Natalie Mandeville • Dec 05, 2023

Still on the Fence? Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Is for Everyone!

It’s almost time! Body Aligned’s Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training in Tampa will begin in January 2024.


Are you still on the fence about joining? 


In my last two blog posts (Is Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Right for You and Considering Body Aligned Pilates Teacher Training), I shared the enthusiasm of recent graduates as applied to a career as a Pilates instructor.


But you don’t have to plan to teach for this training to be a great fit. Body Aligned’s Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training is equally beneficial to those who simply want to improve their practice — with no intention of teaching others.


One of my past graduates recently told me about how Teacher Training has helped her become more aware of her own body and enhanced the classes she takes.

“Like a lot of people, I really liked Pilates as a movement discipline because I knew it was giving me what I needed, plus a full body workout. 


“Once I was doing classes regularly — enjoying them and seeing the benefit in my body — over time, I just wanted to know more and go deeper into the practice of Pilates itself. I knew the only way to really do that would be to get my instructor training. 


“You can’t just read a book and figure it all out. I mean, you can see the exercises in a book, but you can’t be sure of doing the movements correctly without somebody showing you how to move.


“You just develop a better baseline of knowing why why you’re doing a particular movement or why you’re getting a particular queue from your class instructor. Pilates becomes so much more meaningful. In class, the instructor only has time to kind of briefly tell you, “Do this, not that.” So, before receiving my training, I often wondered, ‘What difference does it make?’ 


“Like, say, with the simple exercise of Mermaid. Even though I’ve done this motion 1,000 times, now I understand what I’m trying to achieve more innately. When I’m coming up, I want to lift my chest up rather than just bend my torso over. Now I understand all the different things happening in my body, and I know how to reposition myself to get the most benefit from the exercise.


“Also, after Teacher Training, I now understand modifications for exercises. Sometimes, I’ll do something with a flat back, yet other times, I’ll do it in a C-curve. Now, I know why those modifications make a difference.


“And learning the variations of the exercises was also enlightening to me. The way Natalie teaches it, we learn the same exercise across all the different pieces of equipment. That was eye-opening and very beneficial for me. Depending on the exercise, some are just a little bit different on the various equipment, while some are a whole lot different. So, having that knowledge has brought my repertoire together, giving me an overview of how the exercises differ from machine to machine.


“Plus, after Teacher Training, I now have greater body awareness. 


“For instance, let’s say you may intend to use your lats to pull instead of your biceps. But your body will engage the easiest thing first — no matter what you’re trying to target. 


“So, with my knowledge from Teacher Training, I’m aware that I don’t have to use my arms for this particular exercise — it’s really my back or my core that I’m trying to engage. Now I know, and that’s so beneficial. It’s amazing how much there is to know.


“Even when I’m walking around now, I’m always thinking about my posture. I went shopping yesterday and looked around at people in the mall and thought, ‘Oh my gosh, straighten up!’ After Teacher Training, I’m much more aware of our bodies in space.


“Proper movement is our saving grace as we age. If you can keep moving — and moving in alignment, as Natalie told us a million times — it makes all the difference.”


If you’re fascinated by the art and science of Pilates, joining Body Aligned’s Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training will open up a world of awareness! You’ll increase your ability to understand why certain muscle groups may require attention, accurately target them, and get so much more from your instructor’s queues.


Teacher Training is for everyone ready to dive deeper into what makes their body tick and how to enjoy a more nuanced workout.


And who knows what revelations Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training might bring you?


But don’t delay. Space is limited, and classes begin on January 13, 2024, right here at Body Aligned Pilates and Wellness, centrally located in Tampa Heights.


Contact me directly at natalie@bodyalignedtampa.com for more information.

