Our Staff

Pamela Hasselbring, Owner, NCPT, Polestar Pilates Graduate and Mentor Trainer, Pilates Master Trainer

Credentials and Education:

• Northwest Athletic Clubs 20 years

• Polestar Pilates Graduate

• NCPT (Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher)

• Pilates Mat (Physical Mind Graduate)

• CoreAlign Level 1, 2 and 3 Training

• TRX Training

• NETA Group Fitness Certification

• Cooper Clinic TX Certification

• CEU's focused in back pain, Scoliosis, neurological disease (Parkinson's), teen health and fitness programs

• 40 years of experience working in fitness industry

What led me to teach Pilates? 

After searching for exercises to help a compression fracture in my spine, I found Pilates and eliminated my back pain and can now help others with back pain. I've seen Pilates help so many clients with different issues that I focus our business around helping clients with issues and helping clients avoid issues by abiding by our missions statement "Workout Smarter."

Brent Hasselbring, Owner

Brent has always been very involved in athletics, individual and team  sports and fitness. He’s originally from Minneapolis and graduated from the University of Minnesota. 

When the opportunity came about to work with Pamela in the fitness industry he jumped at it. Their son Alex has joined the team and is a great addition. 

The staff and clients at Pilates MN really make the experience of running the studio fantastic. 

Alex Hasselbring, Owner/Manager, Pilates Trainer, Polestar Pilates Graduate

Credentials and Education:

• University of St. Thomas, Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship

• Macalester College, Minor in Chinese Language

• Polestar Pilates Graduate

What led me to teach pilates?

I have always been interested in movement and athletics. I played soccer and basketball growing up, and achieved a goal of mine to play collegiate soccer at the University of St. Thomas. Throughout my youth and playing days, my mother, Pam, was gracious enough to teach our soccer team Pilates on the weekends. As I've grown older, the benefits of Pilates have become more and more apparent to me. Because of my understanding of Pilates movement, I feel even more comfortable participating in other activities I love to do. 

I graduated college in May of 2018 from the University of St. Thomas with a Bachelor's Degree in Entrepreneurship. After some thought about my future and where I wanted to begin my career, I decided (with the approval and support of my parents, of course) to hop on board at PilatesMN! I felt that the studio was the perfect environment for me: it combines both the entrepreneurial spirit and my love for movement. Furthermore, I've seen and heard about how much this space, our trainers, and their knowledge have helped people who attend the studio. That, to me, has always been the most inspiring aspect of this venture.

Julie Magney, Front Desk

I discovered Pilates in 2011 and after I found my core, I was hooked! Soon I was working at the front desk, loving client interaction and modifying my posture as I listened to instructors cue classes. Pilates has added an inch to my height and changed my body in so many positive ways. It is my pleasure to work with the trainers and clients at Pilates MN.

Kathy arostegui, Front Desk

When my Pilates journey brought me to Pilates MN I knew I found my studio! The knowledgeable trainers, positive atmosphere and physical benefits have been key to my well being. When the opportunity to work at the front desk came up, I didn’t hesitate. My background in nursing allows me to assist our clients and keeps me engaged!

shawn murphy marquis, MSPT, NCPT, Polestar Pilates Graduate and Educator

Credentials and Education:

• Polestar Pilates Rehabilitation Graduate

• NCPT (Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher)

• Masters Science & Physical Therapy (MSPT)

• CoreAlign Training

• Bachelors of Fine Arts, Drama and Dance

• Training Program Manager for Pilates MN

What led me to teach Pilates? 

I was introduced to Pilates at my first job at Performing Arts Physical Therapy in New York City. I was inspired by the approach and the Principles. As a Physical Therapist and a former dancer I knew how important it was to teach stabilization, mobilization and function. Pilates incorporates all of these in unique accessible ways for all bodies. I found that Polestar Pilates showed me that there are many ways to enhance movement with efficiency.

The Polestar training helped me personally stabilize my hypermobility. Through doing the work I have become a much better Physical Therapist and Pilates instructor. The ability to work with people who have injuries is the hallmark of Pilates and the perfect marriage of disciplines.  

