Meet the Trainers

Our Training Sets Us Apart

Pilates Midwest instructors bring specialized skills that enhance your Pilates experience, whatever your current level of fitness.

All Pilates Midwest certified instructors have achieved at least 1,000 apprenticeship hours, passed written and practical testing in the Jennifer Kries Method of Pilates, and regularly participate in continuing education programs with second generation Pilates master teacher, Jennifer Kries, and other first and second generation Pilates master teachers.

Jan Tirony-Johnson, Founder and Owner
Senior Certified Pilates Instructor, Certified Level 1 GYROTONIC® Trainer

Jan took her first Pilates class in 1995, beginning a journey that led her to establish Pilates Midwest in 2003. With nine years of experience teaching hundreds of students, Jan sees daily how the safe, precise practice of classical Pilates changes lives.

As Michigan’s official Jennifer Kries teacher training affiliate, Jan conducts workshops and hosts Pilates training attended by students from all over the world. She also has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education.

Three years ago, Jan was introduced to the GYROTONIC® movement program. Recognizing this circular movement methodology compliments her existing Pilates practice, Jan has accomplished certification and has been teaching GYROTONIC® movement for two years.

With a bachelor’s degree in management, Jan enjoys the creative outlet Pilates and GYROTONIC® provides.

Lynn Descamp, NCTMB
Certified Pilates Instructor, Certified Level 1 GYROTONIC® Trainer,
Nationally Certified Massage Therapist

Lynn’s national certification in therapeutic massage and bodywork and bachelor’s degree in athletic training enhance her students’ fitness experience. She joined the Pilates Midwest staff in 2005.

Lynn is a Certified Level 1 GYROTONIC® trainer with two years experience.

Lynn is a licensed EMT and firefighter for Bear Creek and Resort townships, and has a passion for all things outdoors, most notably skiing, hiking, backpacking and kayaking.

Charisse Tietjen, MD
Certified Pilates Instructor

Charisse’s anatomy and physiology training helps her students achieve their fitness goals. As a Pilates Midwest client, Charisse saw how classical Pilates benefits people of all ages and fitness levels. Inspired by this experience, she joined the Pilates Midwest staff in 2006 and completed her Pilates teaching certification with Jennifer Kries in 2008.

Charisse has taught anatomy and physiology at the college level, and offers periodic “Anatomy for Pilates” workshops at Pilates Midwest.

Ashley Louisignau
Certified Pilates Instructor

Ashley has achieved her Pilates teaching certification since joining the Pilates Midwest studio in 2006. She regularly attends workshops with Jennifer Kries.

Ashley is also studying for a bachelor’s degree in nutrition with an emphasis on holistic health practices. In addition to Pilates, Ashley has a personal passion for yoga and is Pilates Midwest’s resident lululemon athletica aficionado!