HQer of The Month - Meaghan Hillman

Our First HQer of 2020 couldn’t be anyone more deserving of the spotlight! It’s Meaghan Hillman!

Meaghan is an absolute delight! She is, in her own words, “a mum to a curious 7-year-old” and “a secondary school teacher of English and Literature and a Year 11 Coordinator”. Amongst all of this Meaghan also likes to read, sew clothes, fail to weed the garden, walk in the bush, and do Pilates!

From our perspective, Meaghan is an absolute superstar! She walks into HQ each week with a glowing smile on her face and always manages to make me laugh. She will give absolutely anything a go and works hard each session to get the most out of each exercise!

Meaghan has been coming to Pilates HQ since we opened our doors, over 3 1/2 years ago and in that time it has been so amazing to see her improve and grow! We can’t wait for you to hear all about Meaghan and her Pilates Journey, through her eyes!

What sort of exercise did you do before starting Pilates?

For years, I’ve been an inconsistent jogger (occasionally just a plodder). I’ve done different yoga classes, dance classes, and occasional gym membership. Nothing has become an integrated part of my life like Pilates (and maybe jogging).

Why did you decide to start Pilates? And why did you choose Pilates HQ?

I did physio through Pilates about 15 years ago and enjoyed that. I was at a point that I knew I needed to get into an exercise routine and, from experience, paying upfront makes me more likely to do it. Sad but true! HQ is about 500 metres from my house, so it seemed the perfect place! And it was.

How did you feel before starting classes at Pilates HQ?

Honestly? Apprehensive about wearing leggings in public. It took me a good few months to get over that.

You've been at HQ now for 3 and 1/2 years (since we opened, YAY!)
How long after starting classes did you know that Pilates HQ was right for you?

I think I did only a few lessons before I went to a 10 class pass.
I love the focus on the body and having to pay close attention to how I’m using muscles.

Pilates makes me think, but in a completely different way to how I normally think. The effort and focus it takes helps me shut off from work, I haven’t found many work worries that can’t be obliterated by 15 scooters!

I really enjoy being able to joke and chat with the class, but also know that if I’m feeling exhausted I can just be quiet and follow instructions.

I always walk out of a class feeling better than I walked in, and knowing I’ll have those moments each week is really important. I’ve always struggled with instruction based exercise but I find the HQ approach humorous, supportive and inclusive.

You started off doing 1 Pilates Class a week. Why did you decide to start doing 2 classes a week?

I noticed I wasn’t improving as quickly as I wanted to and moving to two sessions really has improved my fitness. Pilates is good for me mentally as well, and having two blocks of time that can’t be consumed by work has been really important to keep me energised!

Have you noticed any Benefits from your continued Pilates Practice?

Oh my goodness, yes! I put off returning to jogging as I knew how much fitness I needed to regain. However, Pilates has improved my cardio fitness enough that I’ve been able to get back to regular jogging without feeling I can’t breathe after 30 seconds. As I mentioned before, the mental space that it provides each week helps me keep perspective.

What keeps you coming back to Pilates HQ week after week?

The laughter, the compassion and humour of instructors and other class members. The curiosity about whether this day will be a day I can do teasers. The feeling of getting stronger. The knowledge I’ll walk out feeling better.

If you could teach a pilates class to your HQ Pilates Teachers what exercises would you make them do ?

All the fancy stuff I can’t do, just to see what I’m working towards!

What is your favourite thing to do to unwind and de-stress/relax?

Walk in the bush, Pilates, sew, mess around with my little family.

Thank you Meaghan, for being such a superstar and for being part of our Pilates HQ Community, our little family would not be the same without you in it!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team
Xx

P.S
If You Want your work worries to Melt Away each week with a Pilates Class then click the link below to find out what class to start with

Is it Still a Good Workout if I am Not Sore the Next Day?

Have you ever noticed that sometimes you'll be sore after Pilates and sometimes you won't?

Are you disappointed if you’re not sore after Pilates? 

Being sore after exercise isn't an indicator of how hard you've worked or how good workout is. And just because you are not sore after your Pilates class it doesn’t mean you haven’t worked hard enough!

Pilates buninyong, reformer pilates buninyong, DOMS

What is the soreness you experience post-workout?

The soreness you experience post-workout is called Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS). This muscle soreness happens for a couple of reasons.

1. Due to a new training stimulus, something that your body is not used to in your session.
   This can be something like increased weight, repetition, intensity or a new exercise that you haven’t done before.

2. Performing exercises that involve a certain type of muscle contraction.
   An eccentric contraction happens when the muscle lengthens as it contracts.
   This type of contraction causes small micro-trauma within the muscle which the body then works hard to repair, this is thought to be the reason behind you experiencing muscles soreness after these types of exercises.
   In a Pilates Class some of the more common exercises that involve this type of contraction, and that you may feel sorer after, include; Thigh Stretch, Bridges with extensions & Standing Split Work.

You might have noticed that when you started your Pilates journey you were feeling more sore than you are now?
Or
Maybe after certain classes you've failed the toilet test the next day? 

This is most likely due to one of the reasons above.
Maybe it was due to a certain exercise performed in class?
Maybe the exercises were new or different from what your body is used to.
Or
Maybe it was your first session back after missing classes for a little while!

Whatever the reason, having DOMs after a Pilates class isn't a bad thing but it is also not something you have to experience in order for your class to have been challenging or effective. 

Instead of determining the success of your workout by how sore you are after, here are a few things that you can think about in class to help you know if you are challenged enough.

(You don't have to experience all of these)

1. Were you feeling challenged during the class? 

2. Did you feel a muscle burn during any of the exercises?

3. Was it challenging for you to get the hang of the exercise techniques?

4. Were your muscles jittery or shaky?

5. Did you have to concentrate on performing the exercise effectively and correctly (no time for planning your weekend mid reps)?

6. Were you are glad when your teacher changed the exercise?

If you answered Yes to some or all of these then you are being Challenged just enough by your Pilates Classes!

If you answered No to the majority of these questions then it might be time for you to up the anti & try an extra class each week or jump up to the next level of class!

If you’d like help determining if you are being challenged enough in your sessions let us know next time you are in class!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx

Stop Letting Mum Guilt Get In The Way Of Your Self Care!

You scroll through Instagram, whilst heating up your children’s dinner and you are bombarded with images of other mums with blow waved hair & impeccable makeup, cooking their children’s dinner from scratch… and BOOM Mum Guilt!

You sit down on the couch with a freshly made pot of tea while the kids are still sleeping….. Mum Guilt!

You organise a babysitter so you and your husband can have a date night…. Mum Guilt!

