About
Owner and Lead Instructor
Carly has a strong background in dance and kinesiology having attended the prestigious Nutmeg Conservatory for the Arts and danced professionally with Ballet Theatre of Maryland before receiving her B.S. in Kinesiology from the University of Wisconsin. Comprehensively certified in Pilates through Balanced Body and the Pilates Method Alliance, she is also a fully certified Level 1 GYROTONIC instructor, 200hr yoga instructor, and Thai massage practitioner. Additionally, Carly received a post-graduate certificate in Nutrition from Cornell University. She has taught extensively across North and South America, Europe, and Asia at numerous physical therapy clinics, retreats, and corporate headquarters, working with a variety of professional athletes and performers. She owned and operated a wellness studio in Washington for several years and has extensive experience creating programs for clients with injuries and special conditions. She integrates her knowledge of anatomy and physiology with the mind/body connection that is so vital in movement, to create dynamic and effective sessions for all of her clients.
Instructor
Maggie is a certified Pilates instructor through the Kane School, teaching both mat and equipment classes. With a background in movement and a lifelong appreciation for physical activity, Maggie was drawn to Pilates for its unique blend of strength, control, and mind-body connection. She brings a thoughtful and encouraging energy to each class, tailoring sessions to support a wide range of goals—from athletic performance and injury prevention to greater body awareness and flexibility. Maggie believes Pilates is for everyone, and she’s passionate about creating a welcoming space where clients feel challenged, supported, and empowered. Originally from Charleston, South Carolina, Maggie is a graduate of Clemson University and has now called Maine home for several years. In addition to teaching Pilates, she co-owns Viand Mercantile, a thoughtfully curated store in Portland with a little something for everyone. When she's not in the studio or the shop, you'll likely find her outdoors—rock climbing, playing tennis, or relaxing by the ocean.
Instructor
Marissa’s passion for Pilates began the moment she stepped into her first class. Inspired by the way it builds strength, confidence, and connection through movement, she quickly turned that passion into a career helping others experience the same benefits. Certified in both Reformer and Mat Pilates, Marissa has spent the past two years teaching clients throughout the Greater Boston area. She recently relocated to Portland, Maine, where she is excited to continue sharing her love of Pilates with a new community. Marissa’s classes focus on building strength, improving mobility, and creating a welcoming environment where clients of all experience levels can feel successful. She is passionate about helping individuals move with greater confidence, develop a deeper connection to their bodies, and discover the lasting physical and mental benefits Pilates can provide. When she’s not in the studio, you can find Marissa training for her next run, exploring local coffee shops, or taking her golden retriever Chief on a new adventure.
Apprentice Instructor
Originally from Kansas City, Abby made the move to Portland two years ago. Growing up as a competitive cheerleader, she developed a strong appreciation for movement, body awareness, and precise form—elements that now shape her approach to teaching Pilates. Abby is currently an apprentice teacher, working toward full certification through Rise Pilates. Outside the studio, Abby has a degree in Industrial Engineering and works as a Management Consultant. When she’s not teaching or working, she loves hosting friends, traveling, and spending time with her Pomeranian, Nori.
Apprentice Instructor
Originally from South Jersey, Chelsea spent six years in San Francisco before calling Portland, Maine home. Living in such a walkable and hilly city sparked her love for movement, and after taking her first Pilates class here at Rise, she was completely hooked. Chelsea is passionate about helping others feel strong, confident, and connected to their bodies through intentional movement, proper form, and creative class planning. She loves creating fun classes that are both challenging and uplifting, with a positive energy that leaves clients feeling empowered long after they step off the reformer. As an apprentice instructor, she studied under Carly and is currently working toward her comprehensive Pilates certification through Rise Pilates Studio. When she's not teaching or taking classes, you'll find Chelsea soaking up the sun at the beach, planning her next travel adventure, searching for her next great read while curled up with her cats, or exploring all the natural beauty Maine has to offer.
Studio Manager
Val is from Portland, ME with a degree in education from Plymouth State University. She fell in love with exercising when she moved to Seattle, Washington after college, going to Orange Theory and boxing when she wasn’t teaching kindergarten. After she had her daughter in 2022 she focused on strengthening her body with weight lifting and pilates where she fell in love with the Rise community! When not in the gym or studio she is with her girl or working at one of her family’s many restaurants around the Portland area.