The way you cue in Pilates matters more than you think with Diane Nye

Welcome to Beyond the Reformer

Introduction to the Podcast

• Host Nick Lenny introduces the podcast, aiming to foster community and inspire listeners in their Pilates journey.

• The episode features Diane Nye, an educator for Polestar Pilates in the UK, discussing teaching styles and effective methods for client engagement.

Diane Nye's Background

Early Involvement with Pilates

• Diane reflects on her introduction to Pilates in the early 1990s while teaching fitness classes, where she first learned about Pilates through a course.

• She describes her initial experience as challenging but transformative, leading her to incorporate Pilates into her teaching repertoire despite not fully mastering it at first.

Journey of Self-Discovery

• Diane shares that injuries later prompted her to reevaluate her movement practices and seek deeper understanding through guidance from an osteopath and another teacher.

• Her training with Polestar marked a significant turning point in her career, igniting a passion for learning more about movement and teaching.

Transitioning from Fitness to Pilates

Balancing Two Disciplines

• Initially, Diane continued both fitness and Pilates instruction until physical demands made it unsustainable; she ultimately chose to focus solely on Pilates.

Establishing a Home Studio

• After completing Polestar training, Diane invested in equipment for personal practice at home, which also allowed her to teach clients effectively. She emphasizes that this decision was driven by personal growth rather than business needs.

The Evolution of Public Perception of Pilates

Changing Landscape of Pilates Awareness

• Diane notes how public awareness of Pilates has grown significantly since 2003 when many were unfamiliar with its concepts or equipment; she recalls introducing clients to what was then considered "alien" equipment.

Understanding the Journey into Pilates Education

Initial Reactions to Pilates Equipment

• The speaker reflects on people's initial reactions to Pilates equipment, noting that many were unfamiliar with it and expressed fear when seeing items like the reformer and trap table.

Teaching Experience and Community Engagement

• The speaker describes their early teaching experience, conducting group classes in community halls while also offering one-on-one sessions at home.

Expanding Knowledge through Equipment Adaptation

• They began using small equipment more frequently, realizing its potential for enhancing group classes by adapting exercises with bands and balls to replicate reformer movements.

Importance of Comprehensive Training

• The speaker emphasizes the value of comprehensive training courses, stating that instructors with a deeper knowledge base become better teachers as they can creatively adapt exercises using various props.

Transitioning to an Educator Role

• The journey from studio owner to educator was not planned; after completing Polestar training, they were invited to assist in mentoring programs which sparked a desire for further learning and sharing knowledge.

Exploring Movement and Learning in Bodywork

The Importance of Perspective in Learning

• Emphasizes the value of being open to different perspectives rather than becoming defensive. Encourages considering others' viewpoints as part of personal growth.

• Highlights the significance of personal interest in guiding one's journey, particularly in bodywork and movement practices.

• Notes a trend where teachers are specializing more due to increased awareness around issues like hypermobility and burnout, reflecting a shift towards personalized approaches.

Encouraging Curiosity Among Students

• Stresses the importance of asking "why" during training, encouraging students to explore their own bodily experiences rather than accepting information passively.

• References Eric Franklin's idea that the complexity of the body should not be oversimplified with basic cues, advocating for a holistic understanding.

Myths and Beliefs in Bodywork Education

• Discusses common myths held by students, especially those transitioning into teaching roles. These beliefs often stem from traditional learning methods that discourage questioning established norms.

• Points out that while some aspects of anatomy are factual, movement is complex and context-dependent; there isn't always a clear right or wrong way to approach it.

Understanding Movement Efficiency

• Introduces the concept that movement efficiency varies based on individual intentions and goals. It’s essential to consider how movements integrate holistically within the nervous system.

• Critiques how Pilates has been passed down through generations without sufficient questioning, leading to entrenched myths about practice.

The Role of Compensation in Movement

• Explains how individuals often accept teachings without question due to conditioning from early education systems. This acceptance can hinder critical thinking about movement practices.

• Advocates for an open-minded approach where practitioners consider alternative methods and their consequences on body mechanics.

• Describes how the body compensates for deviations from ideal posture due to various life factors while still striving to meet gravitational demands effectively.

Understanding Body Compensation and Neutrality

The Concept of Compensation in Movement

• Discusses the discomfort and tension experienced when the body is in a state of compensation, questioning whether it is appropriate to impose a different position on someone already compensating.

• Raises concerns about traditional methods of alignment during exercises, suggesting that forcing specific positions may not be natural or beneficial for everyone.

Unraveling Tension for Balance

• Emphasizes the need to help individuals find balance by first unraveling existing tensions rather than imposing corrections that could exacerbate compensatory patterns.

• Introduces the idea of neutrality as a unique state for each individual, advocating for an approach that allows bones to settle naturally rather than conforming to rigid positions.

Tools and Techniques for Rebuilding

• Mentions using props and small equipment from the Franklin method to assist in finding a neutral state where the body can relax and realign.

• Credits Liz Cook's work on core stability as influential in understanding how grounding oneself can facilitate better movement patterns.

