT has made me much more aware of my posture and how I move my body - which translates into everyday activities as well as the sports I do. I would thoroughly recommend the classes - thank you Hollie!

Sophie Simmons

★★★★★

Doing The Pilates PT Method Online made me realise how happy exercising everyday made me! And it definitely became a state of mind and not just a "quick fix" before summer.

Lisa Gilman

★★★★★

I’m Lisa, 36 weeks pregnant with my first baby. This being my first pregnancy, I didn’t know what to expect or what type of exercise was safe for me to continue to do. The Bump Plan helped me feel safe and continue to be active.

Jennifer Foley

★★★★★

After eight weeks I had lost weight, had more energy, felt stronger, slept better and my body had changed shape. Hollie is a fantastic teacher - clear, positive and encouraging - and I would highly recommend The Pilates PT Method Online to anyone.

Carina Hirsch

★★★★★

I absolutely love your classes, they have kept me sane and fit throughout this pregnancy, I honestly don't know what I would have done without you and your array of live and on-demand classes. I am extremely thankful to Yasmine for having connected me to you and look forward to training with you both post-natally

Jenny Quinn

★★★★★

I have just completed Week 1 of The Pilates PT Method Online and have absolutely loved it. I've totally fallen in love with HIIT, totally fallen in live with Pilates, and I cannot wait for Week 2 next week!

Joanne Edecombe

★★★★★

The lockdown has had a few major perks and your live classes from the beginning and later the membership plan has been a real blessing not only could I do what I enjoy from home but also at a reasonable price. Hollies way of teaching is incredibly helpful and easy to imitate her availability to answer questions after classes makes the membership feel extremely personal which is lovely. The membership gives me all that I need to stay strong and the flexibility to use at convenient times for me! I hope this stays indefinitely! Thanks for all your hard work in making this service. I love it!

Jill C

★★★★★

I wanted to send a message to say thank you for creating such an excellent programme. I was just over two years postnatal when the programme was launched, and it was exactly what I'd been looking for. I feel stronger and fitter. It's given me the confidence to know how to move my body safely.

Hannah Wilson

★★★★★

I first started The Bump Plan in August 2021 when I was 19 weeks pregnant and immediately loved the way it helped me to keep active whilst also giving me time to get to know and respect my changing body. Hollie's workouts kept me going right up until the end of my pregnancy and reminded me that I could keep moving even if I felt like a whale! I immediately moved onto The Bump Plan Postnatal and did the first routine of the Recovery Phase at 2 days post partum. Simply taking that time to breath and appreciate what my body had done was honestly quite emotional. Now, my baby is nearly 9 weeks old and I've just done the first cardio workout of Phase 2. I finished it feeling SO proud of myself and loved getting a sweat on for reasons other than the night sweats (ew). I'm really looking forward to continuing to move up through the phases and I think I'll end up feeling even stronger and fitter than I did pre-pregnancy.

Melissa Hemsley

Chef & Author

★★★★★

I leave sessions feeling stronger and bounce out the door with energy!

Caroline Burnard

★★★★★

My core, an area I've always had difficulty getting to a point of strength, I really feel stronger and more stable everyday with. I'm on my feet all day everyday and my back pain is now non-existent because of The Pilates PT Method Online

Katie I

★★★★★

Just wanted to send a message to say I'm really enjoying the postnatal plan. After my second C-section, it's a blessing to have access to online classes which I feel safe doing. Last time I was so scared to do anything until the 12 weeks mark. This time I did my first class at 5 days post C-section. The short 15/20 minutes videos mean I can find time in the day to do them and feel like I've done something for my mind and body. Thank you Hollie for all of your hard work to ensure mums keep moving and feeling good.