Does this sound like you?

Do you feel guilty when you are away from your kids, or even just thinking about taking some time out for yourself?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Maya Vorderstrasse (@mayavorderstrasse) on Aug 30, 2018 at 10:55am PDT

You, my friend, are incredible!

and you are so worthy and deserving of taking time for you!

Taking time out for you is NOT selfish, but necessary!

There is only so far you will get by putting everyone else’s needs above your own, and neglecting the one person that needs your attention the most.. YOU!

It’s time you STOP neglecting your needs, think of your self-care as a WIN for your family.
You will feel happier, fresher & more able to take care of the ones you love if you take care of yourself first and here’s how you will do it!

1. STOP comparing yourself to everyone around you.

Stop scrolling through Instagram and Facebook looking at what everyone else is doing, because that is not real life! That is their highlight reel, not reality. I’m sure if you were to see their blooper reel your perspective on things would be a little different!

2. Make a commitment to doing something for yourself on a regular basis.

• It could be 10 minutes to yourself while you drink your coffee

• 30 minutes to walk the dog

• Doing some meditation

3. Schedule Your You Time in!

Once you’ve worked out what your commitment is above

• sit down with your family/loved one’s and tell them why this is important to you then

• Work out a time when you can schedule this in as an appointment without interruption (maybe you wake up before everyone else, or maybe you do it once your husband is home from work)

• Write it down in your diary or schedule it into your calendar on your phone - Make this a non-negotiable. 

You’ve totally got this! This is your year to put yourself at the top of that to-do list, you are going to feel so much better for it!

Steph and the Pilates Team

xx
P.S.
If you need a guide or someone to help you keep your appointment with yourself, we can be your person!
Get in touch with us and organise your first session today Click here to send us an email

OR

try our INTRO OFFER- 4 Reformer Classes for 85* (*classes to be used within 2 weeks of first session)

3 Reasons Why Pilates Is The Perfect Addition to Your Running Training

You are runner ! You love your running. You could run for hours.

Every day, you get up, rain, hail or shine, (mostly rain in Ballarat) and you still go out running…Because you love it!

You enter fun runs to give you something to train for, but the one thing that you can’t help but fight, are those niggles you keep getting.

That bloody aching hip that means you’re hobbling for the first few km’s of your run.

That Achilles that makes itself known to you as soon as you set your foot on the ground each morning .

But Rain, hail, shine or injuries you still run!
You could go and see the physio about it, but you worry that they will tell you to stop running, or reduce your km’s and you don’t want to hear that so you just keep on going.
You keep running through the pain, you keep running as your times get slower and your running form becomes labored. 

I know you love to run!

But maybe it’s time you got smarter about the way you train?
Running is great! But doing it and only it, is repetitive wand can lead to niggles and injuries.
Adding a regular Strength-based training session into your week will help provide you with a source of cross-training, improve your weak areas and help reduce those niggles that are holding you back! 

Here are 3 Reasons Why Pilates Is The Perfect Addition to Your Running Training.

1. Pilates is a Full Body Workout!

Pilates is such an incredible way for you to add strength training into your running training cycle.
It’s a low load strength-based workout, focusing on your full body, which means we build strength in all of your body, especially the muscles you don’t use as much when you’re running and the ones you’d avoid if you did the workouts yourself at home! 

2. Pilates will keep you on the track and out of the Doctor’s office!

We know how much you just want to be out on the track running.
Pilates will keep you out there.
Our balanced classes will improve your muscle imbalances, lengthen what’s tight and strengthen what’s weak, keeping those niggles to a minimum. 

3. Pilates won’t leave your muscles feeling so heavy that you can’t run!

We know that you don’t want to be in the gym lifting heavy weights you don’t want your body to be sore and your legs to be so heavy that you can’t get up and run the next day! Our Pilates Classes are perfect for you, they are a low load workout and will have you feeling, taller and more able to take on your day or your next long run!

It’s time to stop pounding the pavements, stop limping along with injuries just so you can run each day.
because you know what happens next!
You end up having to take a break from running for a long time just to recover.

Keep yourself out on that track by being smarter with your training & adding in some Pilates Classes to your mix! 

Start Your Pilates Classes Today with our

INTRO OFFER - 4 REFORMER CLASSES FOR $85.

or

Join our next Intro to Pilates Course (Find out more HERE)

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx

How to Set New Year Resolutions that will stick in 2020!

2020 is just around the corner and you are starting to think about how you can reboot your health, set some goals and start the year off well!

BUT, you do this each year and you just can’t seem to make those new routines stick?

You start your new diet or your new exercise routine and you stop after a few weeks?

And then to make it even worse you start telling yourself that you are hopeless for not being able to see them through?Sound familiar?

Well, my friend, you are far from hopeless, actually you are FREAKING AMAZING!
The reason these things haven’t worked in the past is because you have been setting yourself Unrealistic goals!

BUT not this year! This year is your year to shine!

I’m going to tell you something you probably don’t want to hear…. Here goes…..

There are no quick fixes, there are no tricks and no special fancy diets that are going to help you achieve a healthy sustainable lifestyle.

Creating a healthy lifestyle is all about making small sustainable changes over time and allowing these to become part of your lifestyle.

And to help you do that here are my top 3 tips to help you create healthy habits that will last a lifetime!

Steer Clear of FAD DIETS

Let’s be super clear, fad diets do not work.

Whilst they may be successful in the short term, they are extremely difficult to sustain for long periods. Fad diets are centered around restriction and will often ask you to cut out or reduce certain food groups.

This means you won’t be getting all of the essential nutrients you need for a healthy body and life.

So what should you do instead?

Eat a healthy balanced diet.
Remember that food pyramid you learnt about at school, bring that bad boy back out and try to start fueling your body based on it’s recommendations (you can also read this great article hear for some tips).

So instead of starting a fad diet in 2020 commit to making some small healthy changes to what you are eating. For Example;

• Eat 3 pieces of fruit a day

• Reduce sugar intake by not adding additional sugar to any of my meals or drinks

• Cook dinners that are made with fresh foods (vegetables, meat, grains)

• Only have 1 soft drink a week

Don’t Go GUNG-hO with your exercise!

So you want to be more active, that’s great!

But maybe it’s been a while since you’ve exercised or maybe you’ve been regularly exercising for a and want to up the anti?

It’s important when changing your exercise routine to make small incremental changes, rather than going all-in right from 1st of Jan!

Here are 2 reasons why this is important!

