The Pilates Lounge

In this episode of The Pilates Lounge Podcast, Katie Crane sits down with mindset coach Julie Dempsey to dive into the importance of a positive growth mindset, especially in times of burnout— a challenge for both Pilates instructors and clients. They discuss powerful tools to shift self-belief, manage negative thoughts, and use visualisation and positive self-talk to drive personal and professional success. Julie shares her perspective on how essential it is for instructors to recognise their own growth, build a supportive environment, and embrace self-care without guilt. Katie and Julie also touch on the myth that busyness equals success, explaining why prioritising self-care and breaking down tasks can lead to healthier, more sustainable growth.

Key Takeaways

• A positive growth mindset is a foundation for both personal and professional fulfilment.

• Most of us have a significant amount of negative thoughts each day, but we can train our brains to focus on the positive.

• Our upbringing influences our belief systems, but these can be reshaped with practice.

• Visualisation techniques and positive self-talk can enhance performance and improve outcomes.

• Recognizing and addressing physical signs of stress or negativity is the first step toward change.

• Reframing our thoughts can give us a brighter outlook on life.

• Continuous learning is crucial for personal growth and resilience.

• Creating a supportive environment uplifts both instructors and clients.

• Being “busy” doesn’t mean you’re successful; self-care is essential for true productivity.

Tune in to learn more about embracing a positive mindset, prioritising your well-being, and growing both personally and professionally. Katie and Julie share so many practical tips in this conversation—it’s one you won’t want to miss!

Connect with Julie Dempsey

https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliedemsey/

@juliedemsey 

@founddating

juliedemsey.com

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In this episode of The Pilates Lounge Podcast, Katie Crane breaks down the concept of the layering effect in Pilates teaching. This technique is a game-changer, helping instructors make sure everyone in the class—no matter their level—feels included and gets something valuable out of the session. Katie also talks about the power of progression in Pilates, reminding us that real results come from steady, consistent work, not rushing through. She wraps things up with an invitation to join her Refine Mentoring Program, designed to help instructors take their skills to the next level in the new year.

Key Takeaways

• The Pilates Lounge Podcast is a place for people who love Pilates and are passionate about movement education.

• Katie is thrilled with how many people are tuning in and loving the podcast, and she's excited about all the guests lined up for next season.

• The upcoming season will dive into some juicy topics and feature some fantastic guests.

• Kicking off early next year, the Refine Mentoring Program is all about helping instructors grow and thrive.

• The layering effect is a must-have skill for instructors, making classes inclusive and engaging.

• A full, buzzing class creates great energy and keeps your business going strong.

• Being adaptable is key for instructors—every class is different, and clients’ needs can change in an instant.

• Progression isn’t about rushing; it’s about enjoying the journey and building strength over time.

• You can use the layering effect with all kinds of exercises and client levels—it’s super versatile.

• Katie would love your feedback and reviews to keep improving and reaching more Pilates lovers.

Tune in, join the fun, and let’s keep learning together! And remember, Katie’s always excited to hear from you, so share your thoughts and keep the conversation going.

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In this episode, Katie Crane speaks with podiatrist Andy Bryan, who has 25 years of experience focusing on natural foot function, including the past seven years. They discuss how modern footwear and movement patterns contribute to common foot issues and the importance of aligning foot health with natural function. Andy explains the critical role of foot mechanics, emphasising the significance of arches and proprioception. He also offers practical strategies for improving foot health, especially for children, and explores the interconnectedness of foot health with knee and hip wellness. Andy’s insights highlight how simple changes in footwear and body movement can lead to healthier, more functional feet.

Key Takeaways

• Natural foot function is crucial for overall body mechanics.

• Footwear can greatly impact foot health and proper functioning.

• Encouraging children to go barefoot supports healthy foot development.

• The arch of the foot is vital for shock absorption and movement efficiency.

• Proprioception enhances body awareness and nervous system regulation.