Jenny Quinn

★★★★★

I just wanted to give you an update. I'M PREGNANT!! I am absolutely over the moon. It was totally spontaneous, so no IVF so it is literally our little miracle baby. We had the 12 week scan yesterday and everything is just perfect so far. The reason I wanted to share this with you and to say thank-you is because I believe you and 'The Pilates PT Method Online' was key in changing my mindset towards exercise and food

Ruth

★★★★★

Just wanted to tell you that I am absolutely LOVING The Bump Plan! It is a life saver in these times as all my local classes in York were suspended as it wasn't possible to put all of them online. It feels so nice to still be exercising and learning. I got hooked on Pilates about a year before becoming pregnant and it has really helped my back which I have had problems with for years, but since doing pilates regularly i've barely had any issues.

Jenny P

★★★★★

I love Hollie’s classes, she is a great instructor and her classes are really easy to follow. They have definitely got me through the lockdowns over the past 15 months

Francesca (Bump Plan Postnatal Member)

★★★★★

I am really enjoying The Bump Plan Postnatal! I love the workouts and how you can progress at your own pace, you can start at any point (I’m nearly 2 years pp)

Madeleine Prenner

★★★★★

I am now 32 weeks pregnant and can safely say that the Bump Plan workouts pretty much mark the first time I look forward to working out and specifically try and make time for it.

Sarah Clevely

Composer

★★★★★

I love the structure of the workout sessions and the combination of cardio, resistance and Pilates really works for me. I have seen huge changes in my fitness and body shape, and I feel the best I have ever felt!

Jourdan Dunn

Supermodel

★★★★★

Hollie is all about promoting healthy body image. Since starting The Pilates PT Method I've noticed huge improvements in my fitness and body and couldn't be happier!

Paula Hawkins

★★★★★

Hollie and her fellow trainers are brilliant teachers and fantastic motivators. They are accomplished, kind, hugely knowledgeable and just as tough as you need them to be.

Michelle Taylor

★★★★★

I love The Pilates PT Method Online. The first time I completed the programme last year, I had time to commit to it fully and it changed my life (melodramatic but true!). For the first time ever I enjoyed sweaty exercise and I looked forward to doing it every day.

Joanna Dalban

★★★★★

After many years of doing the same thing and not quite seeing the results that I wanted, I tried Hollie's method and boy what a result! I have lost ten kilos training with her and my body has completely changed.

★★★★★

PilatesPT has changed my life so much. The combination of Pilates and HIIT has increased my fitness, flexibility and posture. I understand my body better do get more out of all exercises and my everyday movements are better and safer - much less backache than before! Thank you Hollie!

Dawn Patel

★★★★★

I’m so happy I found out about Hollie’s classes in early pregnancy. Her classes challenge me, but in a safe supportive way, and I love how there’s a range of classes for each stage of pregnancy.

Rosie Gilderthorp

★★★★★

I also felt incredibly supported by the community and the knowledge that there were so many other women going through the workouts alongside me. For me it was not about getting "back into shape" quickly but much more about getting my sense of identity back and feeling strong enough to enjoy my three kids. I am so grateful to Hollie and the team and I fully intend to keep going with pilates forever. Of course, I also signed up to the postnatal Bump plan as soon as it was available!

Liza

★★★★★

As I am approaching the end of my first 8 weeks with the online plan, I feel the need to say a few words and most importantly thank you for totally transforming the way I feel (physically and mentally) in such a short period of time!

Vivien Chong

Barrister

★★★★★

I started the programme because I wanted to shed some weight and to feel good in my own skin again. But during the first time I signed up for the programme, I began to realise that feeling good isn't necessarily linked to a number on a scale or size label sewed on clothes

Katy Friedman

Recruitment Expert

★★★★★

The Pilates PT Method is unlike any workout that I have done before! Hollie's designed a program which really works!

Nick Brown

★★★★★

The team at this studio are superb; competent, friendly and effective without being judgemental or patronising. Could not rate more highly.

Hannah Duke

★★★★★

I have gained so much from this plan. I have learnt so much about pregnancy, the effect on our bodies and how best to look after myself. From learning how to work out and move safely, to do pelvic floor correctly, to the videos on how to breastfeed. It's been such a great support.

Rachel Firth

Entrepreneur

★★★★★

The Pilates PT Method Online is a fantastic series of work out videos tailored to your individual needs. By filling in a detailed questionnaire I was given access to a series of videos that were perfect for what I was hoping to achieve.