Martha Eckerline, Pilates Master Trainer

Credentials and Education:

• University of St. Thomas, Bachelor of Science in Business

• Polestar Pilates graduate

• Pilates Mat (Physical Mind graduate)

• Reformer/Apparatus (Balanced Body graduate)

• ACE (American Council on Exercise) certified

• TRX Training

• Scoliosis, low back pathologies

• Northwest Athletic Club 15 years

What led me to teach Pilates? 

While Pilates is not the only form of exercise available, it is unique in what it has to offer. Practicing principles of movement can apply to all areas of life. A few principles that guide the practice such as elongation, core stability, alignment, concentration and quality of movement are what inspired me to teach. Pilates has taught me how to stretch and strengthen muscles in my body safely and effectively. Workout smarter and try Pilates!

Jen Dugan, Pilates Master Trainer

Credentials and Education:

• Bachelor's Degree, University of St. Thomas

• Polestar Pilates Graduate

• CoreAlign, Level 1 Graduate

What led me to teach Pilates? 

Over the last 30 years, I have participated in a variety of physical activities from marathons and triathlons to private fitness training. I started my Pilates journey 18 years ago. Since then, I have kept Pilates a top priority in my life as it has always made me feel stronger, more flexible and it has improved my posture. I decided to become an instructor 8 years ago to increase my knowledge of the Pilates method. I also found this form of exercise the perfect avenue to complete wellness. Through teaching, I hope to help others experience the same wonder of Pilates as I have enjoyed and to empower each client to be in control of his/her body, health and well being.

Molly bell Knorr, PTA, Massage therapist, Pilates Master Trainer

Credentials and Education:

• Polestar Pilates Rehabilitation Trained

• AAS Physical Therapist Assistant

• Certificate of Massage Therapy

• Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies (Art/Psychology/Communication)

• Great Lakes-MET Cervical/Thoracic SIJ

• Cognitive behavioral coaching

What led me to teach Pilates? 

I have had different injuries while playing sports and being involved in dancing and fitness. Pilates was a huge help in overcoming my injuries. I now utilize the stabilization and core control to protect my joints and allow for safe body building and injury prevention. As a therapist, Pilates has given me more education and capabilities to help patients and clients get healthier, happier, and stronger!

Tina Uphoff, Strength Trainer

Credentials and Education:

• Personal Trainer – International Sports Sciences Association

• Fitness Instructor – American Council on Exercise

• Orthopedic Exercise Specialist – American Council on Exercise

• Total Body Tabata™ HIIT Instructor Training – American Council on Exercise

• Yoga Certification RYT-500 – Yoga Alliance

• Yoga for Golfers Certified Instructor – Katherine Robert’s Yoga for Golfers

• Barre Specialty Certification – National Exercise Trainers Association

• Holistic Health Coach – Institute of Integrative Nutrition

• St. Cloud State University, Masters in Business Administration

• St. Thomas University, Mini Masters in Quality Management

• College of St. Benedict, Bachler of Arts in Management

What led me to teach strength training? 

My love of strength training began in college while playing tennis. The benefit of strength training was like rock fuel for my tennis game and it enhanced my overall health and fitness.

I am especially passionate about strength training given its vast benefits with aging. I have taught fitness classes in gyms, studios, outdoors, community centers, and aging adult communities while working with a variety of clients using class types including strength circuit training, high intensity interval training, boot camp, barre, and yoga.

What is your background as a cardio trainer?

I have been teaching cardio-style classes and incorporated cardio into personal training sessions over the last decade. There was a heightened interest in adding efficient cardio sessions into either workout classes or training sessions. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been the most popular given how efficient this workout can be in a short time frame. It’s also very flexible to allow for low-impact exercises and varying levels of intensity to challenge a wide range of fitness levels in the same class.

From the Twin Cities to Arizona, I divide my time and share health and fitness training in both communities all year long. Join me for strength training to get stronger, leaner, and healthier to live longer and better!