By Natalie Mandeville 03 Jan, 2024
New Class, Starting January 9, 2024 For Four Weeks With Monika
By Natalie Mandeville 14 Nov, 2023
The fifth year of Body Aligned’s Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training in Tampa, Florida is fast approaching — in January 2024, to be precise. Have you been considering joining us? I’m Natalie Mandeville, owner of Body Aligned Pilates and Wellness. My Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training is the perfect way to begin a fun, fulfilling career or simply improve your own personal practice. Imagine knowing how to precisely target specific muscle groups or modify movements to accommodate injuries and recovery. If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about your body, then Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training is for you — whether or not you plan to teach others. But don’t take my word for it. If you missed the first installment of candid graduate testimonials, please check out Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Right for You . But now, Let’s hear from another previous graduate:
Practicing on the Pilates Reformer
By Natalie Mandeville 11 Oct, 2023
The Body Aligned Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training in Tampa, Florida consists of a total of 450 hours. You are required to attend all six seminars in person and complete all required hours in order to attend the final exam. Completion of the course allows you to sit for the certification exam through the National Pilates Certification Program (NPCP). The EARLY BIRD total investment for the course is $6,500. Pricing is in effect until November 15, 2023 . What's included: Learn to teach Pilates on all apparatus (Mat, Trapeze Table, Chair, Ladder Barrel and Spine Corrector) 12 days of seminars in six modules (Six weekends) Check-offs and mini-tests Year-end review and Q&A Mentorship with Natalie Opportunity to start teaching after the second seminar Teaching feedback and reviews Training manual Final exam Hours to be completed prior to final exam: 60 observation hours 100 practice hours (50 self-practice and 50 instructed by a certified instructor) 100 teaching hours The studio can accommodate observation, practice and teaching hours during off-peak studio hours. However, hours are not required to be completed at Body Aligned. In order to self-practice and teach, you will be required to carry professional liability insurance. Prerequisites to attend course: A minimum of 25 hours of Pilates practice (mat and equipment) prior to starting the course. I highly recommend an anatomy course and that you read the following three books prior to the start of the course. (All available on Amazon.) "Pilates Anatomy" by Rael Isacowitz "Your Health" by Joseph Pilates "Return to Life" by Joseph Pilates APPLY NOW! THE TRAINING STARTS IN JANUARY AND WILL BE ONLY OFFERED TO A TOTAL OF FOUR STUDENTS Application process: Schedule a phone call with Natalie to discuss your path in the program. Sign the enrollment agreement. Place a non-refundable deposit of $500 to hold your place. The balance of $6,000 will be due in six installments of $1,000 per month starting on the first day. (Alternative payment plans may be discussed.) Full price in effect as of November 16, 2023, for a total investment of $6,800 ($1,050 per month) Obtain professional liability insurance prior to the start of the course. Seminar schedule:* Module 1 – January 13-14, 2024 Module 2 – February 3-4, 2024 Module 3 – March 23-24, 2024 Module 4 – April 27-28, 2024 Module 5 – TBD Module 6 – TBD *Dates subject to change RESERVE A SPOT NOW! ONLY THREE SPOTS ARE AVAILABLE! To be considered for the 2024 training, please email natalie@bodyalignedtampa.com .
Pilates teacher
By Natalie Mandeville 10 Oct, 2023
I’m Natalie, owner and instructor at Body Aligned Pilates and Wellness. I will be holding my fifth year of Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training here at Body Aligned Pilates and Wellness beginning in January 2024. Whether you plan to teach others or simply want to deepen your knowledge to benefit your own Pilates work, Pilates Teacher Training may be just what you’ve been looking for.  I recently asked a graduate from my 2022 class a few questions about her experience in Body Aligned’s Pilates Teacher Training. What most surprised you about attending Pilates Teacher Training? “I was most surprised to learn that I had deficits in my body that were preventing me from accessing my deep core muscles. I had been exercising a certain way my whole life and developed habitual patterns. The training really helped me to understand how to position my body for the exercise and optimize the use of certain musculature. I still struggle with certain things, but I am more aware now and can help others as well.”  What would you say to someone considering the Body Aligned Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training? “To anyone considering teacher training, Natalie is a wonderful advocate for Pilates in general. She is kind, patient and has an abundance of knowledge, not just in Pilates but about the body in general. The training is not easy, and it requires time, patience and focus. I am thrilled that I did this for myself, and I have gained a broader understanding of how my body responds to exercise. For those looking to teach Pilates, this foundation will help greatly in terms of assisting others with their specific Pilates goals.” What has changed for you since you have taken the training? “Since I have taken Pilates training, honestly, I have completely changed my exercise routine. I now practice Pilates a minimum of 3.5 hours a week. I have seen a change in my strength, the shape of my body and most importantly, how I feel. I also love endurance sports, and I ride a road bike on a competitive team. Pilates has helped me with my strength and my flexibility, allowing me to spend more time on the bike without injury.  “In addition, I feel more confident in training others in all forms of Pilates, equipment and mat. I was terrified to share my knowledge at first, but the more I practice, the more I want to share my knowledge with others. It is most gratifying to see others developing a love for Pilates, because you know it is something they can do for the rest of their lives."   “I can’t imagine my life without Pilates in it.” What an inspirational testimonial. As you can see, Teacher Training is not just for those who desire a career as a Pilates instructor. It can also educate you to navigate the nuances of your individual body structure, making your sessions more productive and enjoyable. I’m offering an early bird pricing option for those who enroll before November 15, 2023. But don’t delay; there are only three spots left! Come join us in the new year for an exciting deep dive into the Pilates method. Could there be a better New Year’s Resolution than this? Contact me directly at natalie@bodyalignedtampa.com to discuss further.
13 Oct, 2022
CONGRATULATION CLASS OF 2022!!
07 Apr, 2022
Adhering to specific etiquette in the studio makes for a more pleasurable experience for everyone. But you can’t adhere to what you don’t know! So, here is a handy list of standard practices at Body Aligned for your convenience. At first glance, this list may look intimidating. But I can assure you that it all boils down to one thing: Be considerate of others! What to wear (and what not to wear): Ladies, wear form-fitting clothing so that we may observe your musculature. Please, no loose shirts. (When performing an exercise in inverted or even in a quadruped position, a loose shirt may expose more of your body than you intend.) Men, please wear compression shorts under your workout shorts to maintain modesty in certain positions. Wear clean, non-slip socks within the studio space. (For your convenience, fashionable grip socks are on sale in the reception area.) Long hair should be tied back. Please do not wear lotions or body oils as they can be quite challenging to remove from the equipment. Please avoid perfume or scented products — out of an abundance of consideration for fragrance-sensitive clients. Wear minimal makeup as makeup can stain the upholstered equipment. Please, do not wear workout clothing with metal decoration, buckles, buttons or zippers, as they can damage the equipment. Keep jewelry to a minimum for your safety (as well as the safety of the equipment and your jewelry). Before your session: Please do NOT come to a session if you are ill. Stay home. Especially if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms: Fatigue Fever Cough Shortness of breath If you (or anyone you have had contact with) have tested positive for COVID-19, please follow the current CDC guidelines before returning to the studio. Respect the 24-hour cancellation policy. If you cannot come into the studio for your session, please contact us as soon as possible to either arrange an in-home session over Zoom or reschedule, if necessary. When you arrive: Please be mindful of the environment as you enter and enter quietly. Other clients may be working on their mind-body connection and should not be distracted. Street shoes are NOT ALLOWED within the equipment area of the studio. Instead, please change into your non-slip socks at the front reception area upon entry. (You may see an instructor wearing shoes, but they are indoor shoes only and do not track in dirt from the outside.) Turn OFF your cell phone ringer. Store your personal items either in the cubby boxes or lockers — not on benches or chairs. If you are late for your session, please be considerate to join the class or your instructor without disturbing others. (Unlike other Pilates studios, we do not turn you away if you are late. However, we do ask that you create as little disruption as possible. During your session: Before your session begins, let your instructor know about any recent injuries or changes in your body. While we encourage questions and a friendly atmosphere, please do not chat throughout your group class. Stay in the moment with your mind-body connection and allow others to do the same. Please keep voices at a minimum!! Politely share the space with others. Do not eat food on the equipment. (Duh.) We encourage you to stay well-hydrated. Feel free to bring your own water bottle, which you may fill up from our water dispenser. After your session: After your group class, please retrieve a bottle of sanitizing solution and a cloth from the cart by the kitchen. Carefully spray your mat, machine (including the handles) and whatever accessories you used. Then wipe them dry for the next client. If you need assistance scheduling your next appointment or have any questions, please move the conversation to the reception area so as not to disturb other clients. Please exit quietly, using the same consideration with which you entered. The next group of clients will be beginning their sessions and trying to create their own space of concentration and peace. Any questions, give us a call or text 813-253-3161.
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