Catriona R

★★★★★

I discovered the bump plan classes in my second trimester and they made such a difference to my pregnancy. I love the fact that they prepare you for after birth too, and I am convinced my speedy post-natal recovery is largely due to them. Since 6 weeks postpartum I’ve been doing the postnatal classes and can’t believe how much my strength has returned already. It is great to have access to such knowledge, and rebuild core strength safely and sustainably. I cannot recommend these classes enough for during and after pregnancy, and I’m excited to move on to the more challenging classes soon!

Claire Lanza

★★★★★

I really just want to say a big thank you as you are most definitely one of my positives for 2020! I decided to try your classes during the first lockdown...Not only do I absolutely love them for my own training but you’ve also helped me fall in love with Pilates again

Sarah Ellis

★★★★★

I started Hollie’s classes online in October 2020 and have been attending regular weekly sessions ever since; I’m really enjoying the PT Pilates Method Classes in particular; they get my heart rate high yet are perfectly combined with traditional Pilates

Lisa Sullivan

★★★★★

This has been my lockdown find/saviour. I've found a love for Pilates (and HIIT) I never knew I had. It's made me fitter, stronger, more flexible and had lots of positive impact to keep the mind healthy too! Take a look. Great black Friday offer! I may see you on one of the live classes, where nobody is judged and all abilities welcome ❤️

Andrea Ingram

★★★★★

I have been training with Hollie for nearly a year now and she is an excellent PT. The sessions go by quickly as Hollie is very good at keeping things moving, so there is no time to get bored! Hollie is also excellent at tailoring the exercises to specific needs and taking into account any injuries

Denise Chapman

Marketing Executive

★★★★★

Feeling tired after work and frusted? In the past I would have eaten some chocolate while lying on my bed and watching TV. Now, after I come home, I roll out my mat, grab my laptop and sweat it all out. And no matter what happened at work or how I felt before, after the HIIT workouts or the Pilates exercises I always feel better

Sarah Patterson

★★★★★

I want sure how to physically make activity work, but thanks to the bump plan, it has been the most extraordinarily straightforward recovery for my physical body. This has empowered me SO MUCH and I cannot thank you enough.

Andrew Scarborough

★★★★★

I had a session with Vanessa on the reformer and I was able to perform a comprehensive series of exercises specific to my goals and my abilities. I hadn't done any challenging exercises for a while and I have complex health issues which needed to be considered. The location was easy to find and the studio was immaculate

Christine Cox

★★★★★

Doing The Pilates PT Method Online made me realise how happy exercising everyday made me! And it definitely became a state of mind and not just a "quick fix" before summer

Laura Steer

★★★★★

I was dubious about how good the Pilates instruction could be by video, but it far surpassed my expectations, and I could not believe how much better I felt after a 15 minute workout

Ali

★★★★★

The Pilates PT Method Online is truly amazing and I hope to sign up for another 8 weeks. I literally jump out of bed in the morning to do it. You are amazing and I can't thank you enough for literally changing my life. Thank you so much Hollie!

Jessica English

★★★★★

I've just done my first class and wanted to say thanks to you all again - these are a godsend and I'm remembering how good they made me feel last time! :)

Alana Webb

Accountant

★★★★★

The combination of HIIT and pilates is exhausting and challenging but the post-exercise high is addictive! After only a few days, I could see an improvement in my fitness and my capacity to do the dreaded burpees

Anja (Bump Plan Postnatal Member)

★★★★★

The Bump Plan, c-section pathway, gave me a way to return to movement shortly after c-section (I was on the mat on day 15 post-partum). I loved gentle checking-in with various muscles during recovery stage and by now in stage 2 feel safe moving as much as I want and need to, not just during sessions - but throughout the day.

Rebecca H

★★★★★

Taking part in the pre-natal classes was a highlight of my pregnancy. I loved that I could continue to exercise at home with expert tuition right up to the day before I gave birth. ⠀

Emily

★★★★★

The live classes during my pregnancy have been key to keeping me fit, healthy and moving (especially when working from home!) Hollie is an excellent instructor, always giving safe variations and words of encouragement. I would highly recommend to anyone pregnant joining these classes.

