Beyond the Reformer

From Basement Studio to 9 Locations: How New York Pilates Defined Its Method

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0100

"Real change in your body happens from grounded, consistent work. Doing the split and a handstand is entertaining, but that's not what Pilates is about."

In this episode, Nic is joined by Heather Andersen, founder of New York Pilates - one of the most recognisable reformer studio brands in the world, with nine locations across New York City and counting.

Heather built New York Pilates from a basement space in Greenwich Village in 2013, at a time when group reformer classes simply didn't exist. She shares what it actually took to scale to nine studios - from building onboarding systems and maintaining consistency across locations, to the pricing mistakes and people management lessons learned the hard way.

They also get into the state of the industry: why clients are confused about what Pilates even is, what separates genuine contemporary Pilates from the "Pilates adjacent" world, and why the most transformational work looks like nothing on camera.

Timestamps

00:23 How New York Pilates started

01:37 Heather's background in ballet and early Pilates training

07:14 Making the leap from teacher to studio owner

13:14 Building the brand from day one

14:38 Early mistakes and people management

16:03 What a New York Pilates class feels like

18:44 Classical vs. contemporary vs. Pilates adjacent

25:20 Scaling from one studio to nine

29:16 Building systems for consistency

31:34 Teacher onboarding and quality management

37:51 Pricing, ClassPass, and why loyalty beats volume

44:34 Social media and the decision to talk about real Pilates

55:22 Where to find Heather

If you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.

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Join the Soul Pilates Retreat in Cornwall on 19 June for a weekend of movement, rest and nourishment. Find all the details here.

Thinking about investing in Pilates equipment? Balanced Body are offering our listeners a special discount! Fill in the form here and mention Soul Pilates when you order.

Interested in joining the July Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.

Get 5% off Balanced Body Pilates equipment with the code SOUL PILATES

The Missing Piece in Pilates Teacher Training with Amy Havens

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0100

"I think self-acceptance and self-compassion... it's gonna keep changing and if you hear the loud stuff saying, I can't do that anymore - no." - Amy Havens

In this episode, Nic is joined by Amy Havens, a veteran Pilates educator, mentor, and movement teacher based in Santa Barbara with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Amy has trained across multiple lineages - including Fletcher, BASI, Kathy Grant, and Madeleine Black - and is widely respected as one of the most thoughtful voices in Pilates education today.

They explore what it really takes to become a truly great Pilates teacher - from the qualities that no training manual can teach, like patience and compassion, to the art of learning to see and respond to the bodies in front of you. Amy shares her rich origin story, from discovering Pilates as a dance student in 1989 to becoming injured, finding healing through the work, and eventually committing to teaching as a lifelong calling.

They also dig into the current state of the Pilates industry - the growing divide between fitness Pilates and the more healing-oriented tradition, the case for prerequisites before teacher training, and why mastering the fundamentals will always matter more than creative programming. Amy makes a compelling case for mentorship as the missing piece for so many new teachers, and shares what that relationship can look like when it's done well.

Timestamps

00:00 Intro to Amy Havens

00:14 What makes a truly great Pilates teacher

02:08 Learning to see and respond to different bodies

04:49 Amy's origin story - discovering Pilates in college

08:10 Observing from the front desk and falling in love with the work

10:42 Getting cold feet before teacher training - and why that was the right call

13:23 Amy's formal training with Madeleine Black at the Physical Mind Institute

15:27 Learning to teach, not just to do

17:34 How injury became the turning point toward teaching

21:38 Why the best teachers are often those whose lives were changed by Pilates

22:40 The case for prerequisites in Pilates teacher training

28:13 What great mentorship actually looks like

31:46 Amy as a forever student - training across multiple lineages

37:06 How studying different styles shaped Amy's teaching

43:29 The state of the Pilates industry - two forks in the road

45:14 Fitness Pilates vs. healing Pilates - is it all Pilates?

47:52 Why studio owners need to do better at describing what they offer

53:00 Don't teach too much too soon - a lesson from Madeleine Black

55:25 Why mastering fundamentals matters more than creative programming

56:44 Quick-fire questions

01:03:28 Where to find Amy

If you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.

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Join the Soul Pilates Retreat in Cornwall on 19 June for a weekend of movement, rest and nourishment. Find all the details here.

Thinking about investing in Pilates equipment? Balanced Body are offering our listeners a special discount! Fill in the form here and mention Soul Pilates when you order.

Interested in joining the July Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.

Get 5% off Balanced Body Pilates equipment with the code SOUL PILATES

Burnout, Boundaries and Building a Career That Lasts as a Pilates Teacher with Audrey O'Connor

Mon, 25 May 2026 04:00:00 +0100

"I cannot be of service to other people if I cannot be of service to myself."

You left the corporate world for a reason. But somehow you're exhausted, resentful, and wondering why this passion-driven career feels just as relentless as the one you walked away from.

Nic is joined by Audrey O'Connor - former quantity surveyor, Pilates teacher, sound healer, and wellness educator who now works with global brands like Google. Back for her second appearance, Audrey digs into what burnout actually looks like for Pilates teachers - not just tiredness, but resentment, physical symptoms, and the trap of performing busyness as a badge of honour.

They get practical on morning rituals, finances, multiple revenue streams, and valuing your time before resentment does it for you. Audrey also brings in something unexpected: astrology and human design as tools for understanding why you show up the way you do - and why changing your mind is not the same as being flaky.

Whether you're in the thick of burnout or starting to feel the edges of it, there's something here for you.

Timestamps

01:13 What burnout actually is - beyond just being tired

03:50 Busyness as a badge of honour and how to recognise the patterns

07:52 Vision, values, and the Pilates industry comparison trap

09:02 How performance and money are connected to burnout

11:12 Taking care of your body when teaching is your job

13:15 Switching off on holiday (and why content creation doesn't count as rest)

17:05 Rituals, routines and habit stacking

23:37 Finding a ritual practice that fits your life

26:07 Astrology and human design as tools for self-understanding

31:34 Why Pilates teachers are particularly prone to burnout

32:21 Being of service vs. sacrificing yourself

34:15 Burnout, undervaluing, and our complicated relationship with money

56:58 Mindset, self-worth, and why opportunities arrive when you stop chasing them

58:44 If you're overwhelmed right now - start here

If this episode resonated, share it with someone in the industry who needs to hear it. And make sure you're following along so you don't miss what's coming next.

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Join the Soul Pilates Retreat in Cornwall on 19 June for a weekend of movement, rest and nourishment. Find all the details here.

Thinking about investing in Pilates equipment? Balanced Body are offering our listeners a special discount! Fill in the form here and mention Soul Pilates when you order.

Interested in joining the July Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.

Get 5% off Balanced Body Pilates equipment with the code SOUL PILATES

Teaching Pilates to Children: How to Make It Fun, Inclusive & Effective

Mon, 18 May 2026 04:00:00 +0100

Nic is joined by Clarissa Shepherd, kids Pilates specialist, pre and postnatal educator, Club Pilates master trainer, and author of Sage Does Pilates and Babies & Barre.

Clarissa's story is anything but conventional. From working in TV news and witnessing a live on-air shooting, to packing up her car with $600 and driving to Dallas, to funding her Pilates certification while working night shifts - her path to becoming a Pilates teacher is one of grit, resilience and pure determination.

But what makes Clarissa's work truly unique is who she teaches. While the Pilates industry talks about being "for everyone," Clarissa noticed a glaring gap - children are almost always left out.
She shares why bringing Pilates into families' lives earlier is one of the biggest untapped opportunities in the industry, and how her own experience of an absent mother during childhood became the driving force behind her mission to connect families through movement.

The conversation explores how to adapt Pilates for different ages - from babies and toddlers to teenagers and everything in between - and why storytelling, play and affirmations are just as important as the repertoire. Clarissa also shares how she's training other teachers to do this work and working towards licensing her kids Pilates framework so it can reach families around the world.

Timestamps

00:00 Intro to Clarissa

00:32 Why families are the missing piece in Pilates

02:51 Clarissa's backstory - news, Dallas and $600 to her name

05:43 Discovering Pilates and being inspired by female leadership

09:01 Funding her certification and the sacrifices she made

13:13 Moving to Germany, becoming a mother and finding her path

16:03 How pregnancy sparked her interest in pre and postnatal Pilates

17:30 Teaching children for the first time

17:40 How to adapt Pilates for different ages and stages

20:07 Using affirmations and mentorship with teenagers

22:52 Making Pilates a game for younger children

24:18 Mommy and me classes and incorporating babies into movement

25:41 The creativity and storytelling skills kids Pilates demands

25:41 Training teachers to teach kids Pilates

44:10 Who Clarissa works with - from ballerinas to retirees

45:04 What's next for Clarissa

46:24 Quick-fire questions

48:24 Where to connect with Clarissa

Thanks so much to Clarissa for coming on the podcast and sharing such an honest and inspiring story. Please make sure to subscribe and rate the show 5 stars if you've been loving it - it helps the show more than you know.

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Join the Soul Pilates Retreat in Cornwall on 19 June for a weekend of movement, rest and nourishment. Find all the details here.

Thinking about investing in Pilates equipment? Balanced Body are offering our listeners a special discount! Fill in the form here and mention Soul Pilates when you order.

Interested in joining the July Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.

Get 5% off Balanced Body Pilates equipment with the code SOUL PILATES

Beyond Classical: Ron Fletcher's Pilates Legacy With Kyria Sabin

Mon, 11 May 2026 04:00:00 +0100

"The body floats on the breath. Without the breath, we don't have a core. We don't have a centre." - Kyria Sabin

In this episode, we are joined by Kyria Sabin, director of Fletcher Pilates International and one of the most respected custodians of a first-generation Pilates lineage in the world. Kyria worked directly with Ron Fletcher - a first-generation teacher who studied with Joseph and Clara Pilates and danced with Martha Graham - and has dedicated her career to preserving and evolving his approach to the method. Her path into Pilates was never planned; she was heading towards law school when a session at the Ron Fletcher Studio changed everything.

Kyria and Nic explore what it truly means to carry a lineage forward, why the "classical vs contemporary" debate misses the point, and what made Ron Fletcher's approach so unique - from his movement-based philosophy to his breath-centred teaching.

They take an honest look at the current state of Pilates education, the dangers of watered-down training, the rise of reformer-only studios, and what it actually takes to establish meaningful standards for the industry. And they go deeper into the spiritual dimension of Pilates - why client transformation so often shows up in relationships and sense of self first, and what Ron Fletcher would likely say if he saw where Pilates is today. (Spoiler: it's one word.)

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Kyria Sabin

00:10 Carrying Ron Fletcher's legacy - responsibility and blessing

04:47 What makes the Fletcher approach unique

08:31 Classical vs contemporary - why the conversation misses the point

12:42 Kyria's journey: from art world to Pilates

15:38 How Kyria trained - the apprenticeship model

17:24 Life in Tucson and accidentally staying for 35 years

18:39 The gift of seeing bodies and learning to teach

21:57 Taking over Fletcher Pilates International

23:13 Building a cohesive studio culture and team

26:35 Creating the Fletcher Pilates teacher training programme

28:39 What goes into a quality Pilates education

32:39 The 12-step framework that underpins the Fletcher programme

34:02 Why Pilates transformation shows up in clients' lives, not just bodies

38:45 What defines a high-quality teacher training programme

43:55 Should reformer teachers still be comprehensively trained?

