Inspiring testimonials from our clients & members

  • "Working with Sonja gave me my life back. When I started with Sonja a few years ago my muscles were weak, tight and I experienced a tremendous amount of pain daily. It all stemmed from a difficult pregnancy, a vehicle accident and an unwillingness to work on my own health. Sonja pushes you to be your best because she truly wants it for you. She finds the problem and works to address it because she has an incredible understanding of the body, health and fitness. When I first started with her I couldn’t do one lunge let alone stand on one foot. Because of her, I now compete in fitness competitions and have fallen in love with fitness and being strong. Thank you Sonja!"

    Sarah

  • “Solshine Pilates has been transformative to my lifestyle and wellbeing. I struggle with finding the time in my life to go to pilates/exercise classes, and when I do have time, often these class schedules do not align with my free moments. It has been easy to make excuses to not work out and treat my body well. Since joining Solshine Pilates, that has changed. I am able to access amazing classes with Sonja at anytime, and anywhere, and particularly love her Fit on the Fly series which allows me to choose 10-25 minute workouts for when I just need to get some movement in before work, but don't have the time for a full hour long class. It is how I start my morning every day! What's more is that Sonja brings the same level of energy, positivity, and encouragement to her recorded videos as she does to her live classes. This is something about Sonja that is just incredible and rare - the fact that I can engage with a prerecorded video, and feel like I am right there in the studio with her! Additionally, Sonja truly caters her platform to her subscribers. She encourages requests and input, she creates space for a variety of offerings including Live Zoom sessions, and she is passionate about what she does, and genuinely cares about you, her valued client. I could not recommend Sonja and Solshine Pilates any more. It is truly an online pilates experience like no other - and ridiculously affordable.”

    Sasha

  • “I can’t say enough great things about training with Sonja. She got me in shape for my wedding, kept me in shape during my pregnancy, and has now helped me get my body and core back postpartum. I never would have guessed that I could be back to my pre-pregnancy self in less than 6 months after having a baby, but she helped make that happen. Her Foundation to Fit series is perfect because true to the name, it starts with your foundation, which was critical for me after having a baby. Each session builds upon the last and you can really see results by the end. I cherish my weekly one-on-one sessions with her and I’m so thankful that she offers her time remotely since we’re across the country. She’s the best."

    Meghan

  • "Sonja is an absolutely amazing Pilates instructor! Her flow is unmatched, and every session with her feels like a perfectly choreographed experience that leaves you feeling strong, balanced, and energized. She has a unique gift for understanding exactly what her students need, and her talent shines through in every movement she guides us through. Her cues are clear, her energy is inspiring, and her ability to create a seamless connection between mind and body is truly remarkable. Sonja's passion for Pilates is evident in every class she teaches, and her genuine care for her students makes her stand out from the rest. If you’re looking for a Pilates teacher who will challenge you, inspire you, and help you reach new heights in your practice, Sonja is the one. She is truly gifted and a rare gem in the Pilates world! "

    Kaylee

  • “Sonja has something special about her. Yes, she’s a great instructor and knows A TON about Pilates, about human anatomy, and the science of getting fit. But there are loads of instructors with those qualities. What sets Sonja apart is what she brings to each session with you: her enthusiasm for your workout, your body, your mood, and what you need from training that day. She plans a road map for each session but she’s genius at adapting to your circumstances when you arrive. She’s an incredible motivator who by her presence, her words and subtle touch manages to get more out of you than you thought you could give..”

    Gary

  • "Sonja's approach to her classes is always fueled with encouragement and kindness. She motivates you to do those last repetitions with her sweet smile and confidence in you. Her sessions are versatile, challenging, and tailored to suit your needs in every way. I once had a full-blown meltdown from the loss of a dear friend and she held my hand, listened to me, let me cry, and supported me just like a best friend would. My goals have been met and exceeded!! I spring out of bed every morning without any back pain, I have much more endurance with my clients and most importantly I feel beautiful on the inside and the outside. I made the commitment to myself and Sonja and finally feel like the woman I have always wanted to be."

