About Us
A Place to Feel Seen, Safe, and Strong
At Temple Pilates, movement is more than exercise—it’s an act of restoration, awareness, and empowerment. Rooted in the classical principles of Pilates and inspired by modern functional movement, the studio was created to provide a welcoming space where every client feels supported, challenged, and celebrated in their journey toward strength and balance.
Meet Maggie
For Maggie Temple, Pilates is more than movement—it’s a lifelong practice of resilience, healing, and empowerment. With over 23 years of personal practice and 19 years of teaching experience, Maggie brings both expertise and compassion to every session.
As a fully certified Pilates instructor (PMA certified) and former Master Trainer for Club Pilates, she has guided clients from all walks of life—including cancer survivors, transplant recipients, and those navigating joint replacements—always prioritizing safety, effectiveness, and individualized care. Her extensive training includes pre/postnatal Pilates, Barre (Barre Above), TRX, BOSU, and advanced techniques in myofascial and trigger point release.
Maggie’s mission is at the heart of Temple Pilates: to empower clients through mindful movement and expert guidance in a welcoming environment—a place where every person, no matter their story, can feel seen, safe, and strong.
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A sanctuary where strength, alignment, and renewal come together.
Meet Our Instructors
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Maura Murgia
“You’re in it to win it—here, it’s all about you.”
Movement has always been part of Maura’s rhythm—from her early years in dance and gymnastics to her lifelong commitment to fitness and wellness. After experiencing significant spinal challenges and neck surgery, she discovered Pilates in 2008 as a path toward strength without pain.
Now a Balanced Body Comprehensive Certified Instructor, Maura brings a deep understanding of corrective movement, alignment, and modification to every class. Her goal is to help clients rediscover how empowering and restorative Pilates can be—improving mobility, flexibility, and overall health every day. Her classes are fun, focused, and form-driven, often set to an upbeat mix of 70s, 80s, and house music that keeps energy high and smiles wide. When she’s not teaching, Maura enjoys cycling, long walks with her husband Darby and their dogs, and soaking in the beauty of Charleston life.
Elizel Long
“Keep your heels, head, and standards high.”
Originally from South Africa, Elizel Long brings over 15 years of international teaching experience to Temple Pilates. A former professional ballet and contemporary dancer, she discovered Pilates at the age of 12—and has integrated its discipline, grace, and strength into every stage of her career.
Now a STOTT Certified Pilates Instructor, Elizel specializes in injury rehabilitation and intelligent movement training. Her approach is both athletic and intuitive, guiding clients to move with awareness, confidence, and control—training not just the body, but also the mind. Her classes are dynamic, precise, and deeply engaging, often filled with humor, focus, and her signature spark. When signing up for an Elizel class, bring your curiosity and your energy—leave your excuses at the door.
Our Space
Temple Pilates was designed to offer a boutique, fully equipped Pilates experience—where every client receives thoughtful instruction, premium equipment, and space to move with intention.
The Main Studio
Our main studio features four Merrithew reformer/tower combos, blending the precision of classical Pilates with the versatility of contemporary movement. Each reformer station is equipped with Bala props and supportive accessories that enhance alignment, resistance, and flow—adding creativity and challenge to every session.
With small group classes intentionally capped, clients receive individualized attention and form-focused guidance from our highly trained instructors.
The Private Studio
Just beyond the main room, our private studio space offers a rare opportunity for one-on-one sessions using advanced apparatus not commonly found in most studios. Here, clients can train on the Cadillac, Ladder Barrel, and Chair—equipment designed for precision, control, and deeper core engagement.
This dedicated space caters to the Pilates purist, those in rehabilitation, or anyone seeking a highly customized experience tailored to personal goals and needs.
The Temple Experience
Every detail of Temple Pilates has been considered—from the polished Merrithew equipment to the calming atmosphere of our historic Charleston home. The natural light, hardwood floors, and views of Hampton Park create an environment that inspires balance and renewal.
Our team of three comprehensively certified instructors brings expertise across all Pilates apparatus—reformer, tower, chair, barrel, and Cadillac—ensuring each client experiences the method’s full potential.