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Become a better instructor

Oct 01
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How to hire and lead superstar Pilates instructors? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Raph’s 7-step process to attract, filter, hire, lead and mentor superstar Pilates instructors for your studio.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Schedule a call with our team 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

Subscribe to our Pilates Elephants podcast and learn why most Pilates education is decades out of date at best, and at worst, just plain pseudoscientific.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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

We help Pilates lovers become a confident, skilled, and highly employable Pilates Instructors in our Certification in Pilates course.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Sep 28
Love0

Are we all Pilates cows? with Natalie Wilson and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

What do cirque du soleil, pyramids, Pilates influencers and cows have in common? Find out in this episode.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Pilates Goddess podcast episode “Do influencers know Pilates?” here
  • Tiffany Burke aka @poiseandstrengthpilates here
  • Alexandria Crow Yoga here
  • Connect with Natalie on IG here
  • Follow 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 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?

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

We help Pilates lovers become a confident, skilled, and highly employable Pilates Instructors in our Certification in Pilates course.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad.

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Sep 24
Love0

Is Lagree Pilates? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Schedule a call with our team 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

We help Pilates lovers become a confident, skilled, and highly employable Pilates Instructors in our Certification in Pilates course.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Sep 21
Love0

Which style of Pilates is most beneficial? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Original IG post here
  • Episode 105 How to master rehabilitation here
  • Strengthen the Person Not Just The Body Part 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

We help Pilates lovers become a confident, skilled, and highly employable Pilates Instructors in our Certification in Pilates course.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Sep 17
Love0

Part 2: Give yourself permission to become a more authentic version of yourself, with Nathan Ross Rees

By Become a better instructor

Part two of an in-depth conversation ranging on teaching, Pilates business, personal growth, giving yourself permission and other topics.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Follow Raph on IG here
  • Connect with Nathan Ross Rees on Instagram here
  • Join Nathan’s reformer academy here
  • Check out Nathan Ross Rees’ podcast here
  • Find Rise Reformer online here and 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 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

We help Pilates lovers become confident, skilled, and highly employable Pilates Instructors in our Certification in Pilates course.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Sep 14
Love0

Part 1: Give yourself permission to become a more authentic version of yourself, with Nathan Ross Rees

By Become a better instructor

Part one of an in-depth conversation ranging on teaching, Pilates business, personal growth, giving yourself permission and other topics.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Claude Debussy Nuages (parallel descending ninths) here
  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Follow Raph on IG here
  • Connect with Nathan on Instagram here
  • Join Nathan’s reformer academy here
  • Check out Nathan Ross Rees’ podcast 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

We help Pilates lovers become a confident, skilled, and highly employable Pilates Instructors in our Certification in Pilates course.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Sep 10
Love0

New Research on Diastasis and Curl Ups, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

2 new high quality research papers were published in the last couple of months, shedding more light on the effect of abdominal exercises on diastasis.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Instantaneous effect of abdominal exercises on diastasis here
  • Long-term effect of abdominal exercises on diastasis here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Schedule a call with our team 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

We help Pilates lovers become a confident, skilled, and highly employable Pilates Instructors in our Certification in Pilates course.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Sep 07
Love0

How to massively simplify your thinking about movement, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Sep 03
Love0

There are no solutions only trade-offs, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Leave us a review here
  • Ice baths reduce strength gains from training here
  • Running makes you stiff 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Aug 31
Love0

How to collect compelling testimonials from your Pilates clients, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Resources mentioned in the episode here:

  • Google form template here
  • Our great big wall of proof – example of how to use testimonials here
  • Leave us a review 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Aug 27
Love0

How to get off the busyness treadmill, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Response to a listener question about how to do less and prioritize self-care.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Check out Breathe Education on Youtube here
  • 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Aug 24
Love0

Why stability is not a useful word in Pilates, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

We talk about stability a lot but when you look closely it’s not possible to define the word in relation to back pain and injury.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Follow Raph on IG here
  • People who receive spinal stabilization exercises improvement in pain is unrelated to changes in TrA timing here
  • When researchers assess people with LBP for spinal stability, and give specific stabilization exercises only to people who are “unstable” they don’t experience better outcomes than unmatched exercise where the people were not ’unstable” 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Aug 20
Love0

