Laurette Ryan PMA-CPT 

When I have read Joseph Pilates “Return to Life through Contrology” what occurs to me is that he isn’t writing this for the skilled dancer or athlete. The text is pretty straight forward with his views and recommendations on wellness, health and his exercises.

I have watched Pilates in my experience of it evolve from the studio and dancers’ world to the health club and gym scene, back to the modern studio. It occurs to me though, by exploring the history that Joe meant this for every “body” literally. It is just now in my practice that I am lucky to see his wish starting to manifest in my work. Lately I’ve taken on some less than athletic bodies (not horrible just regular folks) all over 50 +, all have their own challenges, I’m thrilled. What I’ve discovered is that beginning to build a body with Pilates is the most rewarding experience of all.

When I teach my dancers, we fix problems caused by their work, or lack of strength, flexibility or alignment in their dancing. Same with my fitness enthusiasts, athletes and Pilates teachers…usually I’m also undoing bad habits and that’s like pulling teeth!

With my regular folks, I get to start at the beginning-building the foundation. Sure there are some bad movement habits in the realm of their everyday, but when they are made aware of these, the sudden awakening of body awareness is profound and powerful. It’s a new revelation to them. “I have muscles and they move me-and my brain can tell them what to do!” If you truly start with foundational movements it can be daunting, but it’s those tiny building blocks of proper movement that with repetition, become the “foundation” (there’s no other way to put it) of wonderful classical and contemporary Pilates exercise. Which we all know-work…the work -works.

Here’s what I love about regular folks doing Pilates, I love when they first figure out that they can stabilize their hips and how powerful that is, that they can sit up straight, that their neck feels better. They can lift their leg while lying on their backs, tighten their core and not strain their backs. They can reach their arms up- over their heads… they can suddenly enjoy life more because they have more stamina. They can walk with an even gait and dare I say-true story- “they can put on their underpants and not tip over” (true story-isn’t that wonderful!)

Did you ever see the home movies of Joe training that poor soul on mat. (Go to Mary Bowen’s website and purchase-it’s a treasure every enthusiast should own!) Now I don’t agree with all his technique (watch it- you’ll see!) but the second part ( the before/after) where the regular guy is performing those mat exercises -the improvement- that’s what it’s all about people.

I personally do not agree with the technique or system where the teacher has a 60 minute long set series of exercises-(classical or otherwise) and all beginners start there. I think you must teach to the body that lies on the mat before you. If you read Joe’s directives for performing the exercises he implies you must perfect each before moving on. Nowhere do I read- “go do all 34 Mat exercises and good luck to you…” He stresses performing the movements with good form and attention, with mindfulness. It reminds me of a saying I have heard in the dance studio, “Practice does not make perfect, only perfect practice makes perfect.”

My favorite first timers prep exercise is a contemporary one, we’ve always called it knee-folds.

1. Lie on your back. Lengthen the spine to the mat.
2. Knees are bent with feet in line with the hips and hands palpitating the ASIS(hip bones)
3. Slowly lift one knee keeping the ASIS still and quiet
4. Place foot down and continue with the other leg.

If the beginner student cannot perform this adequately, we start here. Certainly exercises like single or double leg stretch are out of their repertoire for the moment. With proper development of the basic skill of pelvic stabilization, soon they are on their way to a successful lifelong program of a Pilates regimen.

So don’t be anxious beginners and regular folks, go out and find yourself a qualified Pilates professional. If you don’t like the first place or teacher keep looking…Joe meant this work for YOU!

By the way….to look for a qualified Pilates teacher in your state you can go to www.pilatesmethodalliance.org click on find a teacher, and your state. These are truly “certified” teachers. There maybe other “qualified” teachers in your area, but their level of foundational expertise has not necessarily been evaluated by a 3^rd party credentialing agency.

Happy Pilates

Laurette Ryan

www.balancepointpilates.com

Technorati Tags: abdominal, Beginner, body, exercises, Expert, Pilates, pilates mat class, pilates workout, strength

Pilates, Fascia and alignment….

By Laurette Ryan PMA-CPT

You’ve probably been hearing a lot lately about the role of fascia in exercise. You may have heard it described as a webbing or net enveloping the body but that is just a small piece of the picture. We can go back to the very formation of you as a body for a deeper insight.