Katrina Kneeskern, DPT, Pilates Trainer

Credentials and Education

• College of St. Catherine/ Doctor of Physical Therapy 2008

• College of St. Catherine/ Bachelor of Science: Psychology in Applied Science 2005

• Peak Pilates Comprehensive Instructor Level 1- April 2023

• Pelvic Floor Residency - N2 Physical Therapy CO 2021-2022

• Certified Kundalini Yoga Instructor- Yoga Phoenix-2015

• Diploma of Osteopractic and FAAOMPT 2019

• Cert. DN : Dry Needling 1 and 2 - Spinal Manipulation Institute

• Cert SMT: Spinal Manipulation Therapy 1, 2, 3 and 4, Extremity Mobilizations, Non Thrust Mobilizations- Spinal Manipulation Institute

• Certified Women’s Health Coach (20 month program) 2021 Integrative Women’s Health Institute

What led me to teach Pilates? 

I grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota as a dancer but devoted my life to serving, helping and healing other people. I completed my BS in Psychology and my Doctorate in Physical Therapy at St. Catherine University in 2008. I have a passion for travel and adventure and worked as a PT in MN, AZ, NV, CA and CO obtaining Fellowships and Residency skills while exploring the world.

I treat full time in the clinic but love how Pilates was the missing link to strengthen essential core and hip muscles to enable not only my own lifting and running, but also my patients .Especially now being primarily a pelvic floor therapist, I am trying to get to people before they get to a point where they need PT. I think our medical system is very symptom based and we would all be a lot better if we did more preventative care.

I am a certified Peak Pilates and Kundalini Yoga instructor as well as performing personal training/coaching at Lifetime Fitness. I try to utilize breath, meditation and functional nutrition/medicine to help heal the body naturally.

I continue to enjoy dancing in my free time as well as running, cycling, lifting heavy weights, hiking and yoga. I also love spending time outside at the lakes with my nieces, friends and family.

Emily Fehr, Massage Therapist, Pilates Trainer, Polestar Pilates Graduate

Credentials and Education

• CenterPoint Massage and Shiatsu Therapy School Graduate

• Polestar Pilates Graduate

• Specialization in deep specific work and sports massage

What led me to Massage Therapy?

I graduated from CenterPoint Massage and Shiatsu Therapy School in 2013. I was drawn to massage as a career to help people find relief from pain and to take time for themselves.

I’ve worked in many different settings doing massage including spas, wellness centers, chiropractic clinics and with University of Minnesota athletes. As well as with a few pro athletes. 

I enjoy working with specific injuries and issues. I specialize in deep specific work and sports massage. Through my years as a massage therapist, I’ve seen a variety of posture-related aliments and recognize that more than massage is needed to help my client base. 

Karen Jacobson, PTA

Credentials & Education:

• Physical Therapist Assistant, Associate in Applied Science, St. Catherine University

• Balanced Body Certified Comprehensive Pilates Instructor

• Bachelors of Science in Business, Accounting, Carlson School of Management, University of MN

• Inpatient rehabilitation background in short-term transitional care, neurological injury and aquatic therapy

• Active Lifetime Fitness member since 1998

What led me to teach Pilates?

I am inspired and encouraged by the satisfaction of assisting clients to enhance their strength, body awareness, and functional mobility and by the joy they have in succeeding.

I found Pilates while at Lifetime Fitness and recognized its amazing ability to assist with rehabilitation and improve functional mobility.  After beginning my work in the field of Physical Therapy and exploring my own Pilates practice further, I recognized the rehabilitation benefits that Pilates had to offer.   I believe in its ability to meet each individual client’s needs—whether for acute injury recovery or for long-term general health and pain reduction.

I have been active all my life, beginning with dance and gymnastics in my earlier years.  I now enjoy many forms of movement including tennis, biking, water skiing, hiking, and running.  My regular Pilates practice helps keep my body strong, balanced, and centered.  It has led to significant improvements in my mind-body awareness not only in the context of Pilates but in everyday life.  This allows me to more consistently maintain proper form during all my favorite sports and daily activities to reduce pain, improve mobility, and decrease the potential for injury.

