Deborah Lessen

Deborah Lessen is an acknowledged leader in the Pilates field.

A former professional dancer and teacher, she was trained to teach the Pilates method by Joseph Pilates’ first protege, Carola Trier.

Ms. Lessen founded the Greene Street Studio in 1983, which nurtures a broad base of clients in the Pilates method for general conditioning, performance specific training, injury prevention and post-rehabilitation. She offered on-site comprehensive teacher training from 1994 to 2004.

As co-defendant in the federal trademark infringement action for use of the name “Pilates,” she rallied the community to oppose the action. The Pilates name was made generic in a sweeping victory in November 1999. The victory party in New York City was the launch of the Pilates Method Alliance.

Deborah is editor and a contributor to the PMA Pilates Certification Exam Study Guide and recently retired Chairperson of the PMA Certification Commission.

Deborah is a regular international presenter, conducting a roster of continuing education workshops and seminars for Pilates teachers.