Bringing Pilates instructors and studios together, with Hannah McMullen and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Hannah is co-founder of Planke app, which is a match-making app for Pilates instructors and studios. In this conversation we talk about the development and function of Planke app, and get into a fascinating conversation about the insights Hannah has gained on what successful studios and instructors do differently, to find their ideal work match.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Connect with Hannah McMullen here
  • Download PlankeApp for iPhone here
  • Download PlankeApp for Android 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
About Hannah McMullen:

Before teaching Pilates, Hannah worked in marketing and advertising. She first fell in love with Pilates as a client, and turned her passion into a career in 2015. Building her own Pilates career is what first inspired PlankeApp – she saw the need for a better way to hire instructors and mitigate studio turnover. Today, Hannah owns a Pilates studio and still teaches daily while continuing to build and grow PlankeApp.

How to Connect with Hannah:

  • Find Hannah McMullen on IG here
  • Download PlankeApp for iPhone here
  • Download PlankeApp for Android here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

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

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Aug 17
Love0

Dealing with Haters, Both Real And Imaginary, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

What I’ve learned after 17 years of being in business about how to deal with fear of confrontation, plus real and imaginary haters.

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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Aug 13
Love0

The Shortest Cadillac Certification in the History Of Pilates, with Adam McAtee and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Why do we place so much emphasis in which pieces of equipment we’re trained on? It’s not the same in other disciplines like Personal Training or Physical Therapy.

What if we could just jump on a Cadillac and mess around and figure stuff out?

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Watch the ‘How to Assess and Progress Pilates Clients’ Workshop here.
  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Adam McAtee on IG here
  • Follow 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
About Adam McAtee:

Adam is a Senior Trainer at Breathe Education, and has been teaching Pilates since 2009. Alongside his commitment to the practice, Adam earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science and will complete his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2024.Adam’s genuine passion lies in sharing evidence-based information with fellow Pilates instructors. His goal is to support their growth while helping them become better, happier and more financially successful.Beyond his professional endeavors, Adam finds solace in life’s simple pleasures. He appreciates the art of a well-crafted cup of coffee, embraces an active lifestyle to maintain physical well-being, and eagerly explores new destinations while seizing opportunities to immerse himself in the tranquility of the ocean. Adam also cherishes quality time spent with his loved ones, including his partner, daughter, and their three dogs.

How to Connect with Adam:

  • Find Adam McAtee on IG here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

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

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Aug 10
Love0

Why doesn’t anyone talk about money in Pilates? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Watch the ‘How to Assess and Progress Pilates Clients’ Workshop here.
  • 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Aug 06
Love0

Are your upper traps really overactive? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Are your upper traps really over-active?

Many people experience tension or pain in their traps, and we often assume that indicates the muscles are overactive, and they need to relax more. But does it?

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Register to our FREE live workshop on ‘How to Assess and Progress Pilates Clients’ here
  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Neck pain without red flags (spinal fracture, vertebral artery dissection, spinal cord injury, infection, cancer, AS) is nonspecific neck pain here
  • Moderate quality evidence people with neck pain have increased pressure pain sensitivity throughout their bodies here
  • Or maybe they don’t here
  • Motor control is better than no treatment, but not better than strengthening here
  • Motor control and neck strengthening exercise are more effective than shoulder exercises, with low quality evidence here
  • Very low quality evidence that motor control, yoga/Pilates/Tai Chi/Qigong and strengthening exercises are equally effective here
  • There are no known consistent risk factors for neck pain including computer use here
  • Isometric and loaded ROM exercise reduce neck pain in the short term here
  • Strengthening works better than stretching, ergonomic interventions or frequent breaks in the short-term here, and everything works about the same in the long-term
  • Tests to identify clients with neck movement dysfunction / motor control deficits are not supported by evidence here
  • Guideline for nonspecific neck pain is strengthening exercise, explain favorable prognosis, address psychosocial factors, and give manual therapy here
  • Combining shoulder girdle + neck strengthening may be more effective in the short term for neck pain, compared to neck-only exercises here

TLDR – nonspecific neck pain. Probably strengthen it and try not to worry too much. If it feels good, roll it on a spiky ball too, or ask your partner to massage your neck.

