As the year comes to a close, Arwen steps out from behind the interviewer’s chair to offer a nourishing solo episode focused on reflection, resourcing, and intentional care, for yourself, your clients, and your business.
In this episode, Arwen reflects on the first full year of CoLab Conversations, highlighting the themes that emerged across conversations with CoreAlign educators, innovators, and movement leaders. From compassion in teaching to accessibility, curiosity, and nervous system regulation, these shared insights reveal what truly supports sustainable movement practices.
Arwen also shares practical ways to move through the busy holiday season with more ease, by slowing down, listening inward, and offering the same care to clients and teams that we hope to give ourselves. She closes by sharing what’s ahead for CoreAlign CoLab in 2026, including live pop-up classes, expanded education offerings, and an open invitation for more voices to join the community.
This episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and step forward into the new year feeling grounded, supported, and connected.
CoLab’s 2026 Community Survey
As CoreAlign CoLab moves into a new year, we’d love to hear from you.
If you’ve been listening to CoLab Conversations, taking classes, or engaging with the community in any way, your perspective matters. This short year-end reflection survey helps shape what’s ahead for CoreAlign CoLab in 2026—from education offerings to classes, conversations, and community support.
✨ Share your reflections, requests, and ideas HERE.
Your responses directly inform future programming and help ensure CoreAlign CoLab continues to support you, your clients, and your work in meaningful ways. Thank you for being part of this growing community.
Resources Mentioned
CoreAlign CoLab classes, workshops & community: https://www.colabmovement.com/corealigncolab
CoLab Flex On-Demand Library:
About the Host
Arwen Brooke is the owner of CoLab Movement Studio, founder of CoreAlign CoLab, and an educator for Balanced Body Pilates & CoreAlign. She is also a founding member of the Pilates Education Collective.
Arwen has been teaching Pilates since 2006 and training teachers since 2011. She became a CoreAlign educator in 2018 and completed her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in 2020, blending Pilates, CoreAlign, and yoga into her work.
She specializes in pain relief, functional movement, and building strength with ease. Known for her clear, supportive teaching style, Arwen helps students understand their bodies and create lasting change.
Based in the Santa Cruz Mountains, California, Arwen offers in-person sessions in Ben Lomond and virtual classes worldwide. When she’s not teaching, she’s hiking, traveling, or spending time with her family.
Follow CoreAlign CoLab:
📸 @corealign.colab
📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates
▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube
🌐 corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com
Jonathan Hoffman — the visionary mind behind the CoreAlign, returns to the podcast for a deeper, more personal conversation about the work he’s been building behind the scenes. After four years treating movement-based chronic pain in a public PT clinic, Jonathan has refined a simple, accessible system of Strategic Exercises that’s helping clients feel better faster, often in ways that surprise even seasoned instructors.
In this episode, Jonathan shares why these exercises work, how they connect to his decades of study, and why Pilates and CoreAlign instructors are uniquely positioned to help people before pain becomes a lifelong struggle. If you loved his first appearance, you’ll want to hear where his work has evolved and how it might change the way you teach and move.
In this conversation, you’ll hear how Jonathann
Developed his Strategic Exercises system while working with real chronic pain cases every day
Uses simple, pain-free movement to help clients shift out of pain faster than they expect
Blends science, mindfulness, and full-body movement in a way instructors can actually apply
Identifies patterns in pain that point to the “right” exercise at the right moment
Sees Pilates and CoreAlign instructors as key players in preventing unnecessary pain and interventions
Resources Mentioned
CoreAlign CoLab: Strategic Exercises with CoreAlign
Previous Episode with Jonathan Hoffman https://open.spotify.com/episode/20cIpiwDEtYSpcvsGV9oE9
Balanced Body Blog: The Core: https://thecore.pilates.com/strategic-exercises-a-game-changer-for-pilates-corealign-instructors/
Free Webinar: Strategic Exercises & the CoreAlign: Jonathan Hoffman Shares His Latest Innovations
Learn more from Jonathan Hoffman through CoreAlign CoLab
Guest Bio:
Jonathan Hoffman is a globally recognized physical therapist, movement innovator, and educator. His personal educators include physical therapists Bob Elvey, Brian Mulligan and Max Zusman. Jonathan is best known as the creator of CoreAlign, MoonRun, and StarBarre—groundbreaking systems that have significantly influenced Pilates, physical therapy, and the broader fitness industry. His work helps people move more harmoniously and function more effectively, particularly in upright positions.