1. Sudden and large changes to your exercise routine can put your body at an increased risk of injury

2. Making big changes to your routine can often be unrealistic and hard to sustain!

So, instead of going from zero to hero this Jan try Introducing your new activities slowly and then increase it steadily from week to week as you feel ready. Not only will this reduce your chance of injury but it will also make it easier to for you to form a habit and stick to it.

Try setting goals such as;

• Walk for 15minutes every second day

• Do 10-15 Minutes of Pilates every second day

• Change one low-intensity session (walk, or bike ride etc) into a higher intensity Eg. hill walk or a weight session

Pick Activities You Enjoy!

Now that you know you have to start out slow when you are introducing new exercises into your routine, the next important step is for you to pick activities that you enjoy!

Creating a healthy lifestyle is all about making changes that are sustainable for a long period of time. So there’s no point starting a type of activity or exercise that you absolutely dread doing.

Instead pick activities you enjoy, and if you’re not sure what you enjoy then maybe give a few different things a go and see what lights your fire!

Exercise doesn’t have to mean running or going to the gym, or box jumps or burpees (urgh burpees) it can take so many different forms, so get creative!

So this year when you are sitting down to set your New Year goals and resolutions, make it simple, pick exercises that you enjoy, start small and increase gradually and please No Fad Diets!

Oh and If you’ve been thinking about trying Pilates but are worried about making a big commitment,

try our INTRO OFFER - 4 REFORMER CLASSES = $85

OR

sign up below to receive 3 FREE Pilates Exercises straight to your inbox that you can do at home!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx

Tracey Mcleod - HQer of The Month

December’s HQ-er of The Month, and the last for 2019 is Tracey Mcleod.

Tracey is a superstar, she is a mum of 2 kids (aged 7 and 4) and is lucky enough to be able to work from home 3 days a week with 1 day in the office (Melbourne).

Tracey started out at HQ just over 3 years ago in our Group Rehab Classes focusing improving her abdominal separation post bub. Over this time she has improved so so much, and has moved on from our Rehab Classes into our Reformer Pilates Classes (Beginner & Intermediate).

Tracey’s Journey has been incredible to watch and we can’t wait for you to read on and hear all about it!

Tracey, Tell us a little bit about you!

I have 2 kids, aged 7 and 4 and work for a great company that allows me to work from home 3 days per week and 1 day in the office (Melbourne). I also enjoy going for early morning walks while listening to a podcast or audible book, it seems to set me up for the day better.

Why Did You Decide To Try Pilates And What Made You Choose Pilates HQ?

It was actually my husband who recommended it to me first because he had met Steph through his work. Pilates was a nice way to ease back into regular exercise after having my daughter - particularly as I had a large abdominal separation (10cm!) which I had been working on closing with a physiotherapist. I also wanted to strengthen my core which was a bit worse for wear after having two children. Pilates HQ is a lovely, welcoming studio and it feels nice to support a local business.

You Started Out in Our Group Rehab Classes & Have progressed to Beginner & Now to Intermediate Reformer Classes,Tell us a little bit about that Journey.

What prompted your change to Reformer Classes from Group Rehab?

I really enjoyed the group rehab sessions, particularly as there was a regular bunch of ladies who were so interesting and funny (shout out to Mandy, Jo, Sally and Jo!). I changed to reformers as I had picked up an extra day at work and the reformers class suited my schedule better.

Why did you decide to give Intermediate Classes a go?

To be honest, I never would have tried the intermediate class if Jess hadn't suggested it. I was still getting a decent workout in the beginners reformers class and wasn't thinking about trying the intermediate class.

How did you feel about jumping into an Intermediate Class, were you nervous?

If you were how do you feel now that you have done a few classes at this level?

I was pretty nervous at first and the warm-up for my first class was vigorous with deep squats (at 6am!). I was just hoping that I would survive the next 40 minutes. However, while there are some exercises that make me inwardly (and sometimes outwardly) groan, my core has held up and I have also enjoyed this class. Sometimes I leave with slightly wobbly legs and my body feels a bit tight in the core and legs the next day or so, but I know it's completely worth it. I have already noticed improvements in executing some of the exercises which I found to be tricky at the beginning but are easier now.

Do you have any advice about someone who is in a Group Rehab Class and is thinking about trying a Reformer Class?

The group rehab classes are an excellent introduction to the different exercises you can do on the reformer. I think the reformer class then pushes you a little bit further - as everyone is doing the same thing in the reformer class, you will likely do more sets or reps than you would have in the group rehab.

Have you noticed any benefits from your continued Pilates Practice?

My core has improved and I feel stronger overall. Sometimes I have busy weeks where I don't get to exercise much, but I've at least got a pilates class booked in every week.

We Love our little Town of Buninyong and would love to know…

Where do your kids love to go for a play outside?

They enjoy playing at De Soza Park or going for a bike ride near our house. They love the Buninyong pool in summer!

What's your favourite place for a hot drink/coffee?

I'm not a coffee drinker and sometimes my cafe choice depends on whether I have the kids in tow, but I do really love the range of chai teas at Chocalatto.

What's your favourite thing about Buninyong?

The small town feel and being able to stroll safely around our neighbourhood. Plus, that clean, country air!

Trace, thanks for choosing us at HQ and blessing us with your amazing sense of humour each week. We all look forward to having you in our classes and we can’t wait to see what we can help you achieve in 2020.

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx

P.S Want to be like Trace? Contact Us to have a chat or Book Your First Class Today by clicking below.

How to Exercise on Holidays without any Equipment!

When you travel on holidays are you someone who likes to exercise?
or
do you like to use that opportunity to rest and relax and leave all of your gym and active-wear at home? 

There is no right or wrong answer to this, we are all different and we all have different ways and definitions of relaxation.

You may have already guessed it, but I am someone who likes to stay active on holiday. I love that when I’m on holidays I don’t have to rush. I don’t worry about having to squeeze my workout into a time frame or getting up super early, I can take my time, do a little more or a little less at the gym depending on how I feel. 

I have a few different strategies for getting my workouts done whilst I am on holidays, depending on what type of holiday I am having.

Here are some of the things that I do whilst on holidays to help me get my workouts in!

• Try to book a hotel that has a gym on site.
  Most of the time hotel gyms are quite small and have minimal equipment, but you can still use the space and the equipment they do have to do a great holiday workout.
  

• No gym at the hotel - no worries
  Get onto your good friend Google and search for “gyms near ‘your holiday destination’” or “Pilates studio’s near…..” (etc.) See what you can find in and around the town/s you are visiting. Maybe you can purchase a “holiday pass”, or a couple of casual passes to one of these fitness destinations.

