We sat down with Jenna Goode, owner of Core Collective Broad (CCB), to explore the philosophy, training and community behind her Pilates studio located on Broad Avenue. Jenna shares insights into balanced movement, thoughtful instruction and the empowering wellness culture she’s cultivated—offering readers an inspiring look into the heart of CCB.
Q: Provide a brief description of Pilates.
A: Originally developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1930s, Pilates emphasizes whole-body health, whole-body movement, balanced muscle development, control and the importance of the breath. A well-rounded Pilates session focuses on building strength, balance, stability and mobility and a consistent practice can increase ease and efficiency of movement in your sport, other forms of exercise and daily life.
Q: How would you describe the movement philosophy at your studio?
A: At CCB we focus on finding balance within the whole body so that the greatest amount of movement potential is achieved. This means moving in a variety of planes and positions and individualizing sessions based on the client’s needs. We are strong proponents of making workouts accessible - meeting the body where it is, despite limitations. We also emphasize empowerment. Workouts should create a sense of confidence and become a vital component of overall wellness. We want people to realize that, regardless of past injury or limitation, they are not broken. Our goal is for everyone to find personal freedom and joy in movement—not restriction—and to develop a balanced movement practice that can adapt and be sustained through every stage of life.
Q: Describe your Pilates teacher training program (PTT).
A: To become a certified teacher at CCB, each trainee attends monthly weekend intensives, fulfills required hours of observation, self-practice and student teaching and completes a final exam. For most, the process takes about a year. There are certainly teacher-training programs that promise certification through a weekend workshop or online format, but we believe the best teachers learn by being in the studio with mentors. Unfortunately, there are no fast tracks to gaining the skills necessary to become a comprehensive Pilates teacher with a deep understanding of the body, the method and movement—beyond simply teaching a set format centered on “the burn.”
Q: How is CCB different from some other Pilates studios?
A: At CCB, we prioritize offering both modifications and challenges—in movement variations and spring settings—to support different needs, goals and abilities. This is a strategy we instill in our teachers throughout their training to ensure that “no man is left behind,” which is essential to each client’s success. Our teacher trainees come from a variety of backgrounds, including nursing, accounting, ballet, corporate banking, yoga, physical therapy and stay-at-home parents looking for an outlet. Some trainees begin with the goal of supplementing their current job with something they are passionate about and end up loving it so much that they transition into full-time Pilates teaching.
Q: What does it take to become proficient at Pilates?
A: As the saying goes, “Pilates is for every body.” It can be modified and scaled in both directions—to help an athlete enhance performance or to help a grandmother more easily get on and off the floor to play with her grandbabies. We always recommend that those who are new to Pilates begin with private sessions to assess goals, needs and the best path moving forward. Our small group sessions are described as “multi-level,” but they are athletic-style classes that move more quickly and are not suitable for everyone. If a client is pregnant, recovering from an injury or needs extensive modifications, we recommend private sessions so the teacher can tailor the work and ensure the client receives the most benefit and positive outcome.
Q: What are the joys and challenges of owning CCB?
A: One of the greatest joys of owning the studio is hearing client feedback such as, “I’ve never enjoyed exercise or been able to stay consistent until I started coming to CCB.” Recently, a client who had to relocate said, “My favorite part about living in Memphis was coming to CCB and the community I found there.” We also had a client who practiced with me for nearly 20 years and loved that she was in her 80s and still committed to her weekly sessions. She once said, “I’m still standing because of Pilates.” I also love seeing teachers grow in confidence and find creativity and joy in teaching. Our teaching team is unique—they genuinely care about the positive outcomes of our clients and work hard to bring their best each time they teach. CCB is truly a special place, and hearing how it impacts others, both in small and meaningful ways, motivates me to keep going.
Q: What is next?
A: I have always been interested and intrigued by all facets of wellness. I hope to continue evolving and growing. I am particularly interested in collaborating with other practitioners and providers to create a wellness hub and also would love to lead a retreat somewhere cool… Stay tuned.
To see all that Core Collective Broad offers, visit corecollectivebroad.com.
At CCB, we prioritize offering both modifications and challenges—in movement variations and spring settings—to support different needs, goals and abilities.