In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT dives deep into the anatomy of various tissues relevant to Pilates practice, focusing on bone, muscle, tendons, and ligaments. He emphasizes the importance of understanding these tissues beyond mere memorization, advocating for a comprehensive grasp of how they function and interact during movement. Adam explains the roles of bone tissue, including its structure, the significance of bone density, and how mechanical loading through exercise can stimulate bone health. He also discusses the different types of muscle contractions—concentric, eccentric, and isometric—and their implications for Pilates instructors when designing effective workouts for clients.

The conversation further explores the distinctions between tendons and ligaments, highlighting their unique functions in the body. Adam stresses the importance of loading tendons appropriately to enhance their efficiency and strength, while also addressing the role of ligaments in maintaining joint stability. Throughout the episode, he provides practical insights for Pilates instructors, encouraging them to integrate this anatomical knowledge into their teaching to better support their clients' health and fitness goals.

Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training.

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Ready to take your teaching career to the next level?

⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠

Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club.
Click here for a free muscles guide.

⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Click here for the paper on muscle adaptations throughout the lifespan.

In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT delves into the nuances of the Swan exercise in Pilates, contrasting traditional and contemporary interpretations. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the biomechanics behind the movements and encourages instructors to adopt a flexible mindset when teaching. The discussion highlights the duality of what is considered 'Pilates' versus 'not Pilates,' advocating for a more inclusive approach that recognizes the value in different styles and methods. McAtee also addresses common misconceptions about extension and compression in the spine, urging listeners to focus on client-centered care and the individual needs of their students.

Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training.

Click here to learn more.

Ready to take your teaching career to the next level?

⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠

Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club.
Click here for a free muscles guide.

⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT explores the complexities of the bridge exercise in Pilates, addressing safety concerns, varying perspectives on bridging, and the importance of understanding biomechanics. He emphasizes the need for critical thinking in Pilates instruction, questioning traditional movement rules, and advocating for a client-centered approach to care. The discussion highlights the nuances of spinal positioning, the role of flexion and extension, and the significance of individual comfort levels in determining the appropriateness of bridging techniques.

Curious to learn more about using our anatomy course in your Pilates teaching training program?

Click here to learn more.

Ready to take your teaching career to the next level?

⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠

Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club.
Click here for a free muscles guide.

⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT discusses five key concepts that Pilates instructors should consider dropping in 2026. He emphasizes the importance of viewing Pilates as a flexible concept rather than a rigid practice tied to specific equipment or techniques. The conversation explores the nuances of teaching methods, the demonization of rib flares, the need for simplified communication with clients, and challenges traditional views on neutral spine. Additionally, Adam encourages instructors to embrace boredom as a signal for growth and exploration in their practice.

Curious to learn more about using our anatomy course in your Pilates teaching training program?

Click here to learn more.

Ready to take your teaching career to the next level?

⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠

Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club.
Click here for a free muscles guide.

⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT delves into the biomechanics of the pulling straps exercise on the reformer. He discusses the importance of understanding external and internal forces, the role of gravity and springs, and how these factors influence muscle engagement and fatigue. The episode also compares the plow and T's variations of the exercise, highlighting the challenges and biomechanics involved. Additionally, Adam explores breathing mechanics and their impact on performance, encouraging continuous learning in anatomy and biomechanics for Pilates instructors.

Curious to learn more about using our anatomy course in your Pilates teaching training program?

Click here to learn more.

Ready to take your teaching career to the next level?

⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠

 Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club.

Click here for a free disc herniations webinar.

⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

In this episode, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT shares his journey and lessons learned in building an online Pilates business. He emphasizes the importance of taking action, understanding your client avatar, and creating win-win situations for both instructors and clients. Adam discusses the skills required for running an online business, the power of online reach, and the balance between in-person and online teaching. He encourages listeners to start today and leverage their unique offerings to help others while building a sustainable business.

Curious to learn more about using our anatomy course in your Pilates teaching training program?

Click here to learn more.

Ready to take your teaching career to the next level?

⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠

 Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club.

Click here for a free disc herniations webinar.

⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT discusses the complexities of neck pain, its prevalence, and the importance of understanding pain management in Pilates instruction. He emphasizes the need for instructors to be knowledgeable about pain, the role of kinesiophobia, and the significance of exercise in managing neck pain. The conversation covers various types of neck pain, the impact of ergonomics and lifestyle, and the importance of reassurance and education in treatment. Adam encourages Pilates instructors to stay curious and continue learning about pain management to better serve their clients.

Curious to learn more about using our anatomy course in your Pilates teaching training program?

Email Adam at ⁠[email protected]⁠

Ready to take your teaching career to the next level?

⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠

 Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club.

⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Click here for a paper on the association between neck pain and smartphone overuse among office workers.

Click here for a paper on the association between forward head posture and neck pain in adults.

Click here for a systematic review on clinical practice guidelines for neck pain.

In this conversation, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT shares Joseph Pilates quotes that are rarely shared in teacher training programs. Understanding and questioning these quotes is intended to you become more confident in your decision making as a qualified Pilates instructor.

Curious to learn more about using our anatomy course in your Pilates teaching training program?

Email Adam at ⁠[email protected]⁠

Ready to take your teaching career to the next level?

⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠

 Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club.

⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

In this conversation, Adam McAtee, PT, DPT discusses the subjective nature of exercise techniques and how personal understanding evolves over time. He emphasizes that what may be considered the 'right' way to perform an exercise can change based on individual experience and knowledge.

Curious to learn more about using our anatomy course in your Pilates teaching training program?

Email Adam at ⁠[email protected]⁠

Ready to take your teaching career to the next level?

⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠

 Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club.

⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Summary

In this episode of the Evidence Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT shares five key lessons learned from 16 years of teaching Pilates. He discusses the unique aspects of Pilates, the importance of understanding its limitations, and how Joseph Pilates' teachings should inform but not dictate practice. Adam emphasizes the integration of exercise science into Pilates and the necessity of truly understanding anatomy in relation to movement. The episode concludes with a call to action for instructors to share their passion for Pilates and consider joining the Anatomy and Biomechanics Club for further learning.

Curious to learn more about using our anatomy course in your Pilates teaching training program?

Email Adam at [email protected]

Ready to take your teaching career to the next level?

Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠Click here⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club.

⁠Click here⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.