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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Aug 03
Love0

What place do tactile cues have post-pandemic? With Kyle Marsh and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Tactile cues help our clients understand the movement better, right? Or do they?

We’ll take a look at the evidence, along with discussing our thoughts on what value hands-on does have in today’s Pilates class.

Resources mentioned in the episode here:

  • Register to our FREE live workshop on ‘How to Assess and Progress Pilates Clients’ here
  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Connect with Kyle Marsh on Instagram
  • Find True II Form online here and on Instagram
  • Knowledge of results is more effective than manual guidance here and here
  • Figuring a movement skill out for yourself works better than being given explicit instructions on ideal technique 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
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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jul 30
Love0

How to get stronger according to science? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

There are only 4 key things you need to know to break through a strength plateau, or help your clients get seriously stronger.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • 4+ sets per week per movement is required for strength gains here
  • Stop 2-3 reps before failure here
  • Eat 2g protein per kg body weight per day here
  • For young adults 1.6g/kg/day may be enough
  • Caloric surplus makes it a lot easier to get strong 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jul 27
Love0

If everything works the same for back pain, why do Pilates? With Adam McAtee and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Don’t worry dear listener, there are PLENTY of good… no GREAT reasons to do Pilates for people with back pain. We share some of them here.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Adam McAtee on IG here
  • Follow Raph on IG here
  • Brinjikji et al. 2015 – Disk bulge is highly prevalent in pain-free people here
  • Changes in low back pain after TrA retraining are not related to changes in TrA timing here
  • Changes in low back pain after strength or flexibility training are not related to changes in strength or flexibility here
  • Voltaire: The art of medicine consists of amusing the patient while nature cures the disease here
  • Physical therapy patients who receive guideline-based care have better outcomes here
  • More non-guideline concordant treatments correlate with increased risk that pain becomes chronic 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
About Adam McAtee:

Adam is a Senior Trainer at Breathe Education, and has been teaching Pilates since 2009. Alongside his commitment to the practice, Adam earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science and will complete his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2024.Adam’s genuine passion lies in sharing evidence-based information with fellow Pilates instructors. His goal is to support their growth while helping them become better, happier and more financially successful.Beyond his professional endeavors, Adam finds solace in life’s simple pleasures. He appreciates the art of a well-crafted cup of coffee, embraces an active lifestyle to maintain physical well-being, and eagerly explores new destinations while seizing opportunities to immerse himself in the tranquility of the ocean. Adam also cherishes quality time spent with his loved ones, including his partner, daughter, and their three dogs.

How to Connect with Adam:

  • Find Adam McAtee on IG here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

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

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jul 23
Love0

Can we even feel muscles activating? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Find resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Golgi Tendon Organs respond more to changes in tension than to absolute tension here
  • GTOs also desensitize after high tension.
  • Glute activation drills increase perception but not actual glute activation here
  • Elite bodybuilders can’t accurately sense muscle activation here
  • Conscious experience of expected movements is inhibited here
  • High levels of mechanical tension on individual muscle fibers is the main stimulus for strengthening here and here and here
  • Stretch-induced muscle growth here
  • Changes in back pain after TrA retraining are not related to changes in TrA timing here
  • External focus of attention works better in rehab 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jul 20
Love0

Is Pilates Fearmongering on the rise? With Kyle Marsh and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Resources mentioned in the episode here:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Connect with Kyle Marsh on Instagram
  • Find True II Form online here and on Instagram
  • Original ABC article here
  • Common Core Standards for US academic education here
  • Professional breakdancers have 4.4 injuries per 1000 hours of breakdancing here
  • Elite Powerlifters suffer 1.1-4 injuries per 1000 hours here
  • Yoga is a low-risk activity here
  • Breakdancers suffered fewer injuries than 25 out of 36 sports, including cycling, badminton and sailing, at the 2018 youth games here
  • Hoof GP here
  • Highly skilled workers on YouTube 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
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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jul 16
Love0

Is it time to relax about gripping? With Adam McAtee and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