• Movement and foot flexibility matter more than maintaining static positions.

• Healthy foot practices can prevent injuries and improve mobility at any age.

• Awareness of foot health positively influences overall physical well-being.

• Foot health has a significant relationship with knee and hip health.

Connect with Andy Bryan

• Website: Melbourne Natural Podiatry

• Instagram: @andybryan_podiatrist

• Instagram: @thefootcollective

Tune in to learn actionable steps to enhance foot health and, in turn, improve overall body function!

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In this episode of *The Pilates Lounge Podcast*, Katie Crane dives into the dual facets of being a Pilates professional: managing the business side and prioritizing self-care. Reflecting on her own experience with burnout, she highlights the importance of setting boundaries and making self-care a priority to maintain passion and longevity in the profession. Katie also explores the role of community support and gratitude practices in fostering both personal and professional well-being.

Takeaways

- The business aspect of Pilates is often overlooked by professionals.

- Self-care is essential for longevity in the Pilates profession.

- Burnout can happen when boundaries are not respected in work.

- Small self-care practices can create meaningful changes over time.

- Gratitude journaling can positively shift mindset and enhance well-being.

- Scheduling self-care first can lead to a sustainable work-life balance.

- Community support is crucial for Pilates professionals.

- Embracing the business side of Pilates can lead to greater success.

- The brain can't distinguish between reality and fiction, which affects our beliefs.

- A commitment to self-care can boost creativity and energy.

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In this episode of The Pilates Lounge Podcast, host Katie Crane sits down with Lesley Logan, NCPT, to dive into the often-overlooked business side of being a Pilates instructor. Lesley, also a Habits, Mindset, and Breathwork coach, is the founder of OnlinePilatesClasses.com, the largest catalogue of free Pilates tutorials and the only on-demand platform that provides Pilates lovers with accountability and community. She shares her journey from a retail background to becoming a successful Pilates instructor and entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of recognizing your role as a business owner from the very beginning.

Together, they discuss the importance of understanding your brand, the power of taking messy action, and the critical role self-care plays in running a successful business. The conversation covers essential topics like finding your ideal client, fostering a community mindset, and knowing when to hire help to prevent burnout. Lesley provides practical tips on how to build a sustainable business model while still making time for self-care and personal growth.

Lesley has been teaching since 2008 and was trained by one of Joseph Pilates' clients, making her a 2nd generation instructor. She has trained thousands of people worldwide, along with hundreds of teachers, and is passionate about helping women ditch perfection, take messy action, and prioritise themselves to live better lives. With a comprehensive certificate from the National Pilates Certification Program and extensive teaching experience, Lesley is widely regarded by both the Pilates community and corporate executives alike.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the business side of things is essential for Pilates instructors.

• Branding is more about the energy and feeling you create, not just a logo.

• Taking messy action leads to better feedback and faster growth.

• Embracing community over competition strengthens the Pilates industry.

• Knowing your ideal client makes your marketing efforts more effective.

• Prioritising self-care helps prevent burnout and resentment.

• Hiring support allows you to focus on income-generating activities.

• A sustainable business model requires thoughtful planning and preparation.

• Your unique teaching style will naturally attract the right clients.

• Client feedback is a valuable tool for improving your services.

Connect with Lesley:

• https://www.instagram.com/lesley.logan/ 

•  https://www.instagram.com/be_it_pod/ 

•  https://www.instagram.com/profitablepilates/ 

• Facebook

• Website

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In this episode of The Pilates Lounge Podcast, host Katie Crane explores the multifaceted topic of the pelvic floor, emphasizing its critical role in Pilates practice. She addresses common misconceptions about pelvic floor strength, discusses the impact of stress on pelvic floor dysfunction, and underscores the importance of ongoing education for Pilates professionals. Katie also shares practical strategies for helping clients relax their pelvic floor using breathing techniques and movement and introduces a new mentoring program for Pilates instructors.