• Try Something New
  Holidays are the perfect time to try something new. why not see if there is a different type of exercise class in the town that you could try or maybe even try hiring some bikes, kayaks or a SUP and have a go at doing something different for the day.
  

• Include extra activities or exercise into your day
  Reduce the amount that you drive or use public transport and try to get your steps up by walking to your destination, or maybe even cycle if you have access to bikes.

  
  Are you the kind of person that likes to have a planned workout? Well, here are few other ideas that might help!

• Plan your workouts in advance so when you are on holidays you don’t have to think about it, you can just get up pick an exercise and go.

• Plan to do your workout in the morning, this way you can start you day off with a bit of pep in your step and you have the rest of the day to enjoy, sight seeing, relaxing by the pool,reading a book or whatever tickles your fancy

• When planning your workout plan a session that involves only what you can find in your hotel room, floor space, chair/bed.

• If you need to plan your own workouts whilst you are away this Christmas here are a few exercises you could include in your session

  1. 100s

  2. Roll Ups

  3. One leg stretch

  4. Double leg stretch

  5. Criss Cross

  6. Bridges

  7. Body Weight squats or Lunges

  8. Push ups

  9. Tricep dips

  10. Running on the spot

Still Not sure how to put it all together into a workout? I’ve got you covered!
Why not try my 25 Minute Mat Class - it’s 25 Minutes of Pilates that you can do absolutely anywhere, no equipment needed! And I tell you everything you need to do, so no need for you to have to think about anything!

Purchase my 25 Minute Mat Class for only $12.00

I hope you have fun with your holiday workouts!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx

HQ Teacher Spotlight

This month we are doing things a little differently. Instead of shining the light on one of our HQ Clients we are helping you get to know one of our HQ Teachers, Ellie Michael!

Ellie is an absolute ray of sunshine. she will make you work deceivingly hard and does it all with a smile on her face and prance in her step! Ellie teaches our Tuesday morning Beginner Reformer Class and Tempo Class & we just can’t speak highly enough of her! Keep reading to find out all about Ellie, including her most & least favourite Pilates Exercises!

What made you want to be a Pilates instructor?

I love practicing Pilates myself and since I have been practicing Pilates, it has improved my overall body strength & has been extremely beneficial for my general well-being. It has assisted with more specific issues such as injury and soreness from years of vigorous exercise that has been quite taxing on my body! Also, with a background in dance/dance teaching, the two really go hand in hand!

What do you enjoy most about instructing?

Having experienced the benefits from my own practice, it gives me a chance to pass on my knowledge to other people. It can be so rewarding & satisfying to see clients improve their own practice over time and become stronger, healthier, happier versions of themselves!

Why do You love Pilates?

Again, having experienced amazing benefits from my own Pilates practice, it’s the rewarding side of seeing clients improve their own practice by becoming stronger & prevent or fix any injury they may have struggled with before practicing Pilates.

What are your Hobbies?

I love hitting the gym for a HIT workout or a weights session, and of course, a Pilates class! I live near the beach, so I also love to get out and go for a nice walk on the sand. But I do also like to treat myself of a weekend and catch up with friends for a wine and a nice dinner!

Tell us a bit about your family

I grew up in Ballarat, but have RE located to Melbourne, my mum still lives in Ballarat and owns the dance school I teach for. My Dad and older Brother are Melbourne based also. No pets!

What is your favourite pilates exercise?

I’m a lover of lunges and squats on the reformer, I think because my legs have always been the strongest part of my body. But I do love a good glute burn as well

What is your least favourite Pilates Exercise?

Single arm work in straps, because my upper body is definitely the weakest part of my body, it is definitely the most difficult part of a Pilates class for me!

What is Your Pilates Mantra?

I want my clients to feel as though they are becoming stronger, improving their technique & achieving their goals after each class. But I also want my clients to feel as though they have enjoyed themselves, had fun and felt comfortable throughout the class, and are eager to come along to my next class & see what else they can achieve!

How would your friends describe your personality?

I think they would describe me as a very positive/ overall happy person and a good friend to talk to!

What are your 3 life tips.

1. Positivity

2. Approve of yourself- inner peace & happiness

3. Enjoy life & have fun!

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone starting Pilates?

Go for it! Don’t be afraid, because you have absolutely nothing to lose. I guarantee you will absolutely love it

---

Come and get to know Ellie some more by booking into one of her Tuesday morning classes!

PLUS if you book into her TEMPO class (Tues 6:50am) before 20th Dec You will go into the running to win our Christmas Prize pack which is packed with over $400 worth of goodies!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx

Beat the Stress this Silly Season with Pilates

So it's November!

Which means sh$+ is about to get real!

I know you don't want this time of year to get the better of you! I know you hate missing your regular pilates class and the aches and pains that come with that, as well as the whole, being less nice to be around!

But, with Xmas parties, gift buying, family get-togethers and all of the Christmas crazy, you know that you start to neglect your own self-care. You know you'll end up cancelling your Pilates class and your coffee date with your girlfriends because you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Well, what if this year you did things differently?

What if you made your own self-care a priority to help you get through this stressful time? (You totally can!)

This Year we want you to take care of YOU first.

We want you to make your YOU TIME an essential!

Here's why!

You'll be less stressed & your mood will improve!

Keeping that Pilates class as part of your schedule will help release all of those feel-good endorphins so that you can reduce your stress and improve your mood. (we know you need that with all the family coming around!)

You'll sleep better!

Exercise helps to regulate your sleep patterns, improve your mental clarity and reduce your fatigue, which you certainly need at this hectic time of year!

So this year DON'T cancel your Pilates class, your coffee date or skip your morning meditation because of feelings of overwhelm because these are the very things that you need most to help you navigate this time of year with less stress!

Lock Your Pilates Classes in until the end of the year, by clicking the button below!

OR

If you are really struggling to get to class why not join us in our WORKSHOP on the 7th of December “Teach Yourself Pilates”
where you will learn to teach yourself a 30minute Pilates Workshop that you can do on your own at home!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx

HQ-er of The Month - Dianne Ray

We are excited to introduce our HQ-er of the Month - Dianne Ray. This amazing woman has been with Pilates HQ for the past 1 1/2 years. She came to the studio due to a neck injury causing numbness and arm pain as well as hip/back pain throughout the night. Fast forward to today,and Di’s arm pain is no non-existent and her hip and back is improving too! Di now attends two intermediate Reformer Classes a week as well as Ellie’s Tempo Class.

Find out what else changed with Dianne and how Pilates has helped her since she started over a year ago:

Reformer Pilates Buninyong

Why did you decide to do Pilates?

