Hear the latest news and developments in the Pilates industry
MOVINGPILATES METHODOLOGYFORWARD
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A call for creating a Pilates Method model that focuses on methodology, context, and client-centered solutions 24
MASTERYOURINVERSIONS
Develop more graceful and stable inversions by starting with strengthening your back body
THEPIONEERBEHINDBASI PILATES
The Founder of BASI Pilates shares how it got started
PARTYTRICKSVERSUSPONY TRICKS
Discover the purpose behind each exercise you teach and weigh the risks/rewards for your clients
SAMCOLUMN
BASI Pilates Practitioner and Physio Samatha Wood shares the latest industry research
The Pilates Journal would like to acknowledge and pay respects to the Gadigal people of the EORA nation as the traditional custodians of the place we call homeSydney - where this journal is produced
The Pilates Journal pays respects to their elders, past, present and emerging, and acknowledges all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Photography @lowimpactfit
SEIZETHEOPPORTUNITY:OWN YOURPILATESBUSINESS
A Peaches Pilates Studio Owner shares how she got started in Pilates and what inspires her in her business
Stepping into purpose: finding freedom beyond the known 32
34 FROMMARVELSTUDIOSTO PILATESSTUDIOS
PILATESASITWASINTENDED:A MISUNDERSTOODPRACTICE
An authentic interpretation of a frequently misunderstood practice
INSTRUCTORSPOTLIGHT: KEESHASTEEDLEY
We speak with Pilates Instructor Keesha Steedley about her Pilates career to date and her teaching focus
Photography Joel Benguigui owner of Blanc Studio Byron Bay
Note from the Editor
Welcome to the latest issue of The Pilates Journal.
In this month’s edition of The Pilates Journal, we invite you to discover how shifting your perspective can enhance both your Pilates practice and career In our article, ‘Moving Pilates Methodology Forward,’ we explore ways to evolve the Pilates model by prioritizing client-focused approaches Additionally, we highlight the Founder of BASI Pilates, offering an in-depth look at the path that shaped one of the most renowned Pilates methods today
For those seeking longevity in their careers, we hear from the Directors of PilatesITC who offer insights on finding lasting purpose in your work We also hear how entrepreneur Amy Jordan created the Wundabar Pilates method, how she stepped into the unknown and discovered a new purpose through teaching Pilates
If you’re ready to refine your inversion practice, check out our article on building strength and how it all starts in the back body
Lastly, we’re thrilled to announce the dates for The Pilates Journal Expo 2025 February 22-23 in Sydney Save the date!
CONTRIBUTORS
Carla Mullins, Brad Inness, Gwen Miller, Frances Cahill, Suzanne Newby, Amy Jordan Shannon Leggett and Jan McGrath
CONTACTUS
Editorial Editor-in-Chief
Cie’Jai Zarb hello@pilatesjournal com
Photography
Pilates ITC, Alexa Idama, Balanze Studio, Rael Isacowitz, Peaches Pilates, Amy Jordan, Noosa Flow, Jan McGrath, Scott Bleicher and Joel Benguigui owner of Blanc Studio Byron Bay
Advertising Cie’Jai Zarb 61412209460
PO BOX 2193 Clovelly West NSW 2031 hello@pilatesjournal com
Questions/Feedback
If you would like to contribute or have any questions, please contact us at hello@pilatesjournal com
On the Cover
Brad Innes, Atoem Pilates Studio
Latest Trends
CorePlus Launches School of Movement
CorePlus is expanding into education with the launch of the CorePlus School of Movement in Melbourne The first course, a Mat and Reformer Pilates Teacher Training, combines online learning with in-person weekends, designed to fit around different schedules Led by expert trainers, this AUSactive-approved course helps graduates develop practical teaching skills, earning 20 Continuing Education Credits (CECs) School Director Amy King describes it as an opportunity to align passion with purpose, whether for a new career or personal growth Enrolments for the November course close 30 September 2024, with a chance to win back the full course cost
STRONG Pilates Expands and Launches Recovery Program
STRONG Pilates continues its global expansion, opening its first U S studio in San Antonio this September, with Austin following soon after Now operating 69 studios across several countries, STRONG plans further growth in the U S , Japan, and Dubai They’ve also launched a Recovery program in Melbourne and Brisbane, offering cold plunge pools, compression therapy, and more to support post-workout recovery More on this to come in the next issue of The Pilates Journal
Queen Sage Reformer Reveal at Yoga Therapy Bar
Dr Nekita Sullivan, owner of Yoga Therapy Bar in Clemson, South Carolina, USA revealed QUEEN Sage, her new clinical Pilates reformer, at a Bridgerton-inspired event Dr Sullivan is the exclusive provider of clinical Pilates in the Upstate and added the QUEEN Sage reformer to honour Kathleen Stanford Grant, one of Joseph Pilates' first Black-certified instructors QUEEN Sage offers injury prevention and recovery services, with clinical Pilates prescribed by healthcare providers This historic moment highlights Dr Sullivan’s contribution to diversifying Pilates and keeping KSG’s legacy alive in the Upstate
One Playground Brings Premium Health and Wellness to Western Sydney
One Playground is set to transform Western Sydney’s fitness scene with the launch of a superboutique in Merrylands, located 45 minutes from Sydney later this year The 3,000 sqm, multi-level facility will offer a luxurious fitness experience inspired by Dubai and Morocco, with over 100 strength and cardio machines, six group training studios, and 200+ classes weekly It will feature a reformer studio, as well as a semi-private reformer studio designed to bridge the gap between one-on-one training and large group sessions, offering a more personalised and focused training experience This will be the fourth new opening by One Playground in just 12 months
Photography Pilates ITC
Latest Trends
AUSactive Launches Best Practice Pilates Guidelines
AUSactive, Australia's peak body for the exercise and active health sector, has released a first-of-its-kind Pilates Best Practice Guideline to support the Pilates industry's continued growth Developed with input from industry professionals and the AUSactive Pilates Stakeholder Reference Group, the guideline sets out the scope of practice for Pilates professionals, educational pathways, and safety standards It also emphasises client care, safety protocols, and the professional expectations of Pilates instructors
We asked some of the leading Pilates groups in Australia their thoughts on the new guidelines and here is what they had to say
Katrina Edwards, Founder of National Pilates Training, highlighted the guideline’s potential to raise industry standards “As training providers, our students will all now be aware of the ‘Best Practice Guidelines’ during their study and training This will likely create increased expectations coming into employment in the industry, encouraging another shift for businesses to remain current, up to date, and relevant "
“As the industry shifts to regulation and standardisation more and more consumers will be aware of the increased shift in quality and consistency built on a foundational base of Best Practise,” Katrina said
The new guidelines also aim to unify and elevate the standards across the industry KX CEO Selina Bridge believes the guidelines will bring lasting change, though the impact may take time to be fully realised “Like any new policy/guideline, the impact can take a while to be felt But I hope that this will create awareness over what is determined to be a shared 'standard' of training across the industry so that collectively we all believe that our clients are receiving the best service from their provider,” said Bridge
She also noted that the guidelines provide clear benefits for both new and experienced Pilates instructors “For new teachers, they can have the confidence that their learning is recognised on a national scale It will help them to build confidence and credibility in their teaching and become more 'recruitable ' For experienced teachers, there is probably a bit of a 'sigh of relief' as they will want the standards they are working to upheld to a degree ”
Anita Delbridge Goswell, studio owner of Lifestyle Pilates and Rehabilitation Studio in Newcastle, Sydney Australia echoed these sentiments, believing the guidelines will sustain high standards across all Pilates studios
“Educational programs will need to align with these guidelines, ensuring consistency in training and practice across the industry,” she said
You can access the Guideline here
Moving Pilates Methodology Forward
MOVING BEYOND LABELS TO A PROBLEM-SOLVING APPROACH
by Carla Mullins
When I work with clients I find myself constantly adjusting and changing my plan to the needs of the person in front of me It is mentally stimulating and my clients appreciate the dance and constant tailoring to their needs When student’s observe me they have this startled look on their face thinking that they will never be able to achieve this Over time, as they start to understand the complex decision making process of a Pilates Method teacher, they too start to problem solve and create layered and considered classes In working with my students I have had to find ways to help them understand the “decision making tree” of “if this then that” In working with my students I realised that I needed to create a more specific tool to support their decision making and analysis
I had to start by revisiting some fundamental questions: What is Pilates, what does the name mean and who and what does it incorporate? It made me stop and think that maybe it's time for a different perspective in how we train and consider what a pilates method practitioner does The perspective I am proposing is to move away from labeling, towards a lens focusing on how Pilates
practitioners approach their work within different contexts In other words, identify the modality of a Pilates method practitioner from their perspective of problem solving Let’s explore “what we do and why we do it”rather than giving it a name or label I am proposing that such an approach requires the development of a model of practice and, once established, that model then informs a practice framework for assessment and programmed interventions.
