About

Photo Credit: © Ellie Kurttz Shapes in Motion

The Movement Principle

Angela Botha is a Pilates instructor, movement coach, and movement director based in London. Originally from South Africa, Angela moved to London in 1998 and fell in love with the city, ultimately settling there in 2002. Her lifelong passion for movement has shaped her unique approach to teaching and directing, drawing on a diverse range of influences and experiences.

Angela has always been a keen mover, with a rich and varied movement heritage that spans ballet, Japanese jujitsu, yoga, swimming, and running. Throughout her life, she’s explored multiple ways of connecting with her body, but it was in 2008 that she discovered Pilates—a movement system that resonated deeply with her as a complete workout for both the body and the mind.

Expanding Knowledge & Experience

After graduating in 2011, Angela continued to deepen her Pilates expertise by studying under Cara Reeser, a second-generation teacher. From 2013 to 2018, Angela taught Pilates in studios in Denver and New York, as well as in London, broadening her experience and teaching in diverse settings.

In 2013, Angela co-founded a Pilates studio with two colleagues, where she developed her own teaching style that integrates her background in various movement disciplines. This creative exploration of movement led her to discover a more artistic outlet for her knowledge, ultimately leading her to shift her career path once again.

Academic Growth & Movement Directing

In 2019, Angela enrolled at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, pursuing a master’s degree in movement teaching and directing. She completed her degree in 2020, marking a significant turning point in her career as she transitioned from Pilates instructor to movement director.

In May 2021, Angela adopted the name The Movement Principle and began offering her
expertise in functional and somatic movement, with a strong emphasis on breathwork.
Angela’s passion for movement has now expanded into the realm of theatre, where she
works as a movement director, bringing physical storytelling to life in theatre
productions. She hopes to further transition into directing for both theatre and film in
the future, sharing her vast knowledge of movement in these dynamic creative
environments.

Angela’s approach to teaching is rooted in her deep understanding of the mind-body
connection. She integrates Pilates, functional movement, and somatic practices to
create a holistic and effective movement experience. Her focus on breathwork and body
awareness helps her students cultivate strength, flexibility, and mindfulness, both in the
studio and beyond. As Angela continues to evolve, she is excited to further her work as a
movement director, transitioning into larger theatrical and cinematic productions. Her
diverse background, combined with her passion for movement, makes her uniquely
equipped to help others discover their physicality and storytelling through movement.