    Michelle

  • "As a busy mom to three young children, I have been loving the ease of using Pilates on the Vine’s online platform to stay on track with my fitness goals. Not only is it affordable and high quality, the classes offered fit into my hectic schedule and give me the quick burn my body craves, helping me to never miss a day of giving myself a little attention. I have been working out with Sonja for almost a year now, both in person and online, and I feel stronger with every week. I can fit into jeans I previously wasn’t able to button, which is great, however, the real gift I have received from Pilates on the Vine is the confidence I now have to push myself through challenging workouts and try new things on my mat at home or the reformer in the studio"

    Rosa

  • As a former college football player and personal trainer I have interacted with numerous trainers and strength and conditioning coaches and Sonja is by far one of the most knowledgeable fitness professionals that I have had the pleasure of working with. Sonja is an extraordinary trainer and the absolute best at what she does. Before I started working with Sonja I considered myself to be in pretty good shape, but she has helped me reach my fitness goals that I once thought were unattainable. She created a variety of challenging workouts and also provided the motivation and encouragement to make it through each session. Sonja is extremely positive, energetic, and practices what she preaches. I highly recommend Sonja!

    Daniel

  • "Sonja's on demand Pilates sessions are the custom fit answer to my fitness goals at 64 years young. I can choose what I want to work on, for how long, and in the privacy of my home, especially during the winter months. Sonja's knowledge, choreography and personality keep me highly motivated so that I use my app 5 days a week! It's the best. Sciatic leg pain is gone. Flexibility, balance and strength are increasing. This app is a bargain!"

    Anya

  • “Not only is Sonja an exceptional teacher, but she is also friendly, knowledgeable, and energetic. She inspires and motivates you to look and feel better about yourself in a positive, supportive, and encouraging way. I’m happy to say that I reached my pre-pregnancy weight four months after the birth of my daughter. I can’t say enough about Sonja and the help she gave me to reach my goals and feel good about myself again! She is the best!"

    Nicole

  • Sonja is simply amazing! I have been lucky to work out with her regularly for the past several years. She has convinced me to go outside of my comfort zone with fitness on a number of occasions and I am the better for it. I never thought I would like Pilates let alone love it but Sonja convinced me to give it a try and I have grown to not only love it but also crave it. I have a number of orthopedic issues to compete with but Sonja always finds a way to modify the exercises so I get the maximum results. Knowing I was facing reconstructive surgery on my knee last fall, Sonja increased our leg workouts, targeting all the large and small muscles surrounding my knee. I was in the best shape possible going into the surgery which my doctors appreciated. I also have no doubt that all the work we did resulted in a faster recovery and less than 4 months after surgery I was able to start working out regularly. If you are looking for an amazing trainer with a positive attitude with an ability to adapt around injuries look no further!

    Meg

  • "I have been doing Pilates for 10 years in several different cities and states, and can confidently say that Sonja is the best Pilates teacher I have ever had! Whether it is on the reformer or the mat, she thoughtfully designs highly creative and challenging classes while maintaining a welcoming and kind atmosphere and community. She somehow maintains a gentle calm while encouraging you to push yourself. Her classes have helped me through some difficult times, and I always look forward to see what she will cook up for us next!"

    Molly

  • "I am so grateful that I learned pilates foundations from Sonja. I have been her client for three years, and her workouts continue to be a delightful mix of challenge and creativity. Each session is thoughtfully designed and super fun. Sonja will help you work the tiniest muscles, ones you didn’t even know you had. Sonja is joyful and playful as a teacher, and she makes the toughest sequences accessible to all bodies. Her positivity is uplifting and will push you farther than you think you can go. If you’re seeking a trainer who balances deep expertise with excellent vibes, Sonja is your person."

    Lisa

  • "My path to fitting into a wedding dress one size too small was filled with obstacles. As my body and its quirks changed, Sonja never gave up and constantly adapted my sessions. My relationship with Sonja helped me lose over 30 lbs, but most importantly, her guidance and unwavering support have helped me change my habits for a better and healthier lifestyle. I feel stronger, happier, healthier, and more confident from the knowledge and strength Sonja bestowed upon me beyond the studio. I cannot express how fortunate I feel to have her as a trainer and friend. There are not enough words for me to tell the world just how amazing she is as a trainer and person!"

