Meet the Team: Emily Udelhofen
We’re thrilled to welcome Emily to the Niche team! While she’s new to the Richmond area and to our studio, Emily is no stranger to Pilates. She brings 20 years of Pilates experience to Niche.
What is your “core” Pilates memory?
In high school, I would do Windsor Pilates videos' (in VHS form...) and that was my only exposure to Pilates until I took my first class at a classical pilates studio. I took my first in-studio class in college – I was instantly hooked and asked the instructor afterward how I could make this my career! Fast forward two decades, and I’m thrilled to be joining the Niche team!
How do you stay inspired?
I find inspiration through taking classes and love exploring other forms of movement like dance, strength training, walking, and HIIT. For self-care, I enjoy a good book, a facial, or a peaceful walk in the woods or by the water. To stay inspired as an instructor, I make a point to take Pilates classes wherever I travel—which is actually how I discovered Niche!
What drew you to Richmond, VA?
My husband and I had started coming to VA a couple of years ago for work and loved it! We loved the landscape and the proximity to the mountains, the ocean and history! Richmond is right in the middle and has a great vibe! We love the food, the art and the nature!
What other roles do you have at Niche?
I’m also playing a key role in refining the Niche Instructor Training (NIT) curriculum, helping shape the next generation of Niche instructors. This role feels familiar to me, as I previously worked alongside a Pilates studio owner in Madison, Wisconsin, to develop an instructor training program of our own. I’ve been working with future Pilates instructors ever since.
What advice would you give to a Pilates instructor that is just starting their teacher journey?
The more you know the work in your own body, the better you will be able to communicate it to your clients!
Emily will be teaching each type of reformer and apparatus classes, so be sure to check the schedule and snag your spot. Her teaching style is detail-oriented, accessible, and fun, with a focus on making Pilates movement approachable for everybody. Don’t be surprised if a Pilates ball makes an appearance in class!We’re so lucky to have her—welcome, Emily!
