A woman in pink leggings and a white sports bra doing Pilates on a reformer machine, guided by an instructor in a gym with large windows and industrial decor.
A woman with long hair doing a fitness exercise on a reformer machine in a fitness studio with brick wall and large window.

Welcome to The Optimist

We believe that movement has the power to transform, not just bodies, but mindsets. Rooted in the principles of Pilates and infused with the spirit of optimism, our classes primarily focus on strength, balance, mobility and flexibility. We believe Pilates is for everyone and have class types for seasoned pros and beginners alike.

Whether you’re here to deepen your practice, prevent injuries for your sport, or simply move better, you’ll find a supportive community that believes in your potential. We don’t just see what is—we see what’s possible.

Founded by Olivia Stuart, a former professional ballet dancer and Balanced Body Master Instructor, The Optimist is built on the idea that when you move with intention, you move toward possibility. Our classes are designed to challenge, empower, and uplift—helping you build a resilient body, a balanced mind, and a confident outlook.

The Optimist is proud to be the official Pilates studio for the Alabama Ballet and an Authorized Training Center (ATC) for Balanced Body Education.

A woman in black activewear practicing pilates or yoga on a reformer machine in a gym with exposed brick wall, large windows, and modern workout equipment.
A woman practicing Pilates on a reformer machine in a studio with brick walls and large windows.
A hand holding a glass of water with a cube of ice, with a drop of water falling into the glass.

Fill your cup first.

Move with purpose, breathe with intention

This is your pause, your reset, your return to center. In the quiet strength of Pilates, you’re not just building muscle, you’re making space for yourself. Because when you fill your own cup first, everything else flows better.

Join us