Drawing on decades of study, research, and hands-on experience treating tens of thousands of clients—including elite professional athletes—Jonathan’s approach is shaped by his keen observation of natural movement, active listening, and a unique integration of science and intuition. His mission is to bridge biomechanics and holistic movement to promote sustainable, pain-free, and functional living.
Follow CoreAlign CoLab:
📸 @corealign.colab
📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates
▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube
🌐 corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com
In this episode, Balanced Body Educator, physical therapist, and studio owner Carrie Lamb joins us to explore what it really means to build strength, on the CoreAlign and beyond. Carrie shares how her background in physical therapy and Pilates led her to discover the CoreAlign, why it completely changed her approach to rehab and movement, and how she continues to find creativity and curiosity after more than 25 years in the field.
From her small studio in Golden, Colorado, Carrie blends clinical insight with a deep love of teaching. In this conversation, she opens up about how to guide students from “what they can’t do” to “what they can,” how to think outside the box while honoring the CoreAlign curriculum, and why collaboration and community are vital for long-term growth as teachers and movers.
In this conversation, you’ll hear how Carrie:
Discovered the CoreAlign and why it reignited her curiosity as both a PT and educator
Blends Pilates and CoreAlign in her studio to support real-world movement and rehabilitation
Cultivates collaboration and communication in her teaching team
Uses resistance, curiosity, and “stepping into strength” to help clients and teachers expand beyond their comfort zones
Developed her upcoming CoLab workshop to inspire creative exploration and confident teaching
We also talk about how Carrie’s “Stepping Into Strength” workshop invites teachers to rethink resistance, challenge their habits, and rediscover the joy of play and experimentation, both in their practice and their teaching.
Resources Mentioned
Upcoming Workshop with Carrie Lamb — November 16th, 1:00 PM PST
Stepping Into Strength on the CoreAlign
Carrie’s Websites:
Classes & Studio: movementconnectsus.com
Education & Training: connectwithpilates.com
Guest Bio:Carrie Lamb is a studio owner and board-certified orthopedic physical therapist with over 20 years in practice. Her Pilates training is eclectic with certifications from Polestar and Balanced Body. These two programs combined with her physical therapy background have transformed Carrie’s understanding of the integration of mind, body, and movement.
Her specialties include:
Integrating Pilates and CoreAlign for rehabilitation and performance
Teaching movement through curiosity, collaboration, and clear communication
Strength progression and resistance exploration for functional results
Mentoring instructors to think creatively and problem-solve with confidence
Connect with Carrie:
📸 @connectphysical on Instagram
Follow CoreAlign CoLab:
📸 @corealign.colab
📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates
▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com
In this episode, Deana Blackman, owner of Rhythm and Flow Pilates in Sharon, MA, and a Balanced Body Master Trainer in Pilates and CoreAlign, shares how the CoreAlign reshaped her teaching, how standing movement creates stronger connections to daily life, and how sensory integration, from visual to proprioceptive cues, can empower students to create lasting change. With a special passion for working with neurological conditions like MS, Stroke, and Parkinson’s, Deana reminds us that movement isn’t about perfection, it’s about confidence, freedom, and real-life function.