I had a compressed nerve at C6 that was causing numbness and nerve pain down my Lt arm. This was apparently due to poor posture and changes after my left Mastectomy and left axillary clearance. I was also experiencing nocturnal hip/back pain. My flexibility was not great either.

My friend Chloe suggested I give it a try and also my physio suggested it would be helpful.

What brought you to Pilates HQ?

I loved the thought that it was in Buninyong and I could walk to classes.

How has Pilates helped you? What are the benefits you have noticed since coming to your classes? 

Pilates has been incredible with my feeling of wellbeing, strength and flexibility. My left arm pain/ numbness is non existent and very recently I could stop all medication for my nocturnal back pain as it has nearly disappeared.

I am able to do exercises that I could not even imagine I was capable of. The wonderful community that is HQ Pilates has also been a delight to get to know and laugh with.

What is it that you love most about your classes at Pilates HQ?

I love that the challenges are there every lesson. I love the encouragement and support to constantly try new things and perfect exercises that are challenging. I also love the HQ community, the friendly faces of clients and instructors.

Apart from Doing your Pilates classes twice/three times a week, what other hobbies do you have? 

My hobbies are motorbike riding on my gorgeous BMW R nine T, otherwise known as Brunhilda. Gardening, walking and of course experimenting with food and recipes.

We are all getting pretty excited about your restaurant opening - The Shared Table! woop woop. What made you want to open your own business/restaurant?

I felt it was a great time professionally and personally to put all the wonderful skills I have learnt over the years from amazing mentors like Peter Ford and Philippe Desrettes together and see what happens!  I think it is an exciting time in Buninyong and the community would really embrace having a space such as The Shared Table.  I love the idea that sharing food connects people, thoughts and experiences.

What would you love for people to know about your new restaurant ? 

Tough one as there have been so many questions! Maybe that it has taken a village to raise The Shared Table. I have made it a focus to try and use all local trades, services and craftspeople in fitting out the restaurant. I not only want to support local growers but also local businesses and keep the dollars within our community.

What other things apart from Pilates, do you do to help yourself stay healthy, mentally and physically?

I walk on days I don’t do Pilates. I try and remind myself to be grateful for something at the beginning of my day. Working in my veggie garden and hothouse. Being with my nearest and dearest people, including my kids.

If you could teach a Pilates class to your instructors at HQ, what exercises would you make them do?!

I’m not sure what they are called but the squats that are done on the reformer with your heels half way up the long box. Killer, thanks Jane. I would also make Jess do lots of arm ones! And Tempo sessions! I’m not good at remembering the names of the exercises.

I know your husband has is a pilot, what are some of your favourite places that you guys have flown to together?

We have flown to some incredible places and my favourite place would have had to be Cape Leveque. The airstrip stops just before the beach and we camped on the beach for a week under palm fronds with our 4 kids. Incredible red cliffs, whales, crystal clear blue water and sand dunes.

Dianne, seeing how far you’ve come since that first class makes us proud to be part of your journey to physical health and wellness. Thank you for motivating other women to take care of themselves and more importantly, never stop pursuing their dreams. Keep inspiring!


Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

xx

3 Ways to Make More Time and Start Pilates Classes Today!

I know you want to start Pilates. You’ d love to start Pilates, but you just don't have the time. We totally get it, life is hard and it’s not easy to juggle work, kids, partner, housework as well as make time for yourself on a daily basis.
But I think if you try one of these techniques below each week you will be surprised at how much time you will free up! Time that you can use to start that Pilates Class!

Here are 3 Things you can do this week that will help you free up more time

Reduce Time Spent on Social Media
Did you know that on average Australians spend 1hour 39 minutes on Social media a day!!!!
Wowee - Cut that habit out right there - minus the bit where you are scrolling while you are on the toilet and you’ll free up about 1 hour 30minutes in your day.
That gives you plenty of time to get in a quick walk/jog some meditation or even one of our 45minute Reformer Classes.

Reduce Time Spent watching Television/Netflix/Stan - whatever your poison

Did you know that on average Australians spend 74 hrs and 58mins watching Tv a month - thats over 2hours a day!
Cut back on some of your netflix watching and you can gain yourself some extra YOU TIME.

Maybe you could watch your favourite TV show whilst you ride your exercise bike, or do your home Pilates workout.

I know, I know, you love a good netflix binge and a little facebook stalk is always fun - but if you were to scrap these two habits from your day you would free yourself up an extra 3 and a half hours - 3 and a half hours for YOU! That’s at least 4 Pilates Classes!

Batch Your Tasks

Batching - is when you lump all similar tasks into one continuous block. It is a great tool that I often use in my business to help Get Sh%t Done. Batching can also be applied to your everyday lives though.
Instead of doing lots of little tasks throughout the day try popping tasks together to help reduce prep work or travel time and to help increase your focus and productivity, thereby saving your time!

Here are a few things to try to Batch together

Chores - Batch your housework into one chunk of time, chose a day for washing, vacuuming etc.

Shopping - Gather your groceries in one big trip to the supermarket, to save yourself on fuel and time. Want to save even more time and not have the kids to worry about? Why not try ordering your groceries online - cut out the hassle of going into the shops altogether and have them deliver it to your door. (I have been doing this and LOVE it!)

Cooking - Try Meal Prep, cook all of your lunches for the week on one day in one big batch, or cook up a few different casseroles for your dinners! Save yourself from prepping meals every night of the week.


Give these batching techniques a go and see how much time you can save yourself!

Now that you have more time to take care of your body through Pilates, it’s time to join the HQ Team:

See if you can put one of these tips into practice each week, and just see the minutes add on to your day! Turn these extra minutes into time you spent on you in a Pilates Class and you will soon see how finding this time for yourself and your health NOW will actually end up adding time to your life later on!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx

HQ-er of The Month - Kim Sharp

Our HQ-er of the Month is Kim who started Pilates just over a year ago. Since she has started doing classes at Pilates HQ, the flexibility through her body has improved so much. With consistently doing two classes a week, her improvement has been evident in her balance and control over her body and muscles.

Read on and get to know Kim on a more personal level:

What's your favourite thing to do in your spare time or what hobbies do you enjoy?

Running is my main hobby but I also love hanging out with my dogs.

We know that you are a superstar runner and have been participating in some half marathons lately - how many have you run this year?

So far I have completed two marathons and 10 half marathons. So far this year though 1 marathon and 3 half marathons. I have two more half marathons coming up in the next month.

What is your main aim/goal for your marathon runs?

My ultimate goal is to finish, but my main goal is always to enjoy it.

What enticed you to come to a Pilates class?

I had done mat Pilates before and hated it but a friend was loving her Pilates HQ classes so I decided to give it a go. It was local and the class times suited me. That was nearly 18 months ago and I haven't looked back.

