Jul 6

 

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

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May 15

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!

For more information please click here

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Apr 5

Pilates is a workout and a philosophy.  The history surrounding  the work of Joseph Pilates is rich and inspiring. The Pilates workout has basic principles which should guide each teacher and student through the work.
 The first principle is Whole Body Movement. Though many think of Pilates as an AB or core body workout, it was truly designed  to integrate the whole body . To strength and stretch the entire body  is the ultimate goal. In his book, Joseph Pilates states that physical fitness is the first requisite of  health and happiness.  During pilates exercises all muscles are active in some way, either as prime movers, assistors or stabilizers.
 The next principle is Breathing.  Every movement is facilitated by breath.  The general rule is to exhale on flexion, inhale on extension and rotation. Joseph writes extensively on breathing, and the importance of breathing and fresh air for general health.
 Muscle balance refers to an even conditioning of all muscles.  We know that muscle imbalances create misalignment and can cause injury and disease. Pilates stresses a balanced ,even development of all muscles.
 Concentration and Control are principles of conscious control of the body, mastery of movement, a mindful approach to exercise. Our brains and nervous systems control the movements of our muscles. Being mentally engaged during exercise produces far greater results.
 The Centering of the body is an interesting concept. When one centers the body they are effectively distributing body weight in order to create efficient or economical movement. To center while standing imagine an imaginary line from the crown of the head  through the center of the body to the heels. The weight is even in the feet, legs under the hips, pelvis neutral, (hips/asis in line with the pubic bone in the frontal plane) the ribs stacked over the pelvis , head  is right over torso, ears in line with the shoulders in the side view. When we are centered moving from this point happens with ease.
 Precision as a principle refers to moving with determined accuracy. To move your body in a specific way , stabilizing all other unnecessary movement. There are no sloppy or lazy movements in Pilates.
Rhythm  is the principle of creating flowing natural movement. Each exercise has a rhythm and by mastering the other principles of Muscle balance, concentration , control, centering, precision, breathing and whole body movement you will achieve rhythm.
  All principles are intertwined and equally important in your practice of Pilates training. You can always just copy and mimic the classic Pilates exercise repertoire by ignoring these  principles, but if you desire the wonderful and amazing results of Pilates training mastering the principles just detailed are a must!
 
 

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Nov 6


by Laurette Ryan

Just back from the PMA 2011 conference in Palm Springs. I got to connect with so many awesome teachers and benefactors of our Pilates world. It’s in those moments I know I am so lucky to have found and discovered my calling as a teacher of Joe Pilate’s work.

I am also re-energized to move this work, as a true profession, forward. In 2012, I personally, will be re-doubling my efforts to achieve critical-mass in awareness of teacher training, qualifications and certification. I feel it is essential for us (Pilates Teachers) to uphold the foundations and standards of our work and move forward together, blazing the trail on the pathway to professional recognition.

The percentage of truly “certified” teachers is still small. This does not reflect the percentage of “qualified” teachers, whom I believe there are a great number! Helping the public have some idea who to go to for “real” Pilates, (not referring to style or lineage-but instead-*not core class,ab class etc.) becomes more difficult everyday as more and more fitness instructors read an article online or in print and suddenly add “Pilates” to their repertoire of “can teach”! AND the public has no idea!

We are in the days of the Barber/Dentist. 200 years ago, if you had a bad tooth you went to your local Barber to have it extracted. Today people would never consider that- but they will go to their aerobic instructor for Pilates , and it’s basically just as outrageous. In the 17th century,Pierre Fauchard, “the father of modern dentistry” was probably not well-liked by the Barbers of his day. The Barber/Dentist continued well into the 19th century, let’s hope it doesn’t take 2 centuries for Pilates to become it’s own field of study! Barbers, I am sure, felt they were in fact, very qualified to take care of dental concerns, and resented the implication that it would take an entire educational experience devoted to that practice to do such. (sound familiar yet?) The parallels here are uncanny. Now Barbers are great at what they do -but they are not Dentists and we all, easily, see that today. I long for the day that will be the case in our profession. The day when we appreciate what our group exercise and personal trainers can do for us, but would never consider going to them for advice or lessons in Pilates.