In the embryonic stage, you are made of 3 types of germ  cell layers. Ectoderm,  Endoderm and Mesoderm. The Ectoderm forms your brain, skin, and nervous system, the endoderm your digestive system and the mesoderm forms the framework or matrix for everything else. It is this mesodermic stuff which is in effect fascia. It weaves in and around everywhere. This fascia began to morph as you grew from embryo to fetus. It became the scaffolding for bones, when bone cells deposited there and built up, you got bones. As the end of these bones pushed into their fascial bed -fascia did it’s thing and thickened up and became denser at those points and formed ligament or tendon. As the fascial bed lay with bones and joints pulling it in different directions- muscle cells deposited -(in this fascial matrix) and fascia took on qualities or morphed into our different muscles and muscle groups.

It weaves everywhere throughout your body, it holds things in place. It can be juicy, gel-like and super pliable or thick and matted, clay or glass-like. It’s differing qualities depend on where it is in the body and what conditions it encounters. This can be beneficial or not so beneficial and is really influenced by our alignment throughout our lives.

Fascia is extremely rich in nerve endings- it provides the brain with feedback, particularly when it is healthy and aligned properly. When it is not aligned properly, when there is pressure or tension placed on the fascial bed – fascia responds by thickening and matting up-(think about the knots in your shoulders or back)- this causes irritation, pain and discomfort, which in turn causes more tension and pressure to the area affected. What’s the fix? In my research I have noted there are two very good ways to alleviate this problem. One is Rolfing, manually smooth the fascial tissue – re-educating the tissue manually. But the second way is far more exciting for us as Pilates teachers, and that is to exercise and move in good alignment. Simple as that! Isn’t that what we do every day with Pilates? Clients feel better through their whole body with a sound Pilates program. Pilates feels different than weight training or calisthenics because the attention to alignment is one of the biggest differences. (key* start with the spine)

Understanding the role of fascia in exercise and particularly Pilates will deepen your practice. Remember fascia is everywhere, it permeates you, your bones, muscles, it surrounds and lifts all parts of you, it holds you together and floats you between your bones…it is constantly responding to the conditions you are in. Work and live in good alignment for you are a fascial bubble.

Laurette Ryan

www.balancepointpilates.com

Technorati Tags: fascia, fitness, health, myofascia, pilates exercises, pilates fitness, pilates workout, strength, stretching, workout

The question isn’t should you? or how? it’s “Will you? ” I love my vacation and make certain to get at least 2 weeks in every year. I try not to work, …but I really enjoy my work so I’m always brainstorming new ideas for classes and workshops. It’s great to love your work and luckily mine is Pilates. So usually the first few days -I just stretch and stretch and stretch. We’re very active as a family and can log about 5-10 miles a day just strolling around and exploring our surroundings. Stretching at the end of a busy day is not only a lovely treat   it’s a necessity!

About day three -if I haven’t done my Pilates exercise that’s when my body starts rebelling a little. Years ago after many years of dance training and high-impact aerobics had taken their toll- I had low back and neck issues and when I go for long periods without doing pilates exercises it all comes back.

So I will do my Pilates on vacation! I generally do the basics- original order Mat is great, but even just a quick AB5 ,Roll-up, Swimming and push-ups- keeps my core in tune.  I also enjoy the famous towel exercises taught by Ron Fletcher. A towel is an amazing prop for strengthening and stretching. So I will do my exercises! It is a MUST DO, and also a delightful way to keep one moving with “spontaneous zest and pleasure” as Joe would say, throughout one’s vacation.

Will you do your Pilates on vacation?

Laurette Ryan

Balancepoint Pilates

www.balancepointpilates.com

www.LauretteRyan.com

Technorati Tags: vacation

Real Men- DO-do Pilates!

An Interview with Bernie Nelson- An Up and Coming Force in the Pilates World.

By Laurette Ryan

www.balancepointpilates.com

I met Bernie about 2 years ago at a Pilates Business Discussion group at the 2009 PMA convention. Bernie is a big guy, with a big voice and a big personality. He has an open and friendly way about him that makes everyone feel at ease. Still he was a bit of a curious figure at the convention, not the former dancer type and so in that respect he stood out and piqued my interest.

We see all types of female participants in Pilates, but not as many males and this is something we all find a puzzle. After all Joseph Pilates was a man (not a dancer) and developed his regimen for men to do. Seeing someone like Bernie out there, so obviously passionate about the work was exciting and then finding out that Bernie Nelson is the founder of The Pilates Roundtable convention in West Palm Beach,Florida, I knew Bernie is a guy to keep your eye on.

