Mariana Holert: Complete Guide to Her Wellness Method & Classes

Mariana Holert is a certified wellness instructor with 25+ years experience, founder of Equilibrium Pilates & Yoga in Spain, and creator of PilatesSUP—combining Pilates with stand-up paddleboarding for unique water-based fitness training.

Mariana Holert has transformed how people approach fitness through her blend of traditional techniques and creative adaptations. Her journey from Argentina to becoming a globally recognized wellness expert demonstrates the power of combining ancient practices with modern innovation.

Who Is Mariana Holert?

Mariana Holert is a certified fitness and wellness instructor with over 25 years of teaching experience across Argentina, Miami, and Spain. She founded Equilibrium Pilates & Yoga in Torrequebrada-Benalmádena, Spain, where she offers specialized classes in Pilates, yoga, and her signature aerial and water-based fitness programs.

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Mariana’s artistic background significantly influenced her integrated approach to wellness. Her parents were artists who exposed her to galleries and exhibitions, shaping the creative viewpoint that became central to her fitness philosophy.

Since 2005, she has focused exclusively on Pilates and yoga instruction, developing expertise that spans traditional mat work to innovative aerial and aquatic adaptations. Her certifications include Yoga Alliance International training completed in Rishikesh, India, and FESURF certification as a Stand Up Paddle instructor.

Professional Background and Certifications

Mariana’s extensive training foundation includes:

Yoga Certifications:

• Hatha Yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, India
• Yoga Alliance International certification
• Iyengar-style prop-assisted yoga specialization
• Chair yoga accessibility training
• Yoga with elements integration

Pilates Expertise:

• Pilates Studio equipment training
• Pilates Mat instruction certification
• 25+ years of continuous teaching experience
• Specialized core strength and alignment focus

Specialized Certifications:

• FESURF (Federación Española de Surf) certified SUP instructor
• Aerial yoga and acrobatics training
• PilatesSUP creator and instructor
• Workshop and retreat leadership

The Holert Method: Three-Pillar Approach

Mariana developed the Holert Method around three core principles that address comprehensive wellness:

Mind Pillar

Focuses on emotional health through structured practices including journaling exercises, controlled breathing techniques, and stress management protocols. This pillar emphasizes mental clarity and emotional resilience as foundations for physical health.

Body Pillar

Incorporates gentle yet effective movement practices including Pilates mat work, yoga sequences, and light strength training. The approach prioritizes proper alignment and gradual progression over intense workouts, making it accessible to various fitness levels.

Spirit Pillar

Integrates mindfulness practices, meditation techniques, and self-awareness exercises. This component helps participants develop deeper connections with their bodies and establish sustainable wellness habits.

The method emphasizes small, consistent changes rather than dramatic transformations, reflecting Mariana’s philosophy that lasting wellness comes through gradual, sustainable practices.

Signature Programs and Innovations

PilatesSUP: Water-Based Fitness Pioneer

Introduced in 2011, PilatesSUP represents Mariana’s most recognized innovation. This program combines traditional Pilates mat exercises with stand-up paddleboarding, creating a unique fitness experience on water.

Key Benefits of PilatesSUP:

• Enhanced core stability through dynamic balance challenges
• Improved proprioception and body awareness
• Connection with natural environments
• Low-impact exercise suitable for joint health
• Integration of mindfulness through water-based movement

Classes are conducted in both sea environments and swimming pools, with safety protocols established through Mariana’s FESURF certification. The program attracts participants seeking alternatives to traditional gym-based fitness.

Yoga Aéreo: Aerial Innovation

Launched in 2016, Yoga Aéreo adapts traditional yoga poses to aerial silk swings after years of Mariana’s personal acrobatics training. This program offers unique benefits including:

• Enhanced flexibility through supported stretching
• Core strengthening through suspension work
• Improved spinal health and decompression
• Increased body awareness and spatial intelligence
• Fun, engaging alternative to floor-based yoga

Weekly outdoor classes by the sea and indoor studio sessions provide participants with varied environments for practice.

Traditional and Adaptive Classes

Beyond her signature programs, Mariana offers comprehensive traditional instruction:

Pilates Programs:

• Studio equipment classes using reformers and apparatus
• Mat-based Pilates for core strength and flexibility
• Alignment-focused sessions for postural improvement
• Therapeutic Pilates for injury recovery

Yoga Varieties:

• Hatha yoga with traditional techniques learned in India
• Prop-assisted yoga using Iyengar methods
• Chair yoga for accessibility and seniors
• Yoga with elements incorporating natural materials

Teaching Philosophy and Approach

Mariana’s teaching methodology emphasizes personalized attention within group settings. Her classes prioritize proper alignment and safety while encouraging creative exploration of movement.

Key philosophical elements include:

Gradual Progress: Small, consistent improvements create lasting change more effectively than intensive short-term programs.

Individual Adaptation: Techniques are modified to meet each participant’s current abilities and limitations.

Holistic Integration: Physical practices connect with mental and emotional wellness components.

Environmental Connection: Outdoor classes and natural settings enhance the mind-body experience.

Community Building: Group classes foster supportive relationships and shared motivation.

Location and Class Offerings

Equilibrium Pilates & Yoga operates from Torrequebrada-Benalmádena, Spain, offering both indoor studio classes and outdoor sessions. The facility provides:

• Fully equipped Pilates studio with professional apparatus
• Dedicated space for aerial yoga installations
• Outdoor areas for weather-permitting classes
• Access to nearby beach locations for PilatesSUP sessions

Class schedules accommodate various levels from beginners to advanced practitioners, with private sessions available for personalized instruction.

International Workshops and Retreats

Mariana conducts workshops and seminars internationally, sharing her methods with instructors and practitioners worldwide. Recent workshop topics include:

• Yoga alignment techniques using props
• PilatesSUP instructor certification
• Aerial yoga safety and progression
• The Holert Method implementation
• Mind-body integration practices

These educational programs help spread her holistic approach while maintaining high standards for technique and safety.

Student Success and Community Impact

Participants in Mariana’s programs report improvements in:

• Core strength and stability
• Flexibility and range of motion
• Postural alignment and pain reduction
• Stress management and mental clarity
• Overall fitness confidence and motivation

The community aspect of her classes creates lasting connections among participants, many of whom continue training together for years.

Comparing Traditional vs. Holert Method Approaches

Future Vision and Continuing Education

Mariana continues expanding her knowledge through regular training updates and certifications. Her future focus includes:

• Integration of new therapeutic techniques
• Expansion of accessibility programs
• Development of online training resources
• Collaboration with other wellness professionals
• Research into mind-body connection applications

Her commitment to ongoing education ensures her methods remain current with scientific developments in fitness and wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes PilatesSUP different from regular Pilates?

PilatesSUP adds instability and natural elements, challenging core muscles differently while providing outdoor mindfulness benefits.

Is aerial yoga safe for beginners?

Yes, classes progress gradually with proper instruction and safety equipment, making it accessible to various fitness levels.

Where did Mariana train in yoga?

She completed Hatha yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, India, with Yoga Alliance International certification.

What certifications does she hold for water activities?

FESURF (Spanish Surf Federation) certified her as a Stand Up Paddle instructor for safety and technique.

Does she offer private instruction?

Yes, personalized sessions are available at Equilibrium Pilates & Yoga for individualized attention and program customization.