This article is intended to inspire a discussion and possible ways of moving the debate to looking through the lens of the practitioner and their rationale in the use of the equipment and repertoire they choose for their clients Such an approach could support clearer communication of ‘what is a Pilates method practitioner’, and ‘what are the underpinning considerations in their decision making’. It could also help explain the process that supports the decision making tree that each pilates practitioner undertakes when developing a program and responding to the changing needs of their client
A model of practice is used by different modalities to define and create boundaries between that profession and other professions or even within specialties within their professions As Pilates professionals we are often trying to differentiate ourselves between different disciplines that use the name Pilates, but use the term in a different manner or context
Occupational Therapists (OTs) use many different models of practice to differentiate their approach and focus from other disciplines when there is an overlap between their work An example is the PEO model (Law et al ,1996) for OTs, which states that when an OT works with patients they are considering the Person, Occupation and Environment. Each element informs how the therapist then considers what is happening with their client and how they gather information to inform their interventions
Physiotherapists often use the Biopsychosocial model (Engel, 1980) and at times Pilates practitioners refer to this model when working with clients with chronic pain Essentially a model of practice is the lens from which a particular discipline approaches their work. A model itself is not evidence based but rather a synopsis of the approach of the discipline that informs decision making Once defined this informs the practice framework which that discipline uses with their clients In the case of Pilates this is an overlay before we consider how we work with clients and that work, also known as the ‘process’, is informed by our Pilates principles
Once a practitioner has identified their model and the collection of information an intervention would commence using what is known as a Practice Framework which needs to be evidence based
Why is this important?
In establishing a Model of Practice we create a foundational lens to move away from the arguments about ‘What is Pilates’ or whether Pilates is evidence based It allows us to clarify how we see the world and what makes a Pilates practitioner different from an allied health practitioner or fitness practitioner Once we have this lens clarified we can then focus on the evidence base of how, and with any particular sub-specialisation of the profession ie; classical, contemporary, somatic and so forth A proposed concept of what should be considered in the development of the movement model for Pilates practitionersthe Model of Person, Activity and Movement (PMA)
This movement model is based on an assumption that “change happens through movement and movement heals.”(Pilates.J). The model assumes that the human condition “does” movement and our state of well being is contingent on “well doing” This model would include elements beyond just the Person as detailed in the Biopsychosocial model. Separate to the components of the person is their movement and activity goals Movement is where the Person and their state of health and activity goals overlap through movement See figure one
Practitioners from other contexts e g acute rehabilitation or fitness, approach their work differently when working with clients particularly to the use of movement e g a fitness practitioner would use an exercise lens and not a movement lens
This model proposes three elements: The person
- The goals and activities of the person
Their movement and how movement patterns impact on the function and participation of that person in their goals and activities
The elements of this model
The person in such a model requires us to take a holistic approach looking at the person and their health The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health –ICF (WHO, 2001) developed a classification and explanation of the health and characteristics of a person and ways of examining how this impacts a person’s participation and function The classification integrates the biopsychosocial model used by many practitioners and expands it to a more functional application to the person In our proposed model we are stating that this is one of the elements that needs to be overlaid and integrated from a movement practitioners’ lens
Figure
Figure
Movement of the person in the context of a movement studio and how that movement transfers or could be transferred into daily activities The perspective of movement includes observations of the person’s health condition e g biomechanics, sensory systems, cognitive processing and the role of gravity The process of movement is supported by a framework of assessment which would be linked to the scope of practice for a movement practitioner For instance a Pilates movement practitioner draws upon detailed observational skills which are developed as part of their training and consolidated from professional experience.
Self efficacy of the person is built through intelligent movement interventions that support the achievement of movement or activity goals. The person is the central part of the process and the practitioner is a facilitator rather than an expert guru imposing solutions on the individual This approach is an important distinction to an allied health/medical practice in which the practitioner as the expert and the client is required to comply with specific protocols Lack of adherence to the program and protocols is considered a failure on behalf of the client When following a movement model approach the client is the expert and that the practitioner is facilitating change through intelligent application of movement and modifications to the needs and goals of the client
The context of the practitioner e.g. fitness, clinical or comprehensive Pilates method defines whether the Model of Person, Activity and Movement (PMA) is applicable
Movement is different from exercise. It is important to note that we use the term movement rather than exercise or physical activity Exercise should be considered an intervention strategy not the overall lens at which we are looking and assessing the person. Physical activity is any bodily movement that involves your muscles and expends energy That includes simple movements such as climbing stairs, walking to work, raking leaves, strolling with your dog or playing with your kids Exercise is physical activity that is planned, structured and repetitive. Examples include bicycling, swimming, using an elliptical trainer, brisk walking and running (Caspersen CJ, Powell KE, Christenson GM, 1985)
A Pilates practitioner uses their movement lens when considering the clients health and movement goals but also how they explore and assess their client For example, a movement practitioner uses dynamic movement assessment techniques not measures of exercise performance Embodied movement is considered a key outcome for a client
Context of the practitioner
I would propose that the use of this model could allow us to distinguish between three main contexts of practice These contexts define the practitioner's relationship to the client but also the overarching focus Each of which would then inform the focus and approach of that practitioner and application to the model to that professional discipline The contexts I would consider are:
Acute rehabilitation - Defined by specific protocols for injury and in the context of an insurance based model for specified outcomes. In this context the practitioner may be using Pilates informed movement for working with a patient eg in the first
three months post hip replacements Practitioners delivering acute rehabilitation would be working within specific protocols and outcome is time limited defined more by the lens of another profession e g physiotherapy and application of modalities such as hands on manipulation, exercise and other mediums to specific body part of that person
Pilates method - the practitioner using the Pilates method as the medium for their intervention and the relationship of client and practitioner is a continuum over a period of time In this context the relationship and goals evolve and change in response to the clients evolving health and movement priorities
Fitness - Involves an exercise based rather than a movement based lens That is the assessments undertaken are primarily exercise driven e g the performance of a squat on the basis of endurance or strength In this context the practitioner may use Pilates informed exercises or apparatus, but their lens is not of movement and therefore they are not working within the Pilates movement model
Summary
Developing a Movement Model for Pilates Practitioners will support practitioners operating within the lens of movement, which is distinct from allied health or fitness practitioners. Such an approach allows us to define the idea of what Pilates is, upon which we can build clarity about the practice of Pilates By having clearly defined terms of practice, it allows all movement professionals to work within the scope of our education and training Models help to clarify the substance behind the labels of acute rehabilitation, Pilates and fitness for consumer protection and training It allows us all to identify a distinction between Pilates method practitioners and Pilates as a marketing ploy This proposal is not presented as a fete accompli but rather as a think piece to start discussions and develop ideas
Carla is the co-director and co-owner of Body Organics and Body Organics Education She is also an educator, creator and designer of the Australian-made Markarlu. You can find out more here.