So I recently asked Bernie a few questions. I know you will enjoy hearing about him and this new educational Pilates conference.

LR What is your back ground? How long have you been teaching Pilates?

BN I was born and raised in Atlantic Ia., A small town in the southwest corner of Iowa. I was very active in sports growing up and excelled in football and wrestling. These sports and my father is what I feel most contributed to my work ethic. I was a personal trainer and massage therapist when I first discovered Pilates. That was just over 10 years ago. I took a weekend workshop on how to teach mat pilates and I have to be honest It did not really interest me. I was doing bodybuilding at the time and was in great shape but did not have the flexibility to perform the pilates exercises. Picture this there were just over 100 people in the workshop out of which there was 3 other males. The men were built completely different from myself they weighed around 150 to 160 lbs. and I weighed 260 lbs and was about 10% body fat. As I looked around I saw that I did not really fit the picture and I was not that impressed with the workshop and walked away thinking I would never be teaching Pilates. Fortunately I ended working with a person that was involved with a Pilates teacher training school that reintroduced me to the works of Pilates. Once I saw people working on the machines I was truly hooked. I went through their program and begun my teaching career. Since that first mom and pop program I have went through Kane School of Core Integration of New York for which I helped to facilitate their program in Florida from my studio. I have also obtained the PMA Certification and I am currently attending the Lolita San Miguel Pilates Master Mentoring Program. I also have my own teacher training program called Body & Core Pilates which I have been facilitating for the past 3 years.

LR What motivated you to start doing Pilates?

BN At first I was truly intrigued by the biomechanics of the work. It just made since to me. Know don’t get me wrong I was quite a meat head. When I played football in college and was bodybuilding I was from the bigger, stronger, faster mind set and overloading was very much part of my workout routine. But as I got more and more involved with pilates and my body got older and older I realized I was training the wrong way. I am now 41 and have lived a very active life by growing up wrestling and playing football through high school. Continuing to play football all the way through college getting into bodybuilding threw my early 30’s. My body took a lot of abuse and thank god I found Pilates. I have a bad knee, hip and shoulder and Pilates tends to keep me out of pain. Every once in a while I get too busy and my practice falls by the wayside. This is when I discover how much I need my Pilates workouts. My body tells me so.

LR Tell me about where you teach, do you own a studio? ,work with clients at home, etc.?

BN I own and workout of my studio, Body & Core Pilates, in Palm Beach Gardens, Fl. I primarily teach one-on-ones but over the last two years I have added Redcord (suspension), Reformer and Mat classes. I teach in season around 40 hours a week privates and maybe 4 – 5 classes. Out of season I teach 25 to 30 hours privates and 5 to 7 Classes. I also teach teacher training workshops at least 2 weekends a month. I am a bit of a workaholic.

LR. This past Sept. was the 2nd Annual Pilates Roundtable Conference, seems like running a conference is a big project. How much work is it, what goes into the planning? Do you have a staff that helps you?

BN The conference is a big project. The first year I used the staff of my studio to assist with the planning and facilitating of the conference. They were a big help but it was a very costly event so the second year I did all by myself. It is a tremendous amount of work and I was a little reluctant to do it again this year. I had a lot of advice not to have it this year but I also had a lot of the attendee’s from the previous year’s conference requesting it. I have learned that hosting a conference is an expensive endeavor and takes a great deal planning and time. I imagine it would be a bit different if I commercialized it and our primary purpose was to sell a certain type of equipment or a certain style of education. If I did this it would open another revenue stream and I would be able to hire a staff. I can’t see this happening though, for our goal is to bring education from many different styles of Pilates so that the attendees have a chance to experience and learn things they are not normally available to.

LR Why did you start this conference?