You’ve heard my rants on the benefits of 3rd Party credentialing and true “certification” -I know this is a huge part of getting us to the goal of being a Profession, a real career. At this point, those of you who cannot see or understand this, have their heads in the sand- the time is now to look up and look forward. We join hands and heart together, inclusive. (Feel the Pilates love-I’m calling it Pil-love -that’s what happens after 4 day love-fest with your Pilates peeps in the desert!) There is room for all qualified Pilates teachers in this, by getting “certified” “3rd party credentialed” yes- PMA-certified (the ONLY 3rd party credential) we help each other and we sustain our profession. *(BTW the PMA is a not-for-profit! We are the voice! We are the PMA! We need you and your voice! Again it is a not-for profit and it’s books are open to all-so if you’re wondering – go educate yourself on the finances of this thing- it’s your absolute right and you should be cautious about where you put your time energy and money- kudos to you.)

My crusade this year will be to begin to educate the public about our profession and credentialing. I feel a little like Joan of Arc and wonder if I shall be burned at the stake- but I love my profession and I suppose when a passion grows so deeply in one, this is what one, is compelled to do. Wish me luck and send fire extinguishers and water.

Sincerely and with the deepest Pil-love,

Laurette Ryan

www.balancepointpilates.com

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Sep 27

By Laurette Ryan

www.balancepointpilates.com

Pilates has been for a while one of the hottest workouts around. I remember WHEN…before the media hype, before the celebrity endorsements, before it was a multi-million dollar industry. I remember when there were not 50 zillion “Pilates” “Certifications” out there. I remember getting a paper pattern and detailed instructions on how to “build” the wunda chair. Now there are a ton of equipment companies and as many chair designs as that! I remember feeling lucky when Pilates started to get popular, more people were interested in class.

In 1993, I taught a mat class that had 2 students, until the health club owner took it off the schedule in favor of a Step n Body Blast class. Then in 1999 I had a mat class that went from 4 regulars to 25 people jammed into a little aerobics studio in the span of about 2 weeks after Madonna said-she did Pilates-I was excited. 12 years later my excitement is turning to an overwhelming nervousness and apprehension about the future of “Pilates”.

I put Pilates in quotations because I would like to say true Pilates, but at my age, there may not be enough time to fully resolve that issue. So let’s just say that there is “Pilates” and then there is Core conditioning, Ab toning group exercise, stretch and lay there , dare I say unsafe, ineffective group and private sessions, on and off equipment masquerading as “Pilates”.

A lot of this fake Pilates comes out of the group exercise and Personal training realms, however due to the immense popularity of this industry we now have a new problem. “Pilates” teacher training programs taught by those with limited actual experience- teaching there own version of Pilates to student teachers who go and teach it to other students. Additionally there is little or no mentoring of these new teachers. They are told (lied to) that they are teaching “real” “true” “classical””authentic” “Pilates”. They believe it. They believe it with all their well-meaning little hearts …but in fact they know so little of “Pilates” it would be comical if it were not so tragic. There is a scam being perpetrated on these teachers and on the public. A multi-billion-dollar scam, it’s horrible.

My issue is this, those who are adequately and exceptionally trained in the art of teaching “Pilates” suffer a deep injustice. 1. They are often criticized undermined and slandered by false teachers who know not of what they speak, 2. They lose income to such teachers, 3.Potential students are turned off,injured and leery of Pilates, because of their experiences with poorly trained teachers.

Let me interject I believe there are a few good ways to skin a cat and I’m not advocating any particular lineage of “Pilates”, however when the “cat” is not in fact a “cat” but is instead a skunk!, there is a difference.

I have had the privilege of teaching to a diverse group of Pilates teachers recently, all wonderful lovely people. What I most noticed was the number of Pilates teachers who were unfortunately ill-informed and educated about “Pilates”. I was so thrilled that at least they were there, seeking out expanded educational opportunities- that is huge. I was a little worried though, that these particular teachers are the ones teaching large groups in the public arena about Pilates.

