About Shoko
Hello, I’m Shoko Takashita.
I’m a thoughtful and empathetic Japanese physiotherapist and Pilates instructor, currently based in Amsterdam. I help clients improve their posture, strength, and mobility by helping them develop a deeper understanding of their bodies and minds.
During my 8-year physiotherapist career in Japan, I worked with a wide range of patients, including children with disabilities, adults recovering from physical injuries, and patients managing long-term conditions affecting their strength and mobility, such as cancer, cerebrovascular accidents, and Parkinson’s disease.
Since becoming a certified Pilates instructor in 2023 in Japan, I have been specializing in helping office workers who spend long periods of time sitting at their desks reduce their body stiffness, supporting pre and postnatal women improve their core muscles and reduce pain, and assisting athletes looking to improve their performance through technique-focused Pilates.
Drawing on my +10-year experience working with a diverse range of clients as both a physiotherapist and Pilates instructor, I tailor each session to her clients’ needs and goals. My style combines physiotherapy, traditional Pilates, and neurophysiology, resulting in clients moving with less pain, greater control, and improved physical performance. My biggest differentiator is my Japanese Pilates background, which emphasizes breathwork, neural exercises, and technical and precise movements.
My goal is to create a positive environment where you will move with intention, guidance, and care.
QUALIFICATIONS：
Pilates (Mat & Reformer) – PHI Institute
Physical therapy – Kibi Kokusai University（吉備国際大学）
Child body therapy – International Holistic Therapy Association
Why I became a Pilates instructor?
Since 2016, I have worked as a physical therapist in Japan at facilities for people with physical and mental disabilities, rehabilitation hospitals, and at-home nursing stations.
While working in pediatric rehabilitation, I often found myself thinking about the children's mothers. They were always by their side, but no one seemed to be paying attention to them. I began to ask myself—how can I support more women in caring for their bodies and enjoying a healthier, more fulfilling life?
That’s when I discovered Pilates.
I realized Pilates is a powerful way that women can use to care about their bodies and minds. This inspired me to become a Pilates instructor, and since obtaining my teacher certification in 2023, I have been supporting people in finding strength, peace, and balance in their lives.