Key Takeaways

• The pelvic floor is a frequent topic in Pilates conversations.

• Clients often misinterpret their pelvic floor needs based on information from external sources.

• A solid understanding of anatomy and movement is essential for effective Pilates instruction.

• Stress can lead to pelvic floor tightening, impacting overall health.

• Deep breathing exercises can be effective in relaxing pelvic floor muscles.

• Many clients may struggle with fully evacuating their bladder or bowels due to pelvic floor tension.

• Pelvic floor dysfunction is closely linked to gut health and general well-being.

• Pilates instructors should tailor sessions to meet each client's unique needs.

• Long-term stress can negatively affect reproductive health and function.

• Continuous learning and professional development are vital for Pilates instructors.

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In this episode of the Pilates Lounge podcast, host Katie Crane speaks with Carla Mullins, a seasoned Pilates professional and educator.  Carla Mullins founded Body Organics® in 2002, growing it into a leading Pilates studio and education center. With a background in law and extensive Pilates qualifications, Carla now focuses on training new instructors and developing innovative movement tools like the Makarlu®.

They discuss Carla's journey from a solicitor to a Pilates practitioner, her insights on the evolution of Pilates as a profession, and the importance of evidence-based practice. Carla emphasises the need for a holistic approach in Pilates, advocating for a model that respects the unique context of each client. The conversation also touches on the significance of mentorship, community, and the future of the Pilates profession, encouraging practitioners to embrace their identity and continue learning.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Carla's transition from law to Pilates

• Evolution of Pilates over the past 30 years

• Evidence-based practice Beyond scientific studies

• Holistic approach to client care

• Importance of mentorship and professional growth

Top Takeaways:

• Pilates has evolved significantly, integrating evidence-based approaches.

• A holistic view of clients enhances practice effectiveness.

• Continuous learning and mentorship are key to professional growth.

Discover Carla Mullins' insights on Pilates, mentorship, and evidence-based practice with Katie Crane in this episode of The Pilates Lounge.

Connect With Carla Mullins

Instagram: body_organics_education

YouTube:   https://www.youtube.com/@BodyOrganicsEducation

Website: www.bodyorganicseducation.com.  and.    www.makarlu.com

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In this episode of the Pilates Lounge podcast, I explore the limitations of the "belly button to spine" cue for core activation. While this cue has been popular, I discuss why it may only resonate with some and how it can restrict our understanding of core engagement.

Key Insights:

• The Complexity of the Core: I break down the core as a multifaceted system, highlighting the roles of the pelvic floor, diaphragm, multifidi, and transverse abdominals.

• The Role of Self-Practice: I emphasise the significance of self-practice and self-awareness for both instructors and clients. Understanding our own bodies is crucial for effectively teaching core activation.

• Effective Cues and Imagery: I share practical cues and imagery techniques designed to help clients connect more deeply with their core muscles during Pilates exercises.

• Rethinking Traditional Cues: I challenge Pilates professionals to reconsider conventional cues and terminology. By focusing on functional movement and proper joint alignment, we can enhance our teaching and our clients' experiences.

Takeaways:

• The "belly button to spine" cue is limited and may not be effective for everyone.

• Self-practice and self-awareness are vital for grasping and teaching core activation.

• The core comprises several interconnected systems, not just the abdominal muscles.

• Creative cues and imagery can foster a stronger connection to core engagement.

• It’s important to question traditional cues and prioritise functional movement and joint alignment.

Join me for an enlightening discussion that encourages us to deepen our understanding of core engagement and refine our teaching practices!

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This week, I chatted with David Weinstock, the brilliant mind behind Neurokinetic Therapy (NKT). We dive into the fascinating journey of how NKT came to be, how it's integrated into movement professions like Pilates, and why understanding proper breathing and diaphragm function is so crucial. We also talk in-depth about the role of the psoas muscle in core stability and why it's important to assess whether it’s overworking or underworking before diving into treatment.