BN When I opened my studio I realized how hard it is to run this type of business. I knew I needed education and did not know where to get it. I was a personal trainer and massage therapist before a Pilates instructor and needed education that fit my personality and knowledge. I started to attend Pilates conferences all over the country and loved what I got from them. At the same time I began to organize little social gathering for local Pilates instructors to network and discuss what was happening in their studios and practices. At the 2009 Pilates Method Alliance conference in Phoenix AZ. It became evident to me that there were only a few instructors from my area in attendance.  Now I knew there were hundreds of Pilates instructors in my area and to only have a few at the conference worried me a bit. A couple of weeks after the PMA conference we hosted a gathering of Pilates instructors. Where I asked the question why there was not a better representation of our area at the PMA conference. They all came back with that it was too expensive and that the workshops did not apply to their needs.  That’s when I decided to create the Pilates Round Table and host our first conference. The goal is to make the conference about the education and the needs of the Pilates instructor while keeping in the price range of their budget.  We also wanted to make sure that if an instructor wanted to travel to our conference it would not be as expensive as other conferences.

LR What were some of the highlights at the conference this year?

BN Where to start?  The conference really did what it was created to do.  We had 9 of the top presenters in the Pilates industry representing 9 different styles of Pilates.  Our workshops were 3 hours long and had no more than 15 attendees per session.  This way the presenter had ample time to teach their workshop and the attendees had the opportunity to ask questions.  There were workshops on equipment along with workshops on the mat.  We covered suspension training, which we are seeing more and more Pilates studios are offering.  We also offered Yamuna Body Rolling for the hips. But for the most part we stayed to the Pilates theme.  The Conference is 6 three hour workshops, 3 one hour workout classes, two general presentations, 5 meals and a cocktail networking party. The cost is only $575. If you register by November 1^st, 2010 by putting down a deposit of $200 the cost will be only $400. The deposit is fully refundable until June 1^st, 2011at which time the remaining $200 will be due.

LR How do you chose the presenters, and do you feel they are representative of state of Pilates currently/in what respect?

BN I choose the presenters a few ways.  First I listen to the people that early register.  I feel if they are willing to put their hard earned money down as a deposit they should have some input on the conference.  I do have some stipulations thou.  I am looking to bring the presenters from outside our area.  The PRT (Pilates Round Table) conference is about education and not ego.  I want every participant to feel like they are a part of this conference and not in competition with the presenter.  Plus I think if a local educator would do better by hosting workshops in their own studio and our conference is more for the chance to get education that is not just around the corner.  I have my own teacher training program and I do not present at the PRT.  Another way I choose our presenters is they have to be more about being a part of our conference than just presenting to get a paycheck.  Our presenters have the passion to teach and want to be more of an educator and less of a salesman.  We are also looking for presenters that truly know what they are presenting.  For instance this year we had Rebecca Leone teaching “The Critical Eye | Mapping the Body for Alignment and Strength”. This is a workshop that she has been developing over the past two years and has great video footage on the net.

LR Do you attend other conferences, educational workshops, etc.?

BN I attended the last two PMA conferences and their teacher training summit.  I will also be attending this year’s PMA conference in Long Beach Ca.  I have attended two conferences put on by Pilates Style Magazine.  I am also just finishing up with a 200 hour mentorship with Lolita San Miguel.  I think it is so vital to keep yourself involved with education.

LR Will there be a 3rd Pilates Round Table Conference?

BN Yes! There will be a 3^rd Annual Pilates Round Table Conference. We have just booked the Crowne Plaza Hotel in West Palm Beach, Florida for September 23^rd – 25^th, 2011. Our conference is structured to be all about the education. We like to keep the workshops limited to no more than 30 attendees per session. This means we only have room for a total of 200 attendees.  Just as this years conference there will be 6 three hour workshops, 3 one hour workout classes, two hour long general presentation, 5 meals and 1 cocktail party.  Normal registration is $575 but if you want to assure yourself a seat at the 3^rd Annual Pilates Round Table Conference and are willing to put a $200 deposit down, which is fully refundable till June 1^st 2011, the conference registration will be only $400.

LR Do you have a favorite Pilates exercise?

BN I don’t have just one favorite exercise.  When my body hurts the most I tend to do a lot of foot series and arm circles on the reformer followed by some tower work and leg circles on the Cadillac and of course spine articulation with the roll up/down and the hundred.

As you can see Bernie is an interesting guy with a great vision of the future of Pilates to contact him:

Bernie Nelson, President

Pilates Round Table

4103 Burns Rd.

Palm Beach Gardens, Fl. 33410

Phone: 561-775-8416

Web: www.pilatesroundtable.com Email: bernie@pilatestroundtable.com

Laurette Ryan

Balancepoint Pilates



EMPOWER your Pilates…

by Laurette Ryan

www.balancepointpilates.com

The Pilates method of exercise has got to be one of the best systems out there. What I’ve enjoyed most through my many years of learning and teaching is it’s versatility . It is precise structure and evolving creativity. Those who preach that it is either-or , I feel miss the point. I have often been struck by the information imparted by various 1^st generation teachers who will readily contend that while Joseph Pilates devised a very specific method, he also taught to the individual, was always creating and evolving his own work.

