Event Sponsor:
WORKSHOPS:
Noam Gagnon
Noam Gagnon, with over thirty years of client focused instruction and teacher training, is the owner and creator of, as well as the driving force behind Beyond Pilates. Dedicated to the principles of expertise, empathy and trust, Beyond Pilates is the accumulation of a very long process and represents everything Noam has learned over his career as a dancer,choreographer and teacher.
Noam began studying the Pilates Method in 1987 and after an intensive 1600+ hours of training received his first teaching certification in 2003 from the The Pilates Center of Boulder Colorado, North America's leading Pilates teacher training programme. Noam's years of experience in the Pilates Method, combined with his experience in dance performing, teaching movement and choreography, prompted him to found Beyond Pilates in Vancouver, Canada in 2005.
Noam began studying the Pilates Method in 1987 and after an intensive 1600+ hours of training received his first teaching certification in 2003 from the The Pilates Center of Boulder Colorado, North America's leading Pilates teacher training programme. Noam's years of experience in the Pilates Method, combined with his experience in dance performing, teaching movement and choreography, prompted him to found Beyond Pilates in Vancouver, Canada in 2005.
THE MIGHTY ARM CHAIR
Though modest in size, the Arm Chair is a remarkably powerful and versatile apparatus. It offers a unique opportunity to deepen awareness, refine movement, and enhance functional strength.
This workshop explores how the Arm Chair can become an essential tool in any movement practice. It supports improved postural alignment, encourages healthier movement patterns, and facilitates deeper integration of the core musculature. A small apparatus with a powerful impact, this work is designed to expand understanding of how precise, focused actions can create meaningful change throughout the body!
This workshop explores how the Arm Chair can become an essential tool in any movement practice. It supports improved postural alignment, encourages healthier movement patterns, and facilitates deeper integration of the core musculature. A small apparatus with a powerful impact, this work is designed to expand understanding of how precise, focused actions can create meaningful change throughout the body!
BUILDING INTELLIGENT PROGRESSIONS
How do we guide students through the Pilates system in a way that builds skill rather than simply reproducing exercises?
This workshop explores intelligent progression in movement teaching—breaking down complex exercises into clear, accessible components that support understanding, control, and confidence. Participants will examine the underlying principles of advanced Pilates exercises and learn how to construct logical pathways that make complex movement more teachable and accessible.
This workshop provides practical tools to refine cueing, strengthen observation skills, and create seamless progressions throughout the Pilates repertoire.
This workshop explores intelligent progression in movement teaching—breaking down complex exercises into clear, accessible components that support understanding, control, and confidence. Participants will examine the underlying principles of advanced Pilates exercises and learn how to construct logical pathways that make complex movement more teachable and accessible.
This workshop provides practical tools to refine cueing, strengthen observation skills, and create seamless progressions throughout the Pilates repertoire.
DOROTHEE VANDEWALLE
Dorothee is a master Pilates teacher and is recognized as one of the leading teacher-trainers and Pilates practitioners in the world. She has been teaching Pilates for over 30 years and has trained individuals at all levels offitness from elite athletes to injured and older clients.
Dorothee started teaching in New York City with Romana Kryzanowska and was a teacher-trainer for Romana's Pilates for over a decade before starting her own training program, M.A.T. Pilates (Metropolitan Authentic Training).
Dorothee has been a co-owner of Metropolitan Pilates in Seattle, Washington, since 2003. She teaches in the tradition of the original, Classical Pilates method.
THE BARREL BLUEPRINT
Discover the power, support, and versatility of the barrels in this immersive workshop with Dorthee Vandewalle. “The Barrel Blueprint” explores how the different barrels can unlock deeper movement patterns, improve spinal mobility, enhance strength, and bring greater awareness to alignment and control throughout the body.
Through guided exploration of classical exercises and purposeful progressions, participants will gain a stronger understanding of how to use the barrels to support clients of varying abilities while also challenging more advanced movers. Dorthee will break down key concepts, teaching strategies, and movement mechanics that help bring clarity and confidence to working with the barrels.
Whether you are looking to refine your teaching, expand your programming, or deepen your own Pilates practice, this workshop offers practical tools and fresh insight into one of the most valuable — and often underutilized — pieces of Pilates equipment.
Through guided exploration of classical exercises and purposeful progressions, participants will gain a stronger understanding of how to use the barrels to support clients of varying abilities while also challenging more advanced movers. Dorthee will break down key concepts, teaching strategies, and movement mechanics that help bring clarity and confidence to working with the barrels.
Whether you are looking to refine your teaching, expand your programming, or deepen your own Pilates practice, this workshop offers practical tools and fresh insight into one of the most valuable — and often underutilized — pieces of Pilates equipment.
PUT IT INTO ACTION: REFORMER
Take your understanding of Classical Pilates beyond theory and into practice in this dynamic reformer workshop led by internationally respected teacher, Dorthee Vandewalle. “Put It Into Action: Reformer” is designed to help instructors and dedicated students deepen their connection to the method through hands-on application and a clearer understanding of how the reformer supports the body as an integrated system.