David shares his knowledge on how the psoas connect with other muscles and systems in the body, such as the diaphragm and the limbic system. We also touch on the emotional side of things—how trauma impacts movement—and how addressing this can be key to successful outcomes. David’s take on failure and how it’s a vital part of learning really resonated with me, as well as his perspective on the joy and reward that comes from helping others and making a positive impact.

Takeaways:

• Neurokinetic Therapy (NKT) is an amazing system that focuses on how movement patterns connect, using biomechanics and neuroscience to assess and rehabilitate both acute and chronic injuries.

• NKT Meets Pilates: NKT is a perfect complement to Pilates, helping to spot and correct compensatory movement patterns and ensure optimal movement quality.

• The Importance of Proper Breathing: David talks about how breathing needs to involve a 360-degree expansion of the ribcage (yes, all around!) for the diaphragm to function at its best and how this affects core stability.

• Psoas Muscle Misunderstandings: The psoas is such an important part of the core, but often misunderstood. Stretching may not be the answer; instead, we need to figure out if it’s underworking or overworking before deciding on any treatment.

• Body Interconnectedness: Every part of the body is connected, and understanding this is essential for effective movement therapy. The psoas, diaphragm, and even the limbic system all work together in fascinating ways.

• Emotional Trauma’s Role: Trauma doesn’t just affect the mind; it affects movement. Addressing the limbic system is crucial for deeper healing and more effective treatment.

• Embracing Failure: David’s insight into failure was refreshing—it’s a necessary part of learning and growth, something I think we can all relate to.

• The Reward of Helping Others: David reminds us of the deep fulfillment that comes from helping people heal and make positive changes in their lives.

About David Weinstock: David has been at the forefront of manual therapy since 1973, after graduating from Johns Hopkins and traveling throughout Central and South America, learning from native healers. He co-founded the Institute of Conscious Bodywork in California and developed NeuroKinetic Therapy® in 1985. His book, "NeuroKinetic Therapy, an Innovative Approach to Manual Muscle Testing," has become an essential read for anyone in the bodywork field.

He teaches internationally, sharing his knowledge with Pilates instructors, chiropractors, physical therapists, and many others. David also runs a private practice in Marin County, where he treats everyone from athletes to weekend warriors, offering personalized treatments to help them recover and thrive.

In his free time, David enjoys hiking, skiing, and playing tennis, and he loves connecting with people from around the world, always sharing knowledge and learning from others.

Join us for this inspiring conversation to learn how Neurokinetic Therapy can transform the way we approach movement and healing.

Connect With David Weinstock

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NeuroKineticTherapy/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neurokinetictherapy/

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In this episode, Katie Crane dives into the topic of pelvic floor health for women in menopause and post-menopause. She highlights the importance of recognizing the unique physical changes women experience as they age and how these changes impact pelvic floor health. Katie explains the role of hormonal shifts, particularly the decline in estrogen, which can cause pelvic floor atrophy and symptoms like vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse, and urinary issues. She stresses the value of Pilates professionals categorizing women based on age and hormonal stages to offer appropriate support. Additionally, Katie touches on the significance of nutrition, specifically the role of protein, in preserving muscle strength during menopause.

Key Takeaways

• Recognizing bodily changes: It's vital for Pilates professionals to understand the specific physical changes that women face during menopause and post-menopause, particularly how these affect pelvic floor health.

• Hormonal impact: A decrease in estrogen can result in pelvic floor atrophy, which may lead to symptoms such as vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and urinary complications.

• Age and hormonal categorization: Categorizing clients based on their age and hormonal state allows Pilates professionals to tailor their support to improve pelvic floor health.

• Nutrition's role: Protein intake becomes increasingly important during menopause, as it helps maintain muscle strength. Women may need to boost their protein consumption to meet these needs.

• Pilates exercises for pelvic health: Exercises focusing on breath work, dynamic core engagement, and working against gravity can effectively strengthen the pelvic floor and improve overall pelvic health.

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