Meet Caleigh
1- Hey Caleigh, can you introduce yourself?
Hi! My name is Caleigh :) I am a Pilates instructor and Stott Pilates instructor trainer. I believe that movement is so important for all aspects of health and feel incredibly fortunate to get to help others as a part of my job.
2- Can you take us through your journey to where you are now?
I was a professional ballet dancer before becoming a Pilates instructor. When I stopped dancing I knew that I wanted to do something in the realm of movement. I began by taking my first Matwork course and it wasn't long before I was hooked. I went on to complete my certification and began teaching full time. Two years ago I decided I wanted to further my education and am currently studying at the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy.
3- What is a day in the life of you like?
Each day is a little different with my schedule. I typically start studying with a cup of tea early in the morning, have breakfast, and begin teaching around 9am. My afternoons change depending on the day so you might find me either teaching or studying, or sometimes doing a workout. I'm a summer person so I'm currently looking forward to getting to spend more time outside in the sunshine!
4- Can you highlight your 3 favourite Pilates exercises?
- Swan Dive (or anything with extension!).
- Teaser on the Cadillac.
- Exercises that focus on balance. Anything from lunges on the Reformer or balance work on the Bosu to exercises for the feet to help improve proprioception. It's a broad one but so important!
5- Can you tell us what areas you have struggled in professionally?
Learning how to talk louder. I'm naturally a fairly quiet person and I had to work on speaking up.
6- What do you believe are the common misconceptions about Pilates?
That it's not for "me because..". I have heard people say that Pilates is too easy, too hard, only for women, they are too old, have too many injuries, and many more.. I think the beauty of Pilates is that it can meet you exactly where you are and help you to achieve whatever your goal is!
7- What is the best piece of business advice you have received to date?
Your time is a valuable thing. And set up extra savings accounts for taxes, haha!
8- What is the number 1 critical lesson you have learned in your career so far?
You are working with real people and every day brings something different. You need to be adaptable as an instructor. It's important to have an understanding of the human body and know the why and how of exercises but you must always teach to the person in front of you.
9- How do you create an evenly balanced work and personal life?
Being a student makes this challenging these days but I'm lucky to have some wonderful supportive people in my life that help. Spending time with family and friends, reading, music, regular exercise, and spending time outside are all important in keeping a balance for me. Does it all happen everyday, no, but I try to make sure I always pick at least one or two!
10- Which other leading entrepreneurs and pioneering game changers do you also admire and why?
I feel very lucky to have worked with a number of amazing teachers and instructors throughout my career! Jocelyne who is incredibly hard working and always inspires me to keep learning; Connie & Danyelle who were my instructor trainers; Stacey who took a chance on a new teacher and gave my first job in Pilates; Karina who I took many great classes with and helped me study for my full certification exam.
11- How do you define success?
Success in my book is twofold. It is being able to work in a job that makes me happy and allows me to help others, and also having the spend time with family and friends. Material things may come and go but memories are forever.
12- What’s it like working at The Cornerstone Pilates?
Working at The Cornerstone Pilates is wonderful! It is a phenomenal group of instructors and I am honored to be a be a part of the studio. Everyone is supportive of each other and Jocelyne is great leader! I love the emphasis that is placed on continuing education. There is always new research coming out so it is important to never stop learning. We also have amazing clients who always inspire me to bring my best everyday!