56:29 What excites Kyria about the future of Pilates

58:21 What concerns her about where the industry is heading

01:00:22 Quick-fire questions

01:02:26 Where to find Kyria

If you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.

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A Year of Pilates Conversations Changed How I Think About Teaching

Thu, 07 May 2026 04:00:00 +0100

Beyond the Reformer turns 1!! 🥳

In this special solo anniversary episode, Nic marks one full year of Beyond the Reformer by sharing her honest reflections on everything she has learned over the past year.

She opens up about nearly quitting the podcast, the challenge of doing too much as a studio owner and educator, and how a year of conversations with some of the most respected Pilates professionals in the world has genuinely changed her perspective.

A huge thank you to every single one of you who has supported the podcast over the past year. The community that has been built is more than anything Nic could have imagined, and she cannot wait to continue bringing you these conversations.

Timestamps:

00:00 Reflecting on one year of the podcast

07:08 The reality of doing too much

10:13 Bringing a journalism mindset into podcasting

14:31 Putting yourself out there and asking for opportunities

18:30 Understanding classical vs contemporary Pilates

22:39 Why your personality is your superpower

24:16 Finding your reason for teaching Pilates

26:01 How to choose the right teacher training

30:28 What presence really means in teaching

35:35 Humility and the importance of continuous learning

41:01 Rethinking failure and challenge in classes

45:07 What’s next for the podcast and community

Make sure to subscribe to continue hearing these conversations every week, and send Nic a DM on the Beyond the Reformer Instagram page with your thoughts on this week’s episode.

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Rethinking Pilates for Runners, Pain, and Performance with Juan Nieto

Mon, 04 May 2026 04:00:00 +0100

Nic is joined by Juan Nieto, a physical therapist, Polestar educator, founder of the Reformer Flow Collective and co-creator of Runty.

Juan brings a completely different perspective to Pilates, movement, and coaching. Rather than focusing on perfect technique or choosing the “right” exercises, he challenges the idea that there even is a single correct way to move. Instead, he shares why expanding movement options, building awareness, and increasing variability is what truly helps people move better, reduce pain, and build resilience.

The conversation explores how Pilates can act as a foundation for everything else, from running to strength training, and why it should be seen as part of a bigger movement ecosystem rather than a standalone solution.

Juan shares why group classes can be more powerful than privates, how play and task-based learning can transform the way people move, and why teachers need to shift from instructing to creating environments where real learning can happen.

Timestamps

00:00 Intro to Juan

00:37 Why Pilates should be seen as a starting point, not the end goal

04:58 The challenge of getting runners into Pilates

08:16 Using Pilates as effective cross-training

11:30 Juan’s journey into movement and physical therapy

12:27 Moving away from hands-on treatment to building client independence

14:30 The opportunity for Pilates teachers in modern rehab

20:33 Understanding pain, beliefs, and the nervous system

23:01 Assessing movement through tasks and tendencies

25:45 Why group classes can be more powerful than privates

29:03 Building agency and independence in your clients

31:57 Why Pilates teachers need to stop over-cueing

35:03 Using play and games to improve movement and learning

37:44 The Reformer Flow Collective and creative teaching

45:41 Quick-fire questions

49:31 Where to connect with Juan

Thanks so much to Juan for coming on the podcast. Please make sure to subscribe and rate the show 5 stars if you’ve been loving it, it helps the show more than you know.

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Stop Copying Other Pilates Teachers and Start Being Yourself with Lesley Logan

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Nic is joined by Lesley Logan, a classical Pilates teacher, international presenter, fellow podcaster, and founder of Profitable Pilates and Online Pilates Classes.

They explore what it really takes to become a great Pilates teacher, from developing the ability to observe bodies and cue effectively, to navigating imposter syndrome and finding your unique voice in the industry.

They unpack the importance of having boundaries and also the current state of the Pilates industry, including gaps in teacher training, the need for mentorship, and why rushing into teaching too quickly can hold people back long term.

They also go deeper into the business side of Pilates, from pricing and profitability to building a career that actually supports your life.

Timestamps

00:00 Intro to Lesley Logan

01:32 Boundaries, burnout, and learning to say no

09:59 What’s happening in the Pilates industry right now

13:22 Gaps in teacher training and education

15:25 Learning how to truly see bodies as a teacher

18:49 Lesley’s journey into Pilates

26:09 Helping clients build autonomy in their practice

30:52 Owning your unique method and voice

40:26 Pricing for sustainability and growth

45:37 What accessibility really means in Pilates

50:52 Why mentorship keeps great teachers

54:05 Building multiple revenue streams

57:35 Quick-fire questions

59:15 Where to find Lesley

If you’re enjoying the podcast, make sure you’re following along so you don’t miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.

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How to Become a Great Pilates Teacher with Polestar UK Owner Andre Santaella

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Nic sits down with Andre Santaella, COO of Polestar Pilates and now leading Polestar UK, to explore her journey from discovering Pilates through her mum’s studio to stepping into a global leadership role.

Nic and Andre discuss what truly makes a great Pilates teacher beyond just their qualifications.

They also explore how to choose the right training provider, why mentorship is essential, and the importance of continuous education.

To finish off they chat about how we should be viewing other studios, teachers and trainings as an opportunity to collaborate instead of think of it as competition and and how shifting this mindset can completely change your experience within the Pilates industry.

Timestamps

00:00 Introd to Andre

01:41 Taking on Polestar UK

04:53 Discovering Pilates through her mum’s studio

10:55 The path from studio manager to COO

16:16 What actually makes a great Pilates teacher

20:52 Questions to ask when hiring teachers

26:05 Learning from observing different teaching styles

27:14 Choosing the right Pilates training provider

33:05 The role of continuing education in Pilates

37:34 Why collaboration beats competition

44:02 Differences in the global Pilates industry

50:22 Quick fire questions

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss a conversation!

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Rael Isacowitz: The Basi Block System, Industry Standards and Crediting in Pilates (PART 2)

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0100

Welcome back to Part 2 of this conversation with Rael Isacowitz, founder of Basi Pilates, where Nic and Rael go deeper into the evolution of the method, the role of equipment, and what it really takes to become a great teacher in today’s industry.

Rael shares the story behind designing Basi equipment and how it was created to reflect both form and function. He breaks down the Basi block system, explaining how structure can actually unlock creativity in teaching rather than limit it.

The conversation also explores what it means to continue learning as a teacher, from Rael’s legacy programme to the importance of staying connected to your own practice.

To finish, they have a powerful discussion around standards in the Pilates industry, the challenges of accreditation, and why crediting others in this work is essential for growth.

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome back to Part 2

01:19 Designing equipment with both form and function in mind

05:59 How the Basi equipment first came to life

09:08 The origins of the Basi block system

13:49 Why structure actually fuels creativity in teaching

15:14 The idea behind marathon mat sessions

19:21 The legacy programme

26:08 The difference between advanced work and performance

28:25 Why Pilates needs stronger standards

30:02 Attempts at accreditation in the industry

35:32 The importance of crediting

40:44 Changing your mind and evolving as a teacher

44:49 Favourite exercises and staying connected to the work

47:21 Why teachers often overdo it in their classes

48:54 Habits that support a long career in Pilates

52:34 Community and relationships in Pilates

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure you’re subscribed so you never miss a conversation like this.

Share this episode with a fellow teacher or studio owner who would benefit from hearing this, and if you haven’t already, we’d really appreciate you leaving a rating or review. It helps more people discover the show and be part of this community.

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Rael Isacowitz: Teaching With Purpose, Precision And Flow At Basi Pilates (PART 1)

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0100

There are very few people in the Pilates world who have shaped the industry in the way Rael Isacowitz has.

In part 1 of this conversation, Nic sits down with the founder of Basi Pilates to explore the real foundations of the method, what it means to teach with purpose, and why the future of Pilates depends on more than just choreography.

From building one of the first curriculum-based teacher training programmes in the late 80s to creating a global community of educators, Rael shares the story behind Basi and the approach that continues to guide it today.

This episode goes deep into the art and science of movement, the importance of flow, and how great teaching can create real change in people’s lives.

Rael also shares his perspective on cueing, precision, and what separates a good instructor from a truly impactful teacher.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Rael Isacowitz

01:57 The early vision behind creating a structured Pilates curriculum

04:17 What Pilates looked like in the late 80s

05:05 The very first Basi teacher training group

08:16 How Rael first discovered Pilates and his movement background

14:08 Opening one of the first Pilates studios in California

18:55 The story behind the name Basi Pilates

21:26 How the Basi platform and education evolved over time

25:05 The influence of yoga, dance, and giving credit in the industry

30:07 Creating joyful, athletic Pilates experiences

34:53 Pilates as a tool for positive change in the world

39:02 What the mind body connection really means in practice

42:51 Why cueing is one of the most important teaching skills

If you loved this episode, make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss part two coming later this week.

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How to Bring More Creativity Into Your Pilates Classes Without Chaos

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0100

Are you feeling pressure to make your Pilates classes more creative but not sure where to start?

We’ve seen how much you’ve been loving the solo episodes, so Nic is back today to discuss how to be more creative in your classes without losing structure or purpose.

With so much inspiration coming from social media, it’s easy to feel like you need to constantly reinvent your teaching. But Nic challenges this idea and brings it back to what really matters, which is strong foundations, clear intention, and teaching that actually serves your clients.

She shares how creativity in Pilates is not about adding more complexity, but about understanding movement patterns, building from the fundamentals, and creating a class experience that feels purposeful and connected.

This episode will help you rethink creativity in Pilates and give you simple ways to make your classes feel fresh without losing what makes Pilates so powerful.

Timestamps

00:00 Why creativity in Pilates teaching is such a big topic right now

02:24 Why do you feel the need to be creative?

03:10 The impact of social media on Pilates classes

06:18 Letting your personality shape your teaching style

08:06 Teaching with intention and clear class outcomes

13:06 How to break down complex exercises into simple steps

16:11 Creating flow and storytelling in your classes

17:44 How to layer progressions and regressions for clients

20:09 Simple ways to adapt and evolve Pilates exercises

24:09 Taking clients on a journey over multiple weeks

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss a new one. And let Nic know if you took anything away from this episode, she loves receiving your DMs!

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The Business Model Behind Multi Million Dollar Pilates Studios with Lise Kuecker

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0100

Most Pilates studios are sitting on far more revenue potential than they realise.

With the right pricing, membership strategy and business model, a single studio can grow into a multi-million-pound business without needing more space or more classes.

In this episode, Nic sits down with Pilates business expert Lise Kuecker, founder of Studio Grow, to discuss what actually drives profitable Pilates studios.

Lise works with hundreds of boutique fitness studios around the world and shares the real numbers behind successful studios.

From pricing psychology and memberships to team structure and sales metrics, this conversation reveals the systems that help studio owners turn passion into a sustainable and scalable business.

They discuss the most common mistakes studio owners make in their early years, why many studios unknowingly leak profit, and how simple adjustments to pricing or membership structure can dramatically increase revenue.

Timestamps

00:00 Intro to Lise

01:57 How Lise first got started in Pilates and the fitness industry

04:11 Early mistakes many studio owners make in their first year

09:45 How successful studios protect themselves from competition

11:53 The story behind how Studio Grow was created

12:54 Understanding memberships and how studios actually sell them

18:55 Where studios often lose money without realising

22:29 How labour models and organisational structure impact profit

24:12 The financial metrics every studio owner should track

24:44 Pricing strategies that guide clients towards the right option

27:40 Why memberships work and the psychology behind commitment

29:03 What the most successful Pilates studios do differently

34:22 Global boutique fitness trends and the rise of niche studios

40:03 Quick-fire questions

If you’re a pilates studio owner looking for a mastermind to help you scale, systemise, and grow your business, check out Studio Grow here for a FREE masterclass!

