Instructors

Steven Winterstein

Steven’s belief in the integration of wellness, fitness and prevention informs Align’s approach and methodology. He began teaching Pilates in 2001, after being certified through Core Dynamics in Santa Fe, N.M. In 2006, Steven’s long-standing interest in anatomy and biomechanics led him to begin work toward his chiropractic degree at the National University of Health Sciences where he has completed a variety of advanced courses. He has taught numerous anatomy workshops to other Pilates instructors and supervised continuing education programs for Chicago-area studios.

Steven has integrated his knowledge of cardio fitness into his Pilates repertoire, culminating in the development and creation of his in-demand Cardio Alignment class.

Steven also effectively incorporates chiropractic principles and orthopedic tests into his practice which greatly enhances his ability to communicate with medical practitioners and work within prescribed medical protocols, benefitting his rehabilitative and post-surgery clients. He also works with clients interested in overall fitness, as well as clients in pre- and post-pregnancy stages.

Steven holds a Bachelor of Arts from Columbia College Chicago.

Bryan Woodard

Bryan Woodard is a licensed massage therapist and certified Pilates instructor. He received his massage certification from the Chicago School of Massage Therapy and his Pilates certification through Body Arts and Science International (BASI). With specializations in a variety of massage styles, Bryan often applies his massage techniques to his Pilates work with individual clients. He can effectively utilize both areas to holistically address clients’ needs such as providing a 30-minute pre Pilates massage, and then moving on to movement and training.

Bryan teaches mat and reformer group classes, and also has numerous private students. His massage clientele has included professional NBA and NHL athletes, professional musicians, as well as clients seeking greater overall fitness and wellness.

Christine Striebel

Christine completed her Pilates certification at New York’s PhysicalMind Institute in 2001. Since then she has incorporated physical therapy and rehabilitation into her Pilates practice allowing her to work effectively with specific injury cases. Her diverse clientele includes specialized athletes and fitness enthusiasts as well as individuals beginning a fitness program or recovering from injury. Christine’s customized workout plans address mobility, stability, and strength work to help clients of all ages and abilities achieve their personal fitness goals.

Christine holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance from the College of Santa Fe, where she was first introduced to Pilates.

Kristen Schaffenberger

Kristen began Pilates as a way to complement the exhausting mental work of pursuing her doctorate at UIC. She completed her mat and reformer certification through Balanced Body University. Previously a competitive swimmer, Pilates helped Kristen develop greater mind-body awareness, as well as strength and flexibility that bolstered her swimming.

Kristen focuses on patience and enthusiasm throughout the process of learning and developing a Pilates practice. She particularly enjoys working with beginning students — whether they are new to Pilates or new to fitness in general — and designing workout plans that address her client’s specific needs.

Gene Fedorov

Gene is a certified massage therapist (Chicago School of Massage Therapy) and personal trainer. He utilizes an intuitive/therapeutic approach with his massage clients creating a custom massage based on their specific body and muscle condition. Gene’s massage skills are enhanced through his work as a personal trainer and his increased awareness of biomechanics and kinesiology.

Originally from Moscow, Gene is a former gymnast and has certification from The International Sports and Science Association, the American Council on Exercise and Kettlebell Athletics. Gene received advanced Kettlebell in Russia and teaches Align’s Kettlebell classes which focuses on functional fitness utilizing core strength and stabilization, and postural alignment through dynamic movement.