IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS
Working together, we can transform your body. We are highly committed and experienced Classical Pilates instructors delivering results-oriented, compassionate care to our clients. Choosing the right instructor with a keen eye for detail and the right background is critical.
Our instructors have completed extensive training with the highest education, 850 hrs + on mat and all apparatus, have enrolled in continuing education courses and have an extensive understanding of musculoskeletal rehabilitation.
Karin Coté - Instructor
Karin began her Pilates training in 1998 in Edmonton, Alberta with Steve Bryson after a knee injury ended her dance career. In 2000, she completed the Dianne Miller Pilates Teacher Education Program.
She has explored neuromuscular movement patterns with Dianne Miller, developing a passion for the qualitative aspects of movement.
Karin studied with Ron Fletcher and Mary Bowen, gaining insight into Joseph Pilates’ original intentions. Bowen, a Jungian psychoanalyst, introduced her to Carl Jung’s work, which continues to inspire her.
She trained in the Franklin Method™ and studied Betsy Wetzig’s Coordination Patterns and Dynamics Training™, complementing her classical background and enabling her to help people move with low tension, discover their bodies, and find joy in movement and daily life.
Continuing education
Grant MacEwan Community College - Modern Dance Diploma
Dianne Miller Pilates Teacher Education Program – 2000
Franklin Method® Educator (Level 1) – 2012
Coordination Patterns™ Training Level 1 – 2015
ELDOA Level 1 – 2015
ELDOA Level 2 – 2016
Natalie Avontuur - Instructor
Natalie is a Classical Pilates instructor certified through Pilates From the Centre in North Vancouver. Her passion for the method began under Brita, and she is skilled in both mat and apparatus work, helping clients build strength, confidence, and a deeper mind-body connection.
Natalie specializes in cancer recovery, injury rehabilitation, anxiety, trauma, and issues with the lower back, knees, and hips. She tailors exercises for healing and functional movement.
With a holistic approach rooted in Classical Pilates, Natalie empowers clients to achieve physical, mental, and emotional resilience, fostering lasting strength, alignment, and vitality.
Susana Ponce - instructor
With over a decade of experience, Susana has trained under Boulder, Stott, and Master Trainer Matilda Christensen. Certified by the PhysicalMind Institute Canada, she is completing specialized training in Osteoarthritis, Lower Extremity Replacements, and UBC Trauma-Informed Therapy.
Susana began Pilates for post-surgery rehab and later used it to manage pain from a car accident. It also supported her during pregnancy for labor preparation and postnatal pelvic floor recovery.
She specializes in recovery from breast surgeries, pre/postnatal care, and neck pain relief. Susana fosters a safe, compassionate environment for clients to explore movement, alignment, and well-being.
Continuing education
Osteoarthritis and Lower Extremity Replacements - Active initiatives Physiotherapy - Current
UBC Trauma informed therapy - current
Advanced teacher training - Matilda Christensen - current
Physical Mind Pilates Certification 2022
Brita Unger - Studio Owner
With 12 years of teaching experience, Brita founded Align Pilates in 2021. Her expertise lies in recovery - correcting misalignment and optimizing movement patterns. She has worked alongside Physiotherapists for 7 years and is also Classically trained through the 950-hour Boulder Pilates program under Matilda Christensen and Veronica McClurg.
A former equestrian jumper and gymnast, Brita faced nerve pain and misalignment from hypermobility and injuries. Pilates was the only solution to resolve her discomfort. Brita enjoys running, painting, yoga, and exploring North Shore trails with her dog, Koda. She’s also an avid snowboarder.
Continuing education
Osteoarthritis and Lower Extremity Replacements - Active initiatives Physiotherapy - 2024
UBC Trauma informed therapy - 2022
Pilates for Neurological Conditions - The Neuro Studio 2020
Soft Tissue Release (Level 1) Jim Bilotta 2019
The Pelvic Floor, Cathy Watson Physiotherapy - 2015
Boulder Classical Pilates advanced certification - 2014
BCRPA Personal training - 2010