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Making Hard Choices Part 2: Hiring Teachers

Making Hard Choices Part 2: Hiring Teachers

The other day I had the unpleasant task of filling out a wage garnishment form for one of my former teachers. Two years ago, my business partner and I finally had the courage to part ways with this person. Yet here we were, in 2011, still bogged down by the endless repercussions of not being clear and not knowing how to say no. There is nothing worse for a business’ prospects than allowing the wrong people into it. Choosing people is not about knowing what you don’t want, but what you do want. Don’t make the mistake of settling for less. In order to recognize those teachers who are not a good fit, we must first know exactly what kind of people we want to attract. We need people who will support our vision, hold the... Continue ...

Holiday Gift Guide

Holiday Gift Guide

The best holiday gift is still the Gift of Health which can be given in many ways.   These days there are more creative ideas for fitness gifts than you can imagine.   Think about the people you love and how they would enjoy these fun, fitness ideas this holiday season!  The best gift is the actual gift of Pilates…a Gift Certificate or package of sessions. Find your local Pilates Studio and give what everyone would enjoy and definitely benefit from! At Home DVDs a great way to get someone started with Pilates! Pilates iPhone Case $25.00. This is a trendy, fun cover for your iPhone! Pilates Warrior Coffee Mug $15.00. A unique Pilates mug for those coffee junkies! Personalized Water Bottle for Ladies $16.95. A... Continue ...

Pilates for Chronic Low Back Pain

Pilates for Chronic Low Back Pain

As Pilates instructors, we have all encountered individuals who suffer from back pain. Back pain is ubiquitous – 8/10 people will experience it in their lifetime.   It has significant financial costs and is challenging for conventional healthcare to treat. Pilates is an excellent modality to combat back pain.  The slow pace of the exercises, the emphasis on proper breathing and the focus on alignment make Pilates a practice that is both therapeutic and strengthening in design. Pilates for Relief The routine presented is made up of Classic Pilates exercises with modifications as well as simple stretches.  They will not only help during an acute exacerbation but can also reduce the likelihood of the pain becoming a chronic... Continue ...

Dead Butt Syndrome

Dead Butt Syndrome

In 1990 while dancing professionally, I sustained a hamstring injury during a dance performance. I was running backwards heading toward a “controlled fall” that was to be broken by another dancer. The other dancer missed the catch, and I fell earthbound with great velocity. Immediately, I felt pain near my ischial tuberosity on the right side of my pelvis. After 6 weeks of rest, gentle stretching, and mild strength training, I thought my recovery was complete. Fast forward to 1996. I was teaching a Modern dance class at Arizona State University. During the class while coming across the floor in a running combination, I heard a pop at my right hamstring insertion when I rapidly accelerated, then decelerated the... Continue ...

Pilates Beyond the Studio

Pilates Beyond the Studio

Sometimes we all need a change of scenery.  Getting out of the studio and offering Pilates in non-traditional venues will give you the opportunity to tap into possible new clientele, introduce Pilates to those who might otherwise never try it, and give back to your community.  This article will help you step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Pilates in the Park Many Pilates in the Park events are held on Pilates day each year.  Why not make it a regular class?  There are groups that meet in public parks in New York, LA and Chicago on a weekly schedule during the summer, sometimes drawing hundreds of people!  If you’ve ever had a hard time going to your studio because you wanted to be outside…this could... Continue ...

TheShu

TheShu

It is wonderful to be barefoot during a Pilates session, but many people prefer to have something on their feet. Whether it is for warmth, cleanliness, comfort or to avoid slipping, there are many options available these days for covering the feet. One of the options in our industry is called TheShu. TheShu is a lightweight and comfortable slipper-like foot covering that is made in the Philippines. It is geared toward indoor sports to help with performance while maintaining a barefoot feeling. Their Athletic design, made of Lycra® or other similar fabrics, has a skid resistant sole. They also have an eco-friendly option, which uses Bamboo or Cotton and Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) for the non skid sole. There are two styles,... Continue ...

Pilates Spine Twist Exercise Video

Pilates Spine Twist Exercise Video

This video illustrates the Pilates Spine Twist exercise. This exercise is great for spinal rotation. The Spine Twist exercise targets the transversus abdominis, pelvic floor, obliques and scapular stabilizers. Focus on maintaining abdominal contraction to prevent extension of the lumbar and thoracic spine. Maintain scapular stabilization and avoid ballistic movement. Modify this exercise by sitting on a towel or pad to assist with tight low back, hip flexors and/or hamstrings. As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any exercise program. If you should experience any pain or discomfort, please discontinue the exercise and consult your doctor immediately. AKPC_IDS += "92,"; Continue ...