“Every block of stone has a statue inside it and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it.”
MICHELANGELO
The Onyx Story
The Onyx Method was founded in 2020 as an online movement studio offering virtual classes, instructor training, and continuing education. While we began with classes for everyone, our focus has grown: today, we are dedicated to training and supporting instructors, offering education, mentorship, and classes designed specifically to help teachers grow stronger in their practice and in their teaching.
That said, we’re still here for movers, too—whether you’re joining us live or on-demand, you’ll find safe, effective, and empowering workouts you can do anywhere.
Why “Onyx”?
Michelangelo once said, “Every block of stone has a statue inside it and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it.” This perfectly captures our mission: to help you uncover the strength, skill, and potential that already exist within you—whether as a mover or as an instructor.
The Bible also refers to onyx as a precious and valuable stone, a reminder that every individual who comes to The Onyx Method is seen, valued, and capable of growth.
Our Mission
We invite you to show up for yourself, build strength you didn’t know you had, and lean into growth—in mind, body, and teaching. Whether you join us for a challenging workout or as part of your instructor training journey, The Onyx Method is here to help you thrive.
Meet the Owners
Margaret is a Montgomery, AL native whose love for Pilates began during her college years at Mississippi State University. After graduation, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she explored a variety of fitness styles but always returned to her favorite—Reformer Pilates. Eager to deepen her practice, Margaret spent weekends traveling to New York City to train at Pilates Academy International under world-renowned instructors and educators. After three years, she returned to the South to launch her career as a Pilates instructor, co-creating Accelerate alongside Lacy Arant, owner of Midtown Pilates in Starkville, MS. Today, Margaret is a master instructor on all Pilates apparatuses with comprehensive certifications in Pilates Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, Barrels, TRX, Pilates Suspension Method, CoreAlign, Barre, Jumpboard, Rebounder, and small props. She also holds specialty certifications in Pre/Post Natal, Post-Rehab, and the Pink Ribbon Program for Breast Cancer Survivors. Her mission is simple yet powerful: to make safe, effective, and empowering movement accessible anywhere.
Margaret Virden
Kristy’s love for people, movement, and fitness has been the driving force behind her 15+ years as a leader in the health and wellness industry. With extensive experience as both a group exercise instructor and Pilates educator, Kristy brings knowledge, passion, and creativity to every class and training. As a Pilates Academy International Master Instructor, she leads education and training for aspiring Pilates teachers worldwide. Kristy is also a master instructor on all Pilates apparatuses, holding comprehensive certifications in Pilates Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, Barrels, TRX, Pilates Suspension Method, CoreAlign, Barre, Jumpboard, Rebounder, and small props. A certified Gait Guru, Kristy specializes in foot health and mechanics—helping clients address everything from foot pain and weakness to improving overall gait patterns. She has years of experience teaching strength training and Pilates-based methods to a wide range of populations, including those managing Multiple Sclerosis, Osteoporosis, and Scoliosis, always offering thoughtful modifications to meet each client where they are. Kristy’s mission is simple: to empower people of all ages and abilities to move better, feel stronger, and enjoy the process along the way.
Kristy McKinney
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