Nicole Howard and Cara Fraser both studied dance at California State University Long Beach, so it wasn't a stretch for either of them to pick up the controlled, graceful movements of Pilates. But once they did, they were hooked. They earned their BASI certifications for Pilates and ultimately opened Align Pilates Center. There, the duo and their staff teach the core-focused workouts to kids and adults in rooms equipped with Pilates mats and apparatuses. Exercisers can supplement the main workouts with posture- and flow-based yoga or Gyrokinesis workouts. Adding to the welcoming and communal vibe that's inherent in exercises such as Pilates and yoga, the center has an art gallery that showcases local artwork.