About

Maria is a disruptor who traded the corporate world for her passion in fitness and wellness. Since age 16 and for the past 26 years, Maria has taught group fitness classes in various formats. In 2012, Maria discovered Pilates and fell in love with the method combining not only strength but also flexibility and fluidity. She was impressed by the impact Pilates had on her fitness routine and daily functional movement. Maria completed a 600-hour certification as a Romana teacher at Pilates of Dunwoody in June 2013 under Holly Pruell Leun and Juanita Lopez.

The Rebellious Pilates studio opened its doors late fall of 2017. Continuously fascinated by the human body, Maria is a firm believer that Pilates can impact not only physical but also mental and spiritual wellbeing. She is a huge believer in the method and the importance of consistency, repetition and precision as well as teaching clients to respect and listen to their bodies. There is no “flip flopping” in the rebellious classes; clients are taught to work with intent and integrity.

Prior to founding Rebellious Intl, Maria was a Finance Director and a professional with 17+ years of progressive corporate experience. Born in Bulgaria, Maria moved to the United States in 1992. She graduated summa cum laude from both the University of Georgia (BBA, Finance) and Georgia State University (MBA, Finance).  

Outside of Pilates, Maria stays busy balancing family and entrepreneurial life. Maria’s favorite job is being a mom of her young daughter. Maria enjoys learning, working out, dancing, traveling and spending time with family and friends.