fbpx Skip to main content
All Posts By

Carol Parlero

Jun 04
Love0

How to get continuity across different instructors in your team, with Jeff Waters and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Jeff runs 2 Pilates studios in Surrey, UK. In this conversation, we talk through Jeff’s challenge of rolling out a more consistent class program and teaching style across his team of 13 instructors.

Plus we talk through the differences and similarities of the UK and Australian Pilates scenes.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Find Jeff and Pilates Movement UK here
  • Connect with Pilates Movement on Insta and FB
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
About Jeff Waters:

Jeff is a highly experienced Personal Trainer and multiple business owner, having years of experience helping people achieve their desired goals alongside running successful studios. Jeff gave up a corporate career and migrated over to the fitness industry nearly 10 years ago. Since then Jeff’s career spans from training High Profile Sydney based clients to being an Exercise Coach at a Sydney based Football team before moving to the UK. Along with being the founder of The Pilates Movement & owner of a London based HIIT studio, he is a “hands on” operator being active in running classes and taking Personal Training sessions, purely for the love of helping people and seeing their progression.

After suffering from a shoulder injury during intensive training Jeff was introduced to Pilates to help his rehabilitation. After seeing the many benefits he started looking to learn more about Pilates and all it had to offer. Qualifying as a Pilates instructor in Sydney, Australia, he then decided to focus more on Pilates training than standard Gym Training. Jeff eventually found his way into Reformer Pilates seeing the further benefits and results the Reformer was able to achieve for his clients.
His upbeat manner and personal style, complimented with years of experience, extensive qualifications and flexible approach will keep you motivated to enjoy every session.

How to Connect with Jeff:

  • Find Jeff and Pilates Movement UK here
  • Connect with Pilates Movement on Insta and FB
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Jun 01
Love0

What’s going on at BE, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

This episode is outside the normal format for the podcast – I’ve had a lot of questions about what’s going on at Breathe Education recently, and in this episode, or fireside chat, I answer all of them.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here

 

About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

May 28
Love0

Simple exercises can have complex effects: The story of pec major, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Why you only need 2 basic shoulder exercises for a balanced shoulder workout.

Warning – anatomy geek out.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

May 25
Love0

Don’t be a solution looking for a problem, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

This is why you struggle to attract clients to your Pilates sessions. And the solution.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Get a copy of Raph’s new book ‘How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates’ here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

May 21
Love0

What skills do you need to confidently teach Pilates to everyone? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

I think in Pilates, we generally spend too much attention and time learning repertoire, and not enough time focusing on the other four key skills of a Pilates instructor

Resources mentioned in the episode

  • Interview with Gaby Wulf and Rebecca Lewthwaite here
  • There are only 3 exercises in the world and cat stretch is 2 of them here
  • Prenatal Pilates is just Pilates with Hailey Hawkins here
  • Rehab is just graded exercise here
  • Raph IG profile here
  • Certification in Pilates walkthrough video here
  • Schedule a call with our team about Diploma of Clinical Pilates here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

May 18
Love0

Why this is the last ever intake of the Diploma of Clinical Pilates, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

What the Diploma is, and why we’re ending it with one final intake this September

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Schedule a call with our team about the Diploma of Clinical Pilates here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

May 14
Love0

Rehab is just graded exercise, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Almost everyone overcomplicates rehabilitation. It’s actually very simple. Listen to find out.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Join our upcoming live podcast here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

May 11
Love0

The Not To Do List, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

If you’re busy all the hours, but not making progress, maybe you’re not doing the right things. This will help.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Head over to our Youtube channel here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

May 07
Love0

Pelvic organ prolapse – why you should be a movement optimist, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Why you should default to the expectation that all exercises are safe and beneficial for women with pelvic organ prolapse.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Join us on our next live podcast here
  • Exercise and pelvic organ prolapse; scoping review here
  • “Safe” versions of exercises are NOT actually safer (and “dangerous” versions are NOT actually dangerous) here
  • Early exercise in postpartum does not affect POP risk here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

May 04
Love0

Move towards your dream, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Why you should not let what you’re currently doing constrain your thinking about what is possible.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Follow Raph on IG here
  • Get a copy Raph’s new book ‘How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates’ here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Apr 30
Love0

Why do we keep having the same conversation in Pilates? With Kyle Marsh and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Neutral or imprinted spine?

What exercises are safe for pregnant women?

What is and isn’t Pilates?

Pineapple on pizza?

These are the recurring conversations we have in Pilates – why do we keep having the same conversations, and what, if anything, can we do to move on?

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Check out our Visualized Anatomy Program here
  • Connect with Kyle Marsh on Instagram
  • Find True II Form online here and on Instagram
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
About Kyle Marsh:

A lifelong student of movement, Kyle is a Brooklyn-based Pilates instructor, educator, choreographer, dance artist, Integrative Health Coach, small business entrepreneur, and capoeirista.

As a Pilates instructor, Kyle is known for empowering her students to move intelligently and fearlessly within their own practice. Inspired by her background as a dancer and her interest in body-mind-science Kyle pursued advanced education in Pilates instruction and holds separate 450hr + comprehensive course certificates in both Contemporary and Classical Pilates instruction.

From 2016-2020 Kyle was on faculty as a Lead Teacher Trainer and administrator for Equinox Pilates Institute, under the direction of Carrie Macy Samper.

Currently, Kyle is the co-founder of True II Form Pilates and Wellness, an online Pilates-based fitness studio dedicated to delivering athletic strength forming moves for every(body) that empowers practitioners to feel radiant and free in the body that is theirs.

Kyle graduated summa cum laude from Mason Gross School of the Arts with a B.F.A. in dance and holds a Masters Degree in Dance Education from The Graduate School of Education at Rutgers University.

On the weekends Kyle enjoys getting outside and spending time with her husband and their Corgi pup named Moose.

