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NATCHEZ — Every Pilates movement practiced today began with vision, discipline and purpose, said Jenna Biglane, a Pilates instructor of 20 years.

For years in the early 20th century, Joseph Pilates studied and developed his Contrology method—a system of exercises meant to create a strong, supple, and balanced body—with apparatuses he invented to achieve many of these movements.

Biglane recently visited Joseph Pilates’ studio in New York City, which originally opened in 1926 with a vision to bring that classic Pilates instruction home to Natchez, complete with equipment designed with Joseph Pilates’ original specifications.

Her studio at 107 N. Pearl Street officially opened for business on Monday. Biglane continues to teach group classes in the afternoons in coordination with Fit Pilates on Jeff Davis Boulevard. But for those looking for a personalized experience, the intimate, boutique studio on Pearl Street offers only private, duet and trio sessions rooted in both classical and contemporary Pilates, specializing in personalized movement.

“I’ve been teaching Pilates for over 20 years and have always dreamed of creating a space that feels focused, restorative and elevated,” Biglane said. “After years of teaching in larger studios, I wanted to bring something more intimate and high-quality to our community—something that honors the classical roots of Pilates while meeting people exactly where they are in their wellness journey.”

Biglane said Pilates on Pearl is set apart by its commitment to authenticity and personal attention.

“We teach on Gratz equipment, which maintains the original integrity of the method. Our sessions are capped at three clients max, ensuring every person gets detailed instruction. Whether someone is recovering, building strength, or simply looking for mindful movement, we guide them with care.”

Who is Pilates for?

“Everyone,” Biglane said. “Pilates was originally designed for all bodies and all walks of life. I work with athletes, beginners, people in recovery, and those looking to build long-term strength and alignment. It’s never about keeping up—it’s about tuning in.”

Biglane said the class is great for both men and women of all ages and body types — post-partum mothers, and those who are just coming out of physical therapy and are in recovery, as long as they are cleared by a medical professional.

“I’m 51 now and I’ll be doing this until I’m 100,” Biglane said. Always fond of movement, Biglane said she grew up in California and Texas, traveling with her father who worked in the oil business, and she was athletic. In 2005, she moved to Natchez and was introduced to Pilates through someone from New Orleans who had hosted group Pilates classes here after Hurricane Katrina.

“I had my son in 2005, and I just bounced back,” she said. “Postnatally, I was stronger inside.”

An introductory package of three private sessions introduces clients to the work, equipment and what kind of training best suits their needs so they can determine the best path forward—whether staying with private sessions or moving into duet or trio formats.

“We design each experience around the individual,” she said. “At Pilates on Pearl, we believe that change happens with movement—and that meaningful movement should be precise, personal, and empowering.”

For more information and to register for sessions, visit www.pilatesonpearl.com.