Parallel Pilates®

Cav. Giuseppe Arena - Instructor

Choreographer and Artistic Director
I studied classical, modern and contemporary dance in Geneva, Switzerland where I also graduated from the Genevan school of arts, les « Beaux Arts ». I began my professional dance carrier in 1975, at the « Grand Théâtre de Genève ». In 1980 I was employed as principal dancer at « La Scala », Milan. From 1980 to 1999 I worked with many well-known dancers and choreographers, namely: Maurice Béjart, Roland Petit, Serge Lifar, Alvin Ailey, Rudolf Nureyev, Jonesco and George Balanchine. I became artistic director and choreographer in my own ballet company, Ballet NEO, which I founded in 1986.

Since I retired from « La Scala », Milan, I have worked all over the world (Switzerland, Italy, France, England, Russia, U.S.A., Japan, Arab Emirates etc.) as choreographer and artistic director for: television, theatre (ballet, opera and dramatic arts), cinema, ice skating and for large events such as the Opening Ceremony of the Winter Olympics and Paralympics, TORINO 2006.  I have choreographed many full length ballets such as the highly acclaimed « Duel » for the « Rusky Accademisky Teater », Moscow, first staged in 2001, where I mixed theatre and dance. My other ballets include, amongst others: Peter Pan, Snow White and Beauty and the Beast which were originally choreographed for ice skaters to original musical scores written by the well-known Italian composer, Silvio Amato.  When I am not working as choreographer or artistic director, I have huge pleasure training people with my Parallel Pilates® method at the Swissbody® Rive Centre. I also offer coaching sessions for pre-professional and professional dancers, skaters and athletes.

Personal Training with a difference

The Swissbody® Parallel Pilates® program is a combination of cardiovascular and weight training inspired by the principles of Pilates. By mixing cardio respiratory exercises with flexibility, core, balance, reactivity, speed, agility, quickness, and strength exercises, your body will be challenged in many ways making it stronger, fitter and in perfect balance. During the sessions you will receive a lot of personal attention, which results in a program specifically tailored to your needs and goals. Parallel Pilates® is a perfect addition to regular Pilates practice. Parallel Pilates® is offered at the Swissbody® Pilates studio in Rive and can be practiced in a private lesson.