How to Connect with Kyle:

Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Apr 27
Love0

The principle of specificity – aka everything in your Pilates life is not a nail, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

To get strong: Lift heavy things

To get good at a middle split: Spend time in a middle split

To get more clients: Do another certification Learn how to get clients

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Please rate and review Pilates Elephants on Apple Podcast,
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Read Raph’s new book ‘How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates’ here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Apr 23
Love0

Money Mindsets, with Raphael Bender

By Make more money

5 limiting beliefs about money that have held me back over the years, and the strategies I’ve used to overcome them.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates book here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Blair Enns Pricing Creativity here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Apr 16
Love0

Ab curls are safe during pregnancy, live podcast with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Ab curls ARE safe during pregnancy. Many people mistakenly believe they increase risk of diastasis but this is not true.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Check out or visualized anatomy program here
  • Diastasis gets narrower during a curl up here and here
  • Diastasis gets wider during TrA contraction here and here
  • Prenatal abdominal strengthening probably helps diastasis here
  • Postpartum abdominal strengthening probably helps diastasis here
  • US General Surgeon’s perspective on exercise for diastasis here
  • ACOG guidelines on exercise during pregnancy and postpartum here
  • Get a copy of Raph’s new book ‘How to make $100k a year teaching Pilates’ here.
  • Connect with Raph here.
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Apr 09
Love0

How to eliminate procrastination, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

If you’re procrastinating on starting that business, building your existing business or upgrading your skills so you can earn more – this will help.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Come join our first live podcast on Wed, April 12 / Thurs, April 13 depending on your timezone. Registration details are here.
  • Touching the void here
  • Get a copy of Raph’s new book ‘How to make $100k a year teaching Pilates’ here.
  • Connect with Raph here.
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Apr 02
Love0

Starting a Client-Centered Pilates studio in Munich, with Marie Hopp and Raphael Bender

By Make more money

Marie is launching a business based on the Client Centered business model in Raph’s latest book.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Get a copy of Raph’s new book ‘How to make $100k a year teaching Pilates here.
  • Connect with Marie Hopp here
  • Find Phare Pilates online here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Marie Hopp:

Marie has been a movement professional for over a decade, starting off by teaching yoga in Zurich part-time, additionally to her corporate career in travel. Not long after she moved to London to earn a level III diploma in personal training. Being a Pilates practitioner for many years, Marie then entered the dynamic group reformer Pilates scene in London, got reformer certified and hooked with this style of training. A couple of years later she returned to her hometown Munich, where she started a Pilates and personal training business. She also became a comprehensively BASI-trained Pilates instructor. Through her midwife sister, Marie specialized in women. Having had a baby and the pandemic changed her original idea of workin in health and fitness vastly, and she was very close to return to a corporate role. Though then she came across the Pilates Elephants podcast and Breathe Education a few years ago, and rediscovered her faith in and joy for teaching movement, and is now about to start a new studio concept in Munich.

How to Connect with Marie: 

  • Find Marie Hopp on Instagram here
  • Find Phare Pilates here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Mar 26
Love0

How to build a Pilates business in a renovated 2-car garage in 12 months, with Teneille Palmer and Raphael Bender

By Make more money

Teneille built a thriving home-based Pilates business in her rural Australian town, population 400.

Here’s how you can do it too.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Check out TPalm Pilates and connect with Teneille Palmer here
  • Follow Raph on IG here
  • If you want to plan, build, and launch your $100k/Year Solo Home-Based Or Online Pilates Business, check out our Launchpad program here.
  • Our Pilates Certification will increase in price by 10% on April 1st. Beat the price rise here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Teneille Palmer:

Teneille Palmer is a dedicated mother of three who has found success in the Pilates industry. With 4 years of Pilates teaching experience under her belt, what started as a hobby on the side has quickly evolved into a thriving business that allows Teneille to balance her work with her family commitments while earning a good income. Teneille’s Pilates studio, TPalm Pilates, is located in her own home in a rural Australian town with a small population of just 400. She completed her Cert IV with Breathe Education and is presently enrolled in the Diploma of Clinical Pilates. With her commitment to continuing education and her passion for Pilates, Teneille is sure to make a positive impact in the industry for years to come.

How to Connect with Teneille

  • Find Teneille on Instagram here
  • Find TPalm Pilates here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Mar 19
Love0

Prenatal Pilates is just Pilates, with Hailey Hawkins and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

There is a persistent myth in the Pilates world that prenatal Pilates needs to be gentle, safe, highly modified and complicated. But this is not true…

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Watch ‘$100k Pilates Workshop Replay’ here
  • Register your interest to receive an advanced copy of Raph’s book ‘How to make $100k a year teaching Pilates here
  • Our Pilates Certification will increase in price by 10% on April 1st. Beat the price rise here
  • Connect with Hailey Hawkins here
  • Check out some of Hailey’s Instagram posts here and here and here and here
  • ACSM guidelines here
  • ACOG guidelines here
  • No relationship between relaxin levels and pelvic pain here
  • The Sacroiliac joint moves 0.2 degrees in women diagnosed with pelvic instability here
  • Instead the intensity of fear-avoidance beliefs predicts pelvic pain here
  • During a curl up diastasis gets smaller here
  • Ab strengthening during pregnancy reduces diastasis here
  • Curl-ups reduce diastasis here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Hailey Hawkins:

Hailey Hawkins is a Pilates Instructor trainer at Breathe Education. She has been practicing Pilates for almost 15 years and is excited to help trainees learn the skills they need to confidently teach empowering movement to everyone. She is passionate about fostering critical thinking skills in her students, so they can develop an applicable toolset that they can use wherever and however they teach Pilates.

How to Connect with Hailey:

Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Mar 12
Love0

How to build a $6M Pilates franchise, with Amanda Dell’Aquila and Simon Bryce

By Make more money

Amanda and Simon are siblings who started out teaching personal training sessions in the park in Sydney Australia, and have built their business Mission Possible Fitness to 5 locations, which more on the way.

This is their story, including ups and downs, plus what they’ve learned and how they’ve grown professionally and personally.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Watch ‘$100k Pilates Workshop Replay’ here
  • Register your interest to receive an advanced copy of Raph’s book ‘How to make $100k a year teaching Pilates here
  • Find Mission Possible Fitness online, on Facebook, and on Instagram
  • Connect with Simon Bryce and Amanda Dell’Aquila on Instagram
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Amanda Dell’Aquila and Simon Bryce:

Amanda and Simon are founders of Mission Possible Fitness, Pilates and PT studios that opened in 2013 in Sydney, NSW. The family culture created by Simon and Amanda has continued on as other instructors and studio owners have joined them in their business. Growing their Pilates credentials over the years, they uses entrepreneurial and team culture development skills to build a successful franchise company. At present, they support and manage over 35 staff across 5 studios with thousands of members Sydney-wide and in the US with a big future ahead.

How to Connect with Amanda and Simon:

Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Mar 05
Love0

The Wisdom of the Original 34 Contrology Exercises, with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

We nerd out on the original 34 Contrology matwork exercises.

