How Pilates can change your life
Pilates is a “whole” body workout that fine tunes, realigns and strengthens every fibre of your body from tip to toe.
Getting to the Core of the Matter
Your abdominal core is the engine that drives every movement in your body. It all starts here.
By connecting with this deep abdominal “powerhouse” and using correct Pilates breathing technique posture improves, flexibility increases and muscles become stronger and leaner.
The Connection Between Breath and Movement
Isn’t breathing the most natural thing you do?
Well, yes but unfortunately the stress of everyday living tends to get in the way.
Too many hours hunched in front of a computer, repetitive strain and sports injuries along with shallow breathing compromise natural body alignment and strength.
Consequently the connection to your engine, the “powerhouse” core is lost and soon enough body strength and alignment is affected.
Using the “Muscle” Between Your Ears
Pilates requires mental concentration as you become in tune with your body. It can even feel like meditation as you discover how to breathe correctly and connect with your body at a deeper level.
Now you may have tried gym programmes before. You may have stood beside Arnie as he winced, puffed and heaved his pumped up biceps through a series of vein popping sets. You may have questioned the value of fifty situps and pushups performed at break neck speed with no form. You would be right. You see as hard as Arnie appears to be working chances are he’s using “all brawn” without engaging that all-important “muscle” – the brain.
Without really thinking about how the body moves, how the connection between brain, breathing and core stability drives everything many people simply go through the motions unaware of the damage they may be doing.
A Happy Client Teacher Match
We want you to feel comfortable and safe with your instructor. This is just as important as the relationship you have with your GP or dentist. To get the best results your instructor needs to know not just your physical requirements but also your individual learning style.
We want you and your instructor to get on and so we like to match clients to instructors.
Studio and Staff
All the instructors at Balmain Bodies are fully certified by internationally acclaimed Pilates organisations. Trained in rehabilitation as well as pre and post natal care all our instructors share the same level of dedication and commitment to the Pilates method.
Jenny Burgess (owner of Balmain Bodies)
What qualifications/training have you done?
Originally I trained as a ballet dancer and worked for many years as a commercial dancer, teacher and choreographer both here and overseas. I taught fitness classes and was Fitness Editor for Australian Slimming Magazine for thirteen years. After qualifying in Reflexology and Anatomy at Sydney’s Naturecare College I set up a successful private clinic and also became a lecturer in Reflexology. In 2003 I began my Pilates training with Helen Tardent at Pilates Moves in Sydney. Recently I was selected as one of only two Australian instructors to undergo a mentoring programme conducted in the USA by Lolita San Miguel. Lolita is one of only two surviving teachers personally trained by the founder, Joseph Pilates. This is such an honour to train with the best and become globally recognized as a second generation Pilates Master.
What attracted you to Pilates in the first place?
I have worked with bodies for many years as a dancer, teacher and lecturer. Pilates just made sense to me. It is such a practical, wholistic approach that doesn’t have a use by date. Pilates trained bodies are living proof of its success. Many Pilates teachers continue to teach and lecture well into their 80s.
How long have you been practicing Pilates?
I have been teaching since 2004.
Why did you become a Pilates instructor?
So I could teach and lecture well into my 80s! Seriously though I am so lucky to be working at something I love and believe in.
What is the best thing about Pilates?
Seeing bodies transform. Flatter abs, strong backs and the spring in the step of happy clients as they walk out the door.
How would you describe Pilates to your grandmother?
I’d say it’s a pity Pilates wasn’t widely available in her day. I’d tell her Pilates doesn’t require head banging music, screaming instructors and revealing clothing to get results!
Rene Alexander
What qualifications/training have you done?
I studied Psychology and Sociology followed by a Science degree in Occupational Therapy. I then trained as a Pilates instructor with Polestar and have a Diploma in Pilates Instruction.
What attracted you to Pilates in the first place?
A few years ago I developed chronic back pain and was advised to try Pilates. Pilates fixed the back pain but also gave me greater body awareness, improving my posture, strength and flexibility.
How long have you been practicing Pilates?
I started training in 2003. There’s always something new and exciting in the Pilates world and I continue to attend workshops and conferences.
Why did you become a Pilates instructor?
I love teaching and seeing clients get results is so rewarding. Being from a science background I am such a detail person and the thorough approach that is needed really appeals to me.
What is the best thing about Pilates?
Working with people in a happy positive field and seeing them reach their full potential.
How would you describe Pilates to your grandmother?
I’d probably tell her she was on the right track when she told me to suck my tummy in, stand up straight and walk tall!
Rebecca Smee
What qualifications/training have you done?
I trained with the renowned Pilates teacher trainer, Cynthia Lochard completing over 400 hours in my appreticeship. I then did my advanced Pilates exams in New York with the teacher training group originally established by Joseph Pilates.
What attracted you to Pilates in the first place?
It’s more than an exercise programme. I am really interested in rehabilitation and the proven results Pilates has.
How long have you been practicing Pilates?
I have been teaching since 2006.
Why did you become a Pilates instructor?
As a dancer I have always been passionate about how the body works, how it mends and how to keep it strong. Teaching Pilates was a natural progression for me.
What is the best thing about Pilates?
I really enjoy the rehabilitative side of Pilates particularly working with dancers and athletes but also working with pre and post pregnancy clients.
How would you describe Pilates to your grandmother?
I’d say all those ballet lessons that Mum and Dad paid for were a great investment and kick start to my Pilates career!