S C

★★★★★

I started PilatesPT live classes 12 weeks post c-section- it was the best decision i made for my physical & mental health. I was getting stronger by the day & when lockdown eased i really felt i had achieved something positive. I switched to the Pilates PT Method Online & within 8 weeks i had made so much progress from these short sessions it was incredible. Pilates is now part of my routine & i feel so much stronger than i was pre baby especially in my core. Hollie is the best , approachable, kind & most of all so passionate about what she does. I cant recommend Pilates PT enough- it really has changed my perspective on my body & exercise.

Nadine Barkho

★★★★★

Hollie is the nicest and most encouraging PT I have ever come across. The sessions cover a full range of exercises, using different machines, giving you a full workout. The studio is a really lovely place to workout

Emma Herslöf

★★★★★

I absolutely love the on demand- and live classes with Hollie - the wide variety of exercises in each class and her energy and inspiration makes the classes something I look forward to each week! Pilates and Hiit are such fantastic ways of working out and makes me feel strong and empowered after each class. Can't thank you enough Hollie for creating these classes, I've recommended all of my friends to try out your membership as well! Thanks a lot,

Jessica Herman

★★★★★

Hollie and the team at PilatesPT have been fantastic. After only a few weeks, I feel fitter and stronger and for once am actually enjoying exercising!

Annemarie Tempelman-Kluit

★★★★★

I’ve finally discovered exactly what I needed in the Pilates PT Method. It’s not exaggerating to say it’s completely changed my relationship to exercise. I now prioritize it in my weekly schedule instead of letting exercise slide and I noticed results almost immediately.

Daisy Davidson

★★★★★

After years of being at battle with my body: hating how it looked and how it functioned due to me having to go to the chiropractor at least twice a month since the age of 15 since starting The Pilates PT Method Online I haven't been back in 8 months!

Stephanie C

★★★★★

I am really glad to have discovered Pilates PT on Instagram last year. I was a complete beginner, but the way the classes were taught made it very easy to follow. I appreciate how Hollie takes the time to explain the different variations of the same exercise so I can pick the one that is suitable for my level. And the fact that there is an on-demand option means that I don't have the excuse to be too busy to practise!

Siân Young

★★★★★

I am really enjoying the plan! I am expecting my second child and also juggling work - the workouts have felt realistic and achievable with the 20-30 minute timings so I have been able to fit them in amongst other commitments. I also love the flexibility of the on-demand sessions. I am enjoying browsing through the education hub and also signed up to the Hypnobirthing digital pack from my welcome goodies, which I am finding very beneficial for labour prep too!

Dona Scott

Ex International Badminton Player / Sports Science Graduate

★★★★★

I’ve always been, what I would consider, reasonably fit and active but your Pilates workouts have been amazing (I’ve particularly enjoyed the hiit workouts). The biggest benefit I have found is that I’m now able to run. I have never been a runner. In fact, I haven’t been for a run in about ten years because it always hurt my knees, my shins and my lower back. Recently I have been able to run outside (completing 3.3 miles in 27 mins) and be pain free afterwards. I believe that’s thanks to your Pilates exercises and a good foam roller.

Emma L

★★★★★

I loved the mix of low-impact cardio and Pilates to get an all-over workout, whilst knowing it was safe for my baby. I would thoroughly recommend Hollie to anyone - pregnant or not! I still do my pelvic floor exercises with Hollie’s hilarious visualisations in mind!

Ingrid Jones

★★★★★

An easy to do anywhere programme focussing on strength and variety with no equipment needed. Hollie encouraged me through the exercises so it felt like she was in the room too...

Sarah H

★★★★★

I also just wanted to tell you that I absolutely love Pilates now and that’s all down to you - my first ever Pilates experience was last June for prenatal Pilates, then I did your postnatal Pilates class and I finally did my first “proper” mat Pilates class this week - I loved it. I now can’t imagine my life without it - thanks so much!