  1. Hundred
  2. Rollup
  3. Roll over
  4. One leg circle
  5. Roll back
  6. Single leg stretch
  7. Double leg stretch
  8. Spine stretch
  9. Rocker with open legs
  10. Corkscrew
  11. Saw
  12. Swan dive
  13. One leg kick
  14. Double leg kick
  15. Neck pull
  16. Scissors
  17. Bicycle
  18. Shoulder bridge
  19. Spine twist
  20. Jack knife
  21. Side kick
  22. Teaser
  23. Hip twist
  24. Swimming
  25. Leg pull front
  26. Leg pull
  27. Side kick kneeling
  28. Side bend
  29. Boomerang
  30. Seal
  31. Crab
  32. Rocking
  33. Control balance
  34. Push up

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Watch ‘$100k Pilates Workshop Replay’ here
  • Register your interest to receive an advanced copy of Raph’s book ‘How to make $100k a year teaching Pilates here
  • The training injury prevention paradox shows consistent high training load is associated with fewer injuries here
  • The original Hodges and Richardson TrA study here
  • Return to Life Through Contrology here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Heath Lander:

Heath Lander had a chance encounter with Pilates which completely changed his life’s direction. He began training as a Pilates instructor at Breathe Education while seeing private clients in his home. Meanwhile, he was still working full time as a special needs art teacher and getting accustomed to life as a single dad. Over the next decade he taught over 15,000 hours of group and small group/clinical classes. He went on to open two locations of White Dog Studio, where the mission is to provide challenging, rewarding, and effective exercise for people over 40. He has also worked as an instructor trainer at Breathe Education since 2011 and has taught in the Certificate and Diploma courses. In 2021, he began working full time for Breathe Education and has created coursework and tutorial materials for the updated Diploma of Clinical Pilates. His other professional passion is online mentoring and trainer development through his personal brand, Contrology Collective.

How to Connect with Heath:

  • Find Heath on Instagram here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Feb 26
Love0

How to land a job where you can teach how you want, with Natalie Wilson and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Yes, it’s true you can find a job at a studio where you are free to teach how you want. Here’s how.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Register your interest to receive an advanced copy of Raph’s book ‘How to make $100k a year teaching Pilates here
  • Sign up for the free ‘How to make $100k in a year teaching Pilates’ workshop here
  • Daryl Davis here
  • Connect with Natalie Wilson on Instagram
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Natalie Wilson:

Born and raised in Hawaii, Natalie’s foundation in movement comes from years of training in the native dances of Hawaii and Tahiti.  After college, Natalie pursued a career in social work and mental health.  She discovered Pilates after the birth of her second child and loved how the practice gave her renewed strength, energy, and focus. Desiring a career shift, Natalie enrolled in a comprehensive Pilates training program, graduating in early 2017.  In addition, Natalie received her National Pilates Certification in 2020 and her Pilates Certification from Breathe Education in February 2022.  She currently teaches at Vitality Pilates as well as the Multiple Sclerosis Center at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, Washington, where she lives with her husband, two kids, and too many houseplants.

How to Connect with Natalie:

  • Find Natalie on Instagram here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Feb 19
Love0

The 3 things that will make you a wildly popular instructor, with Nathan Ross Rees and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Nathan’s world tour continues and he shares what he has learned from visiting over 150 Pilates studios.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Register your interest to receive an advanced copy of Raph’s book ‘How to make $100k a year teaching Pilates here
  • Sign up for the free ‘How to make $100k in a year teaching Pilates’ workshop here
  • Connect with Nathan on Instagram here
  • Join Nathan’s reformer academy here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Nathan Ross Rees:

Nathan is on a worldwide tour teaching instructors how to intentionally adapt load with a reformer. Reformer workouts are resistance training. The understanding on how to adapt load with intention gives you the ability to:

  • control how fast people fatigue
  • challenge all ability levels
  • achieve studio consistency

Nathan promotes critical thinking and encourages instructors to question everything they know. He teaches how to program reformer classes, how to sell out classes, and how to build a strong community connection.

How to Connect with Nathan:

  • Find Nathan Ross Rees on Instagram here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Feb 17
Love1

The most important single concept to make $100k in Pilates

By Make more money

If you want to make $100k next year teaching Pilates, there’s one critical concept to understand.

This will take about 5 minutes to read.

The concept in this blog might be the opposite of what you’ve been taught.

It might be a completely different way of thinking.

But when you understand and start applying this concept, we can promise you’ll start making more money.

That’s how important it is (and why Raph spent so much time writing this blog for you).

Write this down.

Print this and read it over and over.

Tattoo it on your arm so you eat, sleep and breathe this concept…

Pilates is not your product. You’re not selling Pilates. You’re selling a result

Raph is holding a live workshop in the next two weeks showing you exactly how to apply this concept to make $100k a year teaching Pilates. Secure your spot here.

——————————————————————–

Let me show you by giving you an example of how it applies in your own life.

What do you do when your sink is blocked?

You’ll probably call a plumber.

You are a client of your plumber.

I’m going out on a limb here to say on most days, you don’t sit around thinking about the benefits of plumbing.

Let’s face it. You have zero interest in plumbing.

But when your sink is blocked, you wonder how to unblock your sink.

Your future clients are like you

They don’t care about plumbing or, in this case, Pilates.

They care about alleviating their back pain.

They care about living longer and feeling less stressed.

They care about liking what they see in the mirror more.

Your future clients don’t sit around thinking about Pilates. Just like you’re not sitting around thinking of plumbing.

Your future client is at home right now thinking about how sore her back is…

She’s thinking that she needs to do something about it.

It’s becoming a problem because her back pain is impacting her ability to concentrate at work.

It’s making her short-tempered with her kids.

Here’s what introduces your future client to Pilates

Your future client is sitting at home.

She feels terrible because she missed an important meeting with her boss.

She yelled at her child when she got home.

Your future client sits on the sofa with a glass of wine.

Her back is killing her.

She’s mentally drained and emotionally numb.

She scrolls through social media to distract herself from her life for a few minutes.

And comes across an ad saying “Get rid of your back pain in 6 weeks”.

Do you think she’ll feel a spark of interest, excitement, or even hope?

Without a shadow of doubt it will.

You’ve shown her the life preserver that could save her from drowning.

You’ve shown Pilates will give her the result she wants (less pain).

This person will be an amazing client.

She’ll pay you whatever you ask. She’ll show up to all her sessions because she’s motivated – she has a big, painful problem, and she’s desperate to solve it.