Sarah Anderson, Physical Therapist

Credentials & Education

• Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, University of MN Duluth

• Master of Science Physical Therapy, Washington University in St Louis

• NDT-trained (Neurodevelopmental Technique)

What led me to teach Pilates?

I have always had a heart for helping people and have done a variety of things in my career as a physical therapist. I have particularly enjoyed working with individuals who need rehab from a significant injury or have neurological conditions. A PT co-worker mentioned Pilates MN to me, the training they were offering, and it was just the suggestion I needed to continue my goal of lifelong learning and finding new and better ways to help people get stronger and move better.

I am reasonably new to Pilates, having only done mat classes in the past, but have been so impressed with the amazing equipment and the infinite possibilities for creativity in how to use it. I have always loved moving and rode and showed horses most of my elementary and teen years and played basketball into high school. Now I really enjoy road biking, hiking, and downhill skiing and feel like Pilates is just the adjunct I need to get stronger, prevent injuries, and keep moving well as I age.

I’m looking forward to combining my years of physical therapy experience with the principles of Pilates and teaming with people as they progress in their rehab goals.

Marie Becker, Pilates Trainer, Massage Therapist

Credentials & Education

• BASI Graduate (Body Arts and Science International)

• Licensed Massage Therapist

• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography and Commercial Advertising

• Founder of Santa Barbara Fit Moms (California)

• Wellness Way Academy Graduate (1 year program 2024)

• CEUs in Human Anatomy and Physiology

What led me to teach Pilates?

A dear friend of mine was completing her Pilates certification practice hours and invited me into the studio.  It didn’t take long before I was hooked and followed in her footsteps.  After earning my certification in Ventura, California in 2006,  I taught in a variety of gyms, homes, and even a country club.  To complement this career, I went on to pursue a license in massage therapy.  When motherhood was gifted to me, I taught a strength circuit class and led a running group for moms with their babies in strollers.  Now with a toddler and teenager at home, pilates helps me keep up with the demands of motherhood and allows me to stay active with my busy household.  As someone who has always been active in a variety of movement, from gymnastics, dance, soccer, and volleyball in my formative years, to running, pilates, and yoga, I truly enjoy helping others to move well and live their best life.  

Marlene Straszewski, Pilates Trainee

Credentials & Education

• Master’s and Undergraduate Degrees, University of St. Thomas

• Polestar Pilates Trainee

• Barre Instructor

What led me to teach Pilates?

After noticing my sister looked taller than the last time I’d seen her, I asked her what she was doing. When she replied, “Pilates,” I was intrigued.  Fast forward a few years later when a friend asked me if I’d join her for Pilates classes, I immediately replied yes.  After each class, I noticed I’d have to adjust the seat in my car. I was sitting taller and able to move with more ease…I’d become more “connected” with my body and it felt like a great way to live. I’ve been practicing Pilates ever since.

I’ve always enjoyed movement, participating in gymnastics and track in my youth, and have stayed active throughout my life with the goal of staying fit, flexible, and strong. Pilates introduced me to new ways of thinking about movement and fitness that not only support other activities but make them better and help me feel better.  I decided to take Pilates training because I wanted to go deeper into the principles and share my love of Pilates. My goal is to help people feel better in their bodies so that they’re physically able to do the things they want to do, whether that’s a sport, a hike with friends, or getting down on the floor to play with a child or pet.

Caitlin Edington, Pilates Trainer

Credentials & Education

• Metropolitan State University, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

• Balanced Body Certified Comprehensive Pilates Instructor

• Member Pilates Method Alliance 

What led me to teach Pilates?

I landed upon Pilates while taking an intro class with my Mom, and immediately recognized the mental and physical benefits. The principles taught, and my newfound core connection greatly complimented my swim routine and everyday life. I knew soon after that I wanted to be a bigger part of the Pilates community.

I have been honored to work with a variety of clients, providing emphasis on the inclusivity found within this method. From athletes desiring balance, to those seeking healing and rehabilitation, or prevention and fitness.  Pilates truly is for everybody. My passion is to help clients obtain their goals, all while enjoying the time they dedicate to movement and alignment.

