Below you'll find a list of all posts that have been tagged as “abdominals”
We have touched on what it means when Pilates teachers tell us to ‘scoop’, ‘hollow’, or ‘draw your abdominals in & up’, and how this is anatomically possible in our abdominals. However, to really perfect your scoop you will need to have a wider understanding of the parts of the body used to scoop and the muscle functions that enable …
“if your spine is inflexibly stiff at 30, you are old. If it is completely flexible at 60, you are young.” – Another truly profound quote from Joseph Pilates. If your spine is stiff your body is affected with aches and pains. Is this a healthy/happy way to live life? A healthy spine is a mobile spine, a mobile spine …
There really is a method to Joseph Pilates’ mat madness, I promise! The classical Pilates repertoire was strategically ordered for many reasons, for example to aid the flow of movement and to introduce stretching/massaging exercises where they are needed. Rolling Like A Ball is introduced as an exercise to massage the spine and stretch out the back, whilst of course still engaging the …
Now that all the Marathon palaver is over, some of you might be thinking about signing up for the next one, some of you will be focusing on rest and recovery, and some of you will be thinking about your summer body… Whatever your goal is, let’s start with building your foundations! Most people, including runners, aren’t aware of the importance …
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I’m a Spurs supporter!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
Ooooh. It has to be the ladder barrel, perfect for when I have been on my feet teaching all day
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Energetic – Sensitive – Encouraging
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Powerful, determined, Sympathetic, compassionate, focused, intuitive, hard working
DO YOU HAVE A NICKNAME?
The smiling assain
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
THK protein cookie
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I am a keen skier and general mountain goat
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
The Wunda chair is always a challenge
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Open & honest, fun and determined.
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Classically focused with an aim to bring precision and flow together for a great workout for all bodies and minds
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Nkd bar or my current addiction which is a bakewell tart!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
The Cadillac
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Friendly, relaxed and encouraging
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Technical, calm and stretchy
WHY DO YOU LOVE EXHALE?
Because Exhale teaches pure classical Pilates in a fun and enjoyable setting
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Banana and a soya Latte
TELL US ONE PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I love any breakfast food from yogurt to scrambled eggs
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
Baby Chair – no one should put baby in the corner
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Fiesty, focussed and fun
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Depends on the client in front of me
IF YOU WERE GOING TO HAVE A NICKNAME IT WOULD BE ‘GEM GEM’… WHY?
It’s my name and a Gem is a precious stone. Everyone should be made to feel precious
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
My best friend’s home made energy balls. They are delicious!
TELL US ONE PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I am half South African
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
Wunda Chair & Ladder Barrel
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Honest, caring, & kooky
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Focused, mindful, encouraging
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD?
Anything sweet or spicy!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Pulsin bar
TELL US ONE PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I also work as a movement director and fight choreographer
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
Spine Corrector, Arm Chair, Reformer
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Happy, Quirky, Nurturing
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Challenge, Stretch, Realign
WHY DO YOU LOVE EXHALE?
Great Clients and staff, everyone is enthusiastic and open hearted.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Mango Yo Yo’s – I know they are for kids, but they are amazing!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
The reformer. You need to be aware of your body and know the basic Pilates connections to master this incredible apparatus. I love how it’s much more than what it looks like, and how it surprises new students after a full workout.
A NON PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I practice energy healing
3WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
compassionate, honest, strong
3WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Fun, supportive, challenging
WHATS YOUR NICKNAME?
Nati
WHY DO YOU LOVE EXHALE?
I love the fresh vibe that the studio gives to the classical pilates method. I am inspired by the dedication of the owner to grow and take care of her business, and the teachers who work at the studio. It’s exciting to be a part of it!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD?
Spanish tortilla (I make the best)
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Açai bowl with coconut flakes
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I have an MA in the History of Medicine.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD?
Anything from the Ottolenghi cook books
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
Cadillac! I love it’s symmetry and there are some wicked exercises to challenge and strengthen!
TELL US 3 WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Upbeat, empathetic and calm
TELL US 3 WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Hands-on, passionate, encouraging and precise (ooops, sorry that’s 4!)
IF YOU WERE GOING TO HAVE A NICKNAME, WHAT WOULD IT BE & WHY?
Pilates Queen – it’s what my children have nick-named me after years of listening to me going on and on about Pilates!
WHY DO YOU LOVE EXHALE?
The energy of the place, the enthusiastic teachers, lovely clients and the fact that it’s a true Classical studio. Always leave Exhale with a spring in my step!
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I’ve lived in 9 cities across 4 continents!
FAVOURITE FOOD:
South & Central American cuisine.
FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
The Wunda Chair is incredible, so many amazing exercises in a very small space.
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Fun-loving, inquisitive, personable
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Encouraging, informative, pushy (I push clients to do what they think they didn’t think
they could do!)
WHAT IS YOUR NICKNAME?
I have quite a few nicknames…
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT EXHALE?
EPL is a rare gem. The staff and clients are friendly and fun and yet it’s all about building strength, increasing flexibility and sharing information about the method to help make all of our lives better!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
I love to hydrate with coconut water after a swaety workout!
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I absolutely love sharks!
FAVOURITE FOOD:
Pizza, but it has to be strictly from Napoli!
FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
The mat!!! It can be done everywhere and anywhere and it really gets me focused as I have to find my “inner springs” while keeping up with my breathing.
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
bubbly, caring and passionate.
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
attentive, energetic, personal
WHAT IS YOUR NICKNAME?
Chi chi (pronounced kiki)
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT EXHALE?
I absolutely love the classical equipment , and it’s just a lovely set up! The teachers are all lovely and encouraging with their clients and with each other. I believe that this then translates into dedicated and committed clients who enjoy working hard!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Normally I would have a banana but occasionally I spoil myself with a couple of pieces of 80% cocoa dark chocolate.