(Like you would pay your plumber whatever he asked AND take the day off work if it meant unblocking the ONLY toilet in your home…)

The conventional, wrong “Pilates IS your product” scenario

What if, as she was scrolling through social media, she saw an ad selling Pilates like:

  • “6-week Pilates course starts Monday”
  • “The 12 benefits of Pilates”
  • “Intro offer – 5 Pilates sessions for $50”

Do you think that would attract her attention?

No. It wouldn’t.

She’s too busy wallowing in pain and exhaustion to even contemplate getting fit – it’s not on her radar.

Her problem is back pain.

Not a lack of Pilates.

She won’t come to you for Pilates. She’ll come to you to ease her back pain.

Alleviating back pain is the result. Pilates is the delivery mechanism.

Remember this one concept.

Pilates is not your product. Your product is the solution to your client’s problem. That’s what the client is paying for. A result. Less back pain

If you take anything away from this, I want you to remember this concept.

Your. Future. Clients. Don’t. Care. About. Pilates.

Don’t sell Pilates. Sell the solution to your client(s) problem.

Selling results instead of sessions solves every stage of the client journey. When you understand that Pilates is not your product, it’s simple to make $100k a year teaching Pilates.

This is how you get more clients who pay higher fees & are easier to work with.

It’s the cornerstone of building a client-centered business so you can make 100k a year or more teaching Pilates.

If you’d like to know exactly how you can build a client-centered business and start making $100k a year next, I’d urge you to secure your spot to the workshop on Feb 28 / March 1st depending on your timezone.

>>> I want to make 100k a year teaching Pilates

Replays will be available if you can’t attend live.

But if you’re serious about getting this result, I’d encourage you to join live so you can have answers to any questions you might have.

Feb 12
Love0

Results-based pricing for Pilates, with Zenia Wood and Raphael Bender

By Make more money

In Pilates, it’s the norm to charge for time. But what if we charged for results instead?

Resources mentioned in the episode:

About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Zenia Wood:
Zenia Wood is a highly qualified accredited exercise physiologist, who has founded Swift Movement Academy, a company that helps individuals manage their own injuries through movement education and exercise rehabilitation for musculoskeletal conditions, based in Brisbane, Australia. In addition to running a successful Exercise Rehab & Performance Company, Zenia is committed to the development of the next generation of health and exercise professionals, and serves as a tutor and supervisor for practical training at the University of Queensland. Zenia has also founded Swift Coaches Academy, which offers mentorship programs for exercise & health professionals who want to improve their skills as clinicians, coaches, and business owners. With a passion for empowering others and a dedication to excellence, Zenia has become a respected leader in her field and is an admired and valuable member of the health and wellness community.

How to Connect with Zenia:

Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Feb 05
Love0

Should you program your training around your menstrual cycle? With Dr. Alyssa Olenick and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Menstrual cycle-based training is a fascinating concept that is receiving a lot of press at the moment. Dr Alyssa Olenick is a metabolic scientist with a special research interest in the effects of the menstrual cycle on exercise training. We talk about the research on menstrual cycle-based training, and how to get the best results for your female clients.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Register your interest to receive an advanced copy of Raph’s book ‘How to make $100k a year teaching Pilates here
  • Women and men respond to standardized strength training programs very similarly here and here
  • Follicular-based strength training may give superior results here
  • But performance is similar across the menstrual cycle here
  • Older women self-select exercise intensity that is too low to elicit strength gains here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Alyssa Olenick:
Dr. Alyssa Olenick holds a Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology is a certified sports nutritionist and Crossfit Level 1 Trainer. Alyssa completed her doctoral training in exercise and post prandial metabolism. Specifically in the areas of metabolic flexibility, sex differences and menstrual cycle physiology. She runs her online business ‘Doc Lyss Fitness’ and is a strength athlete, ultra-marathon runner, and all-around fitness lover who is passionate about educating people on science-based fitness to get them into the gyms and on the roads/trails — or often, doing both at the same time! You can learn more about Dr. Alyssa Olenick and her programs at www.doclyssfitness.com

How to Connect with Dr. Alyssa:

  • Find Dr. Alyssa on Instagram and on Youtube
  • Listen to Dr. Alyssa’s podcast ‘The Messy Middle Podcast’ here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Jan 29
Love0

Embrace the hustle: Opening your own studio, with Taylor Gotovac and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Taylor & her business partner successfully launched their first Pilates studio 6 weeks ago and are already waitlisted. This conversation explores the journey to opening a business, and the transition from Pilates instructor to business owner.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Check out our Visualized Anatomy Program here
  • Find ESSE Pilates here
  • Connect with Taylor Gotovac here and here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Taylor Gotovac:
Tay is the co-founder and lead trainer at ESSE Pilates. She has a background in dance and is a gym enthusiast. She discovered Pilates four years ago and uses it as an enhancement tool for overall wellness. She is passionate about the diversity Pilates provides and its ability to improve one’s quality of life. In her classes, you can expect high energy, loud tunes, and lots of banter. She delivers a challenging full-body workout and keeps it innovative and different, empowering clients to explore movements while ensuring they are practical and effective. In her free time, Tay enjoys weight training, long walks with her dog, and socializing on the weekends.

How to Connect with Taylor:

Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Jan 22
Love0

Becoming an evidence-based Pilates instructor, with Mary Kirketerp and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

This was a free-flowing conversation about starting out in the Pilates industry, growing your career, consciously directing your development as an instructor, finding a mentor, and building your dream.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Buy Raph’s book ‘Strengthen the Person, Not just the Body Part’ and get access to our Community Sessions here
  • Connect with Mary Kirketerp here
  • 32% of final year medical students can’t identify physical activity guidelines here
  • 59% of personal trainers and 56% of exercise physiologists can’t identify physical activity guidelines here
  • WHO physical activity guidelines for adults here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Mary Kirketerp:
Mary is a STOTT Pilates certified instructor based in Bangkok, Thailand.
Born in Ukraine and raised in Canada, Mary discovered Pilates while working in the UK in 2010. A decade later she became a new mum and turned her passion for Pilates into her career. Mary is now dedicated to improving people’s quality of life through movement using the Pilates system, with an emphasis on experiencing joy in her classes and out.
As a new instructor, Mary is seeking the most up to date information available to better her clients’ experiences in their bodies.

