Member Profile: Wild Rose Pilates

From theater stages to boutique studios, Christina Morrell brings a powerful blend of experience, empathy, and expertise to her Springfield-based studio, Wild Rose Pilates. Specializing in authentic Contrology—the original method developed by Joseph Pilates—Wild Rose Pilates offers personalized instruction designed to build strength, restore mobility, and prevent injury, especially for outdoor athletes and individuals recovering from pain. Recently, the Springfield Chamber spoke with Morrell about how her own healing journey sparked a passion for teaching, and how she now helps clients discover the joy and confidence that comes from moving with purpose.

Tell us a little about Wild Rose Pilates.
Wild Rose Pilates is a boutique Pilates studio that specializes in helping outdoor athletes improve performance and prevent injury, and helping those suffering from pain to regain strength and confidence in their movement. I have been teaching Pilates for over 14 years in New York City, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and now Eugene and Bend. I have taught in high-end gyms, country clubs, PT offices, in-home, upscale studios, and now I bring it to you! I am passionate about sharing what this practice has to offer.

How did you get started in your industry?
I got started in Pilates when I was still a professional actress in New York City. I had recently herniated a disc in my back and was in excruciating pain. After a PT told me I’d just have to alter my life to accommodate the pain, I went in search of a way to prove him wrong. In came Pilates. My first class was extremely humbling. While I’ve always been athletic and active, I obviously had NOT been using these muscles properly! As soon as I realized the value of what Pilates had to offer, I dove right in and immersed myself, becoming certified and teaching upon graduation in the studio that certified me.

What services do you offer and what makes Wild Rose Pilates different?
Wild Rose Pilates teaches Contrology (Pilates) in the way that Joe Pilates intended it to be taught. Contrology, or authentic Pilates, is different than what is offered in contemporary studios in that we implement exercises in a specific order to maximize your benefit! I guide you step by step through private and semi-private sessions, and even offer online group mat classes for your convenience. Through Contrology, I aim to empower you with independence and confidence in your workout to harness the full potential that Pilates has to offer.

What do you like most about your work?
I love when my students find “aha” moments, or when they reach the point where the work really starts to show. I love when clients tell me their success stories, like being able to carry laundry up the stairs without any back pain, or how their knees don’t hurt after running anymore. My clients inspire me and I always feel such joy to be a part of their journey.

Any advice for others?
My advice to everyone is to exercise because you love your body, not because you don’t! Also, don’t take your body for granted! Move it or lose it, though it’s never too late to start getting stronger. Find a group, activity, or trainer that you trust and just get started.

Anything else you’d like to share?
I will be running a new client special through the holidays, so keep an eye out!