Lori Bartels, Pilates Trainer

Credentials & Education

• Bachelor Science Degree - University of Minnesota, Institute of Technology

• Polestar Pilates Trained

What led me to teach Pilates?

I originally became interested in Pilates as a means to become more connected to the Lifetime Fitness gym I had recently joined..  Not only did I find a friendly place, I began to notice the positive changes in my body and the confidence Pilates gave me. It  has also helped me to keep up with my active family by improving my mobility.  As I continued in my Pilates journey, I wanted to learn more and dig deeper. I also wanted to share the benefits I experienced with other people. This led me to look into attending a local teacher training course, eventually leading me to Pilates MN and Polestar.  Here I have found what I was looking for.  I am looking forward to sharing my love of Pilates with future clients and for them to experience the many benefits PIlates has to offer.

Laura McComish, Pilates Trainer

Credentials & Education

• Drake University, Bachelor of Science in Management and Marketing

• University of Minnesota, Masters in Business Administration

• Pilates Education Institute Trained

• National Certified Pilates Trainer (expected 2024)

What led me to teach Pilates?

I discovered Pilates in college when a friend invited me to join her for class. I was hooked immediately, and the never-ending challenge of Pilates has kept me coming back for nearly twenty years.  Pilates has been the key to maintaining my core strength through the birth of my two boys and has helped counteract a career sitting at a desk.   

After leaving my corporate role as an operations and training leader to focus on my family and my passions, I joined the inaugural PEI training class at Pilates MN.  Through teaching, I’m able to blend my background and experience with my passion, and I hope to help others discover the benefits of Pilates.  

Diane Bausman, Pilates Trainer

Credentials & Education

• Mpls. College of Art and Design -MCAD: Bachelor of Fine Arts

• Pilates Education Institute PEI: Training Program through Pilates MN

• NCPT Certification -National Certified Pilates Trainer: Expected completion date Spring 2024

What led me to teach Pilates?

Six years ago I took my first pIlates class @ Pilates MN and it quickly became my passion.  It was the first time I’d experienced an exercise program that so clearly addressed my specific body issues.  Throughout my ongoing career in Advertising Photography and Interior Design, I frequently had back and neck pain at the end of the day. 

I worked with the trainers @ PMN, learning how to move correctly and strengthen my body, allowing me to live pain free in my professional life.  I quickly came to realize that this is a discipline that not only improves your quality of life, but it’s something that can be a life long pursuit.  It is directly because of my exposure and engagement with these amazing trainers that I chose to become a Pilates trainer.  I find it extremely fulfilling to teach people to move and exercise correctly, inspiring them to live up to their full potential.  

The training program at Pilates MN has allowed me to turn my love of Pilates into the ability to teach and motivate others.  I look forward to sharing my passion within the Pilates MN community as I begin this new venture.  

Morgan Morrissey, Pilates Trainer

Credentials & Education

• Pilates Education Institute PEI through Pilates MN 

• MNSU-Bachelor of Arts

What led me to teach Pilates?

I first tried Pilates in high school, when dance left me in pain. I felt the benefits and was hooked. I spent the next 8 years on and off taking classes when I could. I’ve spent the last four years teaching and performing dance in the Minneapolis area. After a year of physical therapy addressing my knee and shoulder pain, I felt that Pilates would be a great way to continue strengthening and stretching. That’s when I found Pilates MN. I fell in love with their approach to wellness and was ready to start my training journey. This experience has been so rewarding. I’ve met some amazing people. The cherry on top has been this opportunity to work with everyone here!

Staff Education

Pilates MN Trainers have 300,000 hours of experience and education behind their work. All trainers have been through year long training courses that require 450 or more hours to become a Pilates Trainer: We take pride in combining all of our methods and providing clients with some of the best educated trainers in the cities. Our training programs include Polestar Pilates Education, PhysicalMind Institute, Balanced Body Education and Align Certifications.

