Testimonials

In their ownWords

Read what past employers, peers & clients have said about their experience working with Diana, from the learning environment and teaching style to the confidence and clarity they took away from working with her.

Mark Armstrong & Michael Ramsey, STRONG Pilates founders.

Strong FoundersMark Armstrong & Michael Ramsey@strong

Five years at STRONG Pilates

We had the pleasure of working closely with Diana over five years at STRONG Pilates, during which she played an important role across both studio operations and education as the brand grew. From managing our first HQ studio to delivering Academies across Australia and the UK, Diana brought a rare mix of strong standards, practical leadership, and the ability to really connect with instructors and members. She has a clear understanding of what makes teaching work in a real studio setting, and a natural way of developing instructors that feels both supportive and highly effective.

Chou Lim (STRONG Studio Owner) teaching students on a Pilates reformer in her ‘STRONG’ Islington Studio.

Studio OwnerChou Lim@strong_islington

I first came to work with Diana as an instructor, and she was the person who inspired me to move into strength-based teaching. From the very beginning, her style just clicked with me, she has a way of making you feel supported, while still pushing you to grow and improve.
As our relationship developed, Diana trained me to become a studio manager, sharing her knowledge so generously and helping me build the confidence to take the next step in my career. With her support, I went on to open my own studio.
During that time, Diana was Head of Academy in the UK, and she trained my entire team of instructors. She didn’t just teach them how to instruct, she built their confidence, their understanding, and their passion for what they do. The sense of community and standard she created is something we still carry in the studio today.

Graduates & peers

More from theStudio floor

Catalina Verjan Polanco

I highly recommend Di as a Pilates educator. She has a wealth of knowledge across all areas of Pilates and an exceptional ability to tailor her teaching to individual needs and learning styles. I found her personalised tips and guidance incredibly valuable. She not only expanded my knowledge as an instructor but also helped me discover strengths I didn’t realise I had. Every session was engaging, practical, and enjoyable. I would absolutely take another one of her courses.
Elle Perring@ellesia.perring

Training under Di completely transformed how I understand the Pilates method. Coming from a dance background myself, I connected instantly with her precise, no-nonsense approach (she’s demanding in the best way). What sets her apart is the depth she brings to her training and classes. Every cue and correction is intentional and thought out.
She instills a proactive approach to movement that stays with you long after the training ends. Four years on, after a career hiatus, every technique she taught me came back immediately. It’s a testament to how deeply her methods are embedded. Di doesn’t just teach Pilates, she rewires how you think about it.
Kate Ogier

I came into my training with a PT background. I only had a handful of Pilates classes under my belt and no experience at all on the reformer, so I was starting from scratch and very nervous. From day one, Diana guided me with patience, clarity, and genuine encouragement, building my confidence every step of the way. Her knowledge is incredible, and she has a real talent for breaking things down so they make sense. Thanks to her support and expertise, I felt confident and capable as an instructor. She is truly exceptional at what she does.
Magdalena Barbazova

My journey into Pilates began with Diana, and training with her was one of the most valuable parts of my instructor journey. As my very first Pilates teacher, she gave me the foundations that I still rely on every day as an instructor.
Her teaching style is clear, supportive, and incredibly encouraging. From day one, she created an environment where I felt confident to learn, ask questions, and grow without feeling intimidated. She has a unique ability to make complex concepts easy to understand while motivating you to push beyond what you think you’re capable of.
If you are ready to begin your reformer Pilates journey too, Diana is your person!
Strong Pilates InstructorMelissa FlynnFinalist for the Best Pilates Instructor on the Gold Coast

Diana Coffey is an absolute powerhouse! An inspiring, pocket rocket of an instructor who brings energy, passion, and serious knowledge to every session.
As a teacher of future instructors, she goes beyond just technique; she builds confidence, precision, and presence. Her fireball personality keeps you engaged while her attention to detail sharpens your skills.
Diana challenges you in the best way and genuinely wants you to succeed. I feel incredibly grateful to have learned from her and carry her influence into my own teaching.
Paige World@worldfitnessuk

Diana was always professional, welcoming, and incredibly attentive to detail. From the start, it was clear she brings a wealth of experience and knowledge from working with a wide range of clients. This really elevates her training, her technical understanding and communication is both clear and engaging. She created a fun, supportive environment whilst still keeping us challenged and on our toes. I felt confident and well-guided throughout, and would highly recommend her to anyone looking to develop as an instructor.
Pilates Instructor & Strong Master TrainerSoila Soumela@elinaafit

I had the privilege of training with Diana and it truly transformed the pathway that I am on now.
She was patient, attentive, and always tuned in to what I needed, whether that meant adjusting my cueing or encouraging me to push a little further and being creative.
What sets Diana apart is her genuine passion for what she does. She empowers you to understand your body and move with confidence. Thanks to her guidance, I’ve carried those lessons with me in my own teaching career since 2021!
Tim Chew@timcyoga

I completed a reformer based teacher training with Diana in 2022/23 and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Her knowledge and passion shine through in an accessible, motivating teaching style that brings out the best in her students. I’d highly recommend her training for both beginners and those looking to progress.
Yazmin Dann

Diana has a really special way of bringing out the best in people. Her teacher training is not only incredibly thorough, but also supportive, empowering, and genuinely inspiring. I’m so grateful to have learned from her and couldn’t recommend her enough.
D played a huge role in shaping me into the strong and confident Pilates instructor I am today. Her mentorship has taken me from England to Dubai, opening doors I never expected.
Coming from a strength and conditioning background, I had never even tried reformer Pilates before starting her intensive three-week course. Through her guidance, I not only learned the method but gained the confidence to teach it with purpose.
Since then, she has continued to support my development, encouraging both me and my colleagues to embrace our individuality. She empowers us to teach in a way that blends technical precision with our own unique personality, creating classes that are both effective and engaging.

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