This week I interviewed Pilates Instructor Abbey Desmond. In this interview, we take a deep dive into all things Pilates: the benefits, the values, the connection between mind, breath and body, and her personal experience with Pilates and becoming an instructor. Whether you've never tried Pilates before or are already a Pilates fanatic like Abbey and myself, this interview is a must read to learn what it's all about, or to add some instructor wisdom to your practice. Enjoy xx
Firstly, Introduce yourself! Who are you, what do you do, and what are your passions?
My name is Abbey, I am 23 years of age. Currently working as a pilates instructor which I absolutely love! I am passionate about all things health and wellness. How and when did you discover Pilates, and what sparked the idea of progressing to then train to teach as an instructor?
I first discovered pilates when I began working for a reformer studio as an admin assistant. I had always heard about the amazing benefits of pilates so I was very eager to give it a go! Since the age of ten I have suffered with rheumatoid arthritis, which has affected most of the joints in my body. I fell in LOVE with the way pilates made me feel, how it seemed to relieve joint pain, dramatically improve flexibility and overall strength. I then decided I would take the plunge and study to become a pilates instructor so that I could help others experience these improvements and more! What are some of the benefits and changes we may see in our bodies whilst maintaining a regular pilates practice?
Some of the benefits of practising pilates regularly include: - Improved flexibility and mobility - Core strength - Decrease stress and anxiety - Enhances body awareness - Improves posture - Overall body strength What is the significance of the mind-body connection in Pilates practice, and how does the breath work into each movement?
I believe the mind-body connection is so important for everyone and this is something we refer to a lot throughout our pilates practice. For me personally it's about slowing down and just focusing on what you are doing at this moment in time, letting external thoughts or worries go, and really just tuning in with your body and how you are feeling. Slowing down allows us to focus on our body awareness and control throughout movement. Breath work is also a huge factor of the pilates practice. Typically we use exhalation for the effort of most exercises, as this aids in the activation of the abdominals. I also believe it's so important to slow down and really use the class as an opportunity to focus on your breath, and how it makes you feel. Most of us live very busy/high stress lifestyles and we often forget to simply slow down and just take a breath!
What was involved in the process of your training to become a qualified Pilates instructor?
I studied both mat work and reformer pilates to become a qualified pilates instructor. Completing practical hours, observational hours and teaching hours was part of the training program as well as written assignments and exams. What are 3 tips you have for ensuring you get the most out of each Pilates workout?
1/ Leave your ego at the door - come in with an open mind, do not judge yourself or others, acknowledge that you might not be the best at everything but that's okay!
2/ Be willing to challenge yourself - Be open to challenging yourself mentally and physically and appreciate all the amazing things your body can do
3/ Have FUN! - Enjoy the privilege of being able to move your body, don't take things too seriously! What are our options for trying out a Pilates class? Where are classes available, and what different types are there?
There are so many ways to practice pilates! With amazing studios all around Australia that range from mat work pilates, barre, HIIT and reformer there are so many options! There is also a huge amount of online studios which make practising pilates so much more accessible.
Follow Abbey on Instagram: @alignmentby_abbey
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