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What to expect at Avera
Avera is a boutique Pilates studio in Mount Eliza run by Sarah Schoknecht. Every session is led by Sarah in a fully equipped, light-filled studio set among the treetops. With small group classes of just three people and one-on-one private sessions, you get expert attention and programming tailored to your body.
Sarah holds a Diploma in Professional Pilates Instruction with over a decade of teaching experience. Her clinical training means she can work with injuries, chronic conditions, and situations that require more than a general approach. Sessions use the full range of Pilates apparatus to build strength, improve mobility, and support how your body moves in everyday life.
New to Avera? Start with our Intro Offer
The best way to start at Avera. Your Initial Consultation plus five Small Group 3:1 Sessions to establish your program and build momentum towards results.
$330 (save $40)
At Avera, you start with expert guidance and a program built specifically for your body. Here's how it works.
STEP 1Initial Consultation
The Initial Consultation is how Sarah learns your body before she teaches it. You'll talk through your health history, any injuries or conditions you're managing, and what you're hoping to achieve. Then Sarah will guide you through a detailed movement assessment, watching how your body organises itself and what it needs.
From this session, Sarah creates your personalised program specific to your body, your history, and your goals. You'll also be introduced to the studio and equipment, so the space feels familiar when you return. This means your time at Avera is purposeful from the very first session.
STEP 2Choose your path
After your Initial Consultation, Sarah will recommend the best way forward based on what she found in your assessment. Most clients move into small group sessions. Some start with a few private sessions first, particularly if they're working through a complex injury or want more time to build confidence before joining a group. Sarah will give you her honest recommendation.
Small Group 3:1 Sessions
Max three clients per session with the perfect balance of personalised attention and shared energy. Sarah follows the program from your Initial Consultation and adapts it as you progress. Whether you're building strength, improving posture, or managing pain, the Pilates stays tailored to your goals.
Private 1:1 Sessions
Sarah's complete focus for 50 minutes. Ideal for clients working through injury, building confidence before joining a group, or who prefer a one-on-one environment.
What happens after you book
1. Confirmation
You'll receive a booking confirmation with the studio address, parking details, and what to bring.
2. Health questionnaire
Before your session you'll complete a brief health questionnaire so Sarah has your background before you arrive.
3. Your session
Arrive a few minutes early to settle in. The studio is set among the treetops in Mount Eliza. Wear comfortable, fitted workout clothes. Bring water.
4. Your program
After your consultation, Sarah will confirm your program and book your next sessions, either small group or private, based on her recommendation and your schedule.
Who Avera Pilates can help
Avera clients come from all walks of life and all kinds of starting points. Some are managing chronic pain or recovering from injury. Some are in their older years and investing in how their body moves and feels. Some are dancers or athletes. Some are expecting or postnatal. Some work at a desk and want to build strength and improve posture. Some have never tried Pilates before.
Whatever your situation, the Initial Consultation is where Sarah learns about your needs and tailors your Pilates program to achieve your goals.
Types of clients Sarah works with:
New to Pilates
Managing pain or recovering from injury
Focused on healthy ageing
Athletes and dancers
Pregnancy and new mothers
Desk workers
Experienced with Pilates