Participants will explore how to teach and perform reformer exercises with greater precision, flow, and intention while learning practical tools that can immediately be applied in both personal practice and teaching environments. Dorthee’s insightful approach blends tradition, clarity, and problem-solving, offering attendees a richer understanding of the purpose behind the work — not just the choreography.
This workshop is ideal for Pilates instructors, trainees, and committed practitioners looking to refine their eye, strengthen their teaching skills, and experience the transformative depth of the reformer repertoire.
Participants will explore how to teach and perform reformer exercises with greater precision, flow, and intention while learning practical tools that can immediately be applied in both personal practice and teaching environments. Dorthee’s insightful approach blends tradition, clarity, and problem-solving, offering attendees a richer understanding of the purpose behind the work — not just the choreography.
This workshop is ideal for Pilates instructors, trainees, and committed practitioners looking to refine their eye, strengthen their teaching skills, and experience the transformative depth of the reformer repertoire.
joel crosby
Joel Crosby is the owner of Vitality Method Studio in Duluth, GA, where he has been transforming lives through the authentic Contrology method for 26 years. He believes that everybody can unlock greater strength, functionality, and power through the original Pilates method. Joel is passionate about helping people move smarter, feel stronger, and live with more vitality.
His two studios offer a yearly teacher training program and host high-level continuing education events, empowering both clients and instructors to deepen their understanding of Pilates. Teaching is more than a job—it’s his mission to inspire others to achieve their fullest potential.
A graduate of "The Work" Master’s Program at Vintage Pilates with Jay Grimes (2016), Joel shares his expertise internationally, helping instructors refine their techniques and elevate their teaching. Whether working with clients or leading workshops, Joel is dedicated to making Pilates a powerful, life-changing experience.
UPGRADE YOUR SHOULDERS
Regardless of how strong your shoulders seem, the shoulder joint is fragile. Many athletic endeavors have come to a halt due to shoulder injuries and pain. In addition, the modern lifestyle of computer and smartphone use creates an environment that compromises the shoulder area. Poor posture and pain can result from compromised shoulders.
In this workshop, you will learn Contrology exercises to restore mobility, strength, and good posture. You will quickly experience the feeling of connecting and moving your arms from your back. These are the top exercises that Joel Crosby has used on hundreds of clients and on himself.
TEACHING WITH YOUR HANDS: PUSHES AND PULLS
In this workshop, Joel will share his favorite pushes and pulls on the classical mat.
You will learn how to guide and effectively teach with your hands. You can practice with other teachers and get feedback before working on your clients.
Great for the last workshop of a rigorous weekend!
FEATURED GUEST TEACHERS:
MAJA BEHMEN
Maja Behmen is the graduate of The Method at Vintage Pilates, where she has been training under Jay Grimes and Sandy Shimoda. She is the founder and owner of Pilates Maja studio in Poland, as well as organiser of Classical Pilates Conferences in Poland - held 4 times-and Pilates Retreat Croatia held 2 times.She leads her own Comprehensive Teacher Training Program and regularly conducts workshops both in her home studio and internationally.
Her pilates journey began in 2012, when she earned her 1st certification at Diamond Academia in Poland. In 2020, she completed 2nd comprehensive certification by Jacqueline Martin who is The Work graduate at Vintage Pilates. In addition to her Pilates career, Maja holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry and has over 15 years of professional experience at Procter & Gamble. Her diverse background reflects her dedication to discipline and lifelong learning-qualities she brings to every aspect of her Pilates teaching.
Maja is available for private sessions, duets, and group sessions.
CARRIE SHANAFELT
Carrie started her Pilates training in Seattle with Dorothee Vandewalle, Lori Coleman-Brown, and Lauren Stephen. She also had the good fortune to study with Romana Kryzanowska who ultimately certified Carrie in 1999. She moved home to Boise, Idaho a year later and opened Idaho’s first Pilates studio, Forte Pilates.Through the years Carrie has taught dancers and football players and the young and the aged. She has appreciated and learned from using Pilates in her own body to pursue athletic endeavors and for longevity as she ages and enjoys passing on Pilates to clients in various stages of life.In 2015, Carrie was accepted into and completed The Work at Vintage Pilates in Los Angeles. This opportunity has proven to be the biggest influence in Carrie’s teaching. She continued learning from Jay Grimes until his passing in 2024, and still enjoys Sandy Shimoda's mentorship. Carrie is on staff with Vintage Pilates as one of the Expert instructors teaching private lessons, VP Classes, workshops, and mat consultations. She enjoys opportunities mentoring current instructors and future instructors in and outside of Boise.She is very proud of Forte Pilates and feels very lucky to work with an excellent team of instructors.