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I studied French and Japanese language at University.
FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
Wunda Chair. It may look small and unassuming, but for me packs the biggest punch. Genius in its simplicity, extremely versatile, super challenging, very difficult to cheat! You must learn respect, to work with instead of against (or you may get thrown off!)
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Passionate, empathetic, nerdy.
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Fun, meticulous, challenging
WHAT IS YOUR NICKNAME?
Pilates Sensei
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
A stiff drink of green juice
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I sing and play the Guitar
FAVOURITE FOOD:
Asian inspired, a Sunday Roast or tea n biscuits
FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
The Cadillac as you can do so much with it but it is slowly becoming the Chair
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Determined, kind and hilarious – says my husband!
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
imaginative,methodical,patient
WHAT IS YOUR NICKNAME?
Mummy… of which I am called about 300 times a day
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT EXHALE?
I love the studio. Gaby’s energy and passion for Pilates is infectious. She has welcomed me on to the course and to Exhale, introducing me to the classical world and shown faith in me as a teacher, of which I am very grateful for. Gaby and all the teachers at Exhale are amazing, all very generous with their time and sharing information they have learnt over the years. Observing them all at work has really helped me with my own teaching. The energy from the clients is fantastic, you can see how much they enjoy the classes. It feels like my Pilates family home!! Not to mention I have made some great friends
Now one of Gaby’s apprentices, I feel Exhale born and bred.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
A cup of tea
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I was born with a tooth
FAVOURITE FOOD:
Orange segments dipped in dark chocolate
FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
Foot corrector as it helps strengthen and relieve tension in my feet as a dancer
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Passionate – Bubbly – Caring
WHAT IS YOUR NICKNAME?
Larry P
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT EXHALE?
What don’t I love about it! The company is in a really exciting place and I’m really excited to be actively helping Gaby develop the studio and continue to support in making our clients happy!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
THK chocolate and coconut protein cookies – Although these are in high demand so you have to stock up quickly when they come out on the shelf!
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I was the lead singer in a rock band for 5 years.
FAVOURITE FOOD:
Pesto spaghetti!
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Focused in detail, dynamic, fun!
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Curious, empathetic, enthusiastic
WHAT IS YOUR NICKNAME?
Mitsos
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT EXHALE?
The excitement and passion about the original Pilates Method and how to share it with the world.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Banana
TELL US ONE PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I’m currently attempting to write a book!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
The Reformer…specifically Short Spine on the Reformer
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Compassionate, Present, Funny
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Direct, Enthusiastic, Fun
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Probably something with cheese. Always cheese (and sometimes wine)!
TELL US ONE FACT ABOUT YOU?
I’m Vegan!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
Jump board on the Reformer to get warm and feel free!
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Enthusiastic, Quirky and Curious
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Intuitive, Attentive, Compassionate
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Banana & Choc Vegan protein shake
TELL US ONE FACT ABOUT YOU?
I am obsessed with musicals!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
The Small Barrel –I hold so much tension in my shoulders, so I love to use the barrel to release my upper body, and it’s like magic…I feel like a different person afterwards, light, happy and ready to go!
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Sociable, kind and jovial!
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Attentive, encouraging, hard-working
DO YOU HAVE A NICKNAME?
Not really! Some people call me Lisa-loo
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Almond Cappuccino!
TELL US ONE FACT ABOUT YOU?
I’m an amateur gemmologist having studied at Gem-A (the Gemmological Association of Great Britain) and collect uncut gemstones.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD?
Watermelon in the summer, a warm stew or casserole in the winter.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
That’s really tough! Depends on the day and the body, but the roll back and push through bars can work magic for everyone!
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Curious, approachable, industrious
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Welcoming, hands-on, conscientious
IF YOU WERE TO HAVE A NICKNAME WHAT WOULD IT BE & WHY?
Agent Gomez… I considered applying to the FBI after graduation but never did!
WHY DO YOU LOVE EXHALE?
Exhale has an amazing energy & vibe that is hard to find anywhere else.
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I have lived in Belgium and Texas which has left me with a love for both chocolate and tacos.
FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
My favorite apparatus is the reformer, I love how restorative working on it can feel. The reformer feeds you deeper back into your own body, helping you find greater strength, awareness and appreciation for your body.
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Friendly, Open-minded, Conscientious.
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Caring, encouraging and imaginative.
WHAT IS YOUR NICKNAME?
I have a few but one of the older ones is Kit Kat (chocolate lover from an early age).
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Pulsin protein bars and Goodio chocolate.
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I love Vintage Clothing.
FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
Wunda Chair – I don’t get to use it enough, but it continuously challenges me when I do.
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Sensitive, happy and sometimes loud.
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Vigorous, focused, pleasure.
WHAT IS YOUR NICKNAME?
Slick-mich.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Eggs any way with toast and decaf coffee…tend to not snack!
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I started dancing at 2 years old and have now made a career out of it.
FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
Cadillac! To stretch and strengthen simultaneously.
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Ambitious, Outgoing, Friendly.
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
Attentive, dynamic, calm.
WHAT IS YOUR NICKNAME?
Ash! Or Gail (my middle name).
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Smashed avocado, peanut butter banana or a green smoothie.
TELL US ONE NON-PILATES FACT ABOUT YOU?
I always wanted to be a Vet and changed my decision to the arts just before applying to uni.
FAVOURITE FOOD?
Does hummus count?
FAVOURITE PILATES APPARATUS?
I’m getting used to the Electric chair now and love the feeling of being so tall!
WHAT 3 WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Ambitious, smiley, sociable.
WHAT IS YOUR NICKNAME?
Hansy Pansy (pretty embarrassing).
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE POST-PILATES SNACK?
Blueberries!
