Retrofit Pilates

Hey friends! We’re seeing a lot of late arrivals due to the heavy snowfall and cold weather conditions over the last week, as parking along Bloor West is extremely limited. If you are driving to class, please give yourself a LOT of extra time to find a spot, or consider walking or taking transit if that’s an option. And take care on those slippery streets and sidewalks!

Master Instructor and beloved teacher Minaqua McDade is leaving the Retrofit community and traveling to the US to spend more time with her family. Her last day on the teaching schedule is February 7.

Minaqua began teaching at Retrofit in 2002. Originally trained as an herbalist and Reiki specialist, she eventually pursued her Pilates instructor certification at STOTT PILATES®. “After almost a decade of chronic low back pain, I discovered doing Pilates actually controlled the pain like nothing else had. The consistent practice of the Pilates method helps me maintain a healthy back and allows me to do the activities I was missing out on. My positive experience made me want to share the joy of Pilates with others seeking a strong core and more ease in daily life. I believe that the movements and thoughtfulness of the exercises benefit people from all walks of life.”

Over the years, Minaqua has experienced the full gamut of working with clients, from a visiting pro-level hockey player and his girlfriend keeping fit together, to a ninety-year-old woman building strength and endurance to improve her golf game. These clients–and all of you, who’ve enjoyed her classes, private sessions and workshops at Retrofit for more than two decades–have motivated Minaqua to continue learning and to pursue specialized training and finesse her craft throughout her tenure.

We know that when she’s not at the studio, Minaqua can often be found at a farmers’ market, cooking up a storm, enjoying time in nature, and reading mystery novels, but we’re especially glad that she’s now going to be able to spend a lot more time with her family.

This is a bittersweet farewell for our community, but we love you Minaqua, and we wish you all the best!