References
Caspersen CJ, Powell KE, Christenson GM. Physical activity, exercise, and physical fitness: definitions and distinctions for health-related research Public Health Rep 1985 MarApr;100(2):126-31 PMID: 3920711; PMCID: PMC1424733
Engel G. The clinical application of the biopsychosocial model Am J Psychiatry 1980;137:535–544
Law, M , Cooper, B , Strong, S , Stewart, D , Rigby, P , & Letts, L (1996) The Person-Environment-Occupation Model: A Transactive Approach to Occupational Performance. Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, 63(1), 9–23
https://doi org/10 1177/000841749606300103
Strengthen Your Back Body to Master Inversions
WE TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT HOW YOU CAN DEVELOP MORE GRACEFUL AND STABLE INVERSIONS BY STARTING WITH STRENGTHENING YOUR BACK BODY
by Brad Inness
Inversions are something many clients struggle with for various reasons, The Pilates Journal spoke with Brad Inness from Byron Bay, NSW Australia to discuss ways you can strengthen your back and create a more harmonious integration of inversions into your practice
Brad shares a selection of Pilates exercises that will not only strengthen and support our back body but also lay foundations for achieving inversions with grace and stability -----------
“Navigating the symbiotic relationship between spinal mobility, stability, and rotation, three essential elements that empower us to move with fluidity and control, both in our Pilates practice and when exploring inversions in our practice These exercises below are designed to progress your inversions over time,” said Brad
“Let’s start on the Cadillac ”
1 Supine Double Leg Press with Pelvic Lift:
Benefits: This exercise engages the core muscles, particularly the lower abdominals and pelvic floor while offering a stronger shoulder girdle stability challenge! It targets the glutes and hamstrings, aiding in hip stabilisation and alignment
Improving Inversions: By strengthening the core and stabilising the shoulder girdle, this exercise can enhance overall body control and support when transitioning into inversions
2 Pull Ups:
Benefits: Hanging Pull Ups are excellent for developing spinal stability, engaging the latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, and trapezius muscles This exercise targets the muscles of the back, shoulders, and arms, promoting upper body strength and endurance
Improving Inversions: Enhanced spinal stability from the
Cadillac:
Photography Joel Benguigui owner of Blanc Studio Byron Bay.
engagement of these muscles can contribute to better control and alignment during inversions, aiding in overall balance and control
Reformer:
1 Chest Expansion with Single Arm:
Benefits: This exercise promotes stability by engaging the core muscles, shoulder girdle, and back extensors It helps in strengthening the spine, improving posture, and enhancing control
Improving Inversions: By enhancing stability and control in the upper body, this exercise can lay a strong foundation for executing inversions with proper alignment and strength
2 Chest Expansion Round Back:
Benefits: Focusing on thoracic extension, this exercise engages the upper back muscles, shoulders, and chest It helps in improving flexibility, spinal mobility, and promoting a strong back
Improving Inversions: Increased flexibility and mobility in the thoracic spine through this exercise can aid in executing inversions with fluidity and ease
3 Roll Over:
Benefits: The Roll Over targets the core muscles, hip flexors, and lower back, promoting spinal articulation and hamstring flexibility It strengthens the abdominals and improves pelvic stability
Improving Inversions: Building core strength and enhancing spinal flexibility through the Roll Over can contribute to the stability and control required for successful inversions, especially regarding pelvic positioning and control
Ladder Barrel:
1 Swan:
Benefits: Swan works to strengthen the erector spinae muscles along the spine, promoting extension and flexibility. This exercise engages the muscles along the back to improve posture, enhance spinal mobility, and prevent issues related to poor posture
Improving Inversions: By strengthening the back muscles through Swan, practitioners develop the necessary support and control for inversions, enabling better stability and alignment during inverted poses
2. Side Over:
Benefits: Side Over targets the obliques and lateral muscles, promoting lateral flexion of the spine This exercise helps to improve core strength, mobility, and stability, contributing to a well-rounded back workout.
Improving Inversions: Strengthening the obliques and lateral muscles with Side Over can enhance the ability to control and stabilise the body during inversions, allowing for smoother transitions and better alignment in inverted positions.
Chair:
1. Pike:
Benefits: The Pike exercise on the Wunda Chair engages the deep core muscles, including the rectus abdominis, obliques, and hip flexors Additionally, it strengthens the erector spinae muscles along the spine, promoting spinal stability and control.
Improving Inversions: By strengthening the core and spinal muscles, Pike helps improve body awareness and control, essential elements for mastering inversions in Pilates practice
2 Reverse Plank:
Benefits: The Reverse Plank targets the posterior chain, including the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back muscles. It also activates the trapezius and rhomboids for upper back support
Improving Inversions: Enhanced strength in the posterior chain and upper back contributes to better stability during inversions, allowing for controlled movements and alignment.
3 Mermaid with Rotation:
Benefits: This exercise targets the obliques, intercostal muscles, and deep stabilising muscles around the spine. The rotational component promotes spinal mobility and flexibility
Improving Inversions: Improved mobility and strength in the obliques and spinal stabilisers from Mermaid with Rotation can aid in fluid transitions and alignment adjustments necessary for inversions
1 Jackknife:
Benefits: The Jackknife targets the deep core muscles, including the transverse abdominis and obliques, for spinal flexion and extension. The exercise promotes spinal articulation, offering a stretch to the spine while engaging the abdominal muscles
Improving Inversions: By strengthening the core muscles and promoting spinal flexibility, the Jackknife helps to stabilise the spine and enhance control during inversions, facilitating a more controlled and supported movement
2 Roll Up:
Benefits: The Roll Up engages the entire length of the spine, promoting segmental articulation and mobilising the core muscles It targets the rectus abdominis, hip flexors, and the deep stabilising muscles of the pelvis and spine
Improving Inversions: Enhancing core strength and spinal mobility through the Roll Up can improve the ability to execute inversions with control and precision, facilitating smoother transitions and reducing strain on the back
3 Latissimus Activation:
Benefits: The Latissimus Activation exercise targets the latissimus dorsi, the broad muscle in the back It promotes scapular stability, shoulder mobility, and upper back strength
Improving Inversions: Strengthening the latissimus dorsi muscles through this exercise can enhance shoulder stability, which is crucial for supporting the body weight during inversions By activating these muscles, practitioners can improve their inversion technique and control while reducing the risk of strain
Now that you've put in the work with the back-strengthening exercises and building up the stability and awareness needed for inversions, it's time to have some fun trying out different upsidedown moves Starting off with spinal mobility exercises like Pelvic Curl, Seated Roll Through, can be great to warm up the spine and shoulder stabilisers Moving into exercises like The Roll Over and Roll Up can help you ease into more advanced poses such as Control Balance or Jack-knife Winding down your practice with a chill inversion like Legs Up the Wall can wrap things up nicely, giving your body and mind a chance to relax and recharge
In the world of inversions, many people face hurdles due to not fully grasping the importance of engaging their core correctly, stabilising their shoulders, spinal mobility and stability and nailing down proper alignment Missing out on these key elements during
“[Inversions] should feel good – like a stretch, but highly challenging at the same time, a harmonious balance between the two...’’
Pilates Circle:
inversion practice can lead to compromised form, less control, and a higher risk of injury Prioritising things like transverse awareness and control, building shoulder strength (stability and mobility), and taking things one step at a time is super important in inversion training to keep things safe and effective
They should feel good – like a stretch, but highly challenging at the same time, a harmonious balance between the two...
By offering cues to help your clients understand a two-way stretch and improve their overall alignment awareness, you can assist them in getting into the best positions, safely. It’s very important to understand the client you are with, and what cues would work best for them Remembering everyone responds differently to tactile, verbal, and visual cues If one cue isn’t sitting right, try cueing them in a different way. Cues to remind them to engage their core, link their arms to their back, and maintain a neutral spine will bolster their stability and offer the support needed for inversions Highlighting the significance of controlled breathing, a steady gaze, and making personalised alignment tweaks based on each person's unique body mechanics can level up the inversion game, leading to safer and more effective practices Even simply just by relaxing the jaw, some clients can make their inversions go from feeling like a struggle to an effortless approach.
Bradley Inness owns Ateom an intimate boutique studio nestled in the Byron Bay Hinterland, NSW, Australia.
Photography Joel Benguigui owner of Blanc Studio Byron Bay.
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The Pioneer Behind BASI Pilates
THE FOUNDER OF BASI PILATES SHARES HOW IT GOT STARTED
by CJ Zarb
The rise of Pilates in the mid-80s was no coincidence, with several individuals emerging around the same time, at a point when few understood what Pilates was or its potential benefits for the body. At the time aerobics was the big focus Pumping weights was the norm, running was in style, yoga was gaining momentum and injuries were on the rise
Back then women again dominated the industry but men also came to Pilates classes if they had incidentally come across it
Clients came from a range of backgrounds often dancers and often those who had experienced back pain or injuries and didn’t know where to turn Sound familiar?
It was early 1989 that Rael Isacowitz arrived in Australia He had been living in London where he was teaching both dance and Pilates Rael’s background had included graduating from the
Wingate Institute of Physical Education in Israel, later also serving on the faculty, and completing his master’s degree in Dance Studies at the University of Surrey, England.