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How to Choose the Right Pilates Movements for Rehab with SJ Walls

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Too often Pilates teachers feel pressure to diagnose, label or overcomplicate movement.

In reality, the most powerful thing we can do is help people move with confidence.

In this episode, Nic speaks with clinician, Pilates educator and biomechanics specialist Sarah Jane Walls about the role of clinical reasoning in Pilates and why simplicity is often the most effective approach.

SJ shares her journey from competitive runner to Pilates teacher and clinic owner, explaining how Pilates quite literally changed her life after a serious injury in her early twenties.

Since then she has spent nearly three decades studying the body, completing multiple degrees including sports therapy, podiatry and public health, and is currently completing a PhD focused on biomechanics and diagnostic ultrasound.

Together they discuss what Pilates teachers really need to know when working with injuries or in rehabilitation settings.

SJ explains why communication and curiosity matter more than having every answer, how to assess movement by simply getting people moving, and why the feet often hold the key to understanding pain elsewhere in the body.

Timestamps

00:00 Intro to SJ

02:33 What clinical reasoning actually means in Pilates

04:08 Trusting the Pilates method when working with complex cases

05:30 SJ’s journey into Pilates

10:26 Why lifelong learning is essential for movement professionals

13:14 Mentors, business skills and building a successful studio

15:50 Helping runners understand why they need Pilates

19:40 Personalising group classes so every client feels seen

27:28 Partnering with clinics and building referral relationships

30:22 The value of shadowing clinicians and building referrals

31:56 The most important skills for Pilates teachers working in rehab

34:18 Assessing clients by getting them moving first

38:57 What Pilates teachers should look for when assessing feet

46:35 Correcting movement patterns from the ground up

50:11 Orthotics, rehabilitation and when they are actually useful

53:22 Quick-fire questions

If you found this conversation helpful, make sure you subscribe to Beyond the Reformer so you never miss an episode.

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Scaling a Pilates Empire Without Losing Integrity of the Method with Amy Jordan

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Nic sits down with Amy Jordan, founder of Pilates Addiction and creator of the WundaFormer, to explore what it really takes to build a Pilates empire without losing your purpose.

From leaving a career in entertainment marketing to opening her first studio with every penny she had, Amy shares the courage, creativity and conviction behind her journey.

They discuss equipment innovation, studio ownership, scaling through franchising, leadership boundaries, inclusive culture and the mindset required to grow sustainably.

Amy opens up about developing new Pilates apparatus, launching revolutionary home equipment and the lessons she learned about slowing down, building strong foundations and letting go of control.

She also shares her experience of facing cancer during Covid and how movement became part of her healing.

This episode is for Pilates teachers, studio owners, movement educators and entrepreneurs who want to innovate, scale and lead with integrity while staying connected to the true roots of the method.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Amy Jordan

02:02 Leaving marketing and opening the first studio

07:05 Taking the leap and investing everything into her business

11:05 Expanding beyond the reformer

14:02 Sketching and inventing the WundaFormer

19:14 Opening multiple studios and building strong teams

29:22 Balancing athletic flow with classical principles

31:03 Reinventing props for better alignment at home

35:17 Building online reach and global impact

39:16 Designing a revolutionary home Pilates machine

43:01 Franchising Pilates Addiction and scaling with integrity

48:56 Leadership boundaries and empowering teams

50:52 Reflecting on what she has created

54:16 Quick fire questions

If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe, follow and leave a review wherever you’re listening.

Your support helps Beyond the Reformer grow and continue bringing you powerful conversations from across the global Pilates community.

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Rewriting Desk Posture Through Pilates with Kerrie-Anne Bradley

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Sitting all day is quietly reshaping our bodies and our confidence, and this episode explains exactly how to change that.

In this conversation, Kerrie-Anne Bradley shares the story behind the Move at Your Desk Method and why she believes small, consistent movement breaks can transform not just your posture, but your mindset too.

Kerrie-Anne reveals how Pilates principles can be applied in the real world, even while sitting at your desk. She and Nic explore the link between stress and posture, why “shoulders back and down” might be doing more harm than good, and how taking up more physical space can shift your confidence at work.

Kerrie-Anne explains how movement improves energy, focus and productivity, and how her simple four-step system helps desk workers build sustainable movement habits without needing an hour-long workout.

If you sit at a desk for hours on end, work with clients who do, or are interested in working with corporates as a Pilates teacher, this episode is for you.

Timestamps

00:00 Intro to Kerrie-Anne

00:30 The mission behind Move at Your Desk

01:37 Kerrie-Anne’s journey to discovering Pilates

03:30 Discovering Pilates as a new mum and managing sciatica

06:11 How Pilates creates space in the body and builds confidence

10:45 Taking the leap into teacher training

14:17 Mentorship lessons and making Pilates feel human and fun

16:11 Creating a corporate desk movement method

18:36 Common desk body patterns and rethinking good posture

22:35 Bringing Pilates principles into daily desk habits

24:05 Helping clients move between sessions and build accountability

25:21 The four-step Move at Your Desk system explained

27:37 Workplace culture and leadership that supports wellbeing

29:34 How Pilates teachers can break into corporate wellness

38:05 Quick-fire questions

43:57 Where to connect with Kerrie-Anne

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Dr Brent Anderson: The Future of Pilates Education and Industry Standards (PART 2)

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

We’re back with Part 2 of the amazing conversation with Dr Brent Anderson to go deeper into what is really happening behind the scenes in the Pilates world.

They’re chatting about education standards and what it actually means to take responsibility as a movement professional.

Brent shares why teaching principles matter more than teaching protocols, and how to assess clients based on their real goals rather than assumptions.

They explore the growing conversation around Pilates governance, post Covid training standards, and the gaps that still exist in protecting both teachers and consumers.

Brent also reflects on leadership, bias and how we create safe, mature learning environments in the Pilates industry.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Part 2 of the podcast

01:06 Teaching principles over protocols and the core Polestar framework

04:25 Nic’s story with Pilates

08:49 Questions to uncover what a client really needs

13:36 Critical reasoning and the importance of listening

18:44 Bridging physiotherapy and Pilates teaching

23:54 Education standards and governance

35:10 Quick fire questions

40:33 Defining the types of Pilates for clarity in research and practice

42:23 Brent’s new podcast

45:49 Bias and navigating difficult conversations

If this episode resonated with you, make sure you’re subscribed to Beyond the Reformer so you never miss a conversation shaping the future of Pilates!

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Dr. Brent Anderson: The Science and Philosophy Behind Polestar Pilates (PART 1)

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

In Part One of this incredible two part interview, Nic sits down in California with Dr. Brent Anderson, physical therapist, educator and founder of Polestar Pilates.

Brent shares how science has reshaped the way Polestar teaches core control, why positive movement experiences matter more than perfection, and how Polestar Pilates was born.

The conversation goes deep into the emotional and spiritual power of movement. Brent reflects on how alignment creates presence, how presence builds internal locus of control, and why Pilates has the capacity to create life changing shifts far beyond the studio.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introducing Dr Brent Anderson of Polestar Pilates

01:41 Polestar’s culture of collaboration

04:43 Blending science, compassion and evolving movement research

05:29 Theory of core control

08:18 Teaching reformer to mixed levels and applying the 80 percent challenge rule

11:25 Swarm intelligence and precise cueing

14:37 Going from novice to expert

18:24 Brent’s early movement background

22:24 Why Polestar was born

26:24 Pilates as a catalyst for life change through body, mind and spirit alignment

28:10 The power of collective presence

33:09 Teaching as inquiry, mindfulness in class and internal locus of control

37:35 Moving beyond dogma

42:43 Subscribe for Part Two

Make sure to subscribe to the podcast so that you can be notified when Part 2 of the conversation is released.

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The Pilates Body Isn’t What You Think with Brooke Siler

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 04:00:00 +0000

A Pilates body has nothing to do with aesthetics and everything to do with awareness, strength and freedom in your own skin.

Nic sits down with Brooke Siler, author of The Pilates Body, to explore what the phrase “Pilates body” really means and why it has been so widely misunderstood.

Brooke discusses her early training with Romana Kryzanowska, the direct lineage back to Joseph Pilates, and the responsibility of carrying a method forward without losing its philosophy.

Brooke explains why breath is the missing piece in so much modern Pilates, the misunderstood concept of tension and release, and how true control builds empowerment in life.

They explore classical vs contemporary Pilates, the explosion of reformer Pilates, why mat work is still important, and what it means to stay rooted in the method while teaching in a modern world.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Brooke

02:05 What the Pilates body means

09:46 Discovering Pilates and training with Romana Kryzanowska

12:09 What Romana was really like

15:36 Becoming a teacher

20:12 Romana’s lessons and stories about Joseph Pilates

24:09 What is misinterpreted about breath and control

28:31 Understanding tension and release

30:36 Classical vs contemporary Pilates

32:37 Breath as the foundation of powerful movement

34:39 Staying true to the method during the modern Pilates boom

39:21 The story behind writing and revising the book

44:12 Why mat work is essential and more relevant than ever

47:27 Responsibility as a teacher and Pilates for life and sport

53:04 Quick fire reflections and how to work with Brooke

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The Story Behind Pilates Anytime and the Future of Online Pilates with Kristi Cooper

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Pilates as we know it today would not exist without Kristi Cooper and the bold decision she made in 2009 to put the method online before anyone believed it would work.

While in LA, Nic got the chance to visit Kristi Cooper in her gorgeous house in Santa Barbara to discuss the story behind Pilates Anytime and the evolution of online Pilates education.

In 2008, at a time when YouTube videos were limited to ten minutes and Pilates was still seen as exclusive and studio based, she was asked a simple question: why not put Pilates online?

They dive into Kristi’s early journey with Pilates at just 13 years old, her training with Rael Isacowitz, and her passion for preserving the lineage of the method through the Pilates Legacy Project.

The conversation explores classical versus contemporary Pilates, inclusivity across styles, the rise of athletic reformer trends, and the balance between staying true to the method while responding to modern data and member demand.

Timestamps
00:00 Intro to Kristi
01:03 The original idea behind putting Pilates online
05:04 Kristi’s introduction to Pilates at 13 and how it changed her life
07:00 Training with Rael Isacowitz and stepping into teacher training
09:52 Launching Pilates Anytime in 2009
12:50 The Pilates Legacy Project and preserving the history of the method
19:05 Inclusivity across classical and contemporary styles and managing industry competition
23:54 Responding to trends while protecting the integrity of Pilates
25:29 Building community through workshops, emails and connection
26:34 Creating new content while managing a vast online library
28:20 The depth of Pilates education and the challenges facing modern teachers
29:09 Observation, mentorship and what makes a great Pilates instructor
31:03 How teachers are selected for Pilates Anytime
36:23 The educational role of online platforms in an unregulated industry
40:38 The future of online Pilates
42:24 Quickfire questions

If you want to keep hearing conversations from amazing people within the industry, then please make sure to follow the podcast, rate it five stars and share it on Instagram.

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How Instagram Is Changing the Pilates Industry with The Pilates Snob

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Pilates is EVERYWHERE right now, but not everything being labelled Pilates is safe or rooted in the original method.

