Episode date: July 29, 2025
In Episode 3 of the Shop Jersey Shore Podcast, host Lisa Mazzuca sits down with Michele Toscano, owner of Pilates by the Bay in Toms River, NJ. Michele’s story is one of resilience, mentorship, and a mission to make Pilates accessible, understandable, and genuinely helpful for everyday life—not just time spent in the studio.
Meet Michele Toscano
Michele didn’t set out to run a Pilates studio. After living with scoliosis and undergoing two spinal fusion surgeries, her surgeon suggested equipment‑based Pilates as part of recovery. Michele fell in love with the practice, completed her teacher training at Pilates by the Bay, and—years later—took the reins as owner. Today, she leads a welcoming studio known for small-group instruction, personalized attention, and a culture of learning.
Inside Pilates by the Bay
Format: small-group classes, private sessions, and duets
Focus: full apparatus training (not just reformer)
While many people know the reformer, Pilates by the Bay also teaches on the tower, chair, barrels, and Cadillac. Why does this matter? Each apparatus helps place your body in the right alignment, building real mind‑body‑breath awareness that translates to daily life—standing taller at your desk, lifting weights with better form, or even catching yourself slouching in the car.
Why Small Groups Work
Most group classes are five to six people (with occasional classes up to seven or eight), so you’re seen and coached. Rather than rigid level labels, Michele and her team differentiate instruction on the spot for the people in the room. Expect clear cues, thoughtful modifications, and progressions that meet you where you are.
“We’re not training for a recital. There’s always something you can do—and we’ll help you find it.”
Who They Serve (Near and Not‑So‑Near)
Pilates by the Bay draws clients from Toms River, Brick, the Island, Bayville, Manchester, and beyond. Summer visitors and snowbirds often drop in while they’re at the Shore; locals typically travel 15–20 minutes to attend classes. If you’re in town for a week or two, there’s a spot for you too.
Training the Next Generation: Teacher Training & Apprentices
The studio is a host site for a flexible certification pathway in partnership with Evolve Your Teaching (master trainer Jessica Spain, North Jersey). Coursework is largely online at your own pace, paired with in‑person seminar days and hands‑on mentoring with Michele on the studio’s equipment.
Two current apprentices are logging hours now, and the studio will be offering free or low‑cost practice classes to help them gain experience—a win‑win for new students curious about apparatus and for apprentices learning to teach.
Busting Pilates Myths
- “Pilates is only for dancers.” The method serves every body—from beginners rehabbing injuries to seasoned athletes seeking better form.
- “Mat is easier than equipment.” Not necessarily. Mat work can be harder because you provide all the control; springs on the apparatus offer feedback and assistance.
- “Pilates body” stereotypes. Real clients come in all ages and stages. The studio trends toward a more mature, seasoned clientele, but everyone is welcome.
Curious about the origins of the equipment and how resistance entered the method? Michele shares an interesting bit of history in the episode—listen to hear what was repurposed in the early days.
Life at the Shore
When Michele and her husband John aren’t in the studio, you’ll find them supporting local BYO restaurants, taking their own bottles from Bacus Wine Making (Toms River), popping into Garden State Distillery for Boozy Bingo fundraisers, or walking the quiet trails of Island Beach State Park—well past the bathing beaches.
Giving Back
Pilates by the Bay regularly participates in local drives and events, including support for The Pittie Project and Wingman Planning’s “Christmas in July” toy collection through the Wingman Foundation, with a December trolley pickup (yes, Santa has tried the equipment). Watch the studio’s feeds for current drives and drop‑off details.
Try a Class: Perfect for First‑Timers
Michele frequently schedules introductory trial classes—about 45–55 minutes—to give newcomers a feel for the equipment. You’ll typically spend ~20 minutes on the reformer and ~20 minutes on the tower, ask questions, and talk through any concerns. Additional dates are posted monthly, with more sessions coming as apprentices gain hours.
Connect with Pilates by the Bay
- Website & Scheduling: https://pilatesbythebaynj.com/
- Phone: (732) 300‑4917
- Best first contact: Message the studio on social media or through the website (fastest response)
Episode Giveaway
We’re giving away a $50 gift card to Pilates by the Bay. To enter, answer a question from the episode (no spoilers here). Email your answer with the Subject line: “Michele Toscano”
We’ll pick a winner before the next episode.
Watch and Listen
- YouTube: youtube.com/@ShopJerseyShore
- Spotify (and more)
- All episodes: shopjerseyshore.com
New episodes of the Shop Jersey Shore Podcast publish weekly. Subscribe, share, and help us spotlight the people and businesses that make the Shore a remarkable place to live, work, and thrive.
Ready to feel the difference? Book your 45‑minute intro at Pilates by the Bay in Toms River, NJ.
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