How to Connect with Mary:

  • Find Mary on Instagram here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Jan 15
Love0

How to overcome your fear of self-promotion, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

If you struggle to “blow your own trumpet”, this may help. This is how Raph overcame his own reluctance to self-promote.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Follow Raph on IG here
  • Register your interest to receive an advance copy of Raph’s book “How To Make $100K a Year Teaching Pilates” in January 2023 here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Jan 08
Love0

How to teach beginners, with Natalie Wilson and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Our strategies to teach beginners effectively so they become regular clients and Pilates addicts.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Purchase Raph’s book: Strengthen The Person, Not Just the Body Part here
  • Bring your muscles to near fatigue 2x/week and reduce your chance of dying in the next 10 years by 46% here
  • It’s ok to load people without training “stability” first: For people with back pain, heavy deadlifting, and a generic exercise program are just as effective as retraining core muscles and correcting imbalances
  • Why external cues work and OPTIMAL theory here
  • Multitasking is not possible here
  • How to layer exercises for clients with different levels of ability here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Natalie Wilson:

Born and raised in Hawaii, Natalie’s foundation in movement comes from years of training in the native dances of Hawaii and Tahiti.  After college, Natalie pursued a career in social work and mental health.  She discovered Pilates after the birth of her second child and loved how the practice gave her renewed strength, energy, and focus. Desiring a career shift, Natalie enrolled in a comprehensive Pilates training program, graduating in early 2017.  In addition, Natalie received her National Pilates Certification in 2020 and her Pilates Certification from Breathe Education in February 2022.  She currently teaches at Vitality Pilates as well as the Multiple Sclerosis Center at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, Washington, where she lives with her husband, two kids, and too many houseplants.

How to Connect with Natalie:

  • Find Natalie on Instagram here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Jan 01
Love0

Should we worry about anterior pelvic tilt? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

TLDR: No. But stick around for the science so you know why.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Check out our Visualized Anatomy Program here
  • Pelvises are not symmetrical (cool pictures!) here
  • We’re crap at palpating lumbo-pelvic landmarks here
  • Visual assessment of posture is unreliable here
  • Hip stiffness and range of motion don’t correlate with pelvic tilt here
  • Abdominal muscle performance is not related to pelvic tilt here
  • Abdominal strengthening doesn’t change pelvic tilt here
  • No evidence we can change pelvic tilt with any form of exercise here
  • 80% of pain-free adults have “anterior pelvic tilt” here
  • Anterior pelvic tilt is associated with LESS back pain here
  • Leg length difference is present in 40-70% of the pain-free population here
  • Only 15% of US adults meet the ACSM physical activity guidelines here
  • Do strength training 2x/week and reduce your chance of dying in the next ten years by 46% here

Got corrections, comments or questions? Reach out to Raph on Instagram here

About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Dec 25
Love0

How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates from home, with Raphael Bender

By Make more money

This is exactly what Raph did when he was starting from scratch and he wanted to make $100k per year teaching Pilates from home.

Let him know your thoughts. DM Raph on Instagram.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Buy Raph’s book ‘Strengthen the Person, Not just the Body Part’ and get access to our Community Sessions here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Dec 18
Love0

Pilates as a second career, with Loretta Mazzola and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Loretta retired from her first career in 2018 and now at 66 years old, has started her second career as a Pilates instructor. This is her story.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Follow Raph on IG
  • Connect with Loretta on IG
  • Only 17% of adults meet physical activity guidelines here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Loretta Mazzola:

Loretta is a retired New York State Senior Court Officer. She started her Pilates journey in 2013 when she found out she has osteopenia. Since then, she had bone density tests and her osteopenia has not worsened. Her love for Pilates led her to take Breathe Education’s Certification in Pilates Matwork and Reformer. Now, at 66, she’s found a second career she loves – becoming a certified Pilates instructor.

She believes that any “body” can do pilates.  It is for old and young, short and tall, and all sizes of bodies. Her goal is to help all types of bodies to experience the joy of movement that she has experienced.

How to Connect with Loretta:

  • Find Loretta on IG
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Dec 11
Love0

How To Use Your Assessment Session To Convert Casual Enquiries Into Long-Term Clients, With Amanda Dell’Aquila and Raphael Bender

By Make more money

Amanda owns 5 Pilates and fitness studios in Sydney Australia. She uses her assessment process to convert casual enquiries into long-term clients all in 1 hour.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Amanda Dell’Aquilla:

Amanda is co-founder of Mission Possible Fitness, Pilates and PT studios that opened in 2013 in Sydney, NSW. She is a Personal Trainer and has Pilates qualifications on all studio equipment. Amanda, who’s currently enrolled in the Diploma of Clinical Pilates with Breathe Education, uses a variety of techniques and a holistic approach to instructing and rehabilitating clients in the studio. Growing her Pilates credentials over the years, she uses entrepreneurial and team culture development skills to build a successful franchise company with her brother Simon. She supports and manages over 35 staff across 5 studios with thousands of members Sydney-wide.

How to Connect with Amanda:

Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Dec 04
Love0

Why do your knees go in when you squat? With Heath Lander and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Everyone knows that if your knees go in when you squat it’s because your glutes aren’t working properly, right?

Wrong.

We talk through a whole list of reasons why your knees might go inwards in a squat that has nothing to do with your glutes not working. Plus, why it might actually be GOOD that your knees go in during a squat.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Purchase Raph’s book: Strengthen The Person, Not Just the Body Part here
  • Muscle activation in a squat is load-dependent here and here
  • Paralyzing the gluteus medius doesn’t make the knee go in more here
  • Knees going inwards in a squat is not a risk factor for ACL injury here
  • Lya Bavoil squatting 213kg at 62.5kg body weight here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Heath Lander:

Heath Lander had a chance encounter with Pilates which completely changed his life’s direction. He began training as a Pilates instructor at Breathe Education while seeing private clients in his home. Meanwhile, he was still working full time as a special needs art teacher and getting accustomed to life as a single dad. Over the next decade he taught over 15,000 hours of group and small group/clinical classes. He went on to open two locations of White Dog Studio, where the mission is to provide challenging, rewarding, and effective exercise for people over 40. He has also worked as an instructor trainer at Breathe Education since 2011 and has taught in the Certificate and Diploma courses. In 2021, he began working full time for Breathe Education and has created coursework and tutorial materials for the updated Diploma of Clinical Pilates. His other professional passion is online mentoring and trainer development through his personal brand, Contrology Collective.

