10-Minute Core Blasting Pilates Workout

Only have 10 minutes? We found this great exercise sequence on Pinterest. Try it out and let me know what you think!

Interview with Christine Baltes

Tell us a little about your movement background?

I come from a dance background.  My dance training was from the Chicago area.  I studied ballet, tap, modern, and specialized in classical jazz dance with Gus Giordano.  He was the grandfather of American Jazz dance.  You will find him in your dance history books.  I always felt fortunate that I was born where I was & lived so close to such a great man.

Where did you receive your training and where do you teach?

My training has been from a variety of people that I feel have been extremely influential in each of their own areas.  I have studied with numerous people, but will mention only a few that have made an impact on me. Dance:  Gus Giordano,  Pilates: Diane Diefenderfer, Rael Isacowitz, Marie Jose Blom,  Gyrotonic:  Donna Place, Suzie Mann Lewis, Gyrokinesis: Serafina Pechan, Donna Place, Alicia Head.

Teaching: I’ve taught at many locations, too many to mention, but will highlight some.

Dance: University of California, Irvine, Calif State University Long Beach, Irvine Valley College, Orange Coast College, Academy of Dance Performing Arts High School, Chapman University and DeFore Dance Center.

Pilates/Gyrokinesis:  Irvine Valley College, Orange Coast College, & my own studio.

Gyrotonic/Gyrotonic for Dancer:  O.C. Gyrotonic Studio, Long Beach Gyrotonic, Balance in Form, and my own studio located in South Coast Metro Area.

Self Created Pilates, Gyrotonic & more Workshops:  Loretta Shaw Core Pilates, Align Pilates, Orange Coast College, DeFore Dance Center, (Orange County), Core Concept, Spring, Lou Conte, Giordance Dance (Chicago), Form Pilates, Body Evolution, Gyrotonic Manhatten, Kinspirit (New York)

Christine’s Pilates & Gyrotonic Studio (South Coast Metro Area)
I have 2 Gyrotonic Pulley Towers, Gyrotonic Jump, Stretch, Board, Pilates reformer & Cadillac where I work closely with students.

What do you love most about teaching?

Helping others succeed.  Seeing the results of hard work between my student & myself pay off.  Watching the beauty of movement grow in front of my eyes. 

Who has been one of the most influential persons in your journey of Pilates GYROTONIC, and dance? 

Gus Giordano (dance). He has taught me so much from the age of 16 into adult life.  He trained my technique, eye for placement, strength and style. As far as Gyrotonic goes, I have to say that although I’ve worked with several master trainers that are all so brilliant, I’ve worked more closely with Donna Place who has helped me individually the most.

Tell us a little about your teaching style.

This is a tough question to answer.  As a dance instructor, I use to be more of a drill sargeant, but I have evolved from that teaching style.  In the dance industry, I’m known for being a technically strong teacher and one where you will get a training instead of just learn dance steps.  Here goes the adjectives; I’m kind, nurturing, disciplined, creative, and  have lots of respect for the artform of movement (dance, pilates, Gyrotonic, etc) I believe in the student taking responsibility and good work ethics. I teach all types of classes and although I’m the same person teaching each, I do add a different hat for what the class is designed for. I don’t know if this is the type of answer you were looking for, but….

What advice would you give someone trying pilates or gyrotonic for the first time?

Don’t be afraid or nervous.  Be open for what the possibilities can bring.  I have heard too many times over & over again (heck, I’ve said it), students say  ‘I use to be able to do this’, or ‘why didn’t anyone ever tell me I was doing it wrong’, & the come back I have for each is to not look back, but look at the endless possibilities of opportunity to finally move forward, to learn and reach an experience a new journey. Hmm, maybe I should also add that all teachers are not the same. 

What is your greatest passion?

Dance and it will always be! The word passion is filled with so much.  I believe I was born with passion.  I feel like exploding at times with how much I have.  Music sparks passion, movement sparks passion, combine the two & holy cow!  My Gyrotonic for Dancer choreographed sequences bring me passion. Life itself brings me passion!

---

Christine Baltes, a master teacher, specializing in jazz dance is recognized as a leader in technique, and one who doesn’t just “give” class but truly “teaches”.  Ms. Baltes possesses a California Teaching credential in dance and a certification in Pilates.  She is a Gyrotonic© and Gyrokinesis® pre-trainer, and certified in the Pulley Tower, Leg Extension Unit, Jump Stretch Board and Archway of the GYROTONIC® EXPANSION SYSTEM.  She has been involved in dance for most of her life, & in the mind body fitness industry since 1992.