How do you structure your training week with running and Pilates?

I do two Pilates classes a week and run five times a week. A run straight after Pilates is always tough, particularly when Jess has worked our legs hard, so that only happens once a week.

What is your favourite Pilates exercise and why?

I'm not sure to be honest. I really don't know them by name. I enjoy leg work using the straps and 'elephant' stretch(??) and maybe the pike to planks??

How has your Pilates routine affected your running?

Core strength and posture are really important for running and Pilates has certainly helped me with this. It also helps with joint mobility and flexibility all of which help reduce overall injury risk.

What has kept you interested in Pilates and why do you keep coming back to class each week?

The fact that I feel like I've had a good workout without being totally exhausted. There is so much variety in the exercises and the instructors are all amazing. I love the small class sizes and the welcoming and friendly vibe of HQ.

What changes have you noticed in your body and in your Running training/technique, since starting regular Pilates classes?

I think I am definitely stronger overall and perhaps a little more coordinated than before.

What is your favourite track or spot to run in and around Buninyong?

There is so many beautiful areas around Buninyong that are perfect for running. Living here though runs always involve hills!

What advice would you give to a fellow runner out there, who is considering starting Pilates but isn't really sure about it?

Try it! Pilates complements running perfectly. It stretches and strengthens so many key muscles and therefore reduces your overall injury risk. The classes are so much fun and the instructors really make the effort to get to know you so that together you can work to achieve your goals.

Kim, you have been so great to watch and your attitude towards Pilates is admirable! We will definitely get you doing a back-bend one day - even though you think it would be nearly impossible! You are stronger than you realise. We are cheering you on!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

xx

Why you CAN do Pilates!

3 TIPS TO HELP YOU TRY A NEW CLASS OR EXERCISE TODAY!

Before I went on holidays, my Pilates clients kept asking me the same question.
"When you're in France will you eat frogs legs?”
And each time I thought, "hell no I ain't eating no frogs legs".
I'd never tried frogs legs before but it was a frog and I decided I wouldn't like it and I didn't want to eat it.

But when we actually ordered frogs legs I thought ”I can't go to France and not eat frogs legs.”
So I did it, and despite what my mind was telling me, it actually tasted pretty good (sorry Kermit).

Do you ever do this with anything?
Tell yourself you can't.
Convince yourself there's no way that you could do something or that you would like something?

I think maybe you do!

Do any of these sound familiar?

I can't do Pilates.
I'm not fit enough.
I'm not strong enough.
I'm not flexible enough.
There's no way I can do that!
OR
Hell no I ain't doing that! That looks way too hard for me!

When we tell ourselves these things, they feel like such truths. BUT in actual fact they are just a belief - something we believe to be true.

When this holds us back from doing something, learning something, or achieving something, it becomes a limiting belief.

So the next time your sentence starts with something like... I can't…. I'm not….. enough. Remind yourself that this isn't a truth and that you can do these things that scare you.

Here's how you can turn things around:

1. Start small

Break the task down and take little steps that are less daunting.

Want to start Pilates but you are telling yourself you can't?

Why not start with 1on1? Learn the basics to help realise that you can!

Want to try a new class level or a challenging exercise?

Start small by adding in little parts of the exercise, or by starting with just one class at a more difficult level.

2. Remind yourself of your success

Remember the little things you did well and find real evidence that you CAN!

Remind yourself that you did an extra rep of the exercise than usual, or that you didn't tire as quickly as last week doing the hundred.

When you hear those limiting beliefs creep in, remind yourself of this.

3. Surround yourself with positive support

Be around a group of people or a person that helps lift you up gives you confidence that you can do the things that scare you.

You want to be around people who give you praise for any and all of your success and who dust you off, pick you up and encourage you try again when it doesn't quite work the first time.

This is what our instructors do and this is exactly what kind of support you get from the other members in your class at HQ too.

So now that you know YOU CAN, why not challenge your beliefs a little more and book that first class?

Or jump into another reformer class level (intermediate advanced or tempo flow).

Your HQ Tribe and Teacher will be there supporting you every step of the way… Go Eat that Frog Leg!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx

What Type of Pilates HQer Are You?

Do you camp outside the studio hours before your class, just to make sure you get “your” reformer?
Do you only use reformers on one side of the room?
Do you forget what class your booked into and turn up just hoping that you have turned up at the right time?
Do you love making noise, you love a good groan when the exercises get tough or maybe you count down out loud when you know your instructor has got distracted?

Which Type of Pilates HQer Are You?

1. The HQ Groupie

2. The Loud HQer

3. The Forgetful HQer

Answer our Quiz here to work out which HQer you are! or maybe you just want to make up your own mind by reading the descriptions below.

You like to get to class early so you can get your favourite machine, maybe the shoulder pads are just the right fit, you like the extra padding on your toosh or you like to get the reformer without the light in your eyes!

You have all the latest HQ Merch and newest grippy sock styles!
It depends on the day and the exercise, you try to keep your cool but sometimes you have to grunt and groan or start counting so your teacher stops sooner!

---

You love your HQ classes, you like to get your classes in each week but you are not afraid to make some noise!

Scooters/ Lunges, Holds - You'll let your teacher know that you love or hate them and will groan and grunt and carry on, but who cares because you know it's good for you. 

You don't hold back, you give everything a go, but if your teacher forgets to count or misses a beat you'll sure as hell tell them!

---

You love your HQ classes, but you always forget to book in ahead of time, waitlists are your friend either that or you are reminded to book a class or a new pack because Steph or Jess sent you a reminder text. 

You often forget to pack your gym gear, so you do class in your work clothes, sometimes you forget your socks and you are forced to buy those damn Grippy socks. 
On occasion you turn up to class and are not too sure if you are there at the right time!

Take the Quiz and Let us know what type of HQer you are and if you agree or disagree?

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx

Am I Too Old To Do Pilates?

I’m doing this thing where I try to be more confident and speak to people about what I do! So the other day whilst having a blood test, I mentioned that I taught Pilates, and I was met with the statement. “I’ve thought about doing Pilates, but I always thought I was too old!”

WHAT? Too Old?!, Never!
I feel like that phrase should be outlawed, you will never be too old for anything! Except maybe schoolies - no one wants to be a toolie!

Anyway, it really got me thinking, I wonder how many other people out there think that about Pilates or about exercise in general.

Well if you’ve been thinking this, I’m here to tell you to STOP! You are not too old, and you are definitely not too old for Pilates!

Actually as you get older you should really start paying more attention to your health and activity levels, because quite frankly, “you’re not as young as you used to be”.

