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Breathe Education Blog

Jul 16
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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/.

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