“The first person I worked with in Australia was Alan Menezes Alan had a thriving studio in Sydney, and he invited me to offer a few workshops. Around that time, I was also invited by the McDonald College of Performing Arts to teach a master class in contemporary dance,” Rael described
Alan Menezes, who had opened the first Pilates studio in Australia in 1986, had trained under Alan Herdman in the UK, where Pilates was still in its infancy “At the time, there were only three studios in the whole of Europe all in London Group floor classes didn’t exist just studios with equipment,” Alan recalled
Alan's efforts laid the groundwork for Pilates in Australia Inspired
“Your plan should always be flexible to change, but it's crucial to ensure that when swapping out an exercise, you replace it with something similar that targets the same muscle group. “
by this foundation, Rael quickly recognised the potential to expand the practice further “After teaching a masterclass, McDonald College kindly offered me an excellent position directing the modern dance department My only stipulatio that I would teach Pilates matwork to all the students and t open a small Pilates studio in the college My intention was serve the students. They were very receptive. The studio s became popular among dancers, athletes, physios, osteop and people going through rehab,” Rael explained
“The studio, a converted classroom, became a hub of activ was particularly interested in the research aspect of the wo creating a confluence of multidisciplinary care It was a vibr exciting time ”
“Among the people that to came study with me were Mega Williams and her partner musician Ian Moss, and later Sally Anderson, Shauna Hall, and an array of Pilates professiona Others came to make my acquaintance like Craig Phillips. A the dancers that I remember were several from Sydney Da Company and the Australian Ballet, including Fiona Tonkin worked with basketball players from the Sydney Kings, not Damien Keogh and Tim Morrisey, and several football play the Balmain Tigers
“Equipment was difficult to come by I did not want the coll have to purchase equipment and I personally had a very lim budget So, I had all my Pilates equipment custom-built I re precise dimensions from my colleagues in London and pur an early Reformer from Craig At the time, I believe Balance Body, then known as Current Concepts, was already suppl equipment in Australia, but again, it was very difficult to ge
was cost prohibitive Pilates was not well known and certainly the craftsmen I found to build the equipment had never heard of it However, it was gaining recognition in the dance world, which is the reason the McDonald College particularly Margaret Markham was so enthusiastic about integrating it into the curriculum I commend her for her open-mindedness and vision,” Rael continued to explain
For Rael, his initial focus at McDonald College was on corrective work for his students “While my focus in the studio was on the corrective nature of the work, I believed strongly that all the dancers should be doing the matwork. So, the matwork became a staple just like daily dance technique classes The corrective aspect also allowed me to meet some excellent physios and doctors, among them Graham Vankan and Jenny McConnel from Cumberland College,” said Rael
“In this college setting, Pilates was used as a form of conditioning and cross training for the dance students Although Pilates in some circles was considered “dance-like” or ‘ballet-like’ we knew Pilates could be the answer to so much more
“I was in a unique position Since I was working within the college environment, I did not need to think of commercial success, which was a very fortunate and privileged situation to be in I gave regular lecture demonstrations that were very well attended by a diverse group of people including parents, students, dancers and dance teachers, physios, doctors, osteopaths, and the like Being new to Australia, I have always appreciated Alan coming to one of the lecture demonstrations and speaking graciously of me and my qualifications This meant a lot to me
“At that time it seemed like these lecture/demonstrations served as a meeting ground for discussion and learnin whole Pilates community was working together profound Australia was ripe for something like being somewhat on the fringes It was also feed more research and development in this little-kn said Rael
“Pilates in Australia grew rapidly, and I was imm be a part of this growth It was a significant cha and taught me so much It was also the birthpla Arts and Science International) Pilates teacher t said Rael
“In the first group of student teachers I had thre very different backgrounds. An actress (Megan dancer and a physio, the latter two from the US Williams and Sally Anderson continued working They were both incredibly open-minded and pa the work and had a strong desire to learn. Betw Megan, they kept my work going in Australia lo recalls
After two or so years of contributing to the deve growth of Pilates in Australia, Rael was invited t guest artist and while there he was presented w opportunities In 1991 Rael left for the US “Even moved to the US, I was coming back to Australi in the early 1990s and working with many of the teachers in Australia My workshop retreats on Island were exceptionally well attended I was a Megan and Sally came to the USA to spend tim fact, worked in the studio with me for several months She then
became the first BASI Faculty, together with Kristi Cooper from Pilates Anytime, to teach the BASI Teacher Training Program outside of me,” he said
“It was the retreats though where I saw the real growth in people’s understanding of the method and what it could do for them They were profound and inspirational, plus a lot of fun ”
As Rael’s journey in Australia came to a close, it marked not just the end of an era but the beginning of a global movement. The seeds planted by pioneers like Alan Menezes and Rael Isacowitz had taken root, and Pilates was on the cusp of a transformation that would see it grow from a niche practice into a worldwide phenomenon.
Rael’s time in Australia was formative, not just for him but for the entire Pilates community His time in Australia laid the groundwork for what would become BASI Pilates, a program that continues to flourish and influence the practice of Pilates globally The collaboration, open-mindedness, and passion of the early Australian Pilates teachers was instrumental in carrying the torch forward.
The 1990s brought challenges, including the legal battles over the Pilates trademark that created divisions in the industry Yet, this period also solidified the resolve of those committed to the true essence of the method Despite these trials, the spirit of innovation and dedication that characterised the early days in Australia endured
In the USA Rael continued to study and collaborate with legendary figures like Kathy Stanford Grant, Romana Kryzanowska, Eve Gentry, and Ron Fletcher, further expanding his knowledge and impacting the Pilates world.
Rael’s journey is one of resilience, collaboration, and passion It’s a story of how a few visionary individuals recognised the potential of a practice that was virtually unknown at the time and nurtured it into a thriving community As Rael moved on to new horizons, the legacy he left behind in Australia continued to grow, shaping the lives of countless practitioners and setting the stage for the next generation of Pilates teachers and enthusiasts.
“Pilates in Australia grew rapidly...it was a significant chapter in my career and taught me so much. It was also the birthplace of BASI Pilates teacher training program. ”
Rael Isacowitz is one of the most prominent names in the Pilates world and has been a Pilates teacher for over four decades Rael holds a Bachelor of Education from the Wingate Institute, Israel, and a Master of Arts in Dance from the University of Surrey, England. In 1989 Rael founded BASI® (Body Arts and Science International) Pilates, a comprehensive Pilates education organization spanning the globe.
Rael is the author of two highly acclaimed Pilates books, Pilates and Pilates Anatomy (Human Kinetics); the latter co-authored with Karen Clippinger. He spearheaded the development of BASI Interactive software and designed the original concepts for BASI Systems® Pilates equipment. Rael studied from, and taught with, luminaries of the Pilates world including several of the Pilates Elders, among them Kathy Stanford Grant, who Rael regards as his greatest teacher and mentor. In 2022 he was inducted into the PMA Legacy Circle in recognition of his contribution to the Pilates industry
Party Tricks versus Pony Tricks
DISCOVER THE PURPOSE BEHIND EACH EXERCISE YOU TEACH AND WEIGH THE RISKS AND REWARDS FOR YOUR CLIENTS
by Gwen Miller
One of my mentors told me years ago, when a client asks “why am I doing this” or “what is this exercise for” we teachers need to be prepared to answer that question This means that we need to be clear on the “why” of the exercises in our programmes Being clear on the “why” of the exercises we teach gives us the ability to offer alternatives when an exercise we have chosen does not work for a particular client
In my opinion, there are 4 reasons to offer an exercise: improve quality of life: “Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness”
1 breathing a pain relief b mobility c fall and injury prevention d strengthening: centering which requires concentration 2 balanced muscle development a improving physical function b
3. support a physical skill or movement pattern: control Activities of daily living a sports-specific cross-training b 4 enjoyment: precision and flow
With the proliferation of Pilates-inspired or Pilates-derived exercise programming seen on social media, there are valid concerns about safety for people trying exercises that they may not be physically ready for. Reputable and well-trained instructors demonstrating advanced repertoire and transitions, including advanced dismounts, are responsible in clearly stating that these are only to be attempted under the guidance of a qualified instructor.