In this conversation, you’ll hear how Deana:
Discovered the CoreAlign and why it reignited her passion for teaching Pilates
Uses movement puzzles to help clients overcome pain and regain confidence
Integrates Pilates and CoreAlign to support real-life functional movement
Applies sensory integration (visual, vestibular, proprioceptive) to enhance learning and reduce over-cueing
We also talk about the powerful ways she uses the CoreAlign to transform lives like helping a client with chronic neck pain return to hiking and yoga, and supporting Edith, in her 80s, to walk out of the studio without her cane. Deana shares how she helps clients find freedom, confidence, and strength through their work, along with what’s ahead: her new CoLab classes and her upcoming October workshop on the visual system.
Resources Mentioned
Upcoming Workshop with Deana, October 25th 9:00 AM PST
See It, Move It, Transform It: Harness the Visual System with CoreAlign to Unlock Effortless Movement: Learn More
Deana Blackman’s website: rhythmandflowpilates.com
CoreAlign CoLab classes, workshops & community: corealigncolab.com
Guest Bio:
Deana Blackman is the owner of Rhythm and Flow Pilates in Sharon, MA, and a Balanced Body Master Trainer in Pilates and CoreAlign®. With over 25 years of teaching experience, she blends the science of smart movement with a focus on creativity and compassion. Deana has advanced training through The Neuro Studio and a special passion for supporting people living with neurological conditions.
Her specialties include:
Integrating Pilates principles with the CoreAlign® to create functional, real-life movement patterns
Sensory integration training (visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive) to enhance learning and reduce pain
Movement problem-solving for clients with chronic pain, injuries, and neurological conditions such as MS, Stroke, and Parkinson’s disease
Functional outcomes for daily life — helping clients walk with confidence, regain independence, and return to activities they love
Connect with Deana:
📸 @rhythmandflowpilates on Instagram
Follow CoreAlign CoLab:
📸 @corealign.colab
📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates
▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube
🌐 corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com
In this episode of CoLab Conversations, we're joined by Cynthia Bahmani, a longtime movement educator, Balanced Body educator, and a new contributor on CoreAlign CoLab. Cynthia shares her journey into professional movement education, from her beginnings as a professional dancer to her discovery of the CoreAlign as a "missing link" in her training. This conversation explores how she uses the CoreAlign to help clients with a range of conditions, her unique approach to course development, and what it means to keep evolving as a teacher.
In this conversation, you’ll hear how Cynthia:
Discovered CoreAlign and felt it was the "missing link" for translating her dance training to the Pilates studio.
Works with diverse client populations, including those with scoliosis, osteoporosis, athletic goals, and neurological conditions.
Approaches movement as a "playground," exploring the space around the CoreAlign to create new and unique exercises for her clients.
Has developed workshops for specific populations to help other teachers use the CoreAlign more effectively.
Developed her ROTATE and RECIPROCATE™ course to improve gait patterning by incorporating upper body resistance.
We also talk about the powerful ways she's using the CoreAlign to support clients, including a person who uses a wheelchair and a woman who had a double mastectomy. Cynthia shares how she helps these clients find more confidence, range of motion, and a feeling of being "pulled together" through their work on the CoreAlign.
Resources Mentioned
CoreAlign for Dancers: https://www.cynthiabahmanipilates.com/corealign-for-dancers
GotStrongBones: https://www.gotstrongbones.com/
Explore all live and on-demand CoreAlign CoLab workshops here:https://www.colabmovement.com/corealign-education
Cynthia Bahmani’s website: cynthiabahmanipilates.com
CoreAlign Classes On Demand: CoLab Flex
Become a Flex Member: Join Free for 7 Days
Guest Bio:Cynthia Bahmani is the owner of Cynthia Bahmani Pilates in San Anselmo, CA, a Certified Pilates Instructor, Balanced Body Konnector® Educator, and CoreAlign® Specialist and Workshop Presenter. With a foundation in professional dance, she began her Pilates training at NYU under Kathleen Stanford Grant, one of Joseph Pilates’ original students.