How to Connect with Heath:

  • Find Heath on Instagram here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Nov 27
Love0

What we were wrong about, with Daniel Arbilla and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

An (incomplete) list of things we believed that turned out not to be true.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Check out our Visualized Anatomy Program here
  • Eyal Lederman Fall Of the Postural Structural Biomechanical Model here
  • No evidence that exercise is more effective than non-exercise placebo for chronic pain here
  • More high quality research is needed to be confident about the effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Daniel Arbilla:

Daniel is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist based in Sydney, Australia.

Daniel is passionate about guiding and coaching health and fitness professionals through challenging cases and to assist them in implementing the process of applying evidence-based care and psychologically-informed practice.

After years of further tertiary education, mentoring with strength and conditioning experts and countless courses, both nationally and abroad, Daniel‘s mission is to give clinicians the tools they need to empower their clients with self-efficacy, resilience and progress towards their value-driven goals.

How to Connect with Daniel:

Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Nov 20
Love0

How to let fires burn, with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Do you wish you had more time? Here are the answers.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Buy Raph’s book ‘Strengthen the Person, Not just the Body Part’ and get access to our Community Sessions here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Heath Lander:

Heath Lander had a chance encounter with Pilates which completely changed his life’s direction. He began training as a Pilates instructor at Breathe Education while seeing private clients in his home. Meanwhile, he was still working full time as a special needs art teacher and getting accustomed to life as a single dad. Over the next decade he taught over 15,000 hours of group and small group/clinical classes. He went on to open two locations of White Dog Studio, where the mission is to provide challenging, rewarding, and effective exercise for people over 40. He has also worked as an instructor trainer at Breathe Education since 2011 and has taught in the Certificate and Diploma courses. In 2021, he began working full time for Breathe Education and has created coursework and tutorial materials for the updated Diploma of Clinical Pilates. His other professional passion is online mentoring and trainer development through his personal brand, Contrology Collective.

How to Connect with Heath:

  • Find Heath on Instagram here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Nov 13
Love0

How what you believe influences your clients’ pain and recovery, with Brendan Mouatt and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Brendan is a PhD candidate at the University of South Australia where he is researching the influence of implicit communication on patient beliefs and outcomes. In this conversation, we talk about how our beliefs as movement professionals influence our clients’ movement, pain and outcomes from Pilates.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Follow Raph on IG
  • Connect with Brendan Mouatt on Twitter and Instagram
  • Find The Knowledge Exchange website and join the Facebook group for movement and health professionals here
  • Read Brendan’s research here
  • Practitioner beliefs strongly predict patient beliefs here
  • Pain behaviour not pain intensity mediates opioid prescription here
  • Thinking about movement hurts, and makes your hand swell up here
  • Negative expectation abolishes the effects of opioid painkillers here
  • Placebo reduces pain the same amount as 4-6mg of morphine in postoperative pain here
  • The presence of most MRI findings does not change treatment here
  • Spinal fusion is not more effective than general exercise for low back pain here
  • In fact, pretty much every treatment for low back pain works about the same here
  • Dentists’ belief about what they are administering influences patients’ pain here
  • Placebo suppresses immune function here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Brendan Mouatt:

Brendan is a practising Accredited Exercise Physiologist, Director of The Knowledge Exchange – a continuing education organisation for health and movement professionals, Director of the Biomechanics – two multi-disciplinary practices in Port Melbourne and Footscray, and is a PhD candidate at the University of South Australia.

Brendan’s interest in perceptual and behavioural science led him to undertake a Master of Research degree looking at the interactions between visual sensory information (provided using virtual reality) and a person’s interoceptive accuracy on perceptions of effort and affect during stationary cycling exercise. The culmination of this research, alongside his clinical experience as an Exercise Physiologist working in the musculoskeletal injury and pain space, motivated him to continue his research career and continue with a PhD.

Brendan’s PhD aims to explore how perceptions, beliefs, and behaviours (particularly during clinical interactions) influence the recovery of those suffering from pain and their impact on perceived affordances and future healthcare service use.

Brendan has taught in the tertiary education system since 2012 and has delivered continuing education courses nationally and internationally since 2016 through The Knowledge Exchange.

Through this time, Brendan has developed an interest in navigating the interaction between providing ethical healthcare and business – which are often at odds with each other.

How to Connect with Brendan:

  • Follow Brendan Mouatt on Twitter and Instagram
  • Find The Knowledge Exchange website and join the Facebook group for movement and health professionals here
  • Read Brendan’s research here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Nov 06
Love0

Why Do Clams? with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Are we really strengthening our clients? How can we tell, and why even bother about getting stronger? The answers may surprise you!

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • An hour a week of resistance training maximizes your lifespan here
  • Mechanical tension is the key stimulus for strength gains here
  • WHO physical activity guidelines here
  • Working to failure or near failure is equally beneficial (and necessary) to increase strength here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Heath Lander:

Heath Lander had a chance encounter with Pilates which completely changed his life’s direction. He began training as a Pilates instructor at Breathe Education while seeing private clients in his home. Meanwhile, he was still working full time as a special needs art teacher and getting accustomed to life as a single dad. Over the next decade he taught over 15,000 hours of group and small group/clinical classes. He went on to open two locations of White Dog Studio, where the mission is to provide challenging, rewarding, and effective exercise for people over 40. He has also worked as an instructor trainer at Breathe Education since 2011 and has taught in the Certificate and Diploma courses. In 2021, he began working full time for Breathe Education and has created coursework and tutorial materials for the updated Diploma of Clinical Pilates. His other professional passion is online mentoring and trainer development through his personal brand, Contrology Collective.

How to Connect with Heath:

  • Find Heath on Instagram here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Oct 30
Love0

Do we really need to individualize Pilates programs for back pain? With Mitch Gibbs PhD and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

In this episode, Mitch and Raph discuss the research Mitch did for his PhD, comparing individualized care with a generic program for low back pain.

 Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Purchase Raph’s book: Strengthen The Person, Not Just the Body Part here
  • ‘Buy In For Back Pain – Does Individualization Matter?’ here
  • Connect with Mitch Gibbs on IG here
  • Find Rethink Movement on Facebook here and on IG here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Mitch Gibbs PhD:
Mitchell is a Lecturer in the School of Health Sciences, Discipline of Exercise Physiology. Mitchell’s research aims at helping people with chronic pain by understanding how to best design biopsychosocial exercise interventions, and how to disseminate these approaches into practice.

