Hi, I’m Nicole Tarro, founder of Golden Pilates and SOMA Dance + Wellness. With over two decades of experience in movement education and neuromuscular re-education, I specialize in helping people restore optimal function, balance, and strength in their bodies. My work bridges the gap between rehabilitation and performance, guiding clients from postural correction and pain management to refined athletic and artistic expression.
I hold a B.A. in Dance Science from San Francisco State University, where I studied anatomy, kinesiology, and biomechanics through the lens of human movement. I am a PMA-certified Pilates teacher, trained under Rael Isacowitz, founder of Body Arts and Science International (BASI Pilates), and have continued advanced studies in classical, contemporary, and rehabilitative Pilates methodologies. I am also a Yoga Tree 200-hour certified yoga teacher, integrating somatic principles and functional movement to create a truly holistic practice.
My professional background includes training high-level athletes, performing artists, pre- and postnatal clients, and individuals recovering from orthopedic and neurological challenges. I develop individualized movement strategies designed to improve neuromuscular efficiency, restore alignment, and increase access to strength and mobility. I believe the Pilates method is one of the most effective tools for reprogramming years of dysfunctional movement patterns, allowing the body to move with ease, power, and precision.
As the founder of SOMA, I also teach ballet and modern dance to youth and adults, cultivating a deep understanding of movement that supports both physical intelligence and creative expression.
When I’m not teaching, I’m usually exploring the desert with my husband and our two children, drawing inspiration from nature, stillness, and the beauty of everyday movement.
Testimonials
“Nicole is truly a special teacher. She is dedicated to giving the best possible workout to her clients and tailoring the sessions based on their requests. She is constantly thinking outside the box, keeping me engaged and finding muscles that I never knew existed! I feel like I’m constantly learning something new. Since starting with her four years ago, I can honestly say that I feel stronger, more flexible, and my mind feels calm. - Donna
“Nicole’s approach to Pilates is like relearning the foundational awareness of the body and seeing it work and change in real time! The sessions are ultra focused yet fun every time I leave with more energy and balance in my awakened core, and a definite desire to know more, the results and the satisfaction are so rewarding.” - John
“Golden Pilates with Nicole has been nothing short of transformational. Her vast knowledge and passion elevate you beyond the physical experience and into a deep understanding of your body and more importantly its resilience. My wellness journey led me to Nicole when I was focused on completing an endurance challenge and then I started sessions with her when an old injury was going to sideline my progress. She quickly showed me through correcting previously unnoticed biomechanical imbalances and bad postural habits that my body could be so much stronger than I ever imagined. Her kindness and patience are unmatched and I can not thank her enough for showing me what true strength is.” - Bryan
“ I just friggin’ love my sessions with Nicole, I have a life long issue with pain and core strength because of a congenial anomaly and several accidents from my childhood. Nicole’s approach to bodies is so nuanced, thorough, empowering, and deeply caring. I’ve never really worked with someone like her, and I’ve worked with ALOT of body workers. At this point, our work feels like a non-negotiable and every week I can’t wait to see (and feel!) what cool thing we’ll explore. My body is changing and my relationship to my body is evolving. I’m becoming more myself and I’m so grateful.” - Dana
ALEXIS
“ Nicole is the best Pilates teacher that I’ve ever had! Previously, I did Pilates for exercise. I wanted the long, lean muscles, but to be honest, I never enjoyed it. It made me feel tense, like I was doing it wrong, and I often ended up with pain in my neck from overstraining. Nicole has made Pilates fun and easy! Her knowledge anatomy and so many healing modalities make her more like a physical therapist, breath coach, and healer. She really understands the idiosyncrasies of my body and never pushes me beyond what I can do, but she gently challenges me and gives me encouragement when I need it. I am grateful I found her.”
“Working with Nicole has been truly transformative. Her deep knowledge of the body, combined with her intuitive teaching style, creates an experience that is both challenging and restorative. She has a gift for meeting each client exactly where they are — guiding with precision, compassion, and encouragement. Every session leaves me feeling stronger, more aligned, and deeply connected to my body. Nicole’s Pilates instruction goes beyond fitness; it’s about balance, awareness, and genuine care for her clients’ well-being.” - Victoria