Her specialties include:
Classical Pilates with a highly personalized approach for diverse physical conditions, including pre- and post-surgical care
Gait patterning and neuromuscular integration using the CoreAlign® and other apparatus
Sports-specific conditioning for dancers and performing artists
From 2000–2002, Cynthia served as a Dance Medicine Specialist at St. Francis Memorial Hospital in San Francisco, working with professional dancers and athletes on injury prevention and recovery. In 2015, she co-developed ROTATE and RECIPROCATE™: Gait Work and Beyond, a CoreAlign® workshop offering six CECs through the National Pilates Certification Program.
She has taught on two Cirque du Soleil productions, co-founded GotStrongBones, and leads Fitness for Bone Health Week at Rancho La Puerta Wellness Retreat. Guided by her motto “People first, Pilates second,” Cynthia helps clients move toward their best health through thoughtful, creative, and collaborative teaching.
Connect with Cynthia:📸 @bahmanipilates on Instagram
Follow CoreAlign CoLab:📸 @corealign.colab📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube🌐 corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com
In this episode of CoLab Conversations, we are joined by Holly Holland, owner of Holly's Pilates Village and a Master Teacher Trainer for Pilates Sports Center. Holly shares how introducing the CoreAlign system not only transformed her studio’s movement offerings but also tripled her business revenue. From training staff to marketing smart and nurturing a vibrant client community, this conversation offers practical insights for any studio owner looking to grow with purpose.
In this conversation, you’ll hear how Holly:
Tripled her studio’s revenue after making CoreAlign a visible, central feature of her offerings
Uses CoreAlign to serve specialized populations, including clients with osteoporosis, scoliosis, and neurological conditions
Built a teaching-focused culture where many instructors began as clients and now train under her guidance
Leverages storytelling, personal notes, and physician referrals to organically grow her client base
Runs her studio like a “teaching hospital,” with ongoing mentorship, education, and collaboration among staff
We also talk about how CoreAlign bridges the gap between traditional Pilates and real-world movement, building balance, confidence, and strength in clients of all ages. Holly shares candid lessons from studio ownership, including the importance of visibility, adaptability, and listening to your community. Whether you’re considering adding CoreAlign to your studio or looking to deepen your impact with the clients you already serve, this conversation is packed with wisdom, heart, and practical ideas you can use right away.
Resources Mentioned
Guest Bio:
Holly Holland is the owner of Holly’s Pilates Village in Louisville, KY, and a Master Teacher Trainer with Pilates Sports Center. A Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher, Holly is also a Level 3 Neuro Studio Practitioner, a Balanced Body CoreAlign® specialist, and a longtime educator in multiple movement modalities. With a background in journalism and publishing, she brings a storyteller’s clarity and a teacher’s heart to everything she does.
Her specialties include:
Pilates for neurological conditions and brain-body retraining
Bone health and strength for aging populations (Buff Bones®)
Equipment-based movement training, including CoreAlign®, TRX®, and assisted stretching
Holly holds advanced certifications in yoga, CoreAlign®, and MSTR® scar tissue release, and is known for mentoring instructors and building a thriving, inclusive studio community. Her approach combines deep technical knowledge with a passion for empowering clients and teachers alike.
Connect with Holly:
📸 @pilates_village
Follow CoreAlign CoLab:
📸 @corealign.colab
📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates
▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube
🌐 corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com
In this episode of CoLab Conversations, we’re joined by brilliant educator Nancy Myers, an early adopter and advocate of the CoreAlign, and a true leader in the world of Pilates, posture, and gait training.
Nancy takes us on a journey through her 30+ year career, from her early days at the St. Francis Dance Medicine Center and Ellie Herman Studios to becoming co-owner of EHS Pilates in San Francisco. Along the way, she developed a unique perspective on gait, functional movement, and how the CoreAlign could support healing in real, lasting ways. She was one of the very first movement professionals invited to test the CoreAlign before it went into full production, and she’s been helping to shape its evolution ever since.
