Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Naz Moghaddam. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Naz, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear the story behind how you got your first job in field that you currently practice in.

I got my first job as a Pilates instructor while I was still a student at BASI. One day, during our training sessions, one of the studio owners was observing. She noticed how focused I was on practicing each movement with precision and proper form. After class, she approached me and said she could see I had the potential to be a great instructor—and she invited me to teach at her studio.

At the time, I was fully immersed in learning and improving, but I always knew I wanted to teach and help others feel the same joy and strength I experienced through Pilates. I wasn’t actively looking for a job yet, so this offer came as a surprise—but a very exciting one. The recruiting process was quite natural and personal; it wasn’t a formal interview, but rather a connection built on observation and mutual respect.

Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful that my first job came through such an organic moment. It taught me that authenticity and dedication are always noticed—and that was the perfect start to my career

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I hold a Master’s degree in Agricultural Engineering, but my journey into the world of movement began during my undergraduate years when I became an aerobics instructor. Over 20 years ago, I was introduced to Pilates—and it was love at first practice. Since then, Pilates has become my lifelong passion and purpose.

Today, I’m proud to be a BASI Mentor and hold all major U.S. certifications in Pilates. I currently teach at Club Pilates in Irvine, where I lead over 20 hours of group classes and more than 10 hours of private sessions each week. I specialize in working with clients recovering from hip and knee replacements, shoulder injuries, and spinal issues. Nothing brings me more joy than hearing them say, just after a few weeks, that their pain is easing and they feel stronger and more hopeful.

My teaching style is passionate, focused, and highly detail-oriented. My clients often joke that I have “telescope eyes” because of how precisely I observe their posture and alignment. In my class, you can be sure every muscle will be activated, and you’ll leave feeling both challenged and deeply stretched.

Because when your body is happy—you will be too.

Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?

Absolutely, I would choose this path all over again. Becoming a Pilates instructor has been one of the most fulfilling decisions of my life. Pilates is not just a profession for me—it’s a way of healing, connecting, and empowering others through mindful movement. Every time I witness a client regain strength, move without pain, or simply feel more confident in their body, I’m reminded of why I chose this journey.

While my background is in agricultural engineering, the moment I discovered Pilates over 20 years ago, I knew I had found my true calling. Teaching Pilates allows me to combine precision, focus, compassion, and creativity every single day. It’s a career that continues to grow with me, challenge me, and inspire me—and I truly can’t imagine doing anything else.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

The most effective strategy has been a combination of genuine care, deep focus, and word-of-mouth. I put my heart into every session, paying close attention to each client’s posture, form, and personal progress. Many of my clients deal with post-surgery recovery or chronic pain, and when they begin to feel better—when they can move without discomfort or regain confidence—they naturally want to share that experience with others.

Clients often tell me, “You see everything like a telescope,” because of how detailed and attentive I am. I believe when people feel truly seen, safe, and supported, they come back—and they bring others with them. No marketing is more powerful than results paired with compassion.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Pilatesbynaz

Image Credits

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