Whether you are a student or teacher of Pilates you should first become very grounded in the precise structure, learn the original order of exercises, practice perfect form and of course know the back round and history. When you have experienced this for a time and feel confident then you should seek out some evolutions , deviations and fusions. In exploring the creative interpretations of the work you often unlock potential flexibility or strength which can later be applied to the Classical form to improve your execution of the exercises.

I have many times now, gone through this process . First immersing myself in the classical work and then the contemporary or evolved interpretation. Each time, I find I develop a better appreciation of Joseph Pilates’ method. I have discovered many things about the exercises and my body, my muscles and movement patterns. These are revelations that not only help me, but help me teach the work to others.

Empowering your Pilates means to invest your Pilates with power! A power to not just change your body (read here “get a six-pack”) but to change the way in which your body “is” in the world and how you “feel” in that body.

Empowering your Pilates experience means trusting yourself as your “best” personal trainer. The classical method is genius. Try to get to know the classical method as well as your body will let you. There will likely be exercises which won’t work for you, especially in your first months and years. Expanding your somatic experience with contemporary Pilates or other modalities like Yoga, Dance and Bodywork can open doors to more informed movement.

Joseph Pilates cites many examples in the natural world of animal and their “natural rhythm” . Have you sought out your own “natural rhythm”. Learn your foundation well, and then don’t be afraid to march to the beat of your own inner drum. I think that’s what Joe did….what do you think?

Pilates -The Path to a Profession

by Laurette Ryan

www.balancepointpilates.com

I feel that teaching the Pilates method whether contemporary or classical is a worthy and noble profession. I have been in many social settings, where, when asked what I did for work, felt I had to explain a whole lot, rather than just say-Pilates teacher. The reason I imagine is that most people outside of the fitness or mind body modalities (though even sometimes these people as well) will not understand or will supremely underestimate the work I do, every day.

I recently attended the teacher training summit held by the Pilates Method Alliance in Dallas, Texas. This summit was held to address the future path of the Pilates community as it pertained to “certification”. The speakers were very knowledgeable and clearly defined the options the Pilates community are facing. I was happy that the information was presented in a distinctly unbiased fashion. There were many representatives from all over the country and some international training programs present. Everyone was treated equally. Large mega-training companies and small studio based programs were all cordially listened to. I have heard , but not personally experienced that in the past the PMA was difficult to deal with. I am happy to report that I believe this is definitely a past issue and the PMA has worked hard to correct these perceptions. This PMA is focused on it’s members and the future of Pilates for teachers as well as the general public.

One theme I kept noticing was that the focus is truly on the future, working towards positive and beneficial outcomes and is not at all fear-based. In line with this, the new mission statement of the PMA is: “The Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) is the international, not-for-profit, professional association dedicated to the teachings of Joseph H. and Clara Pilates. Our mission is to foster community, integrity and respect for diversity; establish certification and continuing education standards; and promote the Pilates method of exercise.”

Our first speaker was James Henderson PHD, Executive Vice Pres.,CASTLE Worldwide, Inc., he is a Psychometrician for the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. He spoke to us on the definitions of, and pathways of credentialing, in a meaningful way, various professions. He really gave us a lot of information, which for many of us creative types, may have been a bit dry, but absolutely needed, so that we, as Pilates professionals, can really understand just where our profession stands today in 2009 and where it will likely go in the future and how we can help direct that.

Our second speaker, Carole Ostendorf, PhD, PT, spoke from her personal experience as the CEO of a Massage Therapy school and Executive Director of COMTA ( Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation). Ostendorf was an engaging speaker, who relayed to us some real and practical advice about the process of credentialing.

Both speakers were aptly chosen, and as stated previously, gave us their unbiased opinions and information.

