By Anahi Calienes
Buenos Aires, Argentina, 2002
My Pilates journey began when I was just 16 years old and studying ballet. I remember stepping onto the reformer for the first time and feeling as though I was flying instead of walking after the session. There was this sensation of suddenly being two meters tall, and the next morning, I experienced the “good pain” in muscles I didn’t even know existed. Most vividly, I remember the intense curiosity it sparked in me—the who, the how, the when, and the why of this fascinating method.
That curiosity stayed with me, and a few years later, I decided to take a course to deepen my understanding of Pilates. I expected it to give me all the answers, but instead, it only fueled my desire to learn more. At the time, my resources were limited, so I became my own teacher—learning from books, watching videos, practicing, and sharing what I discovered.
Brescia, Italy, 2008
During this period, my life took an unexpected turn. I moved to Italy and began working as a stewardess on luxury yachts. This career shift allowed me to learn three languages, immerse myself in different cultures, save money, travel to the most spectacular places, and dream of one day teaching Pilates to my clients onboard. It also taught me a valuable life lesson: there’s no such thing as “common sense.”
Life has a way of pushing us to reexamine our paths, and 2017 was my year to do just that. Determined to take my Pilates journey seriously, I began researching different schools offering comprehensive teacher training. After much deliberation, I found the program that spoke to me on every level—Polestar Pilates. Their focus on movement science, a holistic approach, and a collaborative perspective resonated not just with my mind but also with my body and spirit.
Barcelona, Spain, 2017
With newfound determination, I packed my life into suitcases and moved to Barcelona to start what I didn’t yet realize would be a life-changing chapter. Barcelona offered me the chance to learn in my native language, and its reputation as a hub for luxury yachts ensured I could continue growing in my chief stewardess career.
You might wonder what being a stewardess has to do with Pilates. On the surface, the two seem unrelated. But in truth, they share more than meets the eye. Both require a keen eye for detail, both revolve around movement, and both demand empathy, adaptability, and clear communication. They’ve also both shaped me into the person I am today—someone who thrives on connection and values the transformative power of movement.
Becoming a Polestar Mentor, 2022
Being accepted into Polestar’s mentor program was a milestone in my Pilates journey. For me, it represents a step closer to sharing my passion for mindful movement with others. It’s also a way to inspire new instructors to become facilitators of movement in their own communities.
When I applied to the program, I dreamed about the opportunities it could bring, especially as someone who thrives in a nomadic lifestyle. For instance, I imagined sharing the Polestar method in my home country, Argentina, and introducing it to places where it hasn’t yet been established. Now, as I guide others on their Pilates journeys, I feel an even stronger connection to the global Pilates community and the profound impact this practice can have.
Pilates and my career on superyachts have given me unique opportunities I could never have imagined. I’ve set up and taught sessions in some of the most breathtaking locations in the world—think private islands, serene Mediterranean beaches, and luxury yacht decks at sunset.
What’s more, Pilates has given me professional stability and mobility. As a Polestar-trained instructor, I’ve found that studios around the world recognize the quality of this training. It’s reassuring to know that wherever life takes me, there’s always a place for me in the Pilates community and, of course, the Polestar family as well.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: dream big and write those dreams down. Then, take the steps to make them a reality. At the same time, leave room for the unexpected—sometimes the universe has plans for us that exceed anything we could have imagined.
For those considering a career in Pilates, my advice is to approach it with curiosity and an open heart. Every step of the journey will challenge you and help you grow in ways you never expected.
Looking back, I see how two seemingly different careers—Pilates and yachting—have intertwined to shape my life in extraordinary ways. Pilates has grounded me, offering me stability and purpose, while yachting has shown me the beauty of the world and the importance of adaptability.
As I continue this journey, my hope is to inspire others to embrace movement, whether as a practice or a career. Because in the end, movement is not just something we do—it’s who we are.
About The Author
Anahí is a qualified professional movement facilitator, certified in Pilates, yoga, and dance with over 20 years of experience. Originally from Argentina, she has studied, lived and worked internationally. When she is not navigating the seas as a chief stewardess on superyachts, she offers tailored wellness programs to clients worldwide, combining her expertise in movement with a deep understanding of different cultures and a passion for sustainable and mindful practice.
Follow her on Instagram.
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