As an instructor I appreciate witnessing the magnificence of the movements I see and recognise the years of practice attaining these skills required. Skill attainment is a valid reason for practising movements It is an art form, beauty in the expression of movement
In my client-centred practice and teacher education programmes, I use a risk-versus-reward assessment to analyse the potential benefits of exercises I call this analysis “Party Tricks versus Pony Tricks ”
Pony Tricks are exercises wherein the risk outweighs the benefit The first time I injured myself, I was not yet a Pilates instructor and I was not doing a Pilates exercise It was at the end of a long
workout, and I decided to attempt an Opposite Arm and Leg Reach on top of a large Physioball I had never attempted the exercise before and I did not ask for someone to spot me It was an ego-driven decision I was showing off The result? I didn’t impress anyone. I lost my balance and the fall on my outstretched arm dislocated my right shoulder
This is an example of a Pony Trick A show-offy movement meant to do what? Strengthen my core and balance - but at what risk?
The risk versus reward assessment goes like this:
Is the risk worth the potential reward? 1
Can the goals of this exercise be accomplished with less risk? 2
I could have performed the same Opposite Arm and Leg Reach kneeling on a BOSU or any other dynamic prop with far less risk involved, accomplishing the objectives of core strengthening and balance.
I recently witnessed someone following a class on their phone while using a Reformer The person had their forearms on the Short Box, facing back in a plank with one foot on the standing platform, and the other thigh pressing a small 9” ball between the top of their thigh and the long side of the box The movement was to lift the hips, bringing the carriage in while rolling the ball up the side of the box. As I was trying not to watch, my thought was, “why?”
I can see the challenge and the fun in this I can also see the potential for injury should something go wrong. In my opinion, the risk outweighs the reward Someone else may have a different opinion, and that’s fine As long as the ‘why” of the exercise is valid for that person, and they are able to control the movement
and avoid injury, it’s all good. My point is to think about this in a way that analyses safety and purpose for the person performing the movement
Party Tricks are ways to illustrate what needs to be in place in a person’s body to accomplish goals, no matter what those goals are, and how preparatory movements can make a big difference in mobility and strength
A Party Trick starts with experiencing the feeling of a movement I will offer examples using a squat and The Teaser:
Squat. The goal is to illustrate the value of self-myofascial release (SMFR) for enhancing mobility To start, have the class do some squats Ask them to check in with their bodies; what is their range of movement? What is the quality of the feelingare they tight, do they feel restricted, is there discomfort, and where are these sensations located? In the hips, low back, knees, ankles, feet? 1.
a ) Instruct the class to use a small ball for SMFR under one foot only Once they have completed one side, we will do squats again, as they check in on the quality of the movement and feeling - is there more freedom and less restriction and discomfort? What has changed?
b ) Do the other side, and again repeat the squats, so they can feel the improved range of motion and reduced restriction in the movement
2 The Teaser: The goal is to illustrate the importance of quadriceps strength for full knee extension while maintaining spine and pelvic alignment To start, instruct the class to sit in a balance point and extend their legs into The Teaser without allowing the alignment of their spine or pelvis to change Ask them to check in with their bodies, as previously described
a.) Instruct the class to sit with their feet on the floor, knees bent with thighs and legs together, holding the backs of their thighs and lean their torso backward until a subtle abdominal response is felt (Ensure they keep their feet in contact with the floor)
b.) Extend one leg, keeping the thighs parallel.
c ) Let go of their thighs without losing the torso alignment and reach their arms into The Teaser position If they need the support of their hands to maintain alignment, let them continue holding their thighs.
d ) Hold for a 10-count Cue to keep the free leg high and use inner thighs to help
e ) Externally rotate the lifted thigh and hold for another 10-count f.) Do the other side.
g ) Try The Teaser again See whether they feel able to extend their legs with more ease
I developed this preparatory series for myself because both my hamstrings and my quadriceps were so tight that neither were strong The quadriceps activation in this prep reciprocally inhibits the hamstrings so that both may work together more effectively I hope that this article supports and inspires you to continue exploring the “why” behind the exercises, while analysing the risks versus rewards of our wonderful movement possibilities
Gwen Miller is the author of Safe Movement for All Spines, A Guide to Spinal Anatomy and How to Work with 21 Spine and Hip Conditions. As a Pilates educator, teacher, Hendrickson Method Therapist, Yoga Therapist, CHEK Practitioner, ACE and NASM-certified personal trainer, Gwen’s diverse and eclectic background informs her insightful and collaborative educational experiences for students and colleagues.
Sam’s world view
EACH MONTH WE WILL SUMMARISE THE BEST/MOST RECENT PUBLISHED ARTICLES IN THE INDUSTRY
Associate Faculty for BASI Pilates
SAMANTHA WOOD
Pilates for Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
A 2016 study by Akbas and Erdem in Turkey set out to determine whether a clinical Pilates exercise program designed specifically for the shoulder muscles is superior to a traditional physiotherapy program in patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy Referring to the potential benefits of Pilates exercises on connective tissue and overuse injuries that have been reported in the literature (Anderson and Spector 2000; Kloubec 2010), the authors hypothesized that use of Pilates principles and exercises in patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy will yield positive results
The study included 19 volunteers with a diagnosis of rotator cuff tendinopathy who were randomly assigned to either a Pilates group or a control group Both groups were treated with hot packs and ultrasound for 15 sessions and were instructed in a home exercise program of traditional wall and wand exercises to strengthen and stretch the upper extremities In each of the 15 sessions, the Pilates group also did a supervised 20- to 30minute Pilates exercise protocol on the mat with a resistance band and a ball according to their abilities.
All patients in the study filled out the following self-report questionnaires at baseline and after three weeks: visual analog scale to assess pain intensity; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) to assess disability level; the Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire and Disability Index (HAQ-DI) to assess general health level; and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) to assess anxiety level Preintervention scores were similar in both groups After the three weeks, both groups reported significant decreases in night pain, pain in internal and external rotation, and DASH and SPADI scores. However, only the Pilates group reported decreases in resting pain, pain with flexion and abduction, and HAQ and BAI scores
The authors pointed out that some improvement was expected in both groups because all patients were receiving physiotherapy treatment They attributed the less painful movement experienced by patients in the Pilates group to the emphasis placed on the Pilates principles of breathing and concentration during exercise execution (Kloubec 2010) They also felt that diminishing anxiety was an important factor (as evidenced by the lower BAI scores in the Pilates group) It is widely accepted that depression and anxiety are contributory causes for patients with
musculoskeletal pain Pilates is associated with better quality of life values, especially in dimensions of physical functioning, general health, and mental health (Viera et al 2013) Finally, the authors referred to a 2000 article written by Anderson and Spector which examines how current scientific theories in motor learning and biomechanics relate to the theoretic foundations of the Pilates method The case was made that Pilates exercises provide a closed-chain environment that facilitates compressive and decompressive forces on the connective tissues, thereby improving circulation. They proposed that this improvement in circulation activated healing mechanisms in the tendons, thus increasing pain-free elevation
Reference:
Akbas, E , and E U Erdem 2016 Does Pilates-based approach provide additional benefit over traditional physiotherapy in the management of rotator cuff tendinopathy? A randomized controlled trial Annals of Sports Medicine and Research 3 (6): 1083
Samantha Wood, MPT, MBA, NPCT, RYT, is a licensed physical therapist, a National Pilates Certified Teacher (NPCT), a Yoga Alliance–certified teacher, and an associate faculty member for BASI Pilates. She created and teaches two advanced education courses for BASI Pilates: Pilates for Injuries and Pathologies (for Pilates teachers) and Pilates: Integration Into Therapeutic Practice (for rehabilitation professionals) She is the author of Pilates for Rehabilitation.
22-23 FEBRUARY 2025
SYDNEY
A Blueprint for Career Fulfilment and Longevity
FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN GET FULFILMENT IN YOUR PILATES CAREER
By Frances Cahill and Suzanne Newby Directors, Pilates ITC
How do we create fulfilment at work? A Pilates Instructor spends on average between 30-40 hours per week at their job, that is potentially 2,080 hours per year in service of others So, this is an important question to answer if we are to establish and maintain sustained joy from what we do
In “purpose industries” like Pilates, mission alignment is a key driver of motivation and satisfaction; but passion isn’t enough to create and safeguard fulfilment in the long term We need to dig a bit deeper.
If we evaluate (and then dictate) our relationship with our career; how this work meets our needs (or doesn’t); and examine how we cultivate relationships and a sense of belonging, it’s clear there is more we can do for ourselves
Consider
Work For “Balance”
“Work-life balance” is a fallacy Nothing in life exists in perfect balance; some things are heavy and others light However, we can take action to optimise the good Practical management of workload and composition (how your time is structured) is important We know that a poorly managed workload, schedule fragmentation and inconsistency lead to dissatisfaction and burnout
Split shifts, sporadic timetables, under-capitalised time, competitive rostering, or working across multiple locations creates, for many, a heightened level of logistical and mental load We then go to the Studio and generously pour into our clients This is a lot of energy out.