After listening, we were given the opportunity to question the speakers. The Pilates Method Alliance as a group, then discussed the issues which face us at this juncture. We are at a place where we as a professional community can organize and police ourselves or the other option may be, we can wait, and let local and state governments in the U.S. provide us with guidelines and parameters. Personally I opt to be evaluated as a professional, by an organization that has a true understanding of what it is, that I actually do. For the most part and overwhelmingly there was a rather strong agreement on the proposals brought forth by the Pilates Method Alliance. The primary point being that, knowing the true meaning and value of the word “certification”. We would agree to take that particular term out of our description of what you would receive after completing Pilates teacher training. Instead, other terms such as, diploma, certificate, assessment-based certificate, *graduate would be used. The word certification would be reserved for the PMA Certification exam only. It appeared,from the informal vote, that we agreed to that and most companies will strive to be in compliance with this by July 1,2010.

By providing and directing student-teachers to a third party unbiased credential, we empower them in dealing with each other, the public and the state. This was a major point at this Summit. Also discussed was a registry of Teacher Training School to be listed with the PMA and the guidelines to be included in this registry, and the Fostering Future Professionals program for student-teachers enrolled in training programs.

I run a small teacher training program, I like it small, because we truly want to mentor our teachers. Everything the PMA offered for consideration would help and enhance what I offer. I feel it would improve the experience for teachers and offers the public a way to truly be discerning their experience of locating a Pilates teacher.

We don’t want to have to explain our profession to the public in order to receive the respect we think it is deserving of. When I teach Mat class it may look like I’m doing the same thing as your step aerobics instructor, but that could not be further from the truth. I say that, not to disrespect the group exercise instructor, because I’ve done that (group ex.) too, but because it’s plainly a fact. When I work with someone on the Cadillac or Reformer , it is not likely the same thing as your gym’s personal trainer is doing with his selection of equipment. ( I’ve been one of those too..) I want to be recognized as a Pilates professional. I want it to be understood as easily as other professions, occupational therapist, chiropractor, even plummer …nobody looks confused when somebody says they are employed in one of these professions… I want that level of understanding, that respect.

Giving potential and current teachers a clear-cut pathway to becoming a professional, through credentialing is an intelligent direction for the community to move in. Teachers have expressed concern that the PMA will become a monopoly-like entity, where you must join, and must take their exam and there will be no other alternatives. Having been involved in health and fitness for almost 30 years, I am not at all convinced of that. Besides Pilates, I have been involved and employed in the fields of Health & Wellness, Massage Therapy, Group Exercise and Personal Training, I know that the PMA may be the first third party credentialing for Pilates , but is likely, not the last.

The reality is the PMA is here and now, they are listening to their membership, the community and others. The foundations for creating a career road map exist. We can be an integral voice in the direction of Pilates as a profession. Pilates is at a critical point, Joseph Pilates is not here to personally mentor, train and guide his teaching progeny. We could let the group exercise , personal training world absorb us into their ranks or let local and state governments tell us what they think the Hundreds should look like, or we can be the masters of our own future. Reminiscing about they way it used to be is a beautiful pastime, but will not serve us in 2010 or beyond. I personally love the old stories, I want to be connected to that past, but I am also excited and hopeful for the future. A future which is full of positive possibilities, as demonstrated by what I hope is the first of many more Teacher Training Summits.

Laurette Ryan

The “Real” Benefits of Pilates

by Laurette Ryan

www.balancepointpilates.com

Pilates, as we’ve all seen numerous times, has a laundry list of benefits. They range from the physical to the emotional and mental and at times the spiritual. Pilates teachers will espouse the toned muscles -especially fantastic abs or six-pack you will get by doing pilates exercises. They will say you’ll be longer and leaner. You’ll be more mobile and flexible and strengthen your “core” . Teachers will tell you- you will improve neuro-muscular coordination, improve your concentration and reduce stress.

I am always rambling on to anyone who shows the least bit of interest in starting an exercise program all the amazing virtues of Pilates exercise, Joseph Pilates, Pilates history and the wonders of the fit & healthy lifestyle. At times, these slightly interested individuals seem to look at me with a face that says a. I’m sorry I brought it up, or b. how can I gracefully escape or c. wow, she is obsessed, the rumors are true!

However, personally, I am always impressed when I hear the benefits of training directly from my students. I know by heart the list of benefits, but when one of my students relates to me a story about how their exercise program has helped them in their daily lives, that’s when I feel fulfilled. Those stories spur me on,as a teacher, to keep preaching and teaching Pilates, health and fitness.