How to Connect with Mitch:

  • Follow Mitch on IG here
  • Find Rethink Movement on Facebook here and on IG here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Oct 16
Love0

Your business can never outgrow your personal development, with Laura Saggers and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Laura Saggers of RISE Pilates in Melbourne and Raph talk about the parallels between personal growth and business growth, how to overcome common blockers and limiting beliefs, and each share their own experiences with these mindset blocks, and how they moved past them.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Check out our Visualized Anatomy Program here
  • Connect with Laura on IG here or email her here
  • Find Rise Pilates online here and on IG here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Laura Saggers:
Laura founded Rise Pilates at the start of 2017. A boutique reformer studio in the heart of Essendon Victoria. With 70+ classes scheduled per week, 10+ team members and home to over 4500+ clients. Professional and personal development strategies have seen many new business owners and exceptional instructors come through Rise Pilates over the years. A personal interest in helping people grow has now developed into a business Mentoring Studio Owners around the world..

How to Connect with Laura:

  • Follow Laura on IG here or email her here
  • Find Rise Pilates online here and on IG here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Oct 09
Love0

Serving your Ideal Clients, with Naike Mouromtsev and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

When you try to be all things to all people, you end up being nothing to no one. Naike shares insights from building her studio Kefi in Sydney with her partner Fanny. We discuss how they defined their ideal clients, how they program and design their schedule to suit their ideal clients and many more topics.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Buy Raph’s book ‘Strengthen the Person, Not just the Body Part’ and get access to our Community Sessions here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Naike Mouromtsev:
Naike was inspired to become a Pilates instructor after practising for a few years and experiencing the powerful effects of Pilates and consistent exercise. She made the decision to study with Breathe Education (for both Cert IV and Clinical diploma) at the end of her pregnancy and started her course at 8 weeks postpartum.
After two years teaching on Zoom, Naike and her business partner Fanny opened the doors to Kefi Studio Pilates in Sydney’s inner west, a Reformer Pilates studio and Clinical hub designed to make people stronger and focus more on how exercise should make them feel rather than how it should make them look.

How to Connect with Naike:

  • Find Naike on IG here
  • Find Kefi Studio Pilates here 
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Oct 02
Love0

From Stuck to Living your Dream Life, with Brittany LaBotz and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

You probably became a Pilates instructor because you wanted a career that was more meaningful, more satisfying, and healthier for you. But now you feel trapped in a routine that is not what you dreamed of. Or even worse – it IS what you dreamed of, but you’re still not happy.

In this episode, we talk about how to get unstuck and take positive, effective action to achieve your dream life as a Pilates instructor.

You’ll learn how to:

  • work the hours you want
  • for the money you want
  • with the clients you want

Resources mentioned in the episode:

About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Brittany LaBotz:

Brittany is a Pilates instructor, teaching mentor and serial entrepreneur who helps Pilates teachers and studio owners create more authenticity, fulfillment and freedom in their work. She believes that no teacher is lacking in anything, and already has unique resources and gifts within them that just need to be uncovered. Brittany’s approach is client-centered and focuses on empowering teachers to find their own solutions and answers through self-discovery, resources to overcome self-inflicted obstacles, and taking action daily toward their goals. She believes that the internal work teachers do filters into their external results like less burnout, increased income, and a general sense of peace and well-being. When she’s not teaching, Brittany loves beach camping with her fiance and dog, playing the piano, cooking plant-based meals, and taking dance classes.

How to Connect with Brittany:

Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Sep 25
Love0

How to master rehabilitation, with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

In this flipped episode, Heath interviews Raph about his journey.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Find out more about the Diploma of clinical Pilates here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Heath Lander:

Heath Lander had a chance encounter with Pilates which completely changed his life’s direction. He began training as a Pilates instructor at Breathe Education while seeing private clients in his home. Meanwhile, he was still working full time as a special needs art teacher and getting accustomed to life as a single dad. Over the next decade he taught over 15,000 hours of group and small group/clinical classes. He went on to open two locations of White Dog Studio, where the mission is to provide challenging, rewarding, and effective exercise for people over 40. He has also worked as an instructor trainer at Breathe Education since 2011 and has taught in the Certificate and Diploma courses. In 2021, he began working full time for Breathe Education and has created coursework and tutorial materials for the updated Diploma of Clinical Pilates. His other professional passion is online mentoring and trainer development through his personal brand, Contrology Collective.

How to Connect with Heath:

  • Find Heath on Instagram here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Sep 18
Love0

Fitness Pilates is not a dirty word, with Amy Hedger and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Amy and Raphael discuss Fitness Pilates, or is it not even Pilates? And does it matter?

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Check out our Visualized Anatomy Program here
  • Connect with Amy Hedger online, on Instagram and LinkedIn
  • Fitter people live longer here
  • Stronger people live longer here
  • This is what fast and controlled looks like here
  • More vigorous exercise increases lifespan even more here
  • Exercise improves sleep here
  • Long-term resistance exercise improves metabolic health and insulin sensitivity here
  • Exercise makes you happier here
  • Exercise reduces anxiety and depression here
  • Exercise improves cognitive function and slows progress of Alzheimer’s here and here
  • If you really want to increase strength work with a load where you can’t do more than 10 reps here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Amy Hedger:

Amy is the founder of A.FORM Pilates with over 5 years of experience instructing in various cities such as Melbourne and London. She believes there is no right ‘form’ of Pilates but what works best for the individual. Furthering her skill set in completing her Diploma in Clinical and Rehabilitation Pilates with Breathe Education, Amy coaches all levels of capabilities offering expert knowledge. She constantly strives to make her clients the strongest and most resilient they can be, both mentally and physically.

How to Connect with Amy:

Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Sep 16
Love0

Achieve your client’s functional goals through the three dimensions of an exercise, with Adam McAtee

By Become a better instructor
A FREE Live Community Session on ‘Achieving your client’s functional goals through the three dimensions of an exercise’ hosted by Breathe Education’s trainer, Adam McAtee.
What You’ll Learn:
  • Defining functional goals
  • What the 3 dimensions of an exercise are
  • The relationship of the three dimensions
  • Framework to utilize the 3 dimensions of any exercise to achieve your client’s functional goals
Sep 11
Love0

Building a personalized on-demand Pilates business, with Hannah Ryan and Raphael Bender

By Make more money

Hannah is building an on-demand Pilates business based on the original Contrology 34 exercises, and with a highly personal touch.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Purchase Raph’s book: Strengthen The Person, Not Just the Body Part here
  • Connect with Hannah Ryan online, on IG, and on Youtube
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Hannah Ryan:

Hannah Ryan is half Irish, half German. She first fell in love with Pilates 15 years ago following a workplace accident and lots of nasty and lingering injuries. For Hannah, Pilates was the real gift she received from her rehabilitation pursuits. It does not only keep her pain-free, but it gives her strength and mental clarity. 

