STAFF
Instructors and operators
Meet our staff
Pilates is a complete workout, with benefits for both body and mind, a discipline that guides you toward the best version of yourself. In an hour-long class with me and my staff, you can tone and reshape your body, correct your posture, and achieve profound well-being.
The Be You Pilates teachers in Florence and Scandicci are all highly qualified and certified in the BASI Pilates method. They also have extensive training experience.
Similarly, our osteopathy, massage, and cryosauna practitioners have proven experience and have been carefully selected to ensure the high standard of all services provided in our studios.
CRISTIANA
DESANTIS
PILATES INSTRUCTOR
I’m Cristiana, a certified BASI Pilates instructor, using equipment and mats.
My passion for Pilates began about 15 years ago, when I began practicing this discipline as an amateur to address my back pain caused by scoliosis. Once I achieved my goal, I discovered that my body had improved significantly thanks to the precision work I had done, and I immediately noticed a benefit in my awareness of the movements I needed to carry out in everyday life.
This strong passion and curiosity led me to initially conduct my own studies studies on human anatomy. At the same time, I gained familiarity with various teaching methods for this discipline, finally embracing the method that best suited my teaching principles: the BASI Pilates method, earning the Comprehensive Global Program certification.
At this point I began a period of collaboration at Ilaria Pulidori’s BASI Pilates in Tuscany school in Prato, where I still actively participate in advanced study activities, specialization, and targeted interdisciplinary and training courses.
For the sake of brevity, I’ll mention just a few:
- Pilates for Injuries and Pathologies
- Powerhouse of the Upper Girdle
- Jump
- Pilates for scoliosis
- Get together
In 2021, I attended Rael Isacowitz’s Mentor Program, with Ilaria Pulidori and Maria Sylla, thus reaching a higher level of teaching. All this continuous training over a decade, and my strong aptitude for human interaction, finally made my dream come true. In 2020, I opened my own Be You Pilates studio in Florence, where I still practice and teach this wonderful discipline. In 2023, given the numerous enrollments, I broadened my horizons and opened a new studio of over 400 square meters, Be You Pilates, in the Le Bagnese area of Scandicci. In 2023, I also reached the pinnacle of my training with the Legacy Program Master I and II at Basi Pilates Italia.
Virginia Bartoloni
Pilates Instructor
My passion for sports has been an integral part of my life since I was a child. I discovered Pilates right after high school, and I’ve been practicing it nonstop for 10 years now!
I initially approached this discipline because of scoliosis.
With perseverance, I began to notice improvements in my posture, which led me to become increasingly interested in movement science and physical well-being.
I then decided to enroll in the Faculty of Sports Science at the University of Florence.
After graduating and gaining several professional experiences as an athletic trainer, I decided to enroll at BASI Pilates to turn my passion for Pilates into a career. I discovered that teaching this wonderful discipline allows me to realize, every day, the importance of attention to detail, the functions of movement, and the benefits it provides in all its phases.
This work excites me and inspires me to look beyond, to improve and train myself while simultaneously pursuing another course of study in osteopathy, always keeping the individual’s well-being at the forefront.
I have been working at Be You Pilates in Florence for about two years, and thanks in part to Cristiana, the professional and work-related challenges never end.
Lidia Paoletti
Pilates Instructor
My name is Lidia, I’m 25 and I live in Florence. I’ve always had a strong passion for fitness. I’ve been dedicated to it since I was a child, practicing various sports. Driven by a strong curiosity, about four years ago I began studying Pilates and immediately fell in love.
In this discipline, I found the part I had always unconsciously sought in a sport, establishing a greater and more conscious connection with my body and movement. The precision, the deep connection with my muscles, the balance, and the concentration ignited and gradually strengthened a new energy within me that I soon decided to share with others. So I embarked on a BASI Pilates training program to become a teacher and to be able to pass on this strong passion. I couldn’t have made a better choice: in BASI and in this studio, I found extraordinary professionals who reaffirmed in me the desire to undertake this journey; as well as a great family with whom I can share the key aspects of my work and a constant source of inspiration for improving my skills and knowledge in the field.