One of my favorite stories is about the ladies who went to Egypt,( they participate in one of my 50+ age groups). They came back from their amazing vacation and told me how excited they were, that they could swing their legs on up and get on a camel to ride of to a fancy dinner which was schedule for their tour group. Or the woman who went to China and had to use those restroom facilities which require you to straddle and squat , a feat she was sure would have been difficult, if not impossible, except for her dedication to attending our class. The gentleman who after attending Pilates for a year was able to kiss “The Blarney Stone”, he was a big guy and well over 6 feet tall. Real benefits here for middle-aged and older adults to help them to keep enjoying adventures in their lives.

I, also love to hear the stories, maybe less adventurous, but nonetheless priceless. The person who spent some time with her mother-in-law and had to keep lifting the relative’s wheel-chair in and out of her van. She was so thrilled to be able to do this and additionally to have no pain or soreness afterward.

The women who have bounced back with vigor after childbirth. The many individuals who have found recovery from accidents, surgeries and injuries to be not only completely possible , but easier .

Knowing the effects of their stories to inspire me, I asked one of my classes today to write down, what Pilates and exercise in general has done for them. Here are some of their responses.

“ Exercise helps alleviate the stiffness that comes with aging” and “able to do more gardening without the aches and pains. Feel good after class.”

Peggy writes “ am 8 mos. Post hip replacement, and starting this exercise class 2 mos .ago- definitely more flexible and strong. More importantly I feel empowered to restore wellness.”

Also- “recently, I stumbled and would have fallen, I’m sure, but was able to catch myself because of my “core” strengthened by regular exercise.”, Deanna.

I myself also have a real life story . Just last November, I returned home from the Pilates Method Alliance Convention very late at night. The next morning very early, I was half asleep wearing overly long fuzzy pajamas, I went to descend a stair case and on the top step…I went down….literally all the way down , one whole floor, on my back (luge style)- I was thrilled to not have broken any bones but was amazed that not only didn’t I have any bruises – I didn’t have any soreness, misalignments or discomfort of any kind! I have to attribute it to a flexible spine and strong core, all the result of regular Pilates practice.

So instead of a laundry list, here are some real life benefits. Keep moving – Do your Pilates today !

Laurette

Technorati Tags: core, exercise, Pilates, pilates exercises, pilates fitness, pilates mat, strength, Toning

Pilates Certified?

By Laurette Ryan

www.balancepointpilates.com

Having been actively teaching in the movement,dance, fitness, mind-body world since I was 15 years old in 1977, my opinions on certifications have been changing & evolving for over 30 years. Yikes, that’s a little scary to admit and yet I feel that my longevity in the field should lend some support to my conclusions. The first time I heard of certification was in 1984, while teaching fitness classes for a small chain of womens’ fitness studios. They held their own “ certification” course, which actually wasn’t half bad. It took two full-time weeks (9-5 Daily) to complete and it did teach basic anatomy, nutrition and exercise theory.

Shortly after, I learned about “ National Certification”. My first one was with NDEITA. It was a weekend deal, kind of easy- I didn’t learn anymore than my first “ certification” but they claimed to have a “national” recognition. Next came AFAA and IDEA ( before ACE). I went with AFAA in 1985 and soon earned all of their “certifications”. In 1989 I took ACE -American Council on Exercise, Personal Trainer Certification. In the 90’s I did several AAAI certifications. In 1999 I took Physicalmind Certification. These are just my movement certifications.

Here’s what my experience has taught me, I learned something from every one of these. There was none I had wished I hadn’t taken. But with the exception of ACE, these programs,tests and exams may not have been actual “certifications”. ACE was granted accreditation by National Commission for Certifying Agencies in 2003. Now what I’ve learned over the years about a lot of other programs out there is this, some are educational, some are Certifications and some are Continuing Education.

Educational Programs teach you the foundational skills required. Certifications measure your knowledge and ability to apply that knowledge in the field. Continuing Education keeps the professional updated and improving their skills.

In our Pilates world the designation of certification has been incorrectly used to describe courses and programs more clearly belonging in the foundational or continuing educational categories. These courses and programs are still extremely valuable. Without these courses the teacher would not be able to pass the certification. Think of it like this, when you go to take your test to get a drivers license- it’s like your certification to be a driver… but taking a drivers ed course alone doesn’t allow you to legally drive. Even though you passed the Drivers Ed test- you still need to take your legal driving test. Additionally some drivers ed courses may be more thorough or better designed and turn out better drivers, and sometimes people are just better drivers no matter which courses they take, if any!