Nic sits down with Victoria Batha Cuomo aka the Pilates Snob, for a thought-provoking conversation about the current state of the Pilates industry.

They explore how social media has both helped and harmed Pilates and why misinformation spreads so easily.

Victoria explains why a lack of regulation around education has created major issues for both teachers and clients, and why safety and understanding the system as a whole matters more than trends on Instagram.

They also discuss Victoria’s ‘WTF Wednesday’s’, the Pilates Transparency Project, and the original Pilates lawsuit.

Episode timestamps

00:00 Introducing Victoria aka The Pilates Snob

00:31 How social media is shaping the Pilates industry for better and worse

02:59 Victoria’s first experiences with Pilates and athletic training

05:27 Becoming a Pilates teacher

08:42 The realities and gaps in Pilates teacher training

21:06 WTF Wednesday and calling out unsafe industry trends

25:30 Common misconceptions about Pilates online

29:02 What the Pilates Transparency Project is really about

33:27 Breaking down the original Pilates lawsuit

38:06 Where Pilates education is falling short today

41:58 Pilates Snob University and mentorship for teachers

46:21 Quick fire questions

Thanks for tuning in to this weeks episodes! As always, if you enjoyed it, please share it with your network, rate the show 5 stars and subscribe so you never miss an episode!

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.pilates.snob/
Website: https://www.thepilatessnob.com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pilatessnob

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The Real Difference Between Classical & Contemporary Pilates with Tracey Mallett

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Pilates is not meant to be rushed, trendy, or reinvented every week, and this conversation explains exactly why.

Nic sits down with Tracey Mallett in her California studio for an honest conversation about movement, teaching, creativity, and what it really takes to build a long and sustainable career in Pilates.

They explore the evolution of Pilates, classical and contemporary work, and the challenges facing new instructors in a trend driven industry.

Tracey speaks openly about confidence and trust in the teaching space, why simplicity often leads to better classes, and how understanding the foundations of the method allows for true creativity.

They also discuss social media presence as a Pilates teacher, suffering from burnout, and the pressure to constantly show up online.

Timestamps

00:00 How Pilates first entered Tracey’s life

08:25 Building a long term career in Pilates

12:40 How the Pilates industry has changed over the years

27:42 Social media, confidence, and personal growth as a teacher

34:05 Advice for anyone wanting to show up online

39:46 Barre, Pilates fusion, and how movement has evolved

49:35 Where Pilates education is heading next

58:31 Finding balance between work, ambition, and personal life

01:00:44 Quick fire questions

If you want to keep hearing from amazing guests like Tracey, please rate the show 5 stars and subscribe!

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How to Cue Pilates Classes That Transform Your Teaching

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 04:00:00 +0000

The difference between a good Pilates class and a great one often comes down to how and when you cue.

After receiving such a positive response from our previous episode on class planning, Nic is back for a solo episode that goes deep into the art of cueing.

Cueing completely changes the experience a client can have in a Pilates class, and Nic shares her advice on the different types of cues you can use to deepen their overall experience.

She discusses verbal cues, imagery, tactile feedback, breath and observation.

Nic explores why less can often be more when it comes to cueing, how to avoid overwhelming clients with information, and how thoughtful language can help people feel safer, more grounded, and more connected to their bodies.

Timestamps

00:00 Goals for the new year

03:01 Why cueing deserves deeper attention

03:53 How class structure supports better cueing

04:31 Understanding cueing as an art form

07:58 Using verbal cues clearly and effectively

16:10 Imagery and anatomical cueing explained

22:59 Exploring tactile cueing and appropriate touch

27:07 Teaching through observation and presence

32:55 Shifting from negative to constructive cueing

35:22 The importance of noticing within a class

39:01 Using breath as a flexible cueing tool

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How to Work With Pain and Injuries in Pilates with Samantha Wood

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Teaching Pilates becomes a whole different experience when clients bring pain, injuries, and complex diagnoses into the room, and this episode shows how to handle those moments with confidence rather than fear.

In this episode of Beyond the Reformer, Nic is joined by physiotherapist, Pilates teacher, and author Samantha Wood for a deep and practical conversation about teaching Pilates in rehabilitation settings.

Together, they explore what it really means to support clients living with pain, injuries, chronic conditions, and complex movement histories, without stepping outside the scope of a Pilates teacher.

Samantha breaks down common misconceptions around rehab-informed teaching, the role of research in Pilates, the growing evidence supporting Pilates within medical and rehabilitation settings, and how teachers can collaborate more effectively with physiotherapists, osteopaths, and doctors.

Timestamps

00:00 Introducing Samantha Wood

01:41 How Pilates teachers can approach pain and injury with confidence

04:07 Samantha’s journey into physiotherapy and discovering Pilates

06:26 Why Pilates fits so well into rehabilitation work

08:04 Teaching, writing, and expanding education for Pilates professionals

20:12 Why research matters in Pilates and what the evidence shows

25:49 The future of Pilates within medical and healthcare systems

32:31 Practical approaches to client assessment

35:45 Adapting sessions for chronic pain and long-term conditions

38:18 Using Pilates to support autoimmune disorders

39:59 Collaborating effectively with medical professionals

44:03 Why continued education is essential for Pilates teachers

54:50 Understanding pain and how to talk about it with clients

58:16 Connecting with Samantha

If this episode resonated with you, make sure you are subscribed to Beyond the Reformer on your favourite podcast platform.

Share the episode with another Pilates teacher who works with injuries, and leave a rating or review to help these conversations reach more teachers around the world.

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The Business Skills Every Pilates Studio Owner Needs with Seran Glanfield

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Building a successful Pilates studio takes far more than great teaching, and this episode breaks down what truly creates long term growth, profitability, and sustainability in the Pilates industry.

Nic sits down with Pilates business strategist Seran Glanfield to explore what it really takes to build a thriving and sustainable Pilates studio.

They discuss the biggest mistakes studio owners make, why mindset plays such a crucial role in success, and how to shift from thinking like a teacher to stepping fully into the role of business owner.

Seran explains why great teaching alone is not enough, how to stop getting distracted by competitors, and what separates studios that struggle from those that consistently grow.

She shares practical insights into tracking key metrics, building a strong brand message, raising prices with confidence, and using marketing in a way that aligns with your values.

Timestamps

00:00 Introducing Seran Glanfield

02:20 How Seran found Pilates and transitioned from finance

04:33 Moving from teaching Pilates into business strategy

06:15 How Pilates businesses differ across cultures around the world

07:47 A deeper look at the business side of Pilates studios

08:04 The most common mistakes studio owners make

11:41 Traits shared by the most successful studio owners

12:53 Why leadership and mindset are so important

17:40 The numbers every studio owner should be tracking

28:43 Approaching marketing in a way that feels aligned and intentional

29:33 Why clear brand messaging makes such a big difference

31:14 How to build a sustainable marketing strategy

36:08 Raising prices and overcoming fear around money

40:36 Mindset shifts that support long term success

45:25 Future trends in the Pilates industry

51:59 Quick fire questions

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow or subscribe to Beyond the Reformer wherever you listen or watch.

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How These Pilates Conversations Can Shape Your 2026 | Recap Part 2

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Happy New Year and welcome to part 2 of the 2025 Beyond the Reformer Recap!

In this episode, Nic reflects on the lessons that emerged over the past year and how they are shaping the year ahead.

Following on from part 1, this episode explores balance, burnout, education, and the realities of building a sustainable life in Pilates alongside family, teaching, and leadership.

Guests such as Audrey O’Connor, Julie Driver, Rachel Hall, Amy Kellow, and Claire Sparrow share insights that go beyond movement and into how we live, teach, and lead.

Timestamps:

00:00 Reflections on the year

04:11 Audrey O’Connor on slowing down

08:56 Julie Driver on challenges in Pilates education

21:20 Rachel Hall on asking for help and building a community

30:31 Amy Kellow on classical versus contemporary Pilates

35:19 Claire Sparrow on balancing business, teaching, and family

41:04 Looking ahead to the new year

Thank you so much to all the guests who came onto the podcast in 2025! If you’d like to be a guest this year, please apply here!

Listen back to episodes mentioned!

Audrey O’Connor

Julie Driver

Rachel Hall

Amy Kellow

Spotify

Claire Sparrow

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

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The Most Impactful Pilates Conversations of 2025 | Recap Part 1

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Welcome to part 1 of the 2025 Beyond the Reformer Recap! Nic is reflecting on the conversations that shaped Beyond the Reformer over the past six months.

What began as a 10-episode series so that Nic could tick having a podcast off her goals list, quickly grew into an ongoing show that connected teachers, studio owners, educators, and movement professionals from all corners of the Pilates community. With listeners tuning in from 94 countries, this podcast has grown bigger than Nic could have imagined.

Guests such as Diane Nye, Linda Rhodes and Sarah Liston, Michael King, Jenna Zaffino, Alexander Bohlander, Christi Idavoy, Jeannie Di Bon, and Ava Rodriguez share insights that go far beyond movement alone.

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome to the 2025 recap part 1

05:00 Diane Nye on what makes the most successful teacher

08:14 Linda and Sarah on the realities of running a Pilates studio

11:00 Michael King on the tapestry and method of Pilates

18:39 Jenna Zaffino on what teachers in the industry need to hear right now

28:05 Alexander Bohlander on mindfulness and ease in Pilates

29:11 Insights from the Polestar Pilates community

32:51 Christi Idavoy on Pilates being a calling

36:08 Jeannie Di Bon on understanding hypermobility and EDS

44:29 Ava Rodriguez on nervous system responses and teaching strategies

47:50 Subscribe for part 2

Want to be a guest on Beyond the Reformer in 2026? Apply here!

Listen back to episodes mentioned!

Diane Nye

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Linda Rhodes and Sarah Liston

Michael King

Jenna Zaffino

Alexander Bohlander

Christi Idavoy

Jeannie Di Bon

Ava Rodriguez

Get 5% off Balanced Body Pilates equipment with the code SOUL PILATES

Inside the Growth of an Award Winning Pilates Studio with Angela Walker

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Some Pilates studios grow because of strategy. Others grow because of community. Angela Walker has built her studio through both.

This episode is a deep dive into what it really takes to grow a thriving, award winning Pilates studio outside of a big city.

Angela, the owner of Align Pilates near Glasgow, shares the real story behind building a community led, wellness focused space.

Angela opens up about so many important topics such as studio growth, dealing with burnout, setting boundaries with your teachers, teacher training, the pressure of social media and why community matters just as much as good teaching!

Timestamps

00:00 Intro to Angela Walker

02:09 How Angela grew from teaching on one reformer at home to a full community studio

04:02 Building a wellness centred space that clients feel connected to

08:05 The realities of growth and the challenges facing modern Pilates studios

11:45 Creating a supportive, balanced team culture

17:34 Keeping clients engaged with classes

25:01 Why Angela moved into teacher training and how she develops new instructors

27:38 The community spirit behind Align

29:24 Angela’s take on the state of Pilates today

32:54 Social media pressures for studio owners

37:16 Balancing profit and quality while running a boutique studio

41:04 Being named Best Pilates Studio

43:26 The future of Align and the broader Pilates industry

48:04 Quick fire questions

If you loved this conversation, follow or subscribe to Beyond the Reformer so you never miss an episode. It really helps the show reach more teachers, studio owners and Pilates lovers around the world.

We will be back on the 29th of December with a new episode! Have a wonderful Christmas and thank you as always for the support on the podcast.

