As a Pilates teacher, I love to work with People who are curious and Want To learn Joseph Pilates’ Method of exercise called Contrology.

I’m Carmen, owner of Aligned Pilates in Edmonton, Canada. Over the years, I have honed my practice and teaching skills with first—and second-generation teachers and I know what it takes to help people start practicing Joe Pilates corrective exercise method.

I do my best to listen and provide support that will positively impact the experience for my students. A favourite moment is when people share how Joe’s work teaches them something about themselves beyond the physical workout.

One of my extraordinary teachers, Jay Grimes said “Every student that comes through the door is your teacher; you just have to listen.”

I find it a rewarding time as a teacher and for those keen on learning Joe’s work. Together, we co-create an experience that is uniquely personal.

~ Carmen Lanteigne

The Space

Aligned Pilates is a space for those who champion following their instincts and are willing to hear suggestions. Having an open mind helps students develop the confidence necessary to becoming better movers. Through an immersed experience of using a foray of apparatus, students learn their work deeply and understand what it takes to get the results Mr. Pilates prescribed for his method of exercise.

The studio apparatus include —Reformers, Mats, Cadillac, High Chair, Wunda Chair, Arm (Baby) Chair, Barrels and other auxiliary apparatus that teach people about their bodies, improve flexibility, develop a strong torso, work on alignment, and mind-body connection.

A consistent practice of Contrology produces a feeling of vitality in the body both physically and emotionally which is helpful when trying to navigate a peaceful life.

Work with ME

Having worked with many students over the years, I have few ideas that can help people learn Joseph Pilates work and become lifelong practitioners.

1. Have ACCESS TO THE Studio.

To be able to practice using all of the unique apparatus, students learn what exercises are good for their body and sometimes it’s the ones we least like.

To be encouraged to move around the studio, exploring and practicing Contrology on all the apparatus develops one’s inner intuition of what good movement feels like in the body.

Different training options are available at Aligned to help students experience Contrology safely in their bodies and progress naturally. New students start with private lessons two times a week to build a foundation program. Once students develop consistency and feel confident small group classes are introduced starting with the FUNdamentals Class and the Contrology Class for those more experienced that want to hone their practice are available on the schedule. With the demonstration of self-sufficiency, students can also add Self-Practice to their weekly studio workouts with Carmen’s approval.

2. Have a Consistent Practice.

Students who commit to two or three times a week, whether in private lessons, small group classes, and self practice at Aligned Pilates will experience a change in their bodies quickly. As the foundation work becomes fluent in the body new information can easily be assimilated when learning new exercises, concepts or themes offered by the teacher.

3. Have An Open-Mind.

Practicing Joe’s work is not easy and requires discipline, time, and dedication. It may initially feel unfamiliar and sometimes frustrating, but as the saying goes, “Don’t quit before the magic happens!"

The key to learning Contrology is to not compare it with something you’ve done in the past. Rather it is something you are experiencing in the moment and trusting the work is doing the changing in our body.