After more than a decade of teaching Pilates in Miami, longtime Grove resident and movement specialist Dani Gelley didn’t just open a studio, she carved out a sanctuary. Align Pilates is rooted in the belief that wellness starts with alignment, not just of the body, but of the mind and spirit too. With a boutique, one-on-one approach and an unwavering commitment to meeting people at whatever level they’re at, Align has quietly become a go-to spot for those seeking strength, healing, and a little more balance in their lives.

Q: You’ve taught Pilates in Miami for over a decade, but opening Align Pilates was a personal leap. What inspired you to create your own space, and why was Coconut Grove the right fit?

Dani: I’ve lived in the Grove since 2010 and absolutely love it here. I spent a long time looking for a studio to join that really matched the vibe and the quality I wanted for my clients, but I couldn’t find one, so I decided to open my own.

Q: Align is built around the idea that true health starts with alignment. What does the word “alignment” mean to you, and how does it influence your classes?

Dani: To me, alignment is everything, not just physically but also mentally, and emotionally; it’s also about being in tune with yourself. I make sure each session is tailored to meet my clients where they are that day, helping them find balance in their bodies and a bit of peace in their minds too.

Q: Your studio focuses exclusively on one-on-one “reformer” and “tower classes.” Why did you choose this boutique approach over traditional group formats?

Dani: I truly believe that personalized attention makes all the difference. Everyone’s body is different, and private sessions let me tailor each class to what my client actually needs—whether it’s rehab, strength, mobility, or just a space to breathe and reset. It’s about quality over quantity, always.

Q: Everyone has their own issues. How do you identify and address the unique imbalances in each client’s body?

Dani: It starts with simply observing how someone moves and listening to how they feel in their body. I pay close attention to posture, movement patterns, and any discomfort they mention. From there, it’s about adjusting, sometimes it’s subtle, sometimes it’s a total shift in focus. Over time, I get to know their habits and imbalances, and we work together to bring more ease and function into their body. It’s a lengthy process, but truly rewarding.

Q: You’re certified in everything from pre/postnatal Pilates to injury recovery. How do those specializations help you guide people through healing, strength-building, or life transitions?

Dani: I’m always learning because I love staying on top of new techniques and approaches. My certifications in pre/postnatal Pilates and injury recovery help me guide clients through whatever stage they’re in, whether it’s healing, building strength, or going through big life changes. I find it so rewarding to tailor each session to their unique needs and be part of their journey, no matter where they’re at.

Q: There’s a quiet power in the way Pilates transforms not just posture, but confidence. What changes do you most often witness in clients who commit to this kind of work?

Dani: I see so many clients go through a quiet but powerful shift. As they start to understand and own their imbalances, it’s like they’re not just improving their posture—they’re reclaiming control over their bodies. They start to move with more confidence, not just physically, but in how they carry themselves in everyday life. The more they recognize their body’s strengths and areas for growth, the more empowered they feel. It’s truly amazing to watch someone go from unsure to fully owning their body’s journey.

Q: You talk about customizing each session but also challenging your clients. How do you strike that balance between care and growth?

Dani: Striking that balance comes down to really listening and being present. I make sure each session is tailored to where the client is at that moment, but I also encourage them to push a little beyond their comfort zone. It’s about finding that sweet spot where they feel supported but also challenged enough to grow. I focus on progress, not body perfection. It’s a gentle push, always with their body’s well-being in mind.

Q: What do you believe sets Align Pilates apart from other Pilates studios?

Dani: Align Pilates stands out because it’s not just about the workout, it’s about the person. I’ve created a space where each client is treated as an individual. It’s the personal touch, the deep care, and the attention to detail that make Align Pilates feel more like a wellness journey than just a class. It’s all about helping people feel good in their bodies and confident in their movement, in a way that fits them uniquely

Q: Being part of the Coconut Grove Business Improvement District (BID) means you’re connected to a larger community of local businesses. How do you collaborate with or support other neighborhood businesses, and what does that sense of connection mean to you?

Dani: I love supporting fellow businesses in the neighborhood, whether it’s recommending a local coffee shop or attending events around the Grove. I believe in the power of collaboration, and I’m always looking for more ways to team up with other local businesses to create a stronger, more supportive community. It’s all about building relationships and lifting each other up, and I’m excited to do more of that as Align Pilates grows.

Q: Coconut Grove is a wellness-minded community that values both movement and mindfulness. How have your clients responded to this kind of focused, personal approach?

Dani: I think they’ve really embraced it, and that’s why we’ve been growing so quickly. We’re not just a trendy, flash-in-the-pan studio—we’re here for authentic connections and lasting results. It’s about building a community where people feel seen, supported, and truly invested in their own well-being.

Q: For someone who’s never tried Pilates, or who’s recovering from injury, postpartum, or just unsure where to start, what would you want them to know about Align?

Dani: If you’ve never tried Pilates or are recovering from an injury, postpartum, or just not sure where to start, Align is a great place to begin. We focus on personalized, one-on-one sessions where I’ll work with you to understand your unique needs and goals. It’s not about pushing you to your limits—it’s about helping you move better, feel stronger, and build confidence in your body, all at your own pace. You’re always supported here, and we’ll take it step by step together.

Q: Last but not least, outside of the studio, what’s your passion?

Dani: Outside of the studio, my biggest passion is spending time with my husband and kids. We love being outdoors, whether it’s playing pickleball, skiing, hiking, or just walking around the Grove—there’s something so refreshing about being out in this community. It keeps me energized and connected, so I can keep bringing my best energy to everything I do.