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What Is Fascia and Why Every Pilates Teacher Should Care About It with Kath Pentecost

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Once you learn what fascia really does, you can’t unsee it in every client you work with.

In this conversation, Nic sits down with movement educator and fascia expert Katherine Pentecost for a deep dive into the world of fascia and why every Pilates teacher needs to understand it.

Kath shares her journey about how discovering fascia changed absolutely everything about the way she moved, cued, programmed and taught.

Nic and Kath explore what fascia actually is, the biggest misconceptions teachers still have, how fascia adapts to movement, why it’s so deeply connected to whole-body wellness, and how shifting your cueing and sequencing can unlock better results for every client you work with.

This episode is full of ‘aha’ moments for Pilates teachers, studio owners and anyone curious about movement, anatomy and long-term wellbeing.

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome and intro to Kath

01:40 What fascia is and why it matters

04:48 How Kath first discovered fascia

08:42 Bringing fascia awareness into Pilates

13:03 Applying fascia concepts in real teaching

15:29 Fascia essentials for Pilates teachers

18:41 Helping clients build awareness and agency

28:48 What healthy fascia looks like in movement

31:34 Stories that show how adaptable fascia is

32:57 When fascia becomes restricted

34:38 Hydrating and releasing fascia in practice

35:29 Blending fascia work with Pilates

39:34 Teaching and sequencing for fascia health

49:01 Where fascia education is heading next

52:05 Training programmes and pathways with Kath

57:10 Quickfire questions

Please hit subscribe and rate the show ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ if you loved today’s episode!

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Making Pilates Truly Inclusive for All Bodies with DK Ciccone

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Pain does not mean your body is broken. If you work with clients in pain or you have ever felt afraid to move, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of Beyond The Reformer, Nic sits down with Pilates teacher, movement specialist and chronic pain educator Dana Karen (DK) Ciccone to explore what pain really is, how fear shapes the way we move, and why every body is meant to move.

Drawing on DK’s personal journey of chronic pain, injury and rebuilding trust with her body, the conversation looks at the stories people carry into the studio and how much those stories influence their movement.

Nic and DK share practical tools for teachers who work with clients in pain, including how to ask better questions, how to build psychological safety, and how to use springs and equipment intentionally to rebuild confidence.

They discuss inclusivity, representation, the evolution of Pilates and the importance of teaching in a way that celebrates strength rather than limitation.

Timestamps

00:00 Nic’s personal updates

02:07 Intro to today’s guest, DK Ciccone

03:36 DK opens up about her early experiences with pain and movement

07:09 How Pilates became a turning point in DK’s healing journey

13:44 DK’s path into teaching and rediscovering purpose

15:58 How to understand and support clients who arrive with pain

27:41 What creates a safe movement experience for every body

34:09 Helping clients build confidence with spring choices

35:28 Why inclusivity in Pilates studios matters

38:22 The boom of Pilates and how the industry is shifting

43:59 Pain, fear and how language influences the way we move

51:33 DK’s insights on Pilates in Scotland compared with America

56:21 What the future of Pilates education needs

01:03:13 Quickfire questions with DK

01:04:55 Where to connect with DK

If you enjoyed this episode, follow Beyond The Reformer, share it with a friend or fellow teacher, and leave a rating so more people can discover these conversations.

Nic also loves hearing your takeaways, so feel free to message on Instagram!

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How Movement Becomes Medicine with Christi Idavoy

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Movement becomes medicine when you learn how to truly feel it, and this conversation with Christi Idavoy shows you exactly how to teach from that place of depth, clarity and presence.

Today, Nic sits down with senior Polestar Pilates educator Christi Idavoy for an inspiring conversation on movement, teaching, energy, intuition and the art of presence in the studio.

Christi shares the story of how movement has shaped her life since childhood, the unexpected path that led her from yoga to Pilates, and the moment she met Brent Anderson which changed everything for her.

She discusses the philosophy behind Polestar Pilates, why presence is a teachable skill, how to create safer and more transformative client experiences, and why knowing yourself always comes before guiding others.

For any Pilates teacher, studio owner or movement educator, this episode will allow you to understand the deeper layers of teaching Pilates, beyond just the choreography.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro to Christi Idavoy

03:37 Exploring the idea of movement as medicine

05:47 Christi shares her early journey into Pilates

15:04 Discovering Polestar and meeting Brent Anderson

20:30 Christi’s teaching philosophy and approach to education

28:06 Understanding the power of presence in the studio

34:05 Self discovery through movement and embodiment

34:44 Balancing teaching, family life and the demands of the industry

36:01 Burnout, intuition and embracing personal growth

38:16 Presence, boundaries and honouring your energy

40:23 The heart brain connection

43:55 Practical guidance for Pilates instructors

50:42 How to create a meaningful and transformative client experience

56:34 Christi’s personal wellbeing and self care practices

01:02:36 How to work with Christi

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure you follow Beyond The Reformer so you never miss a conversation.

Share this episode with another Pilates teacher who would love this episode and if you have a moment, leaving a quick rating or review helps the show reach even more people in our growing global community.

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Inside Polestar Pilates’ Approach to Teaching with Depth with Nichole Zuckerman

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Few people have shaped modern Pilates education like Nichole Zuckerman. As one of Polestar Pilates’ most senior educators, Nichole has dedicated her career to deepening how teachers understand movement, presence, and the human body.

Nic sits down with Nichole to explore the philosophy that has made Polestar Pilates one of the most respected education schools in the world.

Nichole shares her upbringing surrounded by reformers and studio life, what it was like growing up as Brent Anderson’s daughter, and how Polestar has evolved into a global leader in Pilates education.

They talk about teaching with presence, the psychology behind movement, and why developing awareness, empathy, and curiosity are essential for every Pilates teacher.

This is a rich, insightful conversation for anyone who wants to teach with more depth and meaning!

Timestamps

00:00 Meet today’s guest Nichole Zuckerman

02:53 Nichole’s role within Polestar Pilates

03:48 Growing up surrounded by Pilates

07:50 What defines the Polestar Pilates philosophy

13:08 Challenges and misconceptions in Pilates education

18:00 The value of holistic, individualised teaching

28:51 Bringing a personal touch to group classes

30:09 Why presence is a teacher’s most powerful skill

30:56 Cultivating mindfulness inside and outside the studio

35:55 Psychology, creativity, and movement freedom

42:58 The global growth of Polestar Pilates

51:34 Advice for aspiring Pilates instructors

53:53 Quick-fire questions

If you enjoyed this episode, hit follow on your podcast app, share it with a fellow teacher, and leave a rating or review. Every share helps this community grow and keeps these conversations reaching more Pilates educators around the world.

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Connect with Nichole:

Polestar Pilates' Website

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How to Build a Pilates Class That Transforms Your Clients Without Burning You Out

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Behind every powerful Pilates class is a teacher who understands subtlety. In this solo episode, Nic shares how to create classes that help clients find ease, awareness, and lasting change.

After years of teaching and now educating other Pilates instructors, Nic has noticed a recurring question from listeners: what does it mean to teach with subtlety?

In this episode, she breaks down the art and science of structuring a Pilates class that helps clients move with more awareness, ease, and confidence.

Nic explores why starting supine allows students to unwind tension and reset their nervous system, how to layer exercises to set them up for success, and why spine articulation and standing integration are essential for taking Pilates beyond the studio and into everyday life.

She also shares her philosophy on mindful cueing, unlearning old teaching habits, and how to guide clients towards noticing change.

Timestamps

00:00 – Understanding subtlety in Pilates teaching

01:32 – How to plan and structure a balanced class

03:54 – Why Nic starts most classes supine

09:20 – Bringing in spine articulation and extension

11:11 – Incorporating weightbearing and full-body integration

12:51 – Creating a full movement experience for every client

13:10 – How to layer full-body exercises effectively

14:10 – Avoiding burnout through smarter class planning

16:04 – Setting clients up for success, not perfection

17:18 – The importance of progressions and regressions

18:21 – Empowering clients to notice what feels good

19:46 – Techniques for clear, mindful cueing

21:51 – Finding ease even in challenging movements

24:19 – Why Pilates is about being good at life, not just good at Pilates

If this episode helped you see your teaching in a new way, share it with another instructor who would love it too.

You can also subscribe, leave a review, or send Nic a message with your biggest takeaway! She loves hearing how these conversations land with you.

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The Art of Simplicity in Pilates Cuing with LaBriece Ochsner

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In this bonus episode, Nic sits down with Balanced Body Educator LaBriece Ochsner at the Pilates Gathering in Scotland to explore how education, compassion, and clarity in teaching continue to shape the future of Pilates.

LaBriece’s journey began over two decades ago in Zurich, where her first Pilates mat class revealed a method that would change her life. From teaching in Swiss fitness centres to running her own studio and becoming a global educator, she shares how her experience across cultures and languages has shaped her approach to teaching and mentoring others.

Together, Nic and LaBriece dive into the emotional and psychological side of teacher training, the importance of teaching real people (not just perfect movers), and why confidence, patience, and curiosity matter more than perfection.

LaBriece also opens up about balancing motherhood, studio ownership, and international education, and how Pilates can bridge the gap between fitness and deep movement work.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro to Labriece Ochsner, Balanced Body Educator

01:19 – Labriece’s first encounter with Pilates in Zurich

03:52 – From fitness instructor to certified teacher

05:19 – How Pilates teacher training has evolved

08:35 – The power of clear, simple cueing and communication

15:01 – Finding balance between work, teaching, and family

20:42 – The future of Pilates and integrating the fitness world

24:57 – Quick-fire questions

If this episode inspired you, please follow or subscribe to Beyond the Reformer wherever you listen to podcasts!

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Bridging the Gap Between Physiotherapy and Pilates with Cameron Angus

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Nic is back with another conversation recorded live at the Pilates Gathering in Scotland. Cameron Angus and Nic explore how the worlds of physiotherapy and Pilates intertwine to create more resilient, mindful, and connected movers and teachers.

With decades of experience spanning the battlefield, physiotherapy clinics, and now his own Pilates studio, Cameron shares the fascinating evolution of his work and how Pilates became central to helping people move better, recover from injury, and reconnect with their bodies.

He and Nic discuss the emotional and psychological dimensions of posture and pain, why communication is the most under-taught skill in movement education, and how teachers can support clients in building awareness and confidence.

Timestamps

00:00 Intro to Cameron Angus

01:49 How the Pilates Gathering came about

03:48 From military life to Pilates studio owner

08:51 The influence of physiotherapy on Pilates

10:06 How Cameron got into military physio

12:30 Cameron’s Pilates studio

13:10 How Cameron’s teaching has evolved based on his experiences

17:28 Blending the sensory side of Pilates into the biomechanical side

18:01 Why a positive environment accelerates rehabilitation

20:32 How posture reflects belief systems and emotional states

23:38 Communication, cueing, and helping clients manage pain

28:25 Reflecting on growth and professional development

36:10 Quick fire questions

If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, rate, and share it with another teacher or movement professional who would love it too. Every listen helps this community grow and continue sharing powerful conversations that take us beyond the reformer.

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The Stories, Legacy, and Lessons of a Lifetime in Pilates with Michael King

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0000

When Michael King started teaching Pilates nearly five decades ago, there was only one studio in London, and no one could have imagined how it would grow into the worldwide practice it is today.

In this inspiring conversation, Michael joins Nic live at the Pilates Gathering in Scotland to share his remarkable journey through 47 years of teaching, learning, and shaping the Pilates industry.

