Like the butterfly, we believe in the power of transformation.
Our Story
In Loving Memory
Pilafly is more than a Pilates studio — it’s a space inspired by love, loss, and transformation. Founded in memory of Donna’s daughter, Nicole, the studio embodies the belief that even through life’s most difficult seasons, we can find renewal, strength, and peace.
Our Philosophy
Wellness begins with movement — and extends into every part of life.
After 25 years in the mortgage industry, helping families and individuals achieve their dreams of homeownership, I realized my own passion was calling me in a new direction—one focused on wellness, balance, and mind-body connection. That journey led me to found Pilafly Pilates Studio here in Melbourne, Florida, where I now guide clients through Pilates sessions designed to strengthen the body, calm the mind, and support overall mental and physical well-being.
My career in mortgage taught me the value of trust, patience, and building lasting relationships—skills I now bring to my studio, ensuring each client feels supported and empowered in their wellness journey. I’ve personally experienced the transformative power of Pilates, not just physically but mentally, and I’m committed to helping others discover that same balance, confidence, and joy in their own lives.
Donna C. Paternoster
Head Coach
Hi, I’m Donna — I started Pilafly to marry my love of movement with my passion for healing and hope.
After losing my daughter to suicide I found myself in a space of deep emotional pain. Pilates became more than a practice — it became my lifeline. It helped me reconnect with my body, process my grief, and reclaim my strength.
Whether you’re stressed out, disconnected from your body, or even if life has handed you a devastating set of circumstances — I’m here to help you get stronger from the inside out.
At Pilafly, we move with compassion, positivity, and purpose. Together.
Hello! I'm Kristin, and my Pilates adventure kicked off in 2022 when I discovered how amazing it is for both the body and mind. For the first time, I found a place where I truly fit in—celebrating my unique body and journey. I was instantly hooked! Later that year, I took a "mental promotion" and shifted away from my 20+ year career in healthcare as a Speech-Language Pathologist. Pilates became my constant—my imperfect, ever-evolving practice that keeps me on my toes! With the guidance of some incredible mentors, I decided to become a certified instructor, so I could share my love for this practice with others. My teaching style is all about inclusivity and respect, creating a fun and welcoming space where you can explore your physical potential and embrace who you are-right here, right now! When I'm not teaching at the studio, you'll likely find me curled up with a good book, sipping a glass of wine, grading assignments for future Speech-Language Pathologists, or practicing Pilates on a reformer near you. I can't wait to help you grow in your own Pilates journey—let's find your mind-body balance and have some fun together! I hope to see you in a class soon.
Kristin
General Manager
Jill
Instructor-
Jill Wattenbarger, MHA, BS, CHC, CPT, CMES
Jill has over 30 years experience in the health and fitness industry. She has a Masters degree in Health Services Administration from the University of St. Francis and a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Ball State university. She was certified by Peak Pilates in Reformer and Chair and an ACE-certified Personal Trainer, ACE-certified Medical exercise specialist, ACE certified Health Coach. She has been a Keiser cycling master trainer since 2008, teaching and presenting cycling certifications and modules throughout the country. She managed the group fitness and personal training programs for Pro-Health and Fitness for over 18 years. When it comes to personal training and class instruction, Jill wants you to focus on what you CAN do not on what you can't do, becoming stronger every day.
Alexis
Instructor-
Alexis was born in Sacramento, California but early on in her life relocated with her family to the subtropical Space Coast of Florida, where she was raised in the sleepy beach town of Satellite Beach. Growing up in the sunshine, you could always find her active outside swimming, exploring nature, cycling & hiking throughout the barrier islands. In her youth, Alexis moved to the upper east side of New York City, where she lived for a couple years acquiring her Cosmetology license through the Aveda Institute. Working in a luxury salon on 5th Avenue in New York City, she soon discovered the repetitive motions were hard on her body, especially her posture. Alexis gained a new appreciation towards her island home and returned to the Space Coast, finding herself on a physical healing journey while attending college at Eastern Florida State College. In the year 2020, yearning to find a new passion, she discovered Pilates! She quickly realized Pilates was the key to healing her postural challenges. As part of her quest to re-discover her confidence and improve her posture, health, and strength, Pilates empowered Alexis. She immersed herself in the field first as a member, leading into sales management, followed by Club Pilates instructor training. Alexis gained an understanding on how to heal from the inside out through the Pilates principles of breath, concentration, centering, control, precision, and flow. What had been neglected in her youth became vital in her day to day life and she realized she could assist others in this healing process. Today, as a fully comprehensive certified Pilates instructor, she is ready to share the skills she has learned that lead her mental and physical transformation.
Andrea
Instructor-
Andrea was born and raised in Germany. There she worked as an administrator but decided on a career change when moving to the US and became a professional children’s book writer and illustrator.
Throughout her life, Andrea has been very active taking gym classes, running, and climbing the tree trek top regularly but had to slow down due to some injuries. She became interested in Pilates which works with low impact exercises. Becoming aware of the improvements in her core strength and all over flexibility through exercising Pilates, she decided once more to study a new skill, and to become a Pilates instructor.
Today, Andrea loves teaching the power of Pilates to others. She still works on her children’s books but spends a large amount of her time at the Pilates studio.
Kelli
Instructor-
Kelli has over 17 years of experience in the Pilates and fitness industry. She earned her first certification in 2009 and has dedicated her career to helping clients build strength, improve mobility, and move with confidence. Kelli believes Pilates is more than just movement. It's a way to feel better, move better, and live better. With a focus on safety, body awareness, and fun, she creates a supportive space where all ages and fitness levels can thrive. When she's not in the studio, Kelli enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, and soaking up life with her three cats and two dogs.
Claudia
Instructor-
With over two decades in the health and wellness industry, Claudia Isla is a Pilates Instructor and Holistic Health Coach who believes movement should feel good and support your overall wellbeing. Her classes focus on intelligent, intentional movement that builds strength, confidence, and body awareness.
Debbie
Instructor-
Debbie has over 40 years of experience in the health and fitness industry. She is a Personal Trainer, Fitness Instructor, and Pilates Reformer Instructor. Debbie believes exercise is the "Fountain of Youth" and is passionate about helping people move better, feel stronger, and enjoy the journey. With a focus on safety, body awareness, and fun, she creates a supportive space where all ages and fitness levels can thrive. Outside the studio, Debbie loves spending time in her garden with over 100 orchids, and is rarely far from her two Australian Shepherds.
Lisa
“I already feel stronger and more confident. I'm so happy she encouraged me to join! I highly recommend giving Donna at Pilafly a try. No excuses!”
Sarah