Pilates professionals, we are losing the battle, and the public IS suffering, and “Pilates” is being maligned, there is no doubt about it. Noting the amazing growth the Pilates industry has seen in the past ten years, I can see why the need for teachers has grown. That is why group exercise organizations have jumped in to fill the gap. They Don’t KNOW “Pilates”-FACT-!!! I could be more polite….but I’ll turn 50 next year- that’s what happens! Teacher Training is a great revenue stream for them, can you blame them?

So now what do we do? So many, are adverse to having one governing body? What would they do?

If we stay as it is, more of the corrupting of the “Pilates” method will continue until Joe becomes some eccentric old white haired guy in bathing trunks who did sit-ups and “Pilates” as in Contrology exists no more. We need a democratic governing body, we need an entry level foundational test, we need required continuing education. In a perfect world only those who were mentored and nurtured by wonderful experienced “Pilates” teachers could one day, hang out a shingle declaring themselves, “Pilates Teachers”, but this ain’t no perfect world, in case you haven’t noticed.

We need to stand together -I truly believe that- and it will be hard. The reason I have, for 10 years supported the idea of the PMA is just for all of these reasons, and it’s not always perfect either, but I have felt, it’s a malleable enough organization to be guided by the will of it’s members. Does the PMA have to be IT? No, but is there another democratic international organization out there with a third party exam? If you want to start one go ahead, more power to you….or you could work with the one we have that exists not in some utopian fantasy- but in real-life, flaws and all, but striving to be better all the time. This is not an ad for the PMA, this is a wake-up call to those of you who think you can go on forever teaching “Pilates” -the good stuff and not be affected by the marauding hoards of ill-trained Pilates instructors out there.(okay -marauding hoards-is a little over the top)

Bottom line is the public is being duped—every single day, and the reputation of my profession is suffering. I’m getting a little mad..(if you ask anyone about me-that takes a whole lot!)

I am passionate about what I do- this is my life, it’s what colors the tapestry of my spirit .

We can’t lose “Pilates” we have to stand together. ……now I’ve got to go breathe……

Pilates & Peace

Laurette

for more info on PMA  go to : www.pilatesmethodalliance.org

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Mar 12

A yoga sequence consisting of Warrior Two, Reverse Warrior and Side Angle stretches the muscles in your sides as it gets your circulation pumping. Exercise like a warrior with this free video workout plan for Pilates and yoga.

Expert: Michelle Tibbs
Contact: www.PilatesStudioCity.com
Bio: Michelle Tibbs began her yoga practice in 2002, completed her 200-hour teacher training with YogaFit and has been teaching ever since. She completed her Pilates teacher training in 2007.
Filmmaker: Max Cusimano

Series Description: Now you can combine Pilates and yoga, two disciplines that naturally complement each other, to create a comprehensive workout plan for greater strength and flexibility. Learn a variety of Pilates and yoga exercises from a professional instructor in this free video series.

Duration : 0:2:25

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Mar 9

Add the yoga sequence Sun Salutation B to your workout, incorporating Money Pose, Whole Chaturanga, Up Dog, Downward Facing Dog, Warrior One and other poses. A professional trainer shows you how n this free video workout plan for Pilates and yoga.

Expert: Michelle Tibbs
Contact: www.PilatesStudioCity.com
Bio: Michelle Tibbs began her yoga practice in 2002, completed her 200-hour teacher training with YogaFit and has been teaching ever since. She completed her Pilates teacher training in 2007.
Filmmaker: The Lower Third

Series Description: Now you can combine Pilates and yoga, two disciplines that naturally complement each other, to create a comprehensive workout plan for greater strength and flexibility. Learn a variety of Pilates and yoga exercises from a professional instructor in this free video series.

Duration : 0:2:55

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Mar 2

Fitball pilates exercises force you to work your abs as you do crunches while balancing yourself on the ball. Learn how to get fit with Fitball in this free video on Pilates technique.

Expert: Amy Newman
Bio: Amy Newman has been teaching people how to get into shape through fitness since 1985.
Filmmaker: Christopher Rokosz

Series Description: Add some fun-but-challenging Pilates techniques to your workout routine to strengthen your muscles, improve your flexibility and help you look fantastic. A professional trainer leads you through a variety of Pilates sequences in this free video series.

