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Instructors
MJ TYMAN M.A. Instructor/Owner
Comprehensively Certified Pilates Instructor
MJ began her Pilates journey in 1994 when she fell in love with the movement practice. After a decade of personal practice, she completed her certification through Peak Pilates classical training program in 2004. With more than two decades of experience, MJ brings a deeply integrative approach to Pilates through her "whole person pilates" philosophy: blending movement, breath and mindfulness to build strength, flexibility and overall well-being. Her teaching style is thoughtful, encouraging, and grounded in the belief that movement can be both powerful and restorative.
MJ owned and operated Elixir Pilates & Wellness in Denver from 2007-2016 before relocating to Longmont, where she continued teaching and managing a local studio until 2021. Now happily calling Estes Park home, MJ is passionate about sharing the magic and healing qualities of Pilates with the Estes Park community.
Continuing education
2010 - 2015
Lindy Royer: Treating and Preventing Shoulder Injuries
Madeline Black: Psoas as a Core Muscle
Elizabeth Larkham: Connecting the Core: Sole of Foot to Pelvic Floor
Nora St John: Reformer for Low Back Pain
Amy Alpers: Truth in Movement: Uniform development
Dallas Everleth: Anatomy in 3D Clay
2017-2020
Courtney Miller: Athletic Reformer - Level 1 & 2
Whitney Shea: The Psoas: Subtle, Elastic Link
Shari Berkowtiz: Rotated & Twisted Pelvis
Shari Berkowitz Strengthening the Back Body
Shari Berkowitz : Back Issues C1 to Coccyx
Shari Berkowitz Biomechanics and Functional Anatomy
Ellen Benes Instructor
Certified Pilates Instructor
Ellen is a group fitness instructor and personal trainer with a passion for helping people move well, feel strong, and enjoy the process of caring for their bodies. Her journey into Pilates began after completing an ultramarathon, when she was searching for a way to recover, restore balance, and continue building strength without the wear and tear of high-intensity training. Pilates quickly became the perfect fit.
Inspired by the philosophy of “move better to live better,” she pursued her certification through Balanced Body and began teaching so she could share those benefits with others.
Ellen excels at supporting clients of all levels on their movement journey. Whether you’re brand new to Pilates, looking to deepen your practice, recovering from injury, or simply wanting to add variety and intention to your fitness routine, Ellen brings encouragement, positivity, and a genuine love of movement to every class.