10 Minutes with Pilates Instructor Yayoi Matches-Leuschke
Yayoi began her movement journey at the age of eight with classical ballet, leading her to study at the prestigious New Zealand School of Dance in Wellington. At 18, Yayoi embarked on an exciting adventure, leaving New Zealand to pursue a professional dance career. Over the next five years, she had the privilege of performing with various ballet companies around the globe.
In Auckland, Yayoi built a strong reputation working with top studios and nurturing young dancers through Pilates, conditioning, and coaching. In 2023, her and her husband relocated to Arrowtown, where she launched Studio Yayoi. Yayoi offers personalised Pilates sessions in Arrowtown and Lake Hayes, with a focus on alignment, technique, and personal progress.
In 2024, Studio Yayoi started Arrowtown Mat Pilates at the Arrowtown Community Center, Jack Reid Park. 50-minute small group classes combining classical and contemporary Pilates, ensuring progressions and regressions to suit all abilities.
1. Hi Yaya! Tell us a little about yourself and how you got into pilates.
The first time I encountered the term "Pilates" was in my ballet class, introduced by my teacher when I was just 11 years old. At the time, I associated it with an older demographic. However, as I dedicated myself more seriously to ballet, I became increasingly interested in strengthening my body through Pilates. Whenever I wasn’t in the dance studio practicing, I would be found perfecting my Pilates exercises.
2. What do you love most about running your studio?
What I appreciate most about owning my own Pilates studio is the opportunity to authentically express myself while sharing the knowledge and experiences I've gained throughout my movement journey. I value the creative freedom I have to be true to myself in my coaching and instruction.
3. What's your favourite Pilates move?
I have 3! Round back / back stretch on the ladder barrel. Hanging trapeze, pull ups and twists with Fluffies. Reformer Jump board.
4. What is your favourite class to attend when you are needing some self care?
I enjoy spending two hours on my mat in the sun focusing on mobility, or organise a private classical Pilates session with Sarah Fuchs as we circuit through the studio.
5. How do you nourish yourself?
Sauna. Self fascia realise or book a massage. Solo hike. Meditation in the sun.
6. Favourite skincare product?
Ice cold water in the morning. Hot flannel in the evening. Emma Lewisham.
7. What inspires you?
Music, dance, and people.
8. How would you explain the benefits of pilates to someone who is brand new?
An endless journey of learning and connecting with your physical body, this practice can elevate your wellness and energy to levels you may never have imagined.
9. How do you set yourself up for your day?
I enjoy running along the river to soak in fresh air and boost my endorphins. This helps me feel and perform at my best.
10. What's in your handbag? (Any fav products, snacks, playlists)
Vaseline, Aesop hand cream, peppermint oil, cap, gloves, Pilates socks, water bottle, banana, and Betty Bars!
Join Yaya and her community in a beautiful, encouraging space where you’ll sculpt, lengthen, find balance, and revitalise both mind and body.