My collaboration with Be You Pilates began in October last year after meeting Cristiana, a special person in every way. Since then, her passion and professionalism have been my greatest inspiration, and the magical atmosphere of her studio has been the center of my professional and personal journey.
Sofia Giaconella
Pilates Instructor
I’m Sofia, passionate about sports and fitness. I went to the gym for the first time at age 8 and began practicing rhythmic gymnastics for 10 years, after which I left my life as an athlete to become a teacher.
At the same time, I developed a curiosity about the health of movement, which led me to Pilates and I have been practicing it myself for the past 5 years.
This discipline fascinated me so much that I wanted to teach it, which is why I am certified as a BASI Pilates teacher and why I continue to study to increase my knowledge in the field.
Gabriella Andriani
Insegnante Pilates
Nasco come ballerina professionista di danza contemporanea, ho iniziato il mio percorso alla Scala di Milano e all’Opera di Roma.
Nel 2005 ho iniziato un percorso di formazione presso l’Accademia Internazionale Coreutica a Firenze e successivamente mi sono specializzata nella danza contemporanea presso Opus Ballet dove mi sono diplomata nel 2010.
Ho danzato con coreografi di fama internazionale durante il “LOFT” presso Opus Ballet, ho danzato nella compagnia Motus di Siena, sono stata ballerina solista per commedie teatrali con la regia di Massimo Corevi. Ballerina per Kinesis Contemporary Dance Company.
In questi anni ho sempre affiancato alla danza il Pilates fino ad innamorarmene perdutamente. Nel 2019 ho completato il Comprensive Global Format di BASI Pilates con conseguente diploma.
Ho iniziato fin da subito la mia esperienza in diversi studi Pilates di Firenze e successivamente ho insegnato per due anni presso Benefit Studio a Milano e presso il Milano Contemporary Ballet Studio Pilates.
Nel 2021 ho seguito il corso Pilates Throudh Pregnancy and Beyond, con conseguente certificazione per poter seguire le donne nel percorso del pre e post gravidanza.
Da maggio 2022 collaboro con lo studio Be You Pilates a Firenze.
Daniela Becattini
Pilates Instructor
My name is Daniela, I’m 47 years old and I live in Florence. I’ve always been involved in competitive sports, including many years as a member of the Italian national figure skating team. Sports have always been the center of my life.
I was introduced to Pilates by Cristiana Desantis, at a time when I needed treatment for my back pain. Thanks to her, I then began my BASI Pilates studies.
It was a fantastic experience, a profound journey into my body that led me to quit my job after 25 years and become a Pilates teacher.
With my passion and constant study, I hope to lead you into this magical world where body and mind find a healthy balance.
You’ll feel every part of your body change in terms of flexibility, strength, and stability. Little by little, you’ll gain greater awareness and physical well-being until you can’t live without it. This is what happened to me… Happy Pilates, everyone!
Valentina D'Isep
Pilates Instructor
My passion for Pilates began as a teenager when I began practicing it to strengthen my body for dance.
I continued practicing this wonderful discipline in New York when, after graduating high school, I studied at the Broadway Dance Center, earning a Certificate of Excellence.
After returning to Italy, I continued training as a professional dancer at important Florentine academies, such as Balletto di Toscana and Opus Ballet, performing works by several internationally renowned choreographers.
In that same time, I became certified as a matwork and large-scale Italian Fitness Federation instructor and began collaborating with several Pilates studios in Florence.
I earned a master’s degree in performing arts from the University of Florence with honors. Finally, I decided to undertake the comprehensive BASI Pilates training, appreciating the high quality of the teaching and attention to detail of this method.
In January 2023, I began collaborating with the Be You Pilates Studio in Florence.