Photography Pilates ITC
This can be managed by being intentional about work mix: how you schedule your time, what you teach and how you teach it
For emerging Instructors, this is often a steep learning curve; but career Instructors aren’t immune to this paradigm It is important to regularly flex your self-evaluation muscle and ask: what is working and what isn’t? Then find solutions.
You can also set yourself up for success by being strategic about your qualification(s) A comprehensive qualification with multiple Pathways creates opportunities for multiple income streams. If you can teach group classes and Studio private/semi-private you have greater flexibility to consolidate scheduling, reduce or eliminate split shifts and build substantive work blocks (This is especially useful for working within school hours or around other commitments )
The motivational value of having a mix of teaching formats in your week cannot be understated. Group - coupled with Studio teaching creates a satisfying blend of client engagement that keeps you feeling challenged and entertained, meaning you’re less likely to fall into a teaching rut
The goal here is to take control over your output: work smarter and be inspired by the work you do in the process
Professional Brand
Personal professional branding in Pilates is about more than how we “sell” our classes or style (however, this is important) Defining who you are as an Instructor is a vehicle for building relationships and experiencing a sense of belonging
Relationships aren’t just “nice to have”; they’re a key strategy to achieve just about every personal and business goal. It makes sense that when we consistently show up in these relationships with authenticity, we generate greater personal and professional fulfilment
We see the benefits of the personal brand most powerfully at the client level: engagement, experience and retention A common quality among the most memorable and impactful Instructors is a well-defined, cohesive and honest professional brand.
When you bring it up a level, having a professional brand better positions you to engage with business, organisations and industry. These Instructors are more likely to connect with others and progress their teaching craft in a value-aligned and meaningful way
Consider:
Uniqueness
What do you bring to the table that no one else does? What are your superpowers? Ask: how do my identity and lived experience influence my understanding of this job and my ability to do it?
Values
What do you believe in? What inspires you? What fuels your sense of purpose in Pilates and outside of it?
Contributions
What have you achieved to get here? Think about the sum of your experience, studies and qualifications
“...be intentional about work mix: how you schedule your time, what you teach and how you teach it...The motivational value of having a mix of teaching formats in your week cannot be understated.”
When Instructors show up authentically, they build meaningful connections and amplify impact It’s scientifically driven, sustained happiness all ‘round
Embrace Specialisation
The Pilates industry has many avenues for specialisation that are only limited by your imagination and drive The clinical route focuses on pathologies; the contributions of Scolio™ Pilates Master Trainer, Helen New is evidence of the power of specialised expertise being applied in a Pilates framework
There’s also room to specialise according to population: pre-and post-natal, ageing/seniors, children and or teens Fusion modality specialisation is an up-and-coming option: combine Pilates and nutrition, counselling/mental health services, massage, and more
Pilates as part of elite level sport is a high-yield market We see Pilates in cross-training applications across many sporting codes: AFL, basketball, tennis, rowing, boxing The Method has roots in and continues to be put to great use for professional dance (Pilates ITC Educator, Catherine Neal is a conditioning specialist for the Queensland Ballet Company )
It is important to be guided by your interests, be curious and keep learning Not only does this improve career satisfaction but it also positions Pilates Instructors as authorities in their field and elevates the industry in the process
Association, sign up to their mailing ir scope of activity and agenda The we all go
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opportunities for fulfillment, but it ch to navigate it with intention and
Newby are Directors of Pilates ITC as Pilates Fitness Institute in Perth
Strategic Career Progression
The business of Pilates is big, the m moving Equipping yourself with bus is a smart investment for career long business owners and sole operators advanced training via Pilates training Pilates ITC’s Advanced Diploma has modules), or explore short courses v providers.
The Educator trajectory is a rewardin and supporting the industry’s future progression opportunities, and you c portfolio over time
The common thread here is a comm and professional development whic job satisfaction and financial stability
Active Participation in Industry
Advocacy is for everyone When the organisations and businesses opera everyone wins
Business leaders are usually, and so aware of how much an industry is af external regulations, public policy an there is a lot that individuals can do
Seize the Opportunity: Own Your Pilates Business
WE HEAR FROM PEACHES PILATES STUDIO OWNER LYNDA WILLIAMS ABOUT HER PILATES CAREER TO DATE AND WHAT INSPIRES HER IN HER BUSINESS
by CJ Zarb
When you find something you love, you stick with it – and that was exactly the case for Lynda Williams. She first turned to Pilates to improve her strength and flexibility for dancing, and it quickly became her passion “I started out teaching after studying with Studio Pilates and I’ve never looked back,” she said
Lynda explains that her love for Pilates stems from her belief that Pilates is truly for every body “I love that clients of all levels of fitness can do the same class, including our pregnant clients or those with an injury. Pilates can assist with strengthening and mobility that will help with your day-to-day life Hearing and watching clients tell me how much it’s improved their overall health and day-to-day activities makes me so happy I feel fortunate that pilates has now given me the opportunity to make a living, provide local people with jobs and help build a community of likeminded people both my staff and clients ”
Lynda quickly moved from client to instructor to studio manager and was suddenly offered to take over the Peaches Pilates business in Cronulla, in Sydney, Australia, “I was thrilled,” said Lynda
Peaches was the first pilates class I attended that I truly fell in love with pilates. With a dance background, I have always loved moving my body I had attended pilates classes at gyms or larger group classes and it was just a movement class - I didn’t think too much about the class When I attended a Peaches Pilates class the instructor corrected my form, the class was small and in a beautiful space filled with friendly people It was somewhere I wanted to be and continue to work out in It fuelled me to want to be a part of this community,” she recalled
“I’ve also made great friends and connections through Peaches When I was given the opportunity to become the owner of Peaches Cronulla, I was nervous and unsure at the time about what my decision was going to be as I was happy being an instructor and studio manager I have a lot of support and love from Peaches head office and other Peaches Studio owners With the support and love of my parents and the Peaches community, I was able to build the courage to take over the business that I probably wouldn’t have done myself without their guidance,” she mentioned
“Hearing and watching clients tell me how much it’s improved their overall health and dayto-day activities makes me so happy.”
“During this time my biggest challenge was that I had to move location Finding a commercial space to rent was one of the biggest tasks and lessons I had to fit out what was previously an office space so I had to learn quickly I’m proud of the final space that I’ve created for my clients and instructors” she said.
Lynda’s studio offers over 35 classes, 7 days a week “I personally teach around 23 of the classes and cover if anyone needs it. We offer mat pilates, barre, circuit style pilates classes targeting particular areas, strength-focused training, cardio and mums and bubs classes; I also offer private classes To be honest I love the mix of classes, I couldn’t say I have a favourite class to teach,” she said.
“With a full-time team of four instructors and a couple of extras for covers I have all the support I need We all come from a Peaches Pilates background. I prioritise hiring instructors who excel not only in teaching but also demonstrate empathy and genuine concern for our clients' overall well-being, encompassing both physical and mental health I like to know that anyone walking into the studio is going to feel safe and supported ”
If Lynda were to share her most significant lesson in running her studio so far, she'd say, "I'm constantly learning! Time always seems to be in short supply If you're considering opening your own studio, just dive in – you will be so proud of yourself,” she said
Regarding Lynda's upcoming priorities, she expresses, "I'm eager to expand our community, introduce additional classes to our schedule, and host engaging workshops There’s so much more to be done!”
Lynda is the owner of Peaches Pilates in Cronulla, Sydney, Australia.