What exactly is muscle gripping? Turns out it’s not an internally coherent concept. We make the case with logic and research that it’s time to let go of gripping and just relax.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Adam McAtee on IG here
  • Follow Raph on IG here
  • Glutes fire last in the prone leg extension test here
  • Hamstring recruitment order varies between people in the same exercise here
  • Glute max activation increases with squat depth here
  • Quad activity is pretty flat up to 90% of max in a squat, whereas gluteus maximus activity increases with increasing load here
  • Physical therapists can’t visually detect a pelvic tilt of less than 34° 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
About Adam McAtee:

Adam is a Senior Trainer at Breathe Education, and has been teaching Pilates since 2009. Alongside his commitment to the practice, Adam earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science and will complete his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2024.Adam’s genuine passion lies in sharing evidence-based information with fellow Pilates instructors. His goal is to support their growth while helping them become better, happier and more financially successful.Beyond his professional endeavors, Adam finds solace in life’s simple pleasures. He appreciates the art of a well-crafted cup of coffee, embraces an active lifestyle to maintain physical well-being, and eagerly explores new destinations while seizing opportunities to immerse himself in the tranquility of the ocean. Adam also cherishes quality time spent with his loved ones, including his partner, daughter, and their three dogs.

How to Connect with Adam:

  • Find Adam McAtee on IG here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

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

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jul 13
Love0

Why you shouldn’t worry about hypermobility? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Find resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Hypermobile physical therapy students don’t sustain more injuries – they sustain different injuries here and here
  • Amateur athletes who are hypermobile have the same number of injuries as non-hypermobile people here
  • Over 2 years, no difference in injury rate between hypermobile and non-hypermobile NCAA div 1 collegiate footballers here
  • 8-week bespoke physiotherapy plus OT vs advice & information; both groups improved equally after 8 weeks here
  • After ACLR, 5X greater chance of reinjury for hypermobile people on return to high intensity sport here
  • In dancers hypermobility is correlated with increased pain, but stabilization exercises did not change pain or injury incidence here
  • A 2014 systematic review found “there is some evidence that people with JHS improve with exercise but there is no convincing evidence for specific types of exercise or that exercise is better than control.” here
  • Joint-specific exercise and general exercise result in equal improvement for people with hypermobility here
  • Pain in hypermobility is probably caused by central nervous system sensitization not biomechanics 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jul 09
Love0

How to hire and retain great Pilates instructors, with Kala Loek and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Live coaching call with Kala from QuietBodies Pilates. In this conversation, we cover:

  • How to market your studio to attract new hires who are a great fit
  • How to screen for the perfectly aligned candidate
  • How to take leadership of a team of instructors
  • How to retain great instructors long-term
  • And more.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Breathe Education Culture here
  • Find Kala Loek’s QuietBodies on IG here or online here
  • 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
About Kala Loek:

Kala Loek is a Pilates Instructor and Personal Trainer who is passionate about making Pilates welcoming, community-focused, and fun. Kala is the proud owner of Quiet Bodies, a boutique Pilates studio located in the beautiful Port Credit area of Mississauga, Canada. Her goal is to empower her clients through a thoughtful blend of Pilates, Barre, Strength training, and HIIT techniques. Don’t worry if you’re not in Kala’s neighbourhood – you can still enjoy over 250 workouts with her on Quiet Bodies On-Demand.

How to Connect with Kala:

  • Find Kala Loek’s QuietBodies on IG here or online here
Looking for Pilates mastery?

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

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jul 06
Love0

What are the best ab exercises? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

We all know teaser is awesome for your abs, and criss cross really works the obliques. But do they really

Join Raph as he looks at the science and physiology of ab strengthening. The results may surprise you!

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Review of core activation in fitness exercises here
  • Muscles are weakest in their fully shortened position here
  • Stretch-induced muscle growth here and here
  • Mechanical tension is the main stimulus for strengthening here
  • 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jul 02
Love0

Changing your understanding of pain, with Natasha Haresign and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

The story of how Natasha changed her understanding of pain from purely biomechanical to biopsychosocial.

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 books:

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

Natasha’s life took a dramatic turn at 20 when a serious road accident left her with severe injuries. After a challenging 11-month hospitalization and over 15 surgeries to save her left leg, Natasha persevered through a long rehabilitation process and regained her ability to walk. However, finding suitable exercise options for her physical limitations was difficult.