From his early days training under Alan Herman to managing studios in London, Houston, and Los Angeles, Michael reflects on how Pilates has evolved and what has stayed the same.

He shares his philosophy on education, mentorship, and the importance of keeping Pilates accessible while upholding its integrity.

Nic and Michael explore how the method continues to adapt, why staying curious is the secret to longevity, and how teachers can build confidence through community and continued learning.

If you have ever wondered what it was like to witness the birth of Pilates in the UK or what it takes to keep teaching for nearly 50 years, this episode will remind you why we fell in love with the method in the first place!

If you loved this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe to Beyond the Reformer, rate the show, and share this episode with another teacher or Pilates lover who would be inspired by Michael’s story.

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How Joakim Valsinge Used Pilates to Help His Son Move and Thrive

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0100

Guided by first-generation teacher Lolita San Miguel, Joakim discovered how movement can shape not just stronger bodies, but stronger lives.

In this episode, Nic sits down with Joakim Valsinge, a former military instructor turned Pilates educator, at the stunning Pilates Gathering in Scotland.

Joakim shares how he first discovered Pilates not through pain or injury but through curiosity and vanity!

His early experience as a soldier taught him brute strength, but Pilates introduced him to a new kind of control, awareness, and resilience.

As he trained and opened his own studios, he discovered how the discipline’s subtlety could heal injuries, strengthen the body, and transform how people move through life.

He reflects on his time studying with Lolita San Miguel, one of Joseph Pilates’ elders, and how she helped him embrace his unique background to become the teacher he is today.

Joakim shares how Pilates became a form of therapy, communication, and connection for his family as his son Albie, was born with Prader-Willi syndrome.

If this episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate the show, and share it with a fellow teacher or mover who believes in the power of authentic Pilates.

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The Secret to Keeping Pilates Clients for Decades with Linda Rhodes and Sarah Liston

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0100

Building a Pilates business that thrives across generations, grows through change, and keeps clients coming back for decades doesn’t happen by accident.

In this inspiring conversation, Nic meets the powerhouse mother–daughter duo behind EQ Pilates, who have combined passion, community, and classical integrity to build one of the UK’s most respected studios.

Nic speaks with Linda and Sarah, the founders of EQ Pilates, about what it really takes to create a studio that stands the test of time.

They share how EQ began as a single mat studio over twenty years ago and evolved into a thriving multi-space destination blending contemporary and classical Pilates.

They explore how they’ve maintained a loyal client base for decades, the importance of creating an uplifting community, and why having genuine care for your clients and teachers always pays off.

Linda and Sarah also open up about expanding with reformer and Cadillac classes long before they were trendy, and their refreshing honesty about the business challenges of pricing and profitability.

They discuss their recent shift toward the classical Pilates system, the lessons learned from mentorships with Leslie Logan, and why self-practice is the key to staying inspired as a teacher.

If you loved this episode, make sure to follow and subscribe to Beyond the Reformer on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube.

Share it with another Pilates teacher or studio owner who’d find inspiration in Linda and Sarah’s journey, and don’t forget to leave a rating or review. It really helps the show reach more listeners.

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It’s Time to Replace Outdated Pilates Cues with Ava Rodriguez

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0100

Outdated cues and generic fixes won’t create lasting mobility. Science-driven strategies will.

In this week’s episode of Beyond the Reformer, Nic is joined by Ava Rodriguez, also known as The Joint Whisperer.

Ava is the founder of Move Beyond with Ava and the Mobility Fitness Academy, where she helps teachers and fitness professionals integrate joint mobility principles into their work.

Ava shares how her own injuries shaped her approach, why so many cues in Pilates and fitness need an upgrade, and what it truly takes to help clients move beyond pain and restriction.

She shares insights on sticky shoulders, neck pain, and the nervous system’s role in mobility, while explaining how to assess joints effectively and help clients progress.

She also talks about her journey as an international educator, the sacrifices behind building a global business, and how continuing education can transform the way teachers show up for their clients.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Ava Rodriguez

01:58 Breaking down outdated movement cues

04:47 Ava’s journey into movement and mobility

08:20 Beginning a career in Pilates

15:01 The creation of the Mobility Fitness Academy

19:55 Bringing science-based strategies into teaching

26:20 Sticky shoulders, neck pain and common misconceptions

29:18 Healing through movement

30:40 Challenges within the education industry

33:54 The nervous system’s role in mobility

38:59 Setting client expectations in mobility work

41:44 Balancing travel and teaching

44:59 Sacrifices and lessons from building a business

48:03 Quick fire round questions

If you enjoyed today’s episode, make sure you subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a conversation.

Share this episode with a colleague or friend who would love it, and don’t forget to rate and review the show to help us reach more teachers around the world.

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Lessons from Three Decades in Pilates with Alexander Bohlander

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0100

Pilates is more than a workout, it’s a philosophy and a way of life.

In this inspiring conversation, Nic is joined by world-renowned educator, physiotherapist and osteopath Alexander Bohlander who has spent over three decades shaping the future of Pilates through his teaching, clinics and work with Polestar Pilates.

Alex shares his journey into Pilates, from his first encounter with the method in Belgium to becoming a global leader in education.

He explains why Pilates is more relevant than ever in today’s wellness culture, how it integrates seamlessly with rehabilitation and manual therapy, and why assessment and mindfulness are essential to effective teaching.

From launching Polestar India to co-authoring a widely used teacher’s manual, Alex brings a unique perspective on what it means to embody Joseph Pilates’ original vision of health, balance and community.

He also opens up about meditation, creating ease in movement, and the qualities that define a truly great Pilates teacher.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Alex

01:54 The global rise of Pilates and its appeal

03:32 The philosophy and principles behind Pilates

07:45 Alex’s personal journey into Pilates and therapy

16:06 The challenges and rewards of teaching Pilates

17:40 How Pilates integrates with rehabilitation practices

20:26 Why assessment is crucial for Pilates teachers

29:52 The key qualities of an outstanding Pilates teacher

33:02 Building Pilates in India

35:27 Misconceptions about Pilates in the fitness industry

38:30 Creating a mindful, supportive studio environment

41:00 Writing a teacher’s manual to inspire instructors

43:31 The role of mindfulness in Pilates practice

45:43 How meditation deepens Pilates teaching

48:21 The global community and reach of Pilates

49:07 The philosophy of ease in movement and life

56:52 Connect with Alex

If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe to the podcast, share this episode with a fellow teacher or Pilates lover, and don’t forget to rate and review the show. It helps us reach more people in the global Pilates community.

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The Story Behind Soul Pilates, Overcoming Burnout and Healing Through Pilates

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0100

This week the tables are turned as Nic sits in the guest seat! Her best friend and journalist, Gemma, steps in to interview her and talk about the story behind Soul Pilates, opening three Pilates studios, launching teacher training, and creating this podcast.

Nic opens up about her first encounter with Pilates after a car accident, how movement transformed her chronic pain and burnout, and the pivotal moments that shaped her career.

She shares honestly about the highs and lows of running studios and the lessons she’s learned about business, mentorship, and finding ease in movement.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to today’s episode

01:34 Nic’s first encounter with Pilates and the impact on her health

06:33 How Nic went from practising Pilates to teaching it

11:50 The leap from marketing to opening her first studio

16:50 The early years of Soul Pilates and the realities of being a solo studio owner

19:45 Shifting from teacher to business owner and the challenges of growth

22:25 Opening her second studio while starting a family and navigating COVID

27:01 Financial struggles and transition to a membership model

28:28 Lessons learned from masterminds and the importance of mentoring

34:40 Burnout, efficiency, and finding ease in movement

41:45 What’s next for Soul

44:59 The biggest shifts in the industry over the last 10 years

48:28 Quick-fire questions

As always, thank you so much for the support! Nic will continue to do some solo episodes, so if you have any specific questions you would like her to answer, please send her a message!

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Breaking Myths About Osteoporosis and Pilates With Gemma Pearson

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0100

Pilates has the power to transform lives especially when it comes to supporting women with osteoporosis.

In this episode of Beyond the Reformer, Nic sits down with Gemma Pearson, founder of Osteoporosis Pilates, to explore how movement can rebuild strength, confidence, and resilience in a population often overlooked by traditional fitness.

Gemma shares her journey from professional dancer to educator and how she discovered her niche in bone health.

They discuss the myths and fear-based messaging around osteoporosis, offering Pilates teachers practical strategies for adapting movement safely and effectively.

Whether you are a Pilates teacher wanting to upskill, a studio owner looking to better serve your clients, or simply curious about how movement impacts bone density and wellbeing, this conversation is packed with insights that you can take away.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Gemma Pearson

02:26 Realising the need for osteoporosis Pilates

04:19 Why teachers are nervous about this population

05:43 Gemma’s journey with Pilates

13:25 Strategies for teaching clients with osteoporosis

17:34 Adapting Pilates for special populations

25:40 Communicating effectively with clients

29:50 Building an online presence with purpose

30:09 The role of evidence-based practice

32:32 Moving from studio to online teaching

33:32 Creating community in the online space

34:59 Keeping clients engaged and empowered

41:30 Marketing strategies and client acquisition

50:31 Collaborations with medical professionals

53:28 Future goals and teacher training plans

56:56 Quick-fire questions

If you enjoyed this episode, please hit follow so you never miss a new release and if you are listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, a five-star review would mean the world in helping us reach more Pilates teachers and movement professionals.

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Rethinking Pilates Training and the Future of the Industry with Jenna Zaffino

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0100

The Pilates industry is evolving faster than ever, but not always in the right direction.

Nic is joined by educator, mentor, and business strategist Jenna Zaffino, who has been shaping conversations in Pilates for over two decades.

Jenna shares her journey from ballet to studio ownership, and how her personal challenges led her to pivot into mentorship and health coaching.

Nic and Jenna discuss the realities of running a Pilates studio today and the future of teacher training.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Jenna Zaffino

02:23 What is broken within the Pilates industry

06:51 Challenges in the Pilates community

08:05 The evolution of Pilates training

12:56 How Jenna discovered Pilates

17:16 Going from studio owner to mentor and coach

21:10 Balancing business with personal life

26:17 Why the traditional studio model is flawed

29:15 Building client relationships and tracking progress

30:29 Profitability of Pilates studios

31:55 Defining and communicating your value proposition

35:31 The power of authenticity and connection

36:07 Common struggles for studio owners

40:40 How Jenna got into business coaching

50:16 Mental health, inclusivity, and the future of Pilates

56:10 Quick fire questions

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Beyond the Reformer, share it with a friend, and leave us a review. It really helps us bring more incredible conversations to the podcast!

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Diary of a Pilates Studio Owner

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0100

For our final episode of S1, Nic sits down for her first ever solo episode.

Nic knows what it’s like to be starting out running your own studio and feeling a little bit lost or alone, so she wanted to chat about everything that has been coming up for her recently about running multiple studios, launching a teacher training programme and trying to balance work and life without burnout.

She also shares the joy and challenges of running a growing team, staying committed to her own Pilates practice and why continuous learning is so vital in the Pilates world.

She finishes up talking about marketing strategy, sales recruitment and building the right support structure for sustainable growth.