Francesca Mari
Insegnante Pilates Lido di Camaiore
Sono stata un ‘atleta professionista per oltre 15 anni, calcando i campi di serie A di Pallavolo dal 2001 al 2013, vincendo 1 scudetto e 2 supercoppe italiane e comprendendo l’importanza del team working. Diventata mamma di 2 bambine, ho deciso di fare della mia passione per lo sport un’attività, laureandomi prima in Scienze Motorie all’ Università San Raffaele di Roma e poi acquisendo a Parma il brevetto FIPE ( Federazione italiana pesistica) di I livello. Ho visto il mio corpo e quello delle persone che mi seguivano migliorare nell’aspetto e nella funzionalità ed è per questo che dopo svariate ricerche ho approcciato al mondo del Pilates abbracciando il metodo Basi di Rael Isacowitz e frequentando il Comprehensive Global Program tenuto di Ilaria Pulidori. La possibilità di fare tirocini attivi e sviluppare le lezioni one to one o di gruppo, curando ogni minimo particolare e raggiungendo obiettivi prefissati è ciò che mi gratifica maggiormente e mi motiva nel seguire aggiornamenti continui. Spesso i clienti mi domandano quante volte bisogna allenarsi con il Pilates: io lo inserisco nella mia routine settimanale il più possibile perché dopo le prime sedute, sarà difficile farne a meno, essendo un vero e proprio stile di vita. La mia ora, tutta mia, di benessere.
Emma Bisignano
Pilates Instructor
My name is Emma, I’m 28 years old and I’m passionate about movement in all its forms. I first entered the dance studio at 3 years old, experimenting with different styles and then sharing my energy as a teacher. In 2020, I graduated with a degree in Sports Science and every day I help children discover themselves by teaching physical education in elementary school: I help them grow in awareness and respect for their bodies.
I discovered Pilates as a student in February 2022 and was fascinated by the precision, attention to detail, and energy this practice gave me. Firmly believing in its benefits, I chose to train with the BASI program and today I teach Pilates with great passion and professionalism.
Since March 2024, I have been working with Be You Pilates, where I have found a stimulating, welcoming, and highly professional environment—the ideal place to continue growing.
I look forward to helping you discover the pleasure of movement and improving your posture, strength, flexibility, awareness, and well-being.
Eleonora Miari
Pilates Instructor
My name is Eleonora, I’m 27 years old, and I’d always been active until I was 18, when a herniated disc forced me to stop all my activity.
After months of physical therapy, I discovered Pilates. Thanks to the BASI Pilates method, I’ve been able to feel better. From my personal practice, I chose to also pursue this path as a teacher.
In 2019, I earned my Mat teacher qualification, followed by my equipment teacher qualifications.
I’ve been collaborating with Be You Pilates since October 2023,
Giada Gallerini
Pilates Instructor
My life has always been accompanied by sport, a constant presence that has profoundly influenced my personal and professional journey.
I started with ballet, but over time my attention shifted to the world of fitness and the gym, seeking a balance between body and mind.
After the birth of my first daughter, I faced some significant physical challenges: it was then that I discovered Pilates, a discipline that proved to be essential to my recovery and wellbeing.
Be You Pilates was love at first sight for me. Four years ago, I was fortunate enough to meet Cristiana, my teacher and mentor, who guided me on this journey with her passion and expertise, making me fall even deeper in love with this unique method.
With the birth of my second child, I grew increasingly determined to turn this passion into a profession. Encouraged and propelled by Cristiana, I decided to quit my job and enroll in the BASI Pilates School. This decision opened up new perspectives and the opportunity to accompany people on their journey to wellness.
Today, teaching Pilates at this school is a joy and a privilege for me. Every day I feel motivated to share with others not simply a method but an experience of personal growth, balance, and awareness.
I hope to be able to convey to those who come to Pilates the same passion and serenity it has brought to my life.
Elena Agnusdei
Pilates Instructor in Lido di Camaiore
My first encounter with movement occurred at the age of five in a ballet studio, and since then I’ve never stopped experimenting with my body.