What about Pilates Certification? I, myself have provided a training course since 1999. I had been a Continuing Education Provider for Fitness Professionals since 1985 and found the choices of Pilates training programs, not to suit my area or taste in Pilates work . At one time we did call our training a certification. Having become more educated over the years, we opted last year to call our programs, Teacher Training and offer a Certificate of Completion or Achievement for our many programs.

We have watched the organization of The Pilates Method Alliance grow. We have watched as they developed an International Examination which measures Pilates knowledge. I believe this examination should be the standard. Then the public has a baseline at least to go by when choosing teachers. Honestly the public, the masses out there unfortunately do not know Mary Bowen from Mary Tyler Moore, which is sad for them.

We love our 1^st generation, we can still be trained in their lineages. We certainly never want the government to step in and require licensure. So we must police ourselves in an effective manner. The PMA requires those sitting for the examination to have certain requirements of training in the field. Joe Shmoe (sorry Joe) personal trainer cannot sit for this examination. I’m pleased in the direction the PMA has taken in these matters. My hope is that NCCA accreditation is next for the PMA exam. We are currently encouraging all our teachers to strive to pass this International Examination.

The PMA is holding an open meeting of all Teacher Training groups, small and large to discuss these matters in November 2009 , Dallas see the PMA website and get involved www.pilatesmethodalliance.org maybe I’ll see & meet you there !

Fondly, Laurette

Becoming a Pilates Teacher
by Laurette Ryan , Balancepoint Pilates
www.balancepointpilates.com

 My personal journey into the Pilates world starts in the dance studio many years ago. I was lucky to have a teacher who knew the Pilates exercises and used them as part of a proper warm-up. Even as a teen, I recognized the benefit of the training and continued to use them as my life progressed from dance-world to fitness-world through the 80’s and 90’s. At the time I had no idea there were teachers and instructors still teaching Joseph Pilates method, originally called “contrology” out there in the big world.
 I re-discovered the Pilates movement in 1999. I was already heavily involved in the fitness industry. I managed a major group Exercise Department at a large fitness facility, owned my own Exercise Studio, had a local cable fitness show and provide continuing education for fitness professionals. In 1999 something interesting happened, I was looking for something new to do, to keep my attention, when I happened upon a Jennifer Kreis video. I was in love with movement again. It resonated with me , it was so hard , yet so natural for me. I started a class and really didn’t care if I was the only one there. ( The beauty of being the one who creates the class schedule at a facility). This workout- worked! No other ab- routine had this quick effective result. I would know, in my 25 years of teaching , I’ve had 4 children !
 I found there were few training and /or certifying organizations at that time. Most teachers apprenticed under a master to learn the craft. I took a few “certifications” and then decided with my background in exercise science and dance as well as other movement modalities to create my own training program , so the teachers I would employ would share my view of Pilates ( and believe me -there are many diverse views on Pilates) . I also felt that the training program I taught would have to be one which could provide continuing education credits through a major fitness certification.
 Skipping ahead to today becoming a Pilates teacher has a more defined framework. This is a blessing as everyone does Pilates today and qualified teachers are important. Everyone can’t be taught by a master (original student of Joseph Pilates) so a relevant framework is necessary. These days a teacher goes through a comprehensive training program which should be designed to teach exercise science theory,the history of Pilates and his method, all apparatus and exercise repertoire, client screening and safety & liability. My feeling is all training programs should prepare the teacher to take the PMA Certification Exam. www.pilatesmethodalliance.org  The PMA test is great way for teachers to show they are qualified to the general public. I also feel the training doesn’t end there. Training to be a Pilates professional never, never ends.
 My personal opinion is also that training programs should focus on training professional teachers, not on the selling of Pilates products and equipment. In teaching teachers we should aim to create educated , intelligent , open minds  who are capable to choose the type of apparatus and props that help them best teach the work. Every time I have taken a seminar/workshop with a 1st generation teacher, I am always so inspired by how open to learning, exploring and growing they still are. My personal wish on my journey with Pilates work is that I end up just like that. Thank You Joe, Thank you, 1st generation!

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Technorati Tags: pilates exercises, pilates fitness, pilates mat, pilates reformer, pilates workout