From Marvel studios to Pilates studios
STEPPING INTO PURPOSE: FINDING FREEDOM BEYOND THE KNOWN
by Amy Jordan
My journey from the bustling halls of Marvel entertainment as a Marketing Executive to the world of Pilates was a journey from work that I loved, to work that fills my soul While my years in the entertainment industry were exhilarating, I longed for something more meaningful
Pilates entered my life as a hobby a respite from the demands of the corporate world. Yet, it quickly blossomed into a passion that I couldn't ignore I found solace and strength in the fluid movements, and before I knew it, I was opening my first Pilates studio in my hometown of LA
Despite the financial challenges I vividly remember having a mere $217 left in my bank account when I opened my second studio I forged ahead, driven by a vision to share the transformative power of Pilates with others. With little more than determination and a scrap of paper filled with sketches I took it even further and created my own Pilates machine and a totally
new approach to movement Inspired by Pilates, and to create movement for the future
It was daunting to leave behind what I had known, but it was also liberating. I discovered a newfound sense of purpose in helping others discover the healing power of movement Inspired by my love for Pilates it wasn’t long before I sought to bridge the gap between traditional pilates and creative dynamic, high-energy workouts that became WundaBar Pilates. With each new studio opening, I felt a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to pursue work that not only paid the bills but felt much more meaningful
In the WundaBar approach, we take anatomy and biomechanics seriously and at the same time we set our classes to music and infuse them with fun We teach from the inside out, guiding clients to understand not just how to move, but why each movement matters
What sets WundaBar apart is our emphasis on functional movement exercises that translate directly to real-life activities Whether it's lifting groceries or chasing after children, our clients leave feeling empowered and equipped to tackle whatever life throws their way
Expanding the WundaBar Brand
The journey to expand WundaBar Pilates from a single studio to a nationwide phenomenon wasn’t without its challenges From building a team of dedicated Educators to navigating the complexities of scaling a business, each step required perseverance and adaptability. One of our key challenges has been growing our Educator team to meet the demand for our classes We've implemented rigorous training programs and mentorship initiatives to ensure that every instructor embodies the WundaBar ethos of excellence and empowerment
Even with the hurdles, our commitment to delivering exceptional workouts and fostering a sense of community has propelled us forward With each new city and each new client served, we're reminded of the profound impact of our work
At the heart of every WundaBar Pilates class is the WundaFormer. The WundaFormer combines four Pilates apparatuses into one machine It incorporates a ballet bar, a jump board, a reformer and a Wunda Chair in one Clients rave about the versatility and effectiveness of it making easy transitions between exercises. From the top to bottom, every component is thoughtfully designed to maximize the benefits of each movement
Our classes are a symphony of motion, flowing seamlessly from one exercise to the next With the WundaFormer as our centerpiece, clients leave our classes feeling energized, empowered, and our Educators play a pivotal role in bringing the WundaBar experience to life
In addition to the WundaFormer, I also invented the WundaCore Resistance Ring Drawing upon years of teaching and feedback from our community, I set out to design a versatile tool that would elevate every aspect of the workout It feels and functions so much better than a ball between legs to align knees and feet for core function or an old Pilates Ring under your hand that flops and distracts Its unique design allows for endless variations, from targeting the core in every move to improving alignment and stability Truly teaching clients to find the best results in every exercise
While our roots may be in Los Angeles, our reach extends far beyond the USA With the launch of Wunda On Demand, we've brought the WundaBar experience to a global audience
At the end of the day what drives me to innovate and push boundaries is a simple belief: Movement heals If you have that entrepreneurial spirit in you, like me, then you’ve got to lean into what you love and what you believe in. I’ve learned one thing from all these years of building my business – balance is absolute B S Build a schedule that allows for focused blocks of time and that reflects a deep understanding of the importance of prioritizing tasks and managing energy levels. In my view, multi-tasking will slow you down So learn to focus, say ‘no’ when you need to, so you can say ‘YES’ when opportunities to achieve your goals present themselves and have fun
Amy Jordan, a visionary Pilates entrepreneur and inventor, transformed her Hollywood career in 2012 to create WundaBar Pilates, home to her first invention, the patented WundaFormer. Known as a “body genius” in the industry, she entered the fitness equipment space in 2022 with her newest patented invention, the WundaCore Resistance Ring. Stay tuned for a home model WundaFormer coming in 2025.
WundaCore - US Patent No D1038290
WundaFormer - U.S. Patent no. 8,602,953.
Photography: Scott Bleicher
Pilates as it was intended
AN AUTHENTIC INTERPRETATION OF A FREQUENTLY MISUNDERSTOOD PRACTICE
byJanMcGrath
While taking an early morning walk in a suburban L A neighborhood, I was suddenly stopped when I heard a female voice emanating through a 1-story building She said, "lift your legs and lower and lift them " Several cars were parked along the building’s parking lot, and my curiosity led me closer to look through an open door into a room filled with Pilates reformers stacked across a room in parallel rows In the din, was the constant hum of music reverberating throughout the room while the voice –the individual Pilates instructor complete with a head microphone - cued the next Pilates exercise for a 6:30 am group reformer Pilates class This was a striking image to my recollection of what the original Pilates studio looked like Continuing my walk, I noticed the sign on the building had the word ‘Pilates’. The scene to me looked more to me like a group reformer gym class Students were packed in one room with one instructor teaching, and because there were reformers stacked along the room, the business decided to tack the word “Pilates” onto its business name Is this a true Pilates studio or in fact merely a group gym class choosing the Pilates reformer as its preferred gym equipment?
To understand the distinction of what typically characterizes a Pilates studio, we need to go back to New York, the location of the original Pilates studio Established in the 1930s by Joseph and Clara Pilates, the founders of this method of exercise, the original Pilates studio was a space filled with Joe’s original, hand-built pieces of exercise equipment known as apparatuses The studio comprised of the Universal Reformer, the Wunda Chair, the Cadillac, and the Ped-o-Pull. And, as Joe invented and patented more Pilates equipment, the pieces just occupied a space in his studio In fact, in Joe’s lifetime, he created well over 20 Pilates apparatuses
Why did Joseph Pilates continually invent more Pilates equipment? Because each apparatus was designed to prepare the student to work out on the mat The mat apparatus was the foundation for Joseph Pilates’ exercise method. So, the Reformer, the Chair, and the Cadillac (also known as the Tower) – were
intended as stepping stones to get the body ready for the mat repertoire, the apparatus that is the least inexpensive and the hardest place to practice Pilates exercises
Joe’s studio was set up for the students to come in without any membership dues and to pay as you go. Students came to work out, to practice their Contrology exercises Contrology is what Joseph Pilates called his exercise system, and this name encompassed the principles of this exercise method now known as Pilates. The principles are awareness, alignment, breath, balance, coordination, core, and control For each student in the Pilates studio, Joe, Clara, or one of his trained teachers gave an individualized, personalized workout There were no group reformer or group chair classes. Instead, for each student at the Pilates studio, there was an instructor instructing the student In other words, the original Pilates studio had a 1:1 student-teacher ratio The students did not outnumber the instructor
Why were there no group reformer classes at the Joe Pilates New York studio? The Pilates principles were all about controlling your alignment, awareness of posture, controlling breath pattern, core focused, coordination, and controlling the body’s micromovements to yield optimal form throughout the exercise. And Joe was particularly focused on form, saying, “A few welldesigned movements, properly performed in a balanced sequence are worth hours of doing sloppy calisthenics or forced contortion ” To add, the apparatuses such as the Reformer, the Chair, or the Cadillac were pieces of equipment to assist the student to attain the ability to practice Contrology exercises ultimately on the mat apparatus If a student could not execute the
Contrology exercises on the mat, then the student met with their instructor and was assigned to work out on one or more of the apparatuses in Joe’s studio
The purpose of the original Pilates studio was to provide a student with a full body-controlled workout on the mat The 1:1 personalized reformer or chair workout was designed to help the student move from Joe’s hand-built apparatuses to then graduate the student to work out on the mat. It is only on the mat that we see Joe Pilates teaching a group class There was no group reformer or group chair classes, only group mat Pilates classes So, how did the Pilates exercise move from 1:1 personalized reformer work out to group reformer gym classes?