In this conversation, you’ll hear how Nancy:
Became a sought-after gait specialist and educator
Helped integrate the CoreAlign into the Pilates world by developing creative, accessible programming like “Pilates on the CoreAlign”
Watched her studio welcome new clients including a 30% increase in male participation after adding the CoreAlign to their offerings
Sees walking not just as a daily act, but as a diagnostic tool and a window into healing
Continues to mentor and educate teachers through her Foot & Gait Mentorship Program, offered online and in person
We also talk about how the CoreAlign can bring the principles of Pilates, alignment, awareness, and functional strength into upright, everyday life. Nancy’s passion for walking, feet, and movement shines through in every story she shares. Whether you’re new to the CoreAlign or have been teaching it for years, this conversation will leave you inspired and full of practical insight.
Featured On-Demand CoreAlign Labs with Nancy Myers:
🌀 Lower Body Corrective Protocols (with the Precision Rotator Discs)
💪 Upper Body Corrective Protocols (with the Precision Rotator Discs)
Explore all live and on-demand CoreAlign CoLab workshops here:https://www.colabmovement.com/corealign-education
Guest Bio:Nancy Myers is the Co-owner and CEO of EHS Pilates, Inc. in San Francisco, CA. A Certified Senior Pilates Trainer with special expertise in gait therapy and posture, Nancy is also a lead faculty member of EHS Pilates Institute, a Balanced Body educator, MBT trainer, and Director of EHS's international teacher training programs and retreats.
Her specialties include:
Postural alignment and gait patterning
Pilates-based rehab for common foot issues
Teaching diverse fitness populations, including dancers, seniors, and clients with injuries
Nancy is the author of Fabulous Feet and Walkilates, and has spent her career exploring how our walking patterns reflect and affect our overall health. She continues to be a passionate advocate for bringing Pilates principles into real-life movement and for helping teachers grow their skillset and impact.
Connect with Nancy:📸 @walkwithnancy on Instagram
Follow CoreAlign CoLab:📸 @corealign.colab📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube🌐 corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com
Join Arwen Brooke and Jonathan Hoffman, the creator of CoreAlign, as they delve into the transformative power of mindful movement. Discover how CoreAlign enhances Pilates practice, the importance of pain-free functional exercise, and Jonathan's inspiring journey from physical therapist to movement innovator. This episode explores the synergy between CoreAlign and Pilates, the role of movement in healing, and the future of functional exercise.
In this episode, we’re discussing…
Jonathan's Background and Approach: Jonathan shares his experience as a physical therapist in Israel, where he utilizes exercise as a primary treatment method, emphasizing pain-free and holistic movement. He discusses his unique system of exercise training and its impact on clients.
The Evolution of CoreAlign: Jonathan recounts the story of CoreAlign's creation, from its initial conception using skateboards to its integration into the Pilates world. He highlights the "aha" moment that solidified its potential and the challenges of bringing it to market.
CoreAlign and Pilates: A Natural Partnership: Jonathan explains the connection between CoreAlign and Pilates, comparing Pilates mat work to childhood development and CoreAlign to the upright movement patterns we develop as toddlers. He emphasizes the importance of standing exercises and how CoreAlign complements and enhances Pilates practice.
The Power of Pain-Free Movement: Jonathan stresses the significance of pain-free, harmonious, and functional exercises in healing and rehabilitation. He shares his belief that CoreAlign and Pilates, when used effectively, can be powerful tools in combating chronic pain.
The Importance of Functional Exercise: The conversation explores the role of functional exercise in daily life and how CoreAlign and Pilates can improve movement patterns, balance, and overall well-being.
Jonathan's Journey into the Pilates World: Jonathan describes his path to discovering Pilates, his certification as an instructor, and his research into the history of mind-body movement practices. He discusses the influence of Joseph Pilates and the broader context of movement pioneers in the early 20th century.