Despite my degree in engineering, I decided to pursue what had accompanied and supported me throughout my university years: teaching Pilates and Yoga. Since that decision, my training has never stopped: my lessons range from a purely postural and post-rehabilitation approach to one focused on toning and strength.
I recently completed comprehensive training at the Pilates Network in Florence led by Jolita Trahan, a Pilates pioneer in Italy, and the international NCPT course in English.
With over 13 years of experience, I feel I can best adapt my knowledge to the needs and goals of my clients. In recent months, I have been focusing my studies on post-pregnancy training using the de Gasquet method.
Alice Guidi
Pilates Instructor in Lido di Camaiore
I’m Dr. Alice Guidi, a Pilates instructor specializing in Pilates Machines, Barre Pilates, and Matwork.
Since 2018, I’ve been working in a studio in Forte dei Marmi, where I offer personalized programs aimed at improving posture, mobility, and overall well-being.
I graduated with a Master’s degree in Preventive and Adaptive Motor Activity Sciences and Techniques in 2024 and have completed several specialized Master’s degrees, including Posturology, Knee Rehabilitation, Barre Pilates (certified by the Italian Fitness Federation), and Suspension Pilates (PSM).
My approach is based on solid scientific training and careful observation of movement, further enhanced by a background in classical dance. The goal of my work is to guide each person through a conscious, effective, and sustainable movement experience.
Rebecca Larsson
Pilates Instructor
I worked in the fashion industry for many years, but I’ve always had a deep passion for fitness and physical and mental well-being.
After years of high-intensity, high-impact workouts, I turned to Pilates due to the worsening of my postural issues: I suffer from scoliosis, hyperlordosis, and kyphosis.
The combination of strength, control, and body awareness inherent in Pilates won me over immediately. This discipline not only helped me improve my posture and alleviate physical discomfort, but also gave me a complete, 360-degree sense of well-being.
Driven by these benefits, I decided to leave my previous career to train as a teacher at the BASI Academy in Prato.
In September, I began my professional journey as a Pilates teacher, and today my greatest motivation is seeing people rediscover, through practice, the same satisfaction and awareness I found.
Erica Mazzei
Massage Therapist
Professional esthetician, owner of a beauty salon for ten years.
Always sporty and passionate about wellness, in 2023 I became a “Pupilla Premium,” the highest recognition for a masseuse of the “exclusive” Renata França method: hands can transform your body.
Renata França method massages and Pilates share the goal of physical well-being and body shaping.
This similarity and a constant pursuit of physical health led me to collaborate with the professionalism and exceptional skills of Pilates teacher Cristiana Desantis at the “Be You Pilates” studios.
Greta Pannunzio
Nutritional biologist
My name is Greta Pannunzio, and I’m a nutritional biologist who graduated with honors from the University of Florence. I chose to dedicate my professional life to nutrition because I deeply believe that food is a powerful tool for health, balance, and transformation.
During my training, I explored topics related to body recomposition, improving athletic performance, and the use of targeted nutritional approaches, such as anti-inflammatory and low-FODMAP diets.
I’m expanding my expertise in sports nutrition. Studying how nutrition influences strength, endurance, and body composition is a challenge I pursue every day with passion, both in the studio and during training.
I believe that every person is unique and deserves a customized nutrition plan, crafted with attention, empathy, and a pinch of determination, just like a good training program.
If you want to improve your relationship with food, achieve a goal, or simply take more conscious care of yourself, I’d be happy to guide you on this journey.
Giulia Ambrosio
Insegnante Pilates
Diplomata in danza classica, inizio il mio percorso da insegnante con la Russian Ballet Society, aprendo poi nel 2012 un mio Centro Danza.
Nel frattempo mi avvicino al mondo del Fitness e del Pilates con FIF Academy, certificandomi come Istruttore Musicale, e successivamente, nel 2009, in Pilates Mat e piccoli attrezzi con Elisabetta Cinelli seguendo costantemente i suoi aggiornamenti.