Hannah is passionate about sharing what Pilates has to offer and how transformative it is. She loves the precision of this corrective movement system but also the flow and headspace that can be derived from classes.

Hannah believes consistency is key and so she aims to provide as many fun, fresh and exciting challenges as possible, ranging from a few days to a few weeks, something to suit all the demands of a busy schedule.

How to Connect with Hannah:

Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Sep 04
Love0

Body image – a nuanced discussion, with Laura Gaiter and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Diet culture is a problem, and so is obesity.

In an obesogenic environment, we all need to exercise some amount of restraint to avoid obesity.

How do we avoid dichotomous thinking and promote positive body image?

Join us for an amicable, nuanced discussion.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Follow Raph on IG here
  • Connect with Laura Gaiter here
  • Emilia Thompson (improve relationship with body/educate self) on IG here
  • Compassionate Coaching Education on IG here
  • Social media use correlates with negative body image and disordered eating here
  • Appearance-related teasing increases body dissatisfaction here
  • J-shaped relationship between body fat levels and all-cause mortality here
  • Obesity is a risk factor for prostate cancer here
  • Obesity increases risk of death from COVID here
  • Childhood obesity increases all-cause mortality in young adults here
  • Bariatric surgery reduces mortality risk here
  • Fit obese people do NOT have increased risk of all-cause mortality, but DO have increased risk of cardiovascular mortality here
  • Obesity increases pain sensitivity here
  • Weight loss in obese people with osteoarthritis reduces symptoms and increases function here
  • Both CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) and ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) improve body image and reduce disordered eating here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s new book:

  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Laura Gaiter:

Laura has passionately dedicated herself to the fitness industry for over a decade, working in gyms and fitness studios across Adelaide and Melbourne. At age 18, she became a group fitness instructor, teaching Freestyle Aerobics, Body Pump, Barre and Aqua Aerobics. In 2012, she studied a Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Movement), which saw her study in the UK for a semester. Upon completion of her Bachelor degree, she went on to study her Masters of Teaching (Secondary), graduating in 2016. During her studies, she worked as both a Fitness Instructor and in Administration, which led to opportunities in managing multiple boutique fitness studios.

In 2021, Laura studied her Cert IV in Pilates with Breathe Education while working as a Fitness Trainer in Adelaide. She developed a real passion for inclusive movement and helping clients to feel joy through exercise. As a trainer, she places a strong emphasis on the individual experiences of her clients, striving to foster positive relationships with all who attend her classes.

Laura is now based in Brisbane, studying Nutrition and compassionate coaching with EIQ Nutrition. Laura dedicates herself to ongoing education as she believes in a holistic approach to all things health and wellness. Laura’s wide experience in the fitness space allows her to draw inspiration from different exercise modalities to deliver classes which are both versatile and engaging. Her ultimate goal is to promote quality of life and longevity for all humans.

How to Connect with Laura:

  • Find Laura on Instagram here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Sep 01
Love0

How to build a therapeutic alliance with your client, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor
A FREE Live Community Session on “How to build a therapeutic alliance with your client’ hosted by Breathe Education’s CEO, Raphael Bender.
What You’ll Learn:
  • Introduction to the Whole Person Framework
  • A therapeutic alliance is where you and the client like and trust each other and agree on shared goals and strategies
  • How to use OARS skills to build a therapeutic alliance

You can find the link to the PDF of the lecture slides HERE.

Aug 28
Love0

There are only 3 exercises in the world and Cat Stretch is 2 of them, with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Heath shares his simple framework for programming group classes. This is a straightforward way to progress your clients from wherever they’re at, towards the more challenging exercises in the repertoire.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Snake/Twist here
  • Tendon stretch here
  • Long back stretch here
  • Layering up to tendon stretch/long back stretch here
  • High bridge here
  • Teaser here
  • Russian squats here
About Raphael Bender:

Raph believes everyone deserves the opportunity to transform into a better version of themselves. His main strength as a teacher and movement professional is the ability to distill complex research findings into a simple, science-based approach to help people move fearlessly, thoughtlessly, and painlessly. He LOVES running, weights, cycling, and Contrology.

Raph holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Rehabilitation), a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Diploma of Pilates Movement Therapy, and STOTT PILATES full certification.

How to Connect with Raphael:

Purchase Raph’s books:

  • How to make $100k/year teaching Pilates here
  • Strengthen The Person Not Just The Body Part here
About Heath Lander:

Heath Lander had a chance encounter with Pilates which completely changed his life’s direction. He began training as a Pilates instructor at Breathe Education while seeing private clients in his home. Meanwhile, he was still working full time as a special needs art teacher and getting accustomed to life as a single dad. Over the next decade he taught over 15,000 hours of group and small group/clinical classes. He went on to open two locations of White Dog Studio, where the mission is to provide challenging, rewarding, and effective exercise for people over 40. He has also worked as an instructor trainer at Breathe Education since 2011 and has taught in the Certificate and Diploma courses. In 2021, he began working full time for Breathe Education and has created coursework and tutorial materials for the updated Diploma of Clinical Pilates. His other professional passion is online mentoring and trainer development through his personal brand, Contrology Collective.

How to Connect with Heath:

  • Find Heath on Instagram here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

Here are four ways we can help you really know your stuff.

1) Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific. This inconvenient disconnect means there are many topics in Pilates that are “Elephants in the Room” – things we don’t question because it’s a bit heretical to do so. We’re here to change that.

2) Download our free report: “3 Myths about Posture in Pilates“. Ditch the myths and get the facts on posture. For Pilates instructors and movement enthusiasts alike.

3) Join us in our FREE live, open-mic Community Sessions. We start each session by sharing one of our latest insights that you can take and apply with your clients. And then we’ll go open-mic for the remaining 45-minutes — ask whatever questions you have so you can leave the session equipped to really know your stuff. Details here.

4) Or — our next intake for our Diploma in Clinical Pilates is open NOW. We have limited places for this in-depth, world-leading course. For a limited time — get a free 20-minute Discovery Call with one of our Pilates Trainers. This is not a high-pressure sales call – you’ll be talking with a Pilates instructor, and we’ll answer all your questions to find out if the course is a perfect fit for you. Go here to schedule

Close Menu
Google Rating
5.0
Based on 308 reviews
js_loader