In this episode, Janet and Nikki chat with Anula Maiberg, Pilates teacher and co-owner of Sixth Street Pilates in NYC about body image and Pilates culture.

They discuss: 

• Why showing diverse body types performing Pilates is important
• Possible reasons why Pilates isn't easily defined by the general public and fitness community 
• What we can do as Pilates instructors to help define Pilates culture in and out of the studio
• The impact of marketing on Pilates culture and how to appeal to younger generations
• How we can make the studio a more welcoming place where people feel empowered to move and not self-critical of how they move
• How to handle criticism when putting yourself out there

About Anula

You were once wild here. Don't let them tame you. - Isadora Duncan

Pilates is about finding success in movement its not about making ideal shapes. That's my approach to teaching. I try to bring that across by finding joy in the practice and not taking it all too seriously.

I have a major leggings obsession and now that American Apparel is out of business I am not totally sure what I'm going to do with my life.

In my studio we like to have a little background music playing. Currently its the XX all day every day. They are just mellow enough to not be distracting but still really beautiful.

I go to the ballet more times than my budget will allow... the perks of living in NYC and I take full advantage of it. Romeo and Juliet makes me cry every time.

Favorite TV show of all time: Twin Peaks or My So Called Life

Favorite Movie: Gone With the Wind or St. Elmo's Fire

Favorite Song: Freebird   To connect with Anula, say hello on Instagram.