Also did you know that as you age, after the age of 30, (I know guys!) we actually start to lose muscle tissue and bone density, which can cause increased risk of falls, and injuries! So if you’re 30 or older you need to get your butt into gear and try to prevent and reduce this!
And the best way to combat this is by doing the one thing we know that helps develop our muscle strength, mass and bone health which is…. Wait for it…. Exercise!

The type of exercise that is best for this is progressive resistance training, which translates to exercise with some form of resistance. This could be your body-weight, dumbbells, cans of beans, small humans or pets!

And it is recommended that you do resistance training at least twice per week working on the larger muscle groups, like your quadriceps, hamstrings, chest, back and abdominals. (Did someone say Pilates?)

At Pilates HQ we have both of these things.. You bring the body we bring the resistance (springs., dumbbells, bands) The added benefit of doing one of our Pilates class is that we tell you what to do!
You don’t have to think about what exercises to do, or worry about if you are doing them correctly, or using the right amount of resistance. We do all of that for you!
You bring your body and we bring the rest!

You can see that Pilates fits the bill for the type of exercise that would be good for adults, but maybe you are still thinking that you are too old? Maybe the machines seem a little daunting, or you aren’t really sure if you are capable of performing all of the exercises in class?

Well here are a few things for you consider before rushing ahead and booking your next Pilates class.

1. Can you get up and down from a low bench? If so then you will be fine to get on and off the Pilates Reformer!.

2. Are you restricted with what positions you can be in or movements you can do? If you are then Reformer or Mat Pilates Class is probably Not for you. BUT some 1on1s and a tailored program in our Studio Pilates Class might be more up your ally!

3. Do you have any major health issues or injuries that may prevent you from starting a new exercise routine? If you do, then it’s best that you see your Doctor and make sure they give you the all clear to join a class

So to answer your question! NO!

You are definitely not too old to be doing Pilates. You might actually find that by doing regular Pilates classes will help you feel younger for longer!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team
XX

P.S Feel like starting out with some Pilates Today but it’s been a while since you exercised? Then check out our NEW Course - Find Your Fit here

HQ-er of The Month - Jocelyn Freeman

Our HQer of the Month, Joce Freeman, has taken over our blog this week to tell you all about her, as well as the what’s, how’s, who’s and why’s of her Pilates HQ Journey!
Take it away Joce…

Hi

I’m Jocelyn, aka Tom, Estelle & Hugh’s Mum or Sam’s wife, occasional bookkeeper and nurse.

My favourite hobbies are Pilates and walking my Border Collie, Lexie. Not cooking and cleaning as my children may think.

My Pilates journey started off as curiosity, So I decided to bid on a ‘HQ Beginners Intro Pack’ at a silent auction at Buninyong Primary School, thinking if I win then I will have to book in and use it, no excuses!

I have always enjoyed exercise, but like any Mum it is often difficult to fit it in and not feel even more fatigued afterwards, Pilates does not do this.

I was a complete novice when I started (no need to be afraid) but the beginner class set the tone for repeating and getting the basics correct before I increased to two intermediate classes a week. I can’t wait to start the new ‘Tempo’ Class next week, just for bit more speed.

I feel more toned and definitely more flexible- but I’m still working on conquering “Roll Ups”.

I was made immediately welcome, so lucky to have such a great studio and knowledgeable instructors and the best bit is that I have made some wonderful friends.

Buninyong is a wonderful community, I am often having one of Ballarat’s best coffees at Maggie and Kate, and you will often see me stocking up on groceries at my favourite Buninyong shop, Food works.

Be Warned Pilates is very addictive and great fun!

Joce.

Joce, We have loved having you in our studio each week and are super lucky to get to hang out with you twice, sometimes three times a week, BONUS!
we are so glad that You won the voucher and can’t wait to see all the amazing things you do in and out of the studio in the years to come!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

xx

5 Quick & Easy Ways to Get Your Exercise Mojo Back!

You started out on a roll with your exercise but you fell off the wagon, and the longer you went without exercising the harder it was to get started again. Sound familiar?

If you’ve taken a break from exercise, intended or not, you know that the struggle is REAL when it comes to getting back into your routine!

BUT, it’s time to dust off your active wear, climb out of that butt groove you created in the couch and get your exercise mojo back with our 5 simple and actionable tips!

1.Know Your Why!

It’s easy to forget the reasons why you enjoyed exercising or the benefits you felt when you aren’t doing it!
I’ll bet you can think of heaps of reasons you can’t or don’t want to get back into exercise though!

OUR TIP

Write Down all of the benefits of Pilates that you have experienced in the past!
Here are a few to get you started

• Reduced Stress

• More energy,

• Better sleep

• More time for yourself,

• A sense of achievement

• Feeling strong and fit

• Less pain

• Able to chase the kids around

Now stick them where you will see them often, like on your fridge or the toilet door, to remind you of all the awesome benefits you got from your Pilates routine!

Not only will this help you get your mojo back, but it will also keep your WHY front of mind! So,when the inevitable happens and, you’ve had a bad day or the kids are running an absolute muck, instead of cancelling your Pilates class you can look at that list and use it as your motivation!

And on those days especially, once you finish that class, give yourself a freaking reward sister!

2. Stop waiting for the Perfect Time- it doesn’t exist

How often do you tell yourself that you’ll book back into your Pilates Class when you have more time? OR When you aren’t working as much? OR when the kids sports die down?

It’s easy to tell ourselves that we will start again later, when the conditions are just right! But let’s face it, the conditions are never going to be right, there will never be a perfect time for anything.

OUR TIP

Just start!
Book that Class today and don’t let yourself cancel it!

3. Lower your expectations

If it’s been a little while since you’ve been to a class or exercised, then you’ve probably lost some of your strength and fitness.
You probably know this though and I bet you are still worrying that you won’t be as fit or as strong as you used to be.
Well, Stop that thinking, because it’s totally OK if you aren’t where you used to be!

It’s OK if things have changed. You don’t have to be The Best or The Fittest or The Strongest.

You just have to be where you are at this very point in time. Allow your workout to meet you where your fitness level is.

OUR TIP

Maybe attend a beginner class instead of an intermediate class, OR ask your instructor to modify some exercises for you.
Allow yourself to start again and build back up!

4. Motivation comes in waves - no one is motivated all of the time.

Motivation is a tricky one, I think we assume that people who exercise a lot have a never-ending supply of motivation, but that’s NOT true. What they do have is a habit and a routine!

So instead of trying to “find the motivation” to get yourself to class or to,instead, try to create a habit.