Duration : 0:1:45

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Mar 1


By Laurette Ryan

Balancepoint Pilates

www.balncepointpilates.com

I’m sure by this time many of you have seen that hilarious fake info-mercial by Mr. Jimmy Kimmel entitled “Hottie Body-Humpilates”.  I, like many if not most of you, got a good chuckle.

I would like this opportunity to respond to “Humpilates”. Part of me wishes Mr. Pilates himself were alive and could go on Mr. Kimmel’s TV program and teach him the Saw or Roll-over in his classical manner (as seen in Mary Bowen’s home movie reels…if you know what I mean). I admit that fantasy, my Pilates friends, really makes me chuckle or lol, if you wish. I was wondering why I would have such an evil fantasy…I’m thinking that Lolita San Miguel, Mary Bowen and Ron Fletcher could go on Kimmel and teach him a thing or two…Too bad Kathy Grant isn’t with us- she’d show him why Pilates is for men- she could have taught him a little respect! ….And what about Romana, could he survive Romana?, well he’s probably got a personal masseuse, he might be okay.

I’m normally quite reasonable, a peace-loving individual with a good sense of humor. So why did I want to see Mr. Kimmel suffer a little? I’m sure his piece was all in good fun, it’s not actually called Jimmy K’s Pilates. There are two reasons. First, it’s the “-ilates” thing. People tack the “-ilates” onto everything…Cardio-lates, Yoga-lates, Spin-ilates,Dance-ilates Box-ilates, I’m just waiting for Driv-ilates and Sleep-ilates. I’m sure all these fusion classes are great fun and serve a need, but the public unfortunately can get a little confused…what is Pilates, really? … is the Warrior pose part of the repertoire? They can’t figure it out.

(Can you imagine going in to get a broken leg cast and getting a cast AND a pedicure …..you might wonder how pink toenails helped fix your broken bones- it’s what our students are thinking).

So obvious “Hump-ilates” is a joke….. but it does perpetuate that line of thinking which is- add “-ilates” to anything and you have the hottest new workout.

Secondly, have you noticed how Hollywood so often makes Pilates the punch-line? I laugh, because I can laugh at myself. Pilates teachers and enthusiasts probably get a laugh too and we’re happy to see ourselves recognized by popular media. What happens though, is that as we seek to gain professional recognition in our communities, stereo-types are created which do not portray us in a credible or favorable light. Do you think those stereo-types encourage the middle-aged blue collar worker with back pain ,(whose Doctor recommended he exercise) to seek out a qualified Pilates Professional to help him out?

Pilates is an amazing way to strengthen, condition, improve and yes, I believe heal your body. People don’t laugh at Dental Care…(*they may have though, years past-when dental care was a side-business of your Barber) This may be reason to think about the trend for Group Exercise Teachers to get a “Weekend Mat Certification” ….think about it. Dentist are considered professionals. Would you even consider going to a Dentist/Barber these days?

I feel we need to be vigilant in few ways to keep pushing our profession forward. The support and promotion of a Third-Party Credential, adhering to a recognized and accepted Code of Ethics and Scope of Practice guideline are keys and however we get there..the fact is- we must. The Pilates Method Alliance ( www.pilatesmethodalliance.org ) is at this time, the only organization offering this, that I am aware of. (If there are any others meeting this criteria, please feel free to share them with us.)

So, Mr. Kimmel -Thank You for your very funny skit and Thank You for making us take a moment to consider our profession, it’s current state and our future direction.

Mary Bowen’s website : www.pilates-marybowen.com

Lolita San Miguel’s website : http://lolitapilates.com/

Ron Fletcher’s website: http://ronfletcherwork.com

Yours in Peace and Pilates,

Laurette

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Feb 27

You can use daily pilates exercises such as the Pilates One Hundred, heel lifts and leg raises to keep yourself in top condition. Learn an easy daily workout in this free video on Pilates technique.

Expert: Amy Newman
Bio: Amy Newman has been teaching people how to get into shape through fitness since 1985.
Filmmaker: Christopher Rokosz

Series Description: Add some fun-but-challenging Pilates techniques to your workout routine to strengthen your muscles, improve your flexibility and help you look fantastic. A professional trainer leads you through a variety of Pilates sequences in this free video series.

Duration : 0:3:7

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