Carla Ricalis

What is Pilates to you in 3 words?

Self-Awareness. Balance. Life-long.

Why I love to teach

To me, Pilates is about constantly learning about your body, which is forever changing and adapting. What I love most about teaching is the opportunity to work with clients; to increase their strength, balance and coordination with whatever physical and mental tools they can access on that day. It’s a very rewarding experience to help someone connect into a part of their body or understand a movement that enhances their self-awareness making them stronger both physically and mentally. And it’s even more rewarding to see them walk out of a session a little taller, a little more focused and connected and always a little bit happier with what they’ve accomplished.

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Education

  • Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) Exercise 1 (Halifax, 2022)
  • ELDOA Level 1 Certification (Toronto, 2018)
  • TRX Suspension Training (Toronto, 2016)
  • M.A., Critical Disability Theory, thesis: “How Critical Theory Can Inform Pilates Practitioners”, York University, Toronto, 2011
  • Gyrotonic Level 1 Certification (Montreal, 2007)
  • STOTT Pilates Full Comprehensive Program Certification (Toronto,1996)
  • B.F.A. (hons.), York University, Toronto, 1996
  • 200 hours Yoga Training, Octopus Garden (Toronto, 2015)

Workshop Development

  • Spirals & Rotations Level 1 & Level 2 Mat based workshops (2021)
  • Spirals & Rotations Level 1& Level 2 Reformer based workshops (2022)
  • 18 hours Skills Development Program for Instructors (2019)
  • Movement of the Upper Quadrant: Thoracic, Cervical and Shoulder Girdle (2019)
  • Functionality and Biomechanics of the Hip, Knee and Foot (2019)

Professional Experience

  • Co-founder & Director of Studio3 (Toronto, 2008-present)
  • Mentor for Futurpreneur Canada (2018 – present)
  • STOTT Pilates Instructor Trainer (1997-2010)
  • Technical Director, STOTT Pilates Education DVD Series (2008)
  • Presenter at Can-Fit Pro (Toronto, Halifax, Vancouver, St. John’s, 2004-2010)
  • Present at IDEA (New York City, NY, Miami, Fl., 2005-2008)
  • Presenter at IHRSA (San Francisco, 2005)
  • Presenter at FILEX (Australia, 2004)
  • Co-founder & Director of San Francisco Bay Area STOTT Certification Centre (2000-2003)