Successivamente continuo la mia formazione con IPA ltalian Pilates Academy (Pilates Barre, Pilates in Gravidanza, Foam Roller) e con BASI Pilates per i grandi attrezzi.
Continuo costantemente a praticare ed insegnare Pilates affiancandolo al mio percorso da ballerina.
Erika Leo
Insegnante Pilates
Sono Erika Leo, ballerina e insegnante freelancer. Mi sono diplomata nel 2018 alla Iwanson International school of contemporary dance a Monaco di Baviera, Germania.
Subito dopo ho iniziato a lavorare come danzatrice, con coreografi internazionali, per diversi progetti e spettacoli in tutta la Germania.
Negli stessi anni mi sono avvicinata a due nuove discipline, conseguendo il diploma come insegnante di Pilates con l’ACSI (ente di formazione riconosciuta dal CONI) e successivamente certificata, da Tanja Krodel, come insegnante di Barre Fusion e Cardio barre.
Di recente ho anche lavorato come ballerina per “The Rake’s Progress”, opera diretta da Adam Cooper al Gärtnerplatz Dance Theater e successivamente per “Semele”, opera diretta da Claus Guth al Bayerische Staatsoper e al Prinzregententheatre, Germania.
Annalisa Desantis
Operatrice Pilates con arpa
Sono Annalisa, sorella di Cristiana Desantis. Nel 1992 ho iniziato gli studi musicali e mi sono brillantemente diplomata presso il Conservatorio “A. Boito” di Parma. Ho ottenuto la Laurea da Concertista presso l’Università della Musica e delle Arti di Zurigo, nella classe di Catherine Michel (Prima arpa solista dell’Opera di Parigi).
Dal 2008 vinco numerose audizioni come quella per Prima arpa dell’Orchestra Giovanile Luigi Cherubini diretta dal Maestro Riccardo Muti , quella per arpa presso il Teatro Lirico di Cagliari, quella per arpa per l’Orchestra del Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino con il quale collaboro come seconda e prima arpa dal 2010.
Attualmente vivo a Firenze e collaboro con l’Orchestra del Maggio Musicale, sono Prima arpa al Festival Puccini di Torre del Lago.
Tutti i lunedì, a partire dal 29 settembre, presso lo Studio Be You Pilates Le Bagnese, dalle 19.30 alle 20.30, accompagnerò con la mia arpa una lezione di Pilates: questo innovativo sistema di allenamento è da intendersi come un percorso di lezioni nato dal connubio tra me e Cristiana.
Il percorso ha l’obiettivo di rafforzare il nostro IO e metterci in contatto con la parte più saggia e luminosa di noi, da cui trarre forza per il raggiungimento dei nostri obiettivi.
Sabrina Biancalani
Insegnante Pilates
Sono Sabrina Biancalani, dal 1992 insegnante nei centri fitness di molteplici attività: cardio, tonificazione, allenamento funzionale.
Dal 2004 ho integrato discipline olistiche, Pilates e Yoga, divenendo insegnante di Postural yoga e Power yoga.
Certificata B.A.S.I. comprehensive Pilates teacher training . Iscritta albo Yoga Alliance .
Operatore Yoga therapy.
Gyrotonic® teacher trainer
Alessandro Meli
Insegnante Hatha Yoga
Sono Alessandro Meli, vivo e lavoro a Firenze.
Nel 1996 inizio a praticare il Kung Fu e Chi kung diventando istruttore.
Conseguo l’abilitazione professionale di Counselor Relazionale, presso la Scuola C.S.C.P Centro Scuole Counseling e Psicoterapia di Firenze.
Nel 2013 ottengo le specializzazioni:
- Counselor Individuale
- Relazione di Coppia in crisi oppure(nei rapporti genitori/figli)
- Gruppo esperienziale: I “giochi”/esperienze di gruppo. Attraverso di questo è come se parlassimo di noi stessi (con l’uso della scrittura, pittura, disegno, ballo e musica). Utilizzare il “gioco” per far emergere il nostro mondo interiore, riuscire a esprimersi con sé stessi e con l’altro.