Timestamps

00:00 Nic’s first solo episode

00:31 Early challenges and lessons from starting a Pilates studio

01:01 How launching the podcast has impacted her

03:27 Balancing studio life with personal time and family

05:34 Making a renewed commitment to her own health and Pilates practice

08:22 Creating a comprehensive teacher training programme

11:12 The importance of ongoing learning and CPD

12:30 The value of mentorship in teaching and studio growth

13:46 Why movement efficiency is central to her teaching philosophy

15:22 Building and structuring the right studio team

17:02 The role of marketing in sustaining and growing a studio

22:42 Rethinking sales recruitment and interview processes

26:12 End of Season 1

A HUGE thank you to everyone that has supported the podcast for Season 1. The response has been incredible and we have big plans for the future of the podcast.

Before we come back with Season 2, if you have enjoyed the podcast, please subscribe and rate the show 5 stars as that would be amazing.

See you soon.

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How Pilates Helps Manage Chronic Conditions with Clara Farque

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Nic sits down with Clara Farque, a Pilates instructor, medical doctor, and chronic illness advocate, to explore the role Pilates has played in managing rheumatoid arthritis, preventing burnout, and creating a more holistic future for healthcare.

Clara shares how a life-changing diagnosis at 18 led her to Pilates and how she balances her work as a doctor with teaching and mentoring.

This episode takes an honest look at the intersection of chronic illness, movement, and medicine.

They also chat about the realities of showing up authentically on Instagram, how Clara built a loyal online community, and what Pilates teachers need to do to prevent burnout.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Clara

01:11 Clara’s journey to discovering Pilates

01:27 Living with arthritis and its challenges

03:47 Practising Pilates during university

04:18 Training to become a Pilates instructor

07:09 Balancing a medical career with teaching Pilates

09:34 How Pilates has impacted Clara’s life and career

12:33 Clara’s philosophy on teaching and adapting Pilates

21:19 Insights into holistic health and chronic illness

33:38 Specialising in elderly care

38:00 The importance of injury checks

40:02 Empowering clients and encouraging self-awareness

42:16 Mentoring new teachers and tackling imposter syndrome

52:01 Juggling life as a doctor, mum, and Pilates teacher

53:33 The challenges of growing on social media

56:54 Embracing authenticity as a Pilates instructor

01:03:45 Quick-fire questions

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with your Pilates friends. It really helps us reach more people with thoughtful conversations like this.

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What Separates Good Pilates Teachers from Great Ones with Diane Nye

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Introducing our new Teaching Tips series! We have Diane Nye back on the podcast, chatting about what makes a truly great teacher.

Having mentored hundreds of Pilates instructors over the past 16 years, Diane shares her insights on confidence, presence, and the art of bringing your personality into your teaching.

Together, we explore why knowledge alone doesn’t make a great teacher, how to build authentic connections with clients, and the importance of curiosity and observation in the early years of teaching.

Diane also offers advice for overcoming imposter syndrome, avoiding over-cueing, and making the most of your practice and observation hours.

If you haven’t listened to the first episode with Diane, you can check it out here

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome back Diane Nye!

00:40 What makes a truly successful teacher

02:12 Bringing personality and confidence into your teaching

04:29 Learning from experience and continuous improvement

05:16 Letting go of perfection and being present

10:40 What sets successful teachers apart

12:21 Advice for your first year of teaching

13:52 Common pitfalls for trainee teachers

19:21 Class planning challenges

22:37 Client expectations and teaching strategies

26:06 Mentoring in studios

29:20 Advice for studio owners

30:40 Putting your all into teaching

33:44 Continuous learning and development

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with your Pilates friends. It really helps us reach more people with thoughtful conversations like this.

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Creating a pilates studio that lasts, grows, and stays profitable with Chelsea Streifeneder

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Maintaining your Pilates studio’s equipment is a necessity if you want to ensure you are making a profit.

And no one understands that better than Chelsea Streifeneder, founder of Body Be Well Pilates and an expert in Pilates equipment maintenance and studio sustainability.

In this episode, Chelsea joins Nic to share what she’s learned in 16 years of studio ownership, including how she’s seen other opportunities outside of classes to make a profit in the Pilates world, and how to scale without burnout.

They discuss the recurring issues that cause equipment to break down, how Chelsea created a certified 8-week online course to train Pilates technicians worldwide, and how investing in maintenance can actually make you money.

Chelsea also talks about building a standout team, staying passionate about teaching, and why it’s crucial for instructors to be fully certified across all equipment.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Chelsea

01:22 Challenges in equipment maintenance and why most equipment issues are preventable

11:24 Chelsea’s patented ‘Sticky Feet’ reformer solution

13:08 Chelsea's journey with Pilates

14:20 How she built three thriving studios and a great team

17:30 Balancing profitability and passion

18:24 Balancing multiple studio locations

21:45 Chelsea’s approach to teacher training and certification

27:04 Adapting to changing clientele

28:33 Creating online courses and digital platforms

31:14 Challenges and rewards of studio ownership

35:58 Advice, mentors, and what Chelsea would tell her younger self

39:10 How to connect with Chelsea

If you enjoyed this episode, please make sure to share it with another studio owner who you think would find this valuable, and make sure to rate the show 5 stars.

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Understanding hypermobility and its impact on the body with Jeannie Di Bon

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0100

The pain, fatigue and anxiety you’ve been living with isn’t in your head, it’s a sign of something deeper your body has been trying to tell you.

Nic is joined by movement therapist and Pilates educator Jeannie Di Bon to explore the realities of living with hypermobility and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Jeannie was diagnosed later in life after years of unexplained symptoms, and her journey led her to create The Zebra Club, an online platform supporting hypermobile people around the world.

They talk about what hypermobility really means, the misunderstandings that exist even in the movement space, and how Jeannie’s Integral Movement Method helps people regain strength, stability and trust in their bodies.

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome and introduction

00:39 Jeannie’s personal journey with hypermobility

02:25 Discovering Pilates and how it changed her body

04:14 Early challenges training in classical Pilates

10:03 Understanding EDS and how hypermobility shows up

15:03 Teaching hypermobile clients with safety and care

23:05 How movement therapy transformed Jeannie’s life

26:14 The six principles of the Integral Movement Method

34:21 What gentle expansion really means

34:48 Research around fatigue, pain and pacing

36:19 Learning to listen to your body and build trust again

43:31 Why Jeannie created The Zebra Club

48:20 Using tech to make support more accessible

50:34 Her upcoming book and plans for teacher education

56:42 The future of health and fitness for hypermobile people

59:52 Quick-fire questions

If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a fellow teacher or someone living with chronic pain.

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Teaching classical Pilates in a trend-driven industry with Amy Kellow

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0100

Today, Nic is joined by Amy Kellow, founder of Everybody Pilates, second-generation teacher, and educator with studios across the UK and the Netherlands.

They talk about what classical Pilates really means, how to balance structure with intuition, and why understanding the origins of the work is essential, no matter what style you teach.

Amy explores the challenges of scaling a Pilates business, managing a team across locations, and how to keep evolving as a teacher while staying rooted in the original system.

Timestamps:

00:00 Amy’s first encounter with Pilates and how it helped her back pain

02:13 Teaching her first classes in local leisure centres and village halls

03:19 Training in the full classical system

05:37 What classical Pilates really is and how it’s often misunderstood

10:14 Classical vs contemporary Pilates

14:14 Amy’s first meeting with Jay Grimes and what she learned from him

16:30 Stories from Joseph Pilates

19:24 Developing her own training programme and the role of intuition in teaching

24:05 Changes Amy sees in Pilates clients

29:31 Growing Everybody Pilates to four studios, including one in the Netherlands

31:17 Maintaining quality and ethos across multiple locations

34:29 Leading a team and looking after your teachers

37:42 Future plans for expanding education and opening more studios

39:15 The pressure to modernise with trends

43:33 How Amy balances studio life, teaching, and curriculum development

48:07 The importance of staying inspired, asking questions, and being curious

53:58 Quick fire questions- advice from Jay, biggest influences, and the gift Pilates has given Amy

Thanks for listening to this weeks episode! Make sure to hit subscribe and rate the show 5 stars if you enjoyed.

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How Platinum Pilates was built without compromising on depth with Milena Jaksic

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0100

The secret to growing a successful Pilates business isn’t about chasing trends on Instagram or TikTok. You need to stay curious and always being open to learning!

In this inspiring episode, Nic sits down with Milena Jaksic, the founder of Platinum Pilates, to look at the story behind one of Ireland’s most respected studios.

They explore how she went from cleaning gym machines to opening six studios, the curiosity that’s kept her evolving over more than two decades, and the challenges of being a leader in an unregulated industry.

Milena also shares her thoughts on poor-quality training and what it means to build a brand with real substance.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Milena

00:58 Milena's background and early life

04:34 Introduction to the wellness world

07:13 Milena’s first experience of Pilates

13:22 Building a career in Pilates

17:18 Launching Platinum Pilates

19:39 Challenges and growth of Platinum Pilates

22:32 Why Milena integrated physiotherapy in her studio

25:47 Milena’s drive for continuous learning

33:48 Opening more studios and the challenges that came with it

38:01 What the pandemic did for Milena

40:21 Adapting her leadership style as her team has grown

44:22 How Milena brings consistency across all locations

51:17 The pressure to stay on top with new studios coming out

59:22 Exploring the impact of low-impact exercise on mood

01:02:46 Future plans for Platinum Pilates

01:05:01 Quick-fire questions

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow the show so you don’t miss next week’s episode.

New conversations drop every Monday!

If you’re looking to take your Pilates practice one step further and sign up for Nic’s comprehensive teacher training programme, use the code BEYOND at checkout: Soul Pilates Teacher Training

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Using neuroscience to transform the way we teach Pilates with Heba Abdel Gawad

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Want to know how to combine Pilates and neuroscience?

In this episode, Nic is joined by Heba Abdel Gawad, who is a two-time Olympic synchronised swimmer turned Pilates educator and founder of the Neuro Pilates method.

They explore Heba’s fascinating transition from elite athlete to pioneering educator, how her sporting background shaped her teaching style, and how neuroscience has deepened her understanding of movement.

You’ll hear about how Heba discovered Pilates and later integrated applied neuroscience into her classes, and why she believes the future of movement education lies in understanding the brain!

She also opens up about burnout, business growth, and her passion for raising the next generation of teachers.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro to Heba

01:14 Heba's early Pilates experience

04:18 Transition from synchronised swimming to Pilates

13:46 Discovering the Neuro Pilates method

16:00 Integrating Neuro Pilates into teaching

19:37 The impact of Neuro Pilates

29:12 Building a Pilates community

33:30 Developing the Body Hack education program

34:13 Challenges and adjustments in teaching

35:25 Expansion into personal training

36:32 Pilates education and accreditation

38:48 The importance of in-person training

41:06 Balancing business and quality education

49:00 Finding and training quality instructors

56:05 Preventing burnout in the wellness industry

1:01:01 Quick fire questions!

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your Pilates friends. It helps more people find the show and supports meaningful conversations like this one!

If you’re looking to take your Pilates practice one step further and sign up for Nic’s comprehensive teacher training programme, use the code BEYOND at checkout: Soul Pilates Teacher Training

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Understanding the Franklin Method and building an online Pilates community with Rachael Hall

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Pilates is a business of energy and this is what Nic and Rachael go deep into in this weeks episode.

Rachael Hall is a former Royal Ballet dancer, Franklin Method educator, Pilates teacher of 24+ years, and founder of the global online platform Aligned.

She shares her incredible story that has led her to running her own grounded, heart-led business.

She opens up about what it takes to truly listen to your body, how to grow a soulful movement platform online, and why embodiment, energetics, and community matter more than ever.