The Importance of Unraveling in Fitness

• Reflects on how unraveling techniques are often missing in fitness studios, leading to an emphasis on harder workouts instead of foundational balance.

• Highlights a conversation about distinguishing between professional training versus general fitness trends, noting that many programs overlook essential unwinding practices.

Personal Experiences with Movement Training

• Shares personal anecdotes about initial skepticism towards unwinding practices during training sessions but later recognizes their profound impact on physical well-being.

• Describes how gentle movements led to significant changes in body awareness and posture compared to more intense workout styles.

Balancing Intensity with Recovery

• Discusses the unregulated nature of Pilates today, emphasizing that while pushing oneself can be beneficial, it should be balanced with recovery practices like unwinding.

• Warns against living in a constant state of sympathetic overload due to high-intensity lifestyles, which can lead to chronic stress responses affecting overall health.

Understanding the Body's Response to Stress and Change

The Need for Balance in Life

• The body will inevitably rebel against an unbalanced lifestyle, signaling a need for change.

• Achieving balance involves oscillating between extremes, but meaningful change requires deeper awareness of one's body.

Autonomic Nervous System and Its Role

• Changes in body alignment are governed by the autonomic nervous system, which operates unconsciously during activities like walking.

• Engaging in high-intensity exercises can trigger a defensive fight-or-flight response, hindering restorative changes.

Creating a Safe Environment for Change

• For effective change, the body must feel safe; this safety allows it to let go and rebuild new patterns.

• Awareness is crucial; slowing down helps individuals sense their bodies better amidst life's chaos.

Movement and Self-Awareness

• Many people live from "the neck up," neglecting the body's communication system. Pilates encourages tuning into bodily sensations.

• The speaker reflects on personal experiences with movement that led to profound self-discovery through practices like Pilates.

Teaching Mindfulness in Movement

• Instructors face challenges as clients often prioritize workouts over mindful movement due to previous training habits.

• Techniques such as guided imagery help clients notice their bodies without striving for perfection or uniformity.

Time Perception During Mindful Practices

• Engaging deeply in mindful practices can make time feel irrelevant; participants often lose track of time during classes.

• Pilates appeals to busy-minded individuals because it balances scientific principles with mindfulness without being overly esoteric.

Exploring Body Awareness and Movement

The Importance of Body Awareness

• Encouraging individuals to connect with their bodies can lead to greater awareness of imbalances, such as noticing differences in pelvic alignment.

• Increased awareness enhances the effectiveness of familiar movements, like the pelvic clock, making them feel more profound and impactful.

• Simple movements can yield significant insights; a person may experience deeper sensations when they are aware of their body's state during exercises.

Differentiating Levels of Awareness

• Individuals with varying levels of body awareness will perceive exercises differently; those who are more attuned may notice substantial changes post-exercise.

• Enhanced awareness leads to recognition of physical balance improvements, such as better alignment in the pelvis and shoulders.

Healing Through Movement

• The body has an innate ability to heal itself; learning to move well facilitates this self-healing process and encourages continuous improvement.

• Noticing changes is crucial for understanding the effects of movement; without this awareness, the benefits may go unrecognized.

Conscious Engagement vs. Instinctive Movement

• Discussions around cues like "engage your core" highlight a tension between conscious engagement and instinctive movement.

• Early teaching methods often emphasized instructing every muscle's function, but questioning these methods led to insights about natural body mechanics.

The Role of Tension in Movement

• Over-engagement or tension can hinder natural movement patterns, blocking essential connections within the body that facilitate stability through balance rather than rigidity.

• Holding tension affects breathing mechanisms and fluid dynamics within the body, which can lead to sluggishness in systems like digestion.

Fluidity and Internal Communication

• Proper movement allows internal fluids to flow freely; inhibiting this flow can disrupt overall bodily communication and function.

• Recognizing signs like digestive gurgling indicates a return to fluidity within the body after releasing tension.

Understanding Movement and Teaching in Pilates

The Concept of Engagement in Teaching

• The speaker emphasizes that the term "engage" is never taught in their Pilates training, suggesting a focus on natural movement rather than scripted cues.

• Students often feel deprived of language when teaching, indicating a disconnect between traditional training methods and modern understanding of movement.

• Despite advancements in knowledge about anatomy and movement, some training schools still promote outdated scripts for teaching.

Simplistic Approaches to Complex Anatomy

• Many individuals seek quick fixes or simplified courses, leading to an oversimplification of complex anatomical concepts.

• Common cues like "engage your core" or "shoulders down" are critiqued for lacking anatomical accuracy and failing to consider individual body mechanics.

Misconceptions About Anatomy

• Traditional anatomy illustrations are criticized for being two-dimensional and not accurately representing the three-dimensional nature of the human body.

• The speaker highlights that many anatomical models are based on male pelvises, which do not reflect female anatomy accurately.

Importance of Holistic Approach in Pilates

• Cues such as imagining the pelvis as a bowl can mislead practitioners due to incorrect anatomical positioning; understanding true pelvic orientation is crucial.

• Misguided cues can disrupt bodily connections and force absorption, leading to ineffective movement patterns.

Full Body Approach to Pain Management

• Addressing pain should involve a holistic view rather than focusing solely on the affected area; this approach aligns with Pilates principles.

