Meet Me
I strive to elevate all teachers in their professional and personal journeys.
Danica Kalemdaroglu
Creator of The Somaphyx® Pilates Method and Program Director
I have been a movement educator for over twenty-five years, utilizing Pilates and other methodologies to serve a diverse population of individuals with movement challenges. At Pilates 804, located in Richmond, VA, we specialize in restorative movement through the language of Pilates. Our studio serves as the home base for Somaphyx® Practitioner's Apprenticeship. A comprehensive teacher training program.
My approach to teaching aims to empower each individual to discover their unique movement potential while also equipping aspiring teachers with the knowledge and expertise necessary for a fulfilling career in alternative movement education.
Drawing from my extensive experience, I strive to elevate all teachers in their professional and personal journeys. I am a licensed NCPT with an advanced certification from the Pilates Center, Boulder. I earned a MFA from the University of Colorado at Boulder in Dance and Body Somatics. My foundational studies in somatics, began at Goucher College where I also obtained a BA. I draw from wealth of knowledge to inform my holistic approach to movement education.
Currently, I serve as a professor of anatomy and kinesiology within the dance department at Old Dominion University, leveraging my expertise from previous roles at Virginia Commonwealth University, the University of Colorado, and various performance organizations. My teaching experience spans a diverse demographic, from creative movement for young children to fostering healthy habits for seniors.
Each program I offer is created from the depths of my education, experiences, and unwavering commitment to spreading joy through movement in all its forms.
What our customers are saying
"What a great studio! Friendly & knowledgeable staff and a beautiful, fully-equipped space. I teach Pilates & dance myself, so I am extra choosy and know good from the not-so-good. Danica is 100% great! She gave me a great workout for both body AND mind. She really knows her stuff and makes sure you feel it, so the results last. Brilliant!"
- Annie R.
"Wow! This is a truly God-sent studio. I have been working with Danica for two sessions only, and my entire body feels much stronger and more balanced. She was very supportive during our sessions. I had no idea how strongly emotions are concentrated in the hip and back. When I started moving those areas more, I felt a strong emotional release, and Danica was so supportive in guiding me through that process. I have had no other experiences as I have had in this studio. I hope we all do more Pilates and have teachers like Danica."
- Farah Rahiem MD MPH
"First Pilates 804 experience, and Danica was AMAZING! Being a dental hygienist, my posture and my core need all the help they can get. I decided to do a small group private class with some friends. Highly recommend taking some friends and experiencing it for yourself!!"
- Ashley T.
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