About Us
This is not your average Pilates studio.
We’re Jo and Hannah, the founders of Contoured, a boutique Reformer Pilates studio with a focus on feel good movement, thoughtful design and a special community. We set out to create a space that feels as good as it looks, where everyone is welcome and every detail matters.
Our Story
Contoured was founded by Jo Minchin and Hannah Chesser, two women who met when Hannah was Jo's Reformer Pilates instructor. A friendship quickly formed, built on laughter, mutual respect and a shared outlook on life.
Jo, who runs Clever Contours, a private luxury skin and laser clinic in Bowden Hall, had just sold one of her other businesses in the same building, leaving a beautiful space ready for something new. At just the right time, and with a bit of serendipity, a little external influence and a shared vision, the idea for Contoured began to take shape.
They were completely aligned on the kind of space they wanted to create, not just in how it looked but in how it felt. Calm, modern, welcoming and just a little bit cool. They also knew the kind of team they wanted to build, filled with positive energy, warmth and a real love for what they do.
While Jo takes care of running the business from behind the scenes, Hannah brings the energy and expertise to the studio floor. Together, they have created something special, a space that lifts, inspires and empowers everyone who walks through the door.
This is a Contoured Studio, we do things differently.
Meet our Instructors
Hannah Chesser
Co Founder and Lead Instructor
Hannah holds a First-Class Honours Degree and a Master’s in Law, but after years in the corporate world, she felt called to a more fulfilling path. A lifelong lover of movement, it was a serious skiing injury that became the catalyst , Reformer Pilates played a vital role in her recovery and inspired her to retrain and help others experience its transformative benefits.
She qualified with the Physical Mind Institute New York under Master Trainer Sandrine Gasnier, covering Mat and all Pilates apparatus. Her teaching journey took her across Spain and Portugal, before she accepted an esteemed role as trainer to the Royal Family of Saudi Arabia.
Now back in the UK and co-founder of Contoured, Hannah brings a precise, empowering and compassionate teaching style to every class, helping clients feel stronger, more balanced and deeply connected to their bodies.
Outside the studio, she’s a lover of live music (especially Glastonbury), good food, great wine and a proper laugh. Her warmth, humour and down-to-earth energy make every class feel like time well spent.
Alice Gibson
Reformer Pilates Instructor
Alice discovered Pilates after searching for a way to move that felt joyful rather than a chore. The gym never lit her up, but the moment she stepped onto a Reformer, something clicked. It challenged her both mentally and physically in a way that felt empowering and deeply rewarding. That spark led her to train in both Reformer and Mat Pilates, blending classical foundations with contemporary and creative flows.
Since qualifying, Alice has brought a warm, engaging and energetic style to every session. Her goal is always the same, to help clients feel strong, confident and proud of what their bodies can do.
Outside the studio, Alice is a pole fitness enthusiast, a true crime podcast addict and a proud auntie who lights up when talking about her nephew. She is equally at home hanging upside down as she is curled up watching reality TV with a glass of wine in hand, living proof that balance is everything.
Abi Jones
Reformer Pilates Instructor
Abi is a Reformer Pilates and Yoga teacher and is really excited to be training our clients at Contoured.
After years in academia securing a BA and MA in Literature and attending UCLA and the University of London, Abi turned towards Yoga and physical movement as a way to destress
After six years teaching Yoga across the world through classes, workshops and retreats she caught the Reformer Pilates bug and qualified with Pilates Union.
With over six years of teaching experience Abi’s classes are strong, blending her anatomy knowledge and passion for making people feel good both physically and mentally. Expect powerful classes with moments of softness and stretch - the perfect combo from a Yoga & Pilates teacher!
When Abi is not teaching, you can find her hosting fabulous wellness retreats and taking care of her beautiful daughter Luna.