Julian Tripodi, of My Local Physio Plus, has been crowned SA’s best pilates instructor of 2023

Julian Tripodi said he was honoured to hear he was named South Australia’s best pilates instructor, but is still happy to share the love.

Julian Tripodi has been crowned SA's best pilates instructor of 2023. Picture: Emma Brasier

After less than a year in the field, Julian Tripodi has been crowned South Australia’s best pilates instructor of 2023.

The 23-year-old, who is also a qualified physiotherapist, said he enjoys teaching clinical pilates to assist his patients in overcoming injuries.

“(The job) gives a lot of satisfaction,” he said. “It’s all a bit of fun working the clients hard.”

“I enjoy helping people in a niche way.”

Mr Tripodi found it hard to list only a few things about his job, saying there are many rewarding aspects.

Mr Tripodi said one of his favourite things about the job are the bonds he’s made with clients. Picture: Emma Brasier

“I love seeing the progression people do make (and) getting to know everyone,” he said.

“You build good relationships with your clients.”

The young pilates instructor said he finds working with workcover clients and “fast-tracking their rehabilitation” one of the more rewarding parts of the job.

“It’s great seeing how much people appreciate a quiet exercise routine,” he said.

“My classes support me too … I’ve created bonds with clients.”

Despite, the extensive list of positives, Mr Tripodi said there are still some challenges associated with the job.

“The biggest challenge is accommodating certain injuries … (and) adjusting to suit people’s needs,” he said.

Mr Tripodi said he was motivated to get into the healthcare field due to his love of physical education in high school.

“I always liked P.E. stuff at school and working with my hands,” he said.

Mr Tripodi said his younger self would be proud of his career progression but probably wouldn’t expect to be teaching reformer pilates.

“I’d be very happy … my younger self wouldn’t think I’d do this,” he said.

The dedicated physiotherapist and instructor said he was “shocked” to hear he’d been crowned the best pilates instructor – especially considering only a few other men were.

“Only a couple of guys were on the list,” he said. “It’s good to share the love.”

“It’s very rewarding to see my hard work pay off.”

Mr Tripodi said he was waiting to see who had been crowned the winner, with another nominee known to him.

“Another guy on the list actually teaches my girlfriend, so it was a good test (to see who she’s choose),” he said.

Top five pilates instructors

Julian Tripodi, My Local Physio Plus, Golden Grove

Elle Page Hodgeman, Pilates X, Marion

Oriana Binetti, InTune Pilates, Prospect

Infinity Pilates and Personal Training, West Lakes

Kenzie Smith, Strong Pilates, Henley Beach