First, we need to recognize that Pilates is not a regulated industry This means, anyone can open up a business and call it a “Pilates Studio” and refer to themselves as a “Pilates Instructor” To add, there are no federal or state licensing agencies requiring credentials to prove competency in becoming a Pilates practitioner So, a crash course on YouTube or a weekend Pilates workshop may be all that an instructor may know about Pilates and certify themselves as a “Pilates Instructor” Third is the public’s lack of awareness of what exactly Pilates is all about Unlike yoga, an exercise system that has been around thousands of years, Pilates is a hundred-year-old exercise system In fact, most individuals, when asked “what is Pilates?”, will often confuse Pilates with yoga and think they are one and the same They are not, and the origins of Pilates and yoga are very different. Added, the public’s lack of understanding of Pilates principles of alignment, awareness, breath, balance, core, and so on is also another reason why the Pilates studio has morphed into a reformer group gym class These are just some of the reasons why the Pilates studio of the 1930s has moved so far away from its original intent and why the inception and emergence of the reformer gym can exist and call itself a “Pilates Studio”
public will be accurately informed about receiving an authentic interpretation of this exercise method in a private 1:1 apparatus Pilates session or in a small group mat Pilates session and thus minimizing any misunderstandings about Pilates
Without regulation, requirement of credentialization, and the public’s lack of knowledge of the Pilates principles, the Pilates industry was ripe for an opportunist to capitalize on the benefits of Pilates and to move away from the goals of the original Pilates studio, the goal being a full body-controlled workout focused on the Pilates principles Because there were no universal exercise guidelines, no oversight from any federal, state, or national Pilates organization to determine if a Pilates studio was truly observing the tenets of what Joseph Pilates defined as a Pilates studio, the opportunity was met with the rise of the 1960s health club gym movement and the passing of Joseph Pilates in 1967
What could be done? Like honoring the deceased and their work, out of respect to the creator and founder of this precise exercise method, Joseph Pilates, the consumer should intentionally be seeking Pilates instructors that authentically interpret the exercise Seeking Pilates instructors with an intimate studio, offering 1:1 private apparatus Pilates If any group classes are offered, seek a Pilates instructor that offers small group mat classes as it is the safest and most accessible apparatus to practice Pilates By intentionally doing so, the consumer is receiving the most optimal Pilates experience, safely, and effectively For the Pilates instructor, they are honoring Joseph Pilates and providing an uncompromised Pilates experience for the consumer and crafting the distinction between a true Pilates studio versus a Reformer Gym Added, the
Jan McGrath, certified through Pilates Instructor Academy, has over 20 years of experience in athletic disciplines like Muay Thai kickboxing, long distance running, and CrossFit. After overcoming chronic pain with Pilates, she now helps clients build strength, prevent injuries, and manage pain through her boutique studio, Pilates Whole Body. Passionate and positive, Jan is dedicated to educating and inspiring her clients to achieve their optimal fitness and wellness goals.
Instructor Spotlight: Keesha Steed
WE SPEAK WITH PILATES INSTRUCTO ABOUT HER PILATES CAREER AND H
Tell us a little about yourself and your Pilates background?
My name is Keesha Steedley, I’m from Columbus, Ohio, USA I recently became a mat-certified instructor in February of this year and started teaching this summer doing pop-ups in parks and other locations I am also a certified Reflexologist with a space where I see clients one one-onone I am grateful to be working at Whitehall Fit Spot gym where I teach more clients My friends would describe me as determined
How did you discover Pilates?
When I started my reflexology business I worked out of a Pilates studio, so I took a class and fell in love
How do you keep learning? What inspires you in your work?
I attend as many events, conferences and classes as I can Instagram is a great place to find new ways to cue and ways to tweak an exercise for each client Sonja Herbert of Black Girl Pilates, Alexa Idama of Low Impact Fit, Morgan from MOJO Moves and Issa Welly on YouTube are huge inspirations to me
The best advice you were ever given as a teacher
Make it your own!
Is there something you try and instil in each of your clients?
That Pilates is for every (BODY) There is a stigma that only skinny/young people can do Pilates and that is just not true I want to make the practice accessible to everyone and that’s another reason why I love Mat Pilates
The best Pilates course you ever did was...
Black Girl Pilates mat certification course
What’s your favourite piece of equipment to use with clients in studio and why?
Matwork because everyone has access to the floor
I remember my goals! I also enjoy the journey of learning every day and knowing that I can make an impact on people’s lives How do you stay motivated?
What makes you laugh the most?
Animal voiceover TikToks
What's your favourite way to spend a day off?
In bed watching Anime
How many pairs of grip socks do you own?
Loveeeeee a good stretch band I think I have five or more grip socks and looking to collect more
Does your family ‘really know’ what’s involved in your job
I make them come to my pop-ups to help so they get firsthand knowledge of my craft!
Upcoming courses
BASIAUSTRALIA
Comprehensive Teacher Training Course – Perth – Rig Pilates – 13 Sept-8 Dec
Mat and Reformer Mat program Find out more basipilates com au/education/
BODYORGANICSEDUCATION
Brisbane
Wunda Chair - October
Trapeze and Tower - January 2025
Canberra Reformer & Barrels October
Sydney Mat and Reformer block - October
Coffs Harbour
Lower Limb Intensive - November
Cairns
Mat and Reformer block - January 2025
A full event calendar can be found here
Find out more www bodyorganicseducation com or contact info@bodyorganicseducation com
REACHMOVEMENTHEALTH
Further your education with one of Reach's online masterclass sessions
Join Sally Anderson between Feb-Nov 2024 on the first Saturday of each month for a live online Reformer and Matwork class followed by Q&A Courses also available in Pilates for Pregnancy, Visceral Mobilisation, LumboPelvic Rhythm with Lisa Jackson and or Pilates for Multi-Dimensional Posture and more
(10838NAT) Diploma of Pilates Instruction, Matwork and Reformer + Small Apparatus Pathway Reformer and Small Apparatus Pathway Matwork and Small Apparatus Pathway Studio Instruction Pathway Anatomy + Physiology (Online only), (10839NAT) Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method
Upcoming Blended Entry Points:
All States: Advanced Diploma – enrol and start any time
Continuing Education: Scolio-Pilates® Modules 1 & 2 of the ScolioPilates Professional Certification Program in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney in 2024
Give the Pilates ITC Careers Team a call on (08) 9330 4570 to secure your place - pilatesitc edu au/
POLESTARPILATES
Polestar Pilates Australia (RTO 91620) offers the government accredited (10828NAT) Diploma of Polestar Pilates Comprehensive Instruction Method
The following pathways are available face-to-face throughout Australia and enrolling now:
For a complete list of courses see the Polestar website: https://www polestarpilates edu au/courses-ps/ Upcoming Continuing Education Courses include Online Masterclass series - available anytime
Reformer Workshop and Studio Workshops with Kimberley Garlick: Exploring the Ball and Socket Workshop - Sydney - 8 November
Reformer Workshops - Defying Gravity and Pilates is not a Gym Workout - Sydney9 November
Ultimate Reformer Intensive - Brookvale, Sydney - 17-21 November
Matwork Intensive - Bronte, Sydney - 31 Jan - 4 Feb 2025
For a complete list of courses see the Polestar website: polestarpilates edu au/pilates-continuing-education/
Photography Pilates ITC
Upcoming courses
NATIONALPILATESTRAINING
National Pilates Training (21719) offers the following governmentaccredited skill sets and qualifications
Groupfit professional pilates Instruction pathway
Professional Pilates matwork Instruction pathway
Professional Pilates Reformer Instruction pathwa
Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction (10838NAT)
Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method (10839NAT)
Our government-accredited courses are available ‘In person’ - Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Central Coast or Online only’ – global - anywhere and anytime
Our 2025 applications are pathway, Reformer pathw in the following NPT locat
- Melbourne, -February 20
- Sydney – February and -Canberra- March 2025
- Brisbane – March 2025 - Online only – anywhere,
Our applications are open National Pilates Training h person, in a location near only’ wherever you are w www nationalpilates com of Training Katrina Edwar
STOTTPILAT
STOTT PILATES® Intensiv Courses to be held in 202 Australia
STOTT PILATES® courses
Intensive Reformer (50hrs
Intensive Cadillac, Chair a Dec 01, 07,08 14,15
Contact Blue Sky Pilates h
TENSEGRITYTRAINING
Cert IV in Contemporary Pilates and Teaching Methodology
Cert IV of Contemporary Pilates and Teaching Methodology (52855WA) with Reformer (Cert IV and Reformer)
Integrated Diploma of Contemporary Pilates and Teaching Methodology Pilates Group Reformer Instructor Training (PGR)
Tensegrity offers training in NSW, QLD, VIC, SA and TAS
For a full list of dates in all states visit tensegritytraining com au/accredited-training/
STUDIOPILATES
Studio Pilates offers a number of different courses including:
Matwork Course, Reformer Course, Matwork Programming and Progressions, Platinum Instructing Course, Anatomy Course, Wunda Chair Course, Ball, Circle and Band Course and more
Those in the USA and UK can join one of their online courses via zoom
For a complete list of dates in other states see the Studio Pilates website studiopilates com/education/book-a-course/