Nel 2021 conseguo il Diploma di Istruttore di Hatha Yoga/meditazione.
Ran Ishiwa
Insegnante Metodo Feldenkrais
Sono Ran e ho incontrato la danza a 18 anni: da quel momento è iniziato un percorso alla scoperta del corpo, del movimento e delle sue emozioni in tutte le sue forme, dalla danza meditativa, al teatro, alla meditazione e al massaggio.
Questo mi ha portato a conoscere il metodo Feldenkrais, con le sue enormi potenzialità e la disciplina craniosacrale biodinamica con la sua profondità e delicatezza.
Sono interessata ad entrare in relazione, attraverso il movimento e il contatto, con la parte più profonda dell’essere umano, con le sue fragilità e le sue innumerevoli meraviglie: ogni volta è una nuova scoperta.
Elisa Capecchi
Insegnante ginnastica ipopressiva
Dopo un’infelice lezione di nuoto a 4 anni decido che con la danza sarebbe andata meglio, e infatti ne faccio presto una professione.
Mi formo subito con la danza classica e dagli 11 anni anche in danza contemporanea. A 17 anni partecipo al Festival Pucciniano e subito dopo lavoro per il Florence Dance Company.
In seguito l’ incontro con Roberto Castello -Aldes(4 premi Ubu) mi ha portata a conoscere e lavorare con il teatro-danza(Vieni via con me -Rai3 diretto da Fazio/Saviano, Carne Trita, In girum imus nocte et consumimur igni..).
Nel 2012 partecipo all’Arsenale della Danza della Biennale di Venezia, allora diretta da Ismael Ivo, con la quale avrò la possibilità di andare in tournée in Brasile e successivamente con borsa di studio al Masa Dance Journey Program in Israele che mi permetterà di entrare nella compagnia internazionale Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company.
Tornata in Italia riprendo vecchie e nuove collaborazioni che mi fanno conoscere sempre diversi lati della danza, del teatro e del movimento. Partecipo così a spettacoli nazionali e tournée europee e inizio la sperimentazione coreografica e comincio ad insegnare tecnica classica e contemporanea.
Dal 2020 sono anche certified teacher Level 3 di Progressing Ballet Technique mentre dal novembre 2021 insegnante di ginnastica Hypopressive RSF level 1 e successivamente level 2 expert e mi interesso in tutte quelle ginnastiche che migliorano la postura, il benessere fisico e il movimento del corpo.
Claudia Celano
Operatrice massaggio muscolare profondo, gambesane e pancia piatta
Ho intrapreso con molta serietà l’entrata in questo mondo circa quindici anni fa. Nonostante abbia sempre studiato il massaggio nella sua versione più scientifica, lavorando in team con professionisti sanitari, in studi di yoga e pilates e con sportivi professionisti importanti, ho sempre curato anche le altre declinazioni delle medicine olistiche, delle antiche medicine tradizionali e dell’ascolto.
Il questi anni ho raggiunto tre specializzazioni molto importanti: massaggio muscolare profondo, metodo gambesane e pancia piatta.
Di seguito altri percorsi che ho seguito per ampliare la mia cultura e donare un benessere sempre più di qualità:
- tecniche del MASSAGGIO BENESSERE;
- RIFLESSOLOGIA PLANTARE
- RIFLESSOLOGIA PLANTARE ARMONICA
- THAI MASSAGE, attestazione International Massage School
- Massaggio Ayurvedico ABHYANGAM
- Massaggio Awaiano LOMI LOMI, attestazione CIDESCO e Scuola Italiana Massaggi
- THAI FOOT MASSAGE
- AURICOLOTERAPIA
- Operatrice REIKI
- Operatrice specializzata in applicazione TAPING KINESIOLOGICO
- Operatrice MOXA, COPPETTAZIONE, TECNICHE DI SBLOCCO IMMEDIATE.