    Dianna

  • "When Sonja and I started working together, I had no idea how far I could go with getting in shape. I am totally different now: my eating is much improved, I am running 12 to 15 miles per week, boxing, and lifting weights. I am in the best shape of my life and I still do a bunch of the exercises and routines that you showed me. Thanks for helping to inspire me and for giving me some concrete ways to take my workouts with me on the road."

    Joe

  • "I began training with Sonja in the winter of 2012, about nine months after my wedding. Three months before I started training with Sonja, I had a flare-up from an old knee injury and began experiencing constant hip and knee pain. I was unable to go jogging (one of my favorite pastimes) or participate in many of the other fitness activities I had enjoyed in the months leading up to my wedding. Through a series of personal training sessions including strength and cardio training, and Pilates reformer workouts, I gained valuable core strength, rebuilt muscle, toned, and improved my body in ways I never thought possible. Three years later, I am back to jogging 3-4 times a week, and I have never felt better! Sonja helped to shift my perspective on fitness, and inspired me to get back to living healthier, with a happier outlook on life!"

    Shaina

  • I've worked with many trainers over the years and Sonja is by far the best. She truly understands what works well for me and what doesn't, and the results have been great. She's energetic, has a great attitude, and absolutely knows her stuff. I couldn't ask for a better trainer, coach, and friend.

    Hani

  • “After coming off a knee injury from surfing I happened upon Sonja’s foundation to fit class. Not only is my knee recovery going really well I’ve noticed my surfing has improved and my core strength is the best it’s been in a long while.”

    Marnie

  • Sonja is a wonderful, attentive, patient, kind and knowledgeable instructor. I've gained a lot of strength since taking her Foundations to Fit classes. I really appreciate the time she takes to provide corrections because it has helped me with a previous injury.

    Jeni

  • "Sonja, I want you to know how much you changed my life and look what you did for me? I never had definition like that ever until I met you, you have added years to my life!"

    Mari

  • "Sonja is more than a fantastic trainer but a great coach to living healthy. Living by example, Sonja ensures clients have a well balanced and positive support with every facet of training. The sessions are a mix of many disciplines and work in concert with the ups/downs of life, but keep you toward the journey to better health. Sonja's intuition to know when to push and when to support make for a terrific workout."

    Stacy

  • "Sonja is one of the best trainers I’ve had. I used to take her class when I lived in DC. Now that I moved overseas, I am so happy to be able to train with Sonja online. She guides you through each exercise with clear and precise guidance. I am a yoga/barre instructor and play a lot of tennis. I find Sonja’s Pilates class a perfect complement to my workouts. Highly recommended!"

    Kady

  • "Sonja is an exceptional inspirational instructor. I am so fortunate to have found her. I’ve been working with her for close to two years. I started out with privates which were a key to my success. I go to class two days a week and I’ve started Pilates on the Vine to add in additional workouts. I feel both challenged and strong. I’ve always wanted beautiful toned arms and a strong core and now I have both!"

    Irene

  • "Sonja’s clear guidance has helped to support and strengthen my Pilates practice, I could not be happier! Access to her on- demand classes are essential for days you can’t make it into the studio. It’s so convenient, affordable, and she’s always adding new videos to keep it fresh and engaging"

    Nicole

  • “I got started after the holidays and was amazed at how quickly the weight started to come off. Within eight weeks of training, I was able to drop 17 pounds, and felt vibrant again! Her passion and understanding of a person’s needs are second to none, and I must say, my favorite workout with Sonja is the next one.”

    Dan

  • "I have been practicing with Sonja for about 3 years and Pilates in general for 10+ years. Sonja challenges us every class, changes the flows to keep things interested, and provides clear instruction. On top of that, she is genuinely sweet, caring, and loves what she does. My body feels strong and balanced and I love the community of women she has fostered. I would recommend practicing with Sonja a thousand times over!"

    Kira

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