Meet Jill: Boston Pilates Pro, Teacher Trainer, and Founder of Movement with Jill

When you think of Boston Pilates, chances are Movement with Jill comes to mind. Founded by instructor and educator Jill Rothenberg, the brand has become a cornerstone of the city’s wellness scene, inspiring a new generation of movers to show up with confidence, curiosity, and joy.

We caught up with Jill to talk about her journey with Pilates, the inspiration behind Movement with Jill, and what makes Boston’s fitness community so special.

Q&A with Jill

1. What first drew you to Pilates, and how did it evolve into a career for you?

I was first drawn to Pilates because my mom and sister were going, and they kept trying to convince me it would be life changing. I was struggling with depression at the time, and as an extremely shy person, going to a fitness class seemed terrifying. I finally gave in and went with my mom to her private Pilates session with Jimmy Raye, a second-generation instructor—and I was immediately hooked.

It helped me find confidence and connection to myself. When I moved to Boston, I started taking classes at a studio where my sister worked and eventually began training. I didn’t have a plan, but I was hired during the first weekend of my certification. It felt like fate—I wanted to give people what Pilates had given me: myself.

2. What inspired the creation of Movement with Jill?

Movement with Jill was never the goal. I was managing a studio in Boston and helping with their education program when I realized something was missing—a truly welcoming and encouraging space. The industry was becoming focused on looks instead of how clients felt.

It was essential to me to create a space where people felt seen and safe, where they understood that everyone else was nervous to show up too. Showing up for the first time is terrifying, and I want people to feel so proud of themselves for doing it. That’s the goal—to make people feel better.

3. How would you describe your teaching style in three words?

Silly, Rooted, and Deep.

4. What’s the biggest misconception people have about Pilates?

So many! Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates to help people heal and feel better in their bodies. The Reformer and Tower were originally made from hospital beds. Pilates isn’t about the hardest workout—it’s about connecting to your deepest self and inner muscles.

We follow six Pilates principles: Concentration, Control, Centering, Flow, Precision, and Breath. When you leave a Pilates session, you should feel more energetic, taller, and better—not exhausted or shaky.

5. What’s special about Boston’s Pilates and fitness community?

Boston is an incredible city. Our wellness scene is growing so quickly, and it’s so exciting to be a part of it. The fitness community here is all about connection, encouragement, and fun. Seeing more Pilates studios open each year is amazing—it shows how much people value mindful movement.

6. You’ve trained so many instructors. What advice do you give to new teachers just starting out?

Do it. Stop overthinking—it’s okay not to feel ready. You learn so much once you start teaching. You have something unique to offer the world, and that’s what makes you special.

7. What’s one lesson you’ve learned from your students over the years?

Always remain a student first. Instructors fall in love with their modality, which is why we start teaching in the first place. Make sure you keep taking classes and reigniting your own passion and curiosity.

8. How do you take care of your own physical and mental health outside of teaching?

This is something I’m always working on—taking time off, spending time away from screens, and being with loved ones. I love getting outside with my dog. I recently became an aunt, and time with my nephew is the best.

9. Rapid Fire ⚡

Morning or evening? Morning, always.

Go-to coffee (or tea) order? I’m weird—neither! I’m a water girl, sometimes orange juice.

A song that always gets you moving? Unstoppable by Sia—if you hear it in class, it’s our finale. It always gives me confidence.

Follow Movement with Jill

Whether you’re new to Pilates or looking to deepen your practice, Jill’s approach is all about connection, confidence, and feeling good in your body. She offers a two-week free trial through her Movement with Jill platform making it easier than ever to start moving with intention. And if you’ve ever thought about becoming a Pilates instructor yourself, Jill welcomes you to reach out to learn more about her teacher training and certification opportunities.

💪 Looking for more Pilates in Boston? Explore our Studio Directory and find a Pilates studio near you.