They talk about the evolution of teaching, healing through prolapse recovery, building an online Pilates membership, and integrating nervous system work and the Franklin Method into everyday classes.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Rachael Hall

01:41 Rachael's early journey into movement

03:21 Discovering Pilates through injury

05:19 Transition to teaching

08:59 Understanding the Franklin Method

15:49 Universal Health Principles and energetics

20:56 Building an online wellness community

29:07 Tips for growing an online presence

30:52 Maintaining connection online

31:38 Building a global community

34:34 Launching a podcast

37:50 Creating the Ultimate Pelvic Floor Plan

40:40 A holistic approach to pelvic health

45:30 Teaching her daughters what she learns

52:55 You have all the tools you need

55:11 Quick-fire questions

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your Pilates friends. It helps more people find the show and supports meaningful conversations like this one!

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Learning to walk again and teaching equestrian Pilates with Julie Driver

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Today we’re talking about the power of equestrian Pilates!

Nic chats with Julie Driver, award-winning Pilates educator, international presenter, and equestrian Pilates specialist.

Julie shares her unique journey from acting and modelling into the world of Pilates, how a skiing accident changed her career path, and the moment Monty Roberts asked her, “Why aren’t you following your dream?”

They discuss what horse whispering really is, the power of understanding your own movement as a rider, and how Pilates can serve both teacher and client through life’s injuries and transitions.

Julie also explores her teacher training philosophies, the changing landscape of Pilates education, and why understanding the classical foundations is essential.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Julie Driver

01:20 Julie’s first encounter with Pilates and transition from acting

05:51 Julie’s skiing accident and learning to walk again

08:51 Rediscovering her equestrian passion

11:21 Combining Pilates with equestrian training

15:15 What horse whispering really means

18:32 Techniques and benefits of Pilates for riders

25:41 The importance of feeling and feedback in Pilates

26:32 Teaching style and empowering clients

27:19 Niche teaching for equestrians

29:29 Julie’s teacher training journey

32:38 The value of classical Pilates

33:50 Challenges in Pilates education

44:57 Creating comprehensive teacher training programmes

50:23 Quick-fire questions

54:39 How to work with Julie

If you loved this episode, make sure to follow or subscribe to the show so you never miss a conversation.

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What no one teaches us about hormones and movement with Dinah Siman

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0100

In this week’s episode, Nic is joined by Dinah Siman, founder of Menopause Pilates, author, educator and a powerful advocate for women’s health.

Dinah opens up about the real experience of perimenopause, the chronic pain that nearly ended her teaching career, and the frustrating lack of education she encountered, even as a movement professional.

They explore why Pilates teachers are uniquely positioned to support women through midlife, how to recognise the overlooked symptoms of menopause in your clients, and what movement and teaching adaptations actually help.

This is a must listen for anyone working with women in their thirties or forties, or navigating their own changing body and seeking some support.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Dinah

01:13 Dinah’s journey into Pilates

04:36 Teaching elite athletes and opening her own studio

09:15 Developing a niche within Menopause Pilates

14:31 Personal experiences with menopause

27:31 The importance of understanding menopause in Pilates

31:14 Creating a supportive environment for menopausal clients

35:41 Building an authentic brand on Instagram

39:59 Writing the book from idea to publication

41:45 Course structure and teaching philosophy

43:08 Sharing her course globally

45:58 Advice for teachers wanting to create niche content

51:30 The future of Pilates education

01:03:24 Quick fire questions

What an incredible conversation!

If you enjoyed it, as always, please subscribe and rate the show five stars. It really helps us continue to bring amazing guests to the podcast.

If you’re looking to take your Pilates practice one step further and sign up for Nic’s comprehensive teacher training programme, use the code BEYOND at checkout: Soul Pilates Teacher Training

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What it really takes to grow a values-led Pilates studio with Leah Hart

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0100

You can build a successful Pilates business without burning out or losing yourself in the process!

In this week’s episode of Beyond the Reformer, Nic is joined by Leah Hart, founder of Glow Pilates in Limerick, Ireland, podcast host, and Polestar educator.

Leah shares her journey from dance and academia to studio ownership and becoming a mentor to the next generation of Pilates teachers.

Nic and Leah have an honest and insightful conversation about what it really looks like to run a Pilates business, including learning to lead a team, navigating burnout, motherhood, and the industry’s ever-evolving trends.

Timestamps

00:00 Leah's early life and introduction to Pilates

03:45 Transition from Pilates as a hobby to a career

05:32 Opening her first studio

08:26 Challenges with opening a studio in Limerick

16:19 Leah’s philosophy in her studio

24:44 Recruiting teachers and training

26:52 Encouraging curiosity in teaching

27:20 Challenging traditional fitness language

29:10 Opening a second studio

31:42 Leadership skills and team management

37:33 Balancing business and family

41:34 Starting a podcast

45:33 Future plans for Glow Pilates

48:40 Quick-fire questions

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your Pilates friends. It helps more people find the show and supports meaningful conversations like this one.

If you’re looking to take your Pilates practice one step further and sign up for Nic’s comprehensive teacher training programme, use the code BEYOND at checkout: Soul Pilates Teacher Training

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The hidden signs of burnout and the holistic path to healing with Audrey O’Connor

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Audrey O’Connor joins Nic for a powerful conversation about healing, burnout, identity, and following your gut into a more aligned life.

Audrey shares her journey from the corporate construction industry to discovering Pilates, then expanding into reiki, sound healing, and wellness education.

She opens up about experiencing burnout not once, but twice, and how she now integrates sound healing and nervous system regulation into her own life and the lives of her clients.

They talk about the realities of working in the wellness industry and what it means to truly listen to your body.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Audrey O’Connor

01:36 From quantity surveying to Pilates

08:52 Signs of burnout and listening to your body

16:52 What led Audrey to teaching Pilates and her training

27:16 Integrating reiki, sound healing, and deeper emotional support

31:17 Working for corporate giants

35:32 Integrating this work into corporate wellness

41:14 Creating an online wellness platform

44:59 Sound healing and alternative practices

52:25 Daily wellness practice

01:04:39 Quick-fire questions

Thanks to Audrey for all the amazing insights! It was delightful having her on, and if you enjoyed it, please make sure to rate the show, subscribe, and send it to someone who needs it!

If you’re looking to take your Pilates practice one step further and sign up for Nic’s comprehensive teacher training programme, use the code BEYOND at checkout: Soul Pilates Teacher Training

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The way you cue in Pilates matters more than you think with Diane Nye

Mon, 26 May 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Pilates isn’t just about teaching the movements. It’s about a whole-body, holistic approach to the practice. Nic is joined today by Diane Nye, Polestar Pilates educator, Franklin Method teacher and a deeply respected voice in the Pilates world. Diane reflects on her 30-year journey from high-intensity fitness instructor to movement mentor and shares the lessons that changed the way she teaches and lives. They explore how true transformation in Pilates comes from creating space for clients to feel, notice and unravel. Diane shares insights into nervous system regulation, the myth of “engaging your core,” how the body compensates around imbalance, and why less is often more. If you have ever questioned the way Pilates is taught or want to go deeper in your teaching, this episode will completely shift how you see your role as a teacher.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro to Diane

01:55 Diane's journey into Pilates

04:24 Teaching in community spaces and adapting studio work

08:38 Becoming a Polestar educator

11:31 The importance of continuous learning

16:54 Common teaching myths and why they persist

26:44 The role of safety in movement

32:06 Incorporating mindfulness in Pilates

35:43 Balancing awareness in Pilates

36:21 The depth of simple movements

37:26 The importance of noticing changes

38:58 The trouble with traditional anatomy and outdated cues

48:30 Holistic approach in Pilates

54:57 Challenges in Pilates education

01:01:17 Quick fire questions

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with your Pilates friends. It really helps us reach more people with thoughtful conversations like this.

If you’re looking to take your Pilates practice one step further and sign up for Nic’s comprehensive teacher training programme, use the code BEYOND at checkout: Soul Pilates Teacher Training

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The importance of knowing your numbers as a Pilates studio owner with Catherine Hebb

Mon, 19 May 2025 05:00:00 +0100

If you’re looking to open your first Pilates studio, this episode is packed with the advice you need to hear!

Nic sits down with Catherine Hebb, founder of Runway Pilates, a three-studio collective based in the UK and business coach to movement professionals worldwide. Catherine’s journey from a high-performing corporate career to grounded, values-led studio owner is filled with lessons for anyone navigating growth in the wellness space.

They talk honestly about what scaling a studio really involves- systems that support your team, boundaries that protect your energy, and the identity shift from teacher to leader.

If you enjoyed this episode please make sure to subscribe and rate the show 5 stars!

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro to Catherine Hebb

01:45 Catherine's early journey with Pilates

05:20 Opening the first studio in Manchester

10:07 Challenges and strategies in studio expansion

18:46 The importance of knowing your numbers

21:07 Supporting and managing instructors

24:52 Consistency in teaching and practice

25:16 Supporting and onboarding new teachers

27:21 Introducing new equipment to the studio

32:17 Learning how to lead

35:48 Preventing burnout and work–life balance

38:50 Team connection and building culture

40:20 Advice for running a successful studio

40:52 Quick-fire questions

If you’re looking to take your Pilates practice one step further and sign up for Nic’s comprehensive teacher training programme, use the code BEYOND at checkout: Soul Pilates Teacher Training

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Learning to trust your body again through Pilates with Claire Sparrow

Mon, 12 May 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Welcome to the very first episode of Beyond the Reformer! Nic is joined by renowned educator, author, and studio owner Claire Sparrow.

Claire shares her inspiring journey from growing up surrounded by strong, inspiring women, to discovering Pilates during her time as a contemporary dancer, to eventually becoming an internationally recognised teacher and bestselling author of Hope for Your Pelvic Floor.

Nic and Claire have a deep chat about how Pilates transforms people far beyond the physical, why proper education matters in the industry, and how we can reclaim the power to trust our bodies, even when the experts are telling us otherwise.

Whether you’re a teacher, student, studio owner, or simply a Pilates lover, this episode is a must-listen for anyone craving more depth and connection in their Pilates practice!

Timestamps

00:00 Intro to Claire Sparrow

01:17 Claire's background and inspiring women in her life

04:53 Discovering dance and Pilates

07:13 The journey to teaching Pilates

13:26 Listening to yourself instead of just the ‘experts’

17:10 The desire to help more people

19:10 Mentoring with Lolita

25:22 Balancing business, teaching and personal life

32:13 Shifts in Pilates over the years

37:12 Long-term benefits of Pilates and the value of it

40:18 What’s missing in the conversation about Pilates education

44:05 Holistic teaching approaches

46:37 Specialising in pelvic floor health

51:51 Writing a book as a dyslexic author

56:14 Balancing career and family

01:00:39 The future of Pilates

01:02:48 Quick-fire questions

Thank you for listening to the first ever episode of Beyond the Reformer!

If you enjoyed it, then please make sure to rate the show 5 stars and share it on your Instagram so that we can grow the show.

If you’re looking to take your Pilates practice one step further and sign up for Nic’s comprehensive teacher training programme, use the code BEYOND at checkout: Soul Pilates Teacher Training

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Welcome to Beyond the Reformer!

Wed, 07 May 2025 09:00:00 +0100

Welcome to Beyond the Reformer, the podcast where Pilates professionals and enthusiasts come together for thoughtful conversations, genuine insights, and inspiring stories.

Make sure to subscribe so you can join Nic every Monday morning to feel more connected, inspired, and empowered in your Pilates practice, teaching, and beyond...