• The interconnectedness of body parts means that improving overall balance can alleviate specific issues like knee pain.

Transformative Effects of Pilates

• Personal experiences reveal significant transformations in clients' pain levels through balanced movement practices inherent in Pilates.

• Observations show that even without targeting specific areas directly, clients experience relief from various pains due to comprehensive body awareness fostered by Pilates.

Understanding Holistic Approaches in Body Movement

The Importance of Viewing the Body as a Whole

• Treating the body as a connected whole is essential; focusing solely on isolated issues, like a knee problem, can lead to fragmented care.

• The saying "where it hurts is not why it hurts" emphasizes that pain in one area may stem from issues elsewhere in the body.

• Creating an environment conducive to self-healing allows the body to reorganize and find balance without external manipulation or muscle engagement.

Evolution of Pilates Education

• The Pilates world has shifted towards a more holistic approach rather than just fitness-focused practices, reflecting broader trends in health and wellness.

• Polestar Pilates is adapting its principles to emphasize whole-body approaches over outdated concepts like merely engaging the core.

• There’s an increasing integration of complementary therapies and small equipment into Pilates practice, enhancing the overall experience.

Challenges in Holistic Health Practices

• Many people encounter Pilates as their first introduction to holistic health, often leading instructors to explore personal experiences for better client guidance.

• Chronic problems often reflect imbalances in life; thus, individualized approaches are necessary since there’s no one-size-fits-all solution in holistic health.

Navigating Different Styles of Pilates

• The rise of studios focused on high-intensity workouts contrasts with Polestar's deeper exploration into holistic methods, creating confusion for clients seeking genuine benefits.

• While some enjoy traditional reformer classes for their intensity, there's concern about how these styles may overshadow more balanced approaches.

Teacher Training and Industry Standards

• Understanding various Pilates styles is crucial for both clients and aspiring teachers; they should be aware of what each studio offers before committing.

• The lack of official accreditation makes it challenging for individuals to discern quality training programs; comprehensive courses like those at Polestar require significant time investment compared to shorter options.

Understanding the Role of Pilates in Health and Fitness

The Appeal of Pilates

• Many people are drawn to Pilates for enjoyment rather than necessity, often choosing it over traditional gym workouts.

• Some individuals may be advised by therapists or doctors to try Pilates for body reorganization, but short-term strength gains may not lead to long-term benefits.

Client Perspectives on Pilates

• Clients often do not ask themselves what they truly need; many come seeking relief from pain without understanding their options.

• The popularity of Pilates has led to a diverse range of styles, yet many newcomers may not realize this diversity exists.

Challenges in Perception and Experience

• Misunderstandings about different styles can lead to negative experiences; clients might dismiss Pilates entirely after one bad session.

• Educating potential clients about the variety within Pilates is crucial for setting realistic expectations and improving their experience.

Becoming a Pilates Teacher

• Aspiring teachers often lack extensive experience in Pilates before pursuing teaching roles, which raises concerns about their preparedness.

• Different teaching paths exist: some may prefer leading group classes while others seek more personalized training approaches.

Training and Development as a Teacher

• Comprehensive training is essential for those wanting to make a significant impact on clients' lives; expertise develops over time through practice.

• New teachers should expect ongoing learning even after certification, as real-world teaching presents unique challenges that require adaptation.

Feedback and Growth in Teaching

• Constructive feedback is vital for teacher development; new instructors must embrace critique as part of their growth process.

• The transition from training to actual teaching can be daunting, akin to driving post-license—real-world application requires additional learning.

Influential Mentorship in Teaching Style

• Reflecting on influential figures, the speaker highlights Alistister Grether's impact on their teaching philosophy over 20 years ago.

Diane's Journey: Trusting Yourself and the Impact of Pilates

The Importance of Self-Trust

• Diane reflects on overcoming impostor syndrome, emphasizing the need to trust in one's knowledge and have courage in convictions.

• A mentor encouraged Diane to recognize her expertise, reinforcing the idea that self-belief is crucial for personal growth.

• Despite initial discomfort during learning sessions, Diane acknowledges their lasting impact on her understanding and teaching methods.

Balancing Knowledge Sharing

• Eric Franklin advised Diane to be selective about sharing information, highlighting the importance of withholding some details for effective teaching.

• Diane recalls her eagerness to share knowledge when first entering the field but recognizes that not overwhelming others is essential for their learning process.

Advice to Younger Self

• If she could advise her younger self, Diane would stress trusting oneself and following intuition over overthinking decisions.

• She discusses how tuning into one’s inner knowing can guide better choices despite external distractions.

The Profound Gift of Pilates

• For Diane, Pilates has provided a sense of presence and contentment within herself, fostering self-trust even amidst mistakes.

• Understanding her body through Pilates has allowed her to feel comfortable being alone with herself, enhancing personal acceptance.

Embracing Movement Beyond Right or Wrong

• The conversation touches on moving away from rigid notions of right and wrong towards embracing feelings that resonate personally.

• This shift in perspective reflects how movement practices like Pilates can influence broader life experiences and self-trust.