Her teaching career spans over 40 years with faculty positions that include the University of California, Irvine, Chapman University, California State University Long Beach, Orange Coast College, Irvine Valley College, Santa Ana College, Academy of Performing Arts High School and many more. 

This very passionate individual has an abundance of experience and knowledge in the functions of the body.  She brings a hands-on approach that imparts this knowledge, care, passion and the understanding of the body to all who work with her.  Clients from all backgrounds benefit from Christine’s teachings.  This devoted, passionate and energetic professional is bound to make a difference in your body, mind and overall improvement of movement.

Christine’s Studio, is located in the South Coast Metro area and offers private, semi & group sessions.  She offers specific training for dancers and classes in the O.C. & Long Beach area on the Pulley Tower that incorporates a wide variety of creative and choreographic dance styles, dance repertoire in conjunction with the Gyrotonic® repertoire and principles. 

Interview with Cristin Wertman

Cristin Wertman discovered Pilates at the age of 14. She asked her parents for Pilates lessons as a Christmas present and their response was, “get a job!”  When she was able to afford lessons on her own she was instantly hooked and thought it was the best method of exercise ever.

After attending the University of California Santa Barbara she began her Pilates career. It has been over 10 years and she has never looked back. She trained at The Pilates Institute of Southern California under Stacey Vargas, which was through The Pilates Center in Boulder, Colorado. She continues her education with always taking private lessons from the best and her favorite instructors, Amy Lange, Lisa Hubbard, Rael Isacowitz, Sandy Shimoda and Karen Frischmann at Vintage Pilates.

Cristin was on the cover of Pilates Style Magazine in 2008 and has been featured a handful of other times in the magazine. She has been an ambassador for Lululemon and has been on pilatesanytime.com performing Lisa Hubbard’s workouts.  

We caught up with Cristin recently! Keep reading to learn a bit about her teaching style and what advice she would give to someone trying Pilates for the first time.
 

Tell us a little bit about your teaching style.

I would say my teaching style is authentic Pilates with a splash of Jane Fonda! I truly believe in sticking to the classical method of Joseph Pilates. He was a genius and the method really does wonders for your mind and body. I like to throw in old school Jane Fonda butt, ab, and arm exercises because they are really fun and they really work! Especially when you apply your Pilates tools while doing the exercises. I also like to throw in mini trampoline work.  It’s fun, low impact, and good for your lymphatic system. My mom was an aerobics instructor for 17 years and when I was a little girl I would go to her classes with her and sit on the stage while she taught and watched. That’s probably where I get it. I like my clients to leave me after their workout feeling invigorated, strong, lean, happy, and healthy.
 

What is your favorite Pilates exercise and why? 

Tough question! I love every Pilates exercise. I’m going to go with the stomach series of 5. Just like every Pilates exercise you work your entire body. You definitely can work and engage your entire body with this series. I also love the footwork. I love starting the workout with footwork to get your legs warmed up, and its reflexology for your feet! I also love rolling like a ball, teaser, and stomach massage.They all test the stability of your low belly. Oh, and side kicks! But I was only supposed to choose one exercise. I also love working my upper back in the method. It feels good for my posture. 
 

Tell us where you teach and how we can find you.

I teach in Corona del Mar, CA where I have a Pilates studio in my home. I also do house calls. You can call me directly at 310-570-7943 to set up an appointment.    
 

What advice would you give someone trying Pilates for the first time? 

Start as early as you can! In my opinion it’s the best investment for yourself. I could go on and on about the wonderful benefits of Pilates. The best way I like to describe it is the method keeps your body moving and flexible the way it was when you were a kid! Pilates is also a lifestyle, it helps you perform your every day movements and other sports and activities with ease. Also, be patient. Pilates is a journey, so embrace the process.  
 

What are some of your hobbies and interests?

I have a 3 ½ month old son, Everett! He is now my favorite and most important thing to me in life, in addition to my husband, Greg, and our 110 pound Bernese Mountain dog, Addison. I make each day an adventure for Everett and Addison. It is quite the workout! I absolutely love it. I also love hiking. I think hiking and Pilates are the two best forms of exercise. Throw in healthy eating and you are good to go with those three components. Hiking is so great because you can get some fresh air outside, get your low-impact fat burning cardio in and it’s a great way to catch up with friends. It’s also good to do something daily that scares you; I’m always scared of mountain lions when I hike!