Pilates became Natasha’s life-changing discovery. Years of dedicated practice brought her increased mobility, happiness, and reduced pain. Inspired by her own transformation, she became a Pilates teacher, driven by a desire to enhance others’ fitness and well-being.

As a professional Pilates Teacher, Natasha empowers clients to become stronger, feel their best and live longer.

Natasha’s unwavering dedication to learning is evident. She attends workshops by industry leaders, holds comprehensive Pilates certification for mat and apparatus, a HNC in Health, Fitness & Exercise, and completed Diploma of Clinical Pilates with Breathe education, equipping her with knowledge in exercise, rehabilitation, pain science, and strength training.

Offering group mat classes, semi-private sessions, and personalized 1:1 sessions, Natasha creates a welcoming and challenging environment for all fitness levels.

Natasha believes everyone possesses untapped inner strength and strives to help clients realize their full potential, reminding them they are “stronger than they think!”

How to Connect with Natasha:

Looking for Pilates mastery?

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

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jun 29
Love0

7 Things Great Instructors Know that Average Instructors Don’t Know, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

This is my personal list of things I recommend you study to become a great(er) instructor.

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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jun 25
Love0

When is even one prop too many? With Kyle Marsh and Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

When are props useful, and when are they a distraction? In fact, what is the role of a Pilates instructor and what makes a good one? How much is teaching Pilates performative, and how much is service? Tune in to find out our thoughts.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Raph on IG 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jun 22
Love0

Is Neutral Spine the most efficient? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

Is neutral spine more efficient? First we have to define what we mean by efficient. Then, I promise you a more nuanced answer than simply “yes” or “no”.

Resources mentioned in the episode here:

  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Upright thoracic posture allows greater shoulder ROM here
  • Passive tissues provide most of the stiffness of the spine in flexion here
  • Flexed spine postures are more efficient for lifting heavy things 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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jun 18
Love0

Which muscles stabilize the knee? With Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

What is knee stability and how do we improve it?

Visualize the anatomy of the knee & hip – and get to grips with all the muscles you need to strengthen for someone with knee stability issues.

Good news – simple exercises can solve complex problems!

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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jun 15
Love0

Defining your ideal Pilates client avatar, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

If you have these symptoms in your Pilates business:

  • Not enough clients
  • Can’t charge enough
  • Clients you don’t enjoy working with
  • Not getting the results you’d like to get for your clients

You could well have the wrong clients. In this episode, you’ll learn how to find the right clients and get your business back on track.

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 ways we can help you really know your stuff.

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.

If you are looking for inspiration, you want more than just a Pilates class, join our online community of qualified Pilates instructors from all over the world.

Become a confident and skilled Pilates Instructor in just 20 weeks.

Deeply know your stuff about how the body works and how to use Pilates for rehab in our Diploma of Clinical Pilates.

We help Pilates instructors build a solo business teaching Pilates from home or online to earn $100k a year through the Pilates Launchpad. 

Check out Breathe Education here – https://breathe-education.com/.

Jun 11
Love0

Anterior pelvic tilt and other made up dysfunctions, with Raphael Bender

By Become a better instructor

My 5 reasons why you should not worry about anterior pelvic tilt – ever.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • Connect with Raph on IG here
  • Schedule a call with our team here
  • Abdominal strength is not related to pelvic tilt here
  • Erector spinae, glutes and hamstrings are inactive in quiet standing here
  • 8 weeks of abdominal strengthening doesn’t change pelvic tilt here
  • Abdominal & hip flexor length is not associated with pelvic tilt here
  • Hip muscle stiffness does not correlate with pelvic tilt here
  • Stretching hamstrings does not change pelvic tilt here
  • Up to 23 degrees variation in PSIS height here
  • Palpation of PSIS has 15-20mm error here
  • CDC finds visual assessment of posture is accurate within 30 degrees here
  • Only 16% agreement on lordosis between experienced health professionals here
  • Anterior pelvic tilt is associated with LESS back pain here
  • 75% of pain-free women and 84% of pain-free men have “anterior pelvic tilt” 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

Jun 04
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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 16
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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

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 05
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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

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