about Switchback
A Pilates studio Designed for you
with a full compliment of Pilates equipment plus WaterRowers and small props such as fitness circles, rollers, weighted balls, & thera-bands plus. We have all you need to climb your mountain to peak fitness!
We are a family
run business and we love to share our passion for corrective exercise & healthy living with our community while having a lot of fun doing so!
Meet our Teachers
Shawn Giles
Teacher, Owner
Shawn has been sharing his knowledge of the body and movement in private and group settings for over two decades. His passion for Pilates is fueled by the countless positive transformations he has witnessed in his clients. Shawn utilizes his expertise to assist each client in cultivating greater body-mind awareness, strength, flexibility, and agility.
His comprehensive approach to Pilates bridges the gap between the classical and modern traditions while staying true to its’ core principles. Using an innovative and unique teaching style, Shawn tailors each session to the individual's personal goals and needs. Through Pilates Shawn explores the many benefits this discipline has to offer.
Outside of teaching Shawn is an avid mountain biker and snowboarder. He has a passion for music, cars, and fixing things. He has rebuilt classic automobiles and endeavors to teach his sons how to do the perfect burn out. Shawn and his family are delighted to be part of TR's thriving community.
Rachel Canale
Teacher
Rachel brings 15 years of teaching experience and holds a full STOTT Pilates certification, including training in Injuries and Special Populations. She began her career in New York City, where she taught in studios and worked in post-rehab settings alongside physical therapists to help patients regain full functionality.
Rachel is also a 500-hour trained yoga teacher, certified meditation coach, and Ayurvedic Health Counselor, bringing a holistic perspective to health and wellness. She believes movement is for every body and blends her diverse training to help clients build strength, balance, and overall vitality. Drawn to the beauty and community of Travelers Rest, she is excited to share her passion for mindful movement and whole-person wellness
Rachel is also a 500-hour trained yoga teacher, certified meditation coach, and Ayurvedic Health Counselor, bringing a holistic perspective to health and wellness. She believes movement is for every body and blends her diverse training to help clients build strength, balance, and overall vitality. Drawn to the beauty and community of Travelers Rest, she is excited to share her passion for mindful movement and whole-person wellness
Kristen Rubino
Teacher
Kristen landed in South Carolina after she and her family decided—on a total whim—that a big move sounded like fun (and somehow it worked out). She started studying classical Pilates in Georgia about 8 years ago, all while juggling her acting career. Falling in love with Pilates was not part of the plan, but the universe clearly had other ideas.
Now, she’s passionate about helping people stay strong as they age—because getting older doesn’t mean slowing down. Kristen is also a certified health coach and is wrapping up a new certification focused on supporting women with endometriosis. Her background in performing gives her a natural ease speaking to groups, which makes her classes equal parts empowering and approachable (with the occasional sarcastic comment thrown in).
When she’s not teaching private sessions or group classes, Kristen’s usually out hiking with her husband and daughter—or popping up on your TV screen.
Now, she’s passionate about helping people stay strong as they age—because getting older doesn’t mean slowing down. Kristen is also a certified health coach and is wrapping up a new certification focused on supporting women with endometriosis. Her background in performing gives her a natural ease speaking to groups, which makes her classes equal parts empowering and approachable (with the occasional sarcastic comment thrown in).
When she’s not teaching private sessions or group classes, Kristen’s usually out hiking with her husband and daughter—or popping up on your TV screen.