Our staff takes pride in our continuing education units (CEU):

Polestar Pilates Education Courses with Brent Anderson PhD, PT, OCS President Polestar Pilates Education:

• Pilates for Low Back Pain Using the Reformer 3.0 CEU

• Pilates for Parkinson's and Multiple Sclerosis 3.0 CEU

• Pathokinesiology of the Lumbar Spine 16.0 CEU

• Scoliosis: A Practical Approach 16.0 CEU

• Advanced Assessment 24.0 CEU

• The Business of Pilates for Rehabilitation 8.0 CEU

Polestar Pilates Senior Educator Noelle Dowma DPT, MSPT:

• Getting to the “Core” A Workshop Presenting the Research and Practical Application of Core Based Exercise and Education 3.5 CEU

• Exercise with the Pre and Post Natal Woman 3.5 CEU

• How to Modify for Clients Injuries and Conditions in the Fitness Environment, 3.5 CEU

Professor Karen Clippinger, M.S.P.E. Faculty at California State University Long Beach and Body Arts and Science International Senior Educator:

• Scapulohumeral Rhythm, Rotator Cuff and Shoulder Impingement with Pilates, 6 CEU

• Walking Biomechanics on the Reformer, 6 CEU

• Scoliosis and Exercise Design in Pilates, 6 CEU

• Pilates, Alignment and Posture, 6 CEU

• Pilates for the Dancer: A focus on Lower Body Strength, 6 CEU

• Shoulder Mechanics, Alignment and Pilates Program Design, 6 CEU

• Knee Biomechanics and Pilates Program Design, 6 CEU

• Unwinding Scoliosis with Pilates, 6 CEU

• Sacroiliac Function and Pilates Exercise Design, 6 CEU

• Promoting Healthy Again with Pilates, 6 CEU

Anna Tischenko, PhD, MSPT: The Playground for Neuro Rehabilitation

Sharon Gawin, MPT: Pilates for Serious Spinal Diagnosis, 6 CEU

Elizabeth Larkam:

• Pilates Studio Sequences for Restoring Motor Control of the Thorax, 6 CEU

• Moving Beyond the Reformer: Creating New Repertoire for the Allegro and Tower, 6 CEU

Jeannie Staudt: Functional Strength Training for the Aging Spine, 8 CEU

Karen Sanzo: Pilates and Motor Control, 6 CEU

Madeline Black: Understanding What you See: Assessment Techniques for Pilates Instructors, 6 CEU

Kelly Kane: Psoas Part 1 and Part 2, 6 CEU

Lolita San Miguel (worked with Joseph Pilates!): Teaching Tips from a Master, 3 CEU

Valentin: EXO Chair: The Next Frontier, 3 CEU

NETA: Exercise and Arthritis, 6 CEU

Gina M. Piazza: Postural Analysis Specialist

Eric Franklin: Imagery and Exercises for a Strong, Flexible and Healthy Spine, 3.25 CEU

Nico Gonzalex: All Hands on Deck: The Essential of Assisted Stretches for Pilates Instructors, 3 CEU

Helen Masin PhD,: PT Communication Skills for the Pilates Teachers, 16 CEU

Portia Page: Core Align 1, 2 and 3, 48 CEU

TRX: Suspension Training Course

BOSU Training, 3 CEU

Dr. Carol Davis: Epigenetics and Fascia, The New Science of Subtle Energy and Cellular Function and The Miraculous Discoveries of Fascia and Movement

Dr Libby Weaver: Nutritional Wisdom

Dr. Brent Anderson: Joe's Simple Formula to Health and Happiness

Larry Cahalin: Pilates Breath in the Past, Present and Future

Chopra: Ayurveda and Mind/Body Types with Davidji

Shelly Power: Work Smarter Not Harder: How Hard Should Pilates Really Be?

Other Continuing Education workshops taken by Our Educators:

Pilates Games for Kids; Exo Chair the New Frontier; Stretching for Optimal Flexibility and Health; Improving Performance and Health with Franklin Method and Pilates; Pilates Chair for Strength and Grace; Rolling for Length, Rolling for Strength; Pilates Arc on the Road