The Future of Movement and Healing: Jonathan shares his vision for the future of movement education and how CoreAlign and Pilates can play a crucial role in promoting health and well-being. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration between movement professionals and the need for accessible, effective movement solutions.
The Star Bar: Expanding Access to CoreAlign Principles: Jonathan briefly introduces the Star Bar as a tool that allows individuals to experience CoreAlign-inspired movements without the need for specialized equipment, making the benefits of CoreAlign more accessible.
Connect with CoreAlign CoLab:
@corealign.colab on Instagram
@arwenbrooke_pilates on Instagram
@ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube
corealigncolab.com
colabmovement.com
Welcome back to CoLab Conversations! In this episode, we are joined by Denise Graef, an incredible NASM certified personal trainer and Balanced Body educator for Pilates and CoreAlign. Denise shares her insightful journey using movement as medicine, particularly in navigating and understanding rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Discover how CoreAlign and Pilates, alongside water fitness and strength training, can be powerful tools for building strength, enhancing mobility, and promoting healing for individuals with RA and related conditions. Learn about Denise's personal experiences and her approach to functional aging and holistic wellness. Plus, get a sneak peek into her upcoming CoreAlign CoLab workshop designed for instructors working with clients facing these challenges.
In this episode, we’re discussing…
Denise Graef's Extensive Expertise: Denise brings a wealth of knowledge as a NASM certified personal trainer, Balanced Body educator for Pilates and CoreAlign, functional aging specialist, and certified health coach.
Personal Experience with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Denise's personal journey with RA deeply informs her compassionate and effective approach to movement and wellness.
Movement as a Vital Tool for Healing: Movement is presented not just as exercise, but as essential "medicine" for managing pain, improving mobility, and fostering a positive mindset for individuals with RA and similar conditions.
CoreAlign as a Supportive Modality: CoreAlign is highlighted as a low-impact, supportive tool that promotes connection and is particularly beneficial for those with joint pain and mobility limitations.
Importance of Individualized Approach: Recognizing the variability of RA and other conditions, Denise emphasizes the need for instructors to provide space, listen to individual needs, and offer modifications.
Challenging Limiting Beliefs: A key aspect of Denise's work involves helping individuals overcome perceived limitations and discover their potential through movement.
Integration of Pilates and Strength Training: Denise advocates for a holistic approach that combines the foundational stability of Pilates with targeted strength training to combat muscle loss associated with RA and aging.
Connect with Denise Graef
Instagram: www.instagram.com/denisegraeffitness/
Website: https://www.denisegraef.com/
Denise’s upcoming workshop:
https://momence.com/s/115751122
Connect with CoreAlign CoLab:
@corealign.colab on Instagram
@arwenbrooke_pilates on Instagram
@ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube
corealigncolab.com
colabmovement.com
Welcome to the pilot episode of CoLab Conversations! In this first episode, we’re joined by Joy Puleo, a leader in the Pilates and CoreAlign community, to explore how this innovative tool is transforming movement and rehabilitation practices.
Joy shares her experiences with CoreAlign, highlighting its powerful impact on core strength, alignment, and functional movement. From fostering ease, economy, and efficiency in motion to supporting injury recovery, CoreAlign has become an essential tool for Pilates instructors and movement professionals.
Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just starting your journey into upright exercise and gait training, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration to kickstart your CoreAlign continuing education.
In this episode, we're discussing:
Connect with Joy Puleo:
@balanced_body
@joy.puleo on Instagram
Connect with CoreAlign CoLab:
@corealign.colab on Instagram
@arwenbrooke_pilates on Instagram
@ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube
What if your CoreAlign education didn’t stop after training? CoLab Conversations brings together experts in CoreAlign, Pilates, and mindful movement to share insights, teaching strategies, and the power of movement to heal and inspire.
Join host Arwen Brooke, founder of CoreAlign CoLab, as we explore new ideas and refine our practice together. Subscribe now and be part of the conversation!