Carrie is available for private sessions, duets, and group sessions.
conference schedule
DAY 1 — FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM → Registration, Privates, Group Classes • Coffee bar, Vendor Marketplace Opens, Brand Activations
4:00 PM- 5:15 PM → Opening Ceremony + Keynote
5:30 PM- 6:30 PM
→ Business Panel: Building a Profitable Pilates Career: Gaining and Keeping Clients
6:30 PM – 7:00 PM
→ Welcome Mixer + Networking
Day 2 – Saturday, October 24
9:30 AM – 10:45 AM → Old School Work Out & Talkback with Noam Gagnon
11:00 PM – 1:00 PM → Workshop 1: Joel Crosby, “Upgrade Your Shoulders!”
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM → Lunch
Vendor Marketplace + Private Sessions
2:15 PM – 4:15 PM → Workshop 2: Noam Gagnon, “The Mighty Arm Chair”
4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
→ Workshop 3: Dorthee Vandewalle, “Put it into Action: Reformer”
6:30 PM
Contrology Festival Party- Music + Drinks- Brand Pop-Ups- Pilates History Presentation with Cathy Strack
day 3 - Sunday, October 25
9:30 AM – 10:45 AM
→ Old School Work Out & Talk Back with Carrie Shanafelt
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
→ Workshop 4: Noam Gagnon, “Building Intelligent Progressions”
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
→ Lunch
Final Vendor Marketplace + Private Sessions
2:15 PM – 4:15 PM
→ Workshop 5: Dorthee Vandewalle, “The Barrel Blueprint ”
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
→ Workshop 6: Joel Crosby, “Pushes and Pulls”
Closing + Champagne Toast
pricing
Earliest Bird Discount: $750.00 (Ends: July 1st)
Normal Early Bird: $1000.00 (Ends: August 1st)
Regular: $1250.00 (Until Conference starts) Single Workshop Pricing: $210.00
Normal Early Bird: $1000.00 (Ends: August 1st)
Regular: $1250.00 (Until Conference starts) Single Workshop Pricing: $210.00
Where to Stay
Closest hotel to the studio:
***Best Deal***Special Group Rate*****Courtyard Atlanta Duluth Downtown3141 Hill St NW, Duluth, GA 30096(470) 740-1040Click below for a great "Vitality Method Pilates Event" discount.*****Special Group Rate for Vitality Method Pilates Attendees at this Hotel!!!****** Last Day to Book : Wednesday, October 21, 2026 Other Hotels in the Area:
Holiday Inn Atlanta-Infinite Energy Center6310 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Duluth, GA 30097(844) 887-4429https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels
Embassy Suites by Hilton- Gwinnett Sugarloaf2029 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30097(770) 622-6391https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/atlaees-embassy-suites-atlanta-ne-gwinnett-sugarloaf/?SEO_id=BING-AMER-ES-ATLAEES&y_source=1_NDQ2NjAzOS00ODMtbG9jYXRpb24ud2Vic2l0ZQ%3D%3D
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta NE/Duluth Sugarloaf1948 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30097(770) 622-6427https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/atldu-courtyard-atlanta-ne-duluth-sugarloaf/overview/
Residence Inn by Marriott Atlanta NE/Duluth Sugarloaf1940 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30097(770) 814-2929https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/atlrp-residence-inn-atlanta-ne-duluth-sugarloaf/overview/?scid=cf432f1f-54d2-411a-89ce-225188630324
Airbnb’s are also available in the Duluth, GA area.
***Best Deal***Special Group Rate*****Courtyard Atlanta Duluth Downtown3141 Hill St NW, Duluth, GA 30096(470) 740-1040Click below for a great "Vitality Method Pilates Event" discount.*****Special Group Rate for Vitality Method Pilates Attendees at this Hotel!!!****** Last Day to Book : Wednesday, October 21, 2026 Other Hotels in the Area:
Holiday Inn Atlanta-Infinite Energy Center6310 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Duluth, GA 30097(844) 887-4429https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels
Embassy Suites by Hilton- Gwinnett Sugarloaf2029 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30097(770) 622-6391https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/atlaees-embassy-suites-atlanta-ne-gwinnett-sugarloaf/?SEO_id=BING-AMER-ES-ATLAEES&y_source=1_NDQ2NjAzOS00ODMtbG9jYXRpb24ud2Vic2l0ZQ%3D%3D
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta NE/Duluth Sugarloaf1948 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30097(770) 622-6427https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/atldu-courtyard-atlanta-ne-duluth-sugarloaf/overview/
Residence Inn by Marriott Atlanta NE/Duluth Sugarloaf1940 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30097(770) 814-2929https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/atlrp-residence-inn-atlanta-ne-duluth-sugarloaf/overview/?scid=cf432f1f-54d2-411a-89ce-225188630324
Airbnb’s are also available in the Duluth, GA area.
Contact Us IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS
Vitality Method Pilates
678-957-3000
joel@vitalitymethod.com