OUR TIP

Pre-book and prepay for your class,(you’re already invested this way)

Set an alarm on your phone or pencil your exercise into your diary and train yourself to work on autopilot!

5. Don’t be afraid to change your session!

Doing something is better than nothing! So don’t be afraid to change up your routine on those days when you are feeling extra tired and like you really don’t want to exercise.

You’ll be surprised how much better you’ll feel for exercising anyway!

OUR TIP

Instead of doing a really hard class, jump into an easier session.
Tell the instructor that you’re not feeling like your usual self and that you might take it a bit easier.

So when the time comes for you to re-start your routine again (NOW).
Remember! give yourself a break, allow yourself to start again and let your Pilates class meet you at the level you are at instead of the other way around!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team
Xx

P.S

If it’s been a little while between Pilates classes, then we would love to help you get back into a routine and on the path to feeling happier, healthier and stronger.

You can book your classes here or maybe you need a little more support and guidance to get find your old fit, healthy & happy self, then our new Find Your Fit Course is definitely For you - read more about it here!

Everyone’s Fit is Different. How Do You Find Yours?

Pilates HQ can help you find your fit

In all aspects of life, we search for the right fit. Our clothes, our job, our friends, our home. We take the time to find what suits us. However, when it comes to fitness, it’s easy to get caught up in just one idea of what “fit” is - based on information from the media or someone we know. We can even get caught up on our former selves… (you know, the you before “life happened”). And based on that one idea, we judge ourselves to be unfit or worse, incapable of being fit.

But just like clothes, jobs, friends, homes, fitness is different for all of us. Some people need to run marathons; others get a great buzz from intense, sweaty gym sessions; and some people just want to feel good and know they can sail through their daily life with physical ease. Also fitness, just like everything else, is something that constantly changes, depending on where we’re at in our lives.

Pilates, Beginner, Fitness, Ballarat

So what is your fit? How do you find it and how do you achieve it?

Great news!! Pilates HQ is here to help. With our own Exercise Physiologist and Pilates Instructor Abby Byrne, we have developed the Find Your Fit course to help you find it, achieve it and best of all, maintain it.

Over the course of seven weeks, we will provide the tools you need to achieve your idea of fit, starting with determining what that idea is! Abby will work with you to:

• set your own goals

• overcome any barriers you’ve faced in the past

• teach you exercises suited to you that you can do at home

• empower you become active and stay active in your everyday life.

You will receive:

• a handbook to keep track of your progress

• discounts to beginner Pilates classes

• assessments along the way to keep you on track

• a home exercise program to follow on with during & after the course

• support, guidance and knowledge to ensure to achieve.

It’s a holistic program that puts you on track to achieve the level of fitness you want (not what someone else decides). It’s the perfect way to start your very own fitness campaign and discover (or rediscover) a stronger, healthier, happier you.

The Find Your Fit course kicks off at 11.30am on Thursday, August 8th.

The cost is $330 and all you need to do to sign up is click the link below, OR you can send us an email here.

Steph and The Pilates HQ Team

Xx

HQer of The Month - Tiana Pearce

June’s HQer of the month is Tiana!
Tiana is currently in year 11 at Damascus College and is our youngest HQ Member (By at least 10 years).

Tiana attended her first class at HQ as her Mum’s plus one on our “bring a friend” deal, and has now been doing Reformer classes twice a week for around 2 years.

Tiana’s Pilates skills have improved immensely since she first started, she now gives some of our more advanced exercises a go (with a little push from Steph 😜 ).

Read on to find out a little more about Tiana, her Pilates HQ Journey and how she felt about joining class with bunch of “oldies” (my words not hers).

Reformer Pilates Buninyong, Ballarat

What year level are you in at school and do you have any favourite subjects?

Photography and food is something I have a big interest towards, I have explored both these topics by completing VCE Studio Arts Photography units 3/4 this year with my theme being food. I currently have no idea what I want to do once I finish school but I plan to go to Uni and travel.

You come to Pilates twice a week, what other sports do you play or activities do you do?

This year is my 10th year playing netball, I’m currently playing netball for U21’s on a Thursday night for Dela Netball Club. I am currently working at The Red Door Pizzeria, this is my third year working there. I make pizzas and work in customer service.

What was it that made you want to do Pilates?

Mum was my major influence into starting Pilates by bringing me along to one of her classes so I could get a feel of what Pilates is all about. I never had any interest towards doing Pilates until I gave it a try.

Did you know what Pilates was before you started coming to Pilates HQ?

Before starting Pilates I really didn’t have any idea what it was, I thought it was some type of yoga.

Now that you have been coming to HQ for classes have you noticed any changes to how you feel?

After doing Pilates for a couple years now I have definitely noticed some changes not only in my physical appearance but also in strength. I feel fitter and healthier and believe it has helped me with my netball because I generally feel like I have more energy to get through a whole game.

You are one of our youngest HQers - did you feel ok going into a class with a bunch of older ladies? Were you nervous or scared?

I did feel a bit nervous going into my first class because I knew there would be no one my age doing it but then again I was excited to try something new. Now when I go to class each week I don’t feel nervous at all because I’ve gotten to know the people I’m around and I enjoy myself.

What is your favourite thing about coming to classes at Pilates HQ?

I enjoy knowing that whenever I come to any of my classes I walk in not knowing what to expect and what we will be doing during the class. I also enjoy the great atmosphere you feel as soon as you walk in, everyone’s always got a smile on their face and ready for a friendly chat.

Thanks Tiana for bringing your beaming smile to each class, it has been so amazing to watch your strength and confidence grow each week. we absolute love having you as part of our HQ Tribe!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx

4 Exercises To Help You Nail the Rollover

Don’t let the Rollover’s early appearance in the Classical Matwork sequence fool you, because this bad boy is tough. Considered to be one of the more advanced exercises, the Rollover is a challenging exercise requiring a lot of strength, control and mobility to complete.
Don’t be disheartened if this exercise still stumps you. Instead, write it on your Goals list, and practice the exercises in this blog to help you develop the strength and the control to Nail the Rollover.

What is the Rollover?

The Rollover is the third exercise in the Classical Matwork sequence. Below is a video of me performing the Rollover, an exercise which I am still trying to perfect myself. Click the image to see how it is performed (you’ll notice I have only done two of each,legs open and legs closed,but the actual exercise calls for 3).

What Exercises will Help me do the Rollover?

The Rollover requires the following things;

• Spinal mobility into flexion

• Strength throughout the back of your arms

• Mobility of your shoulders into extension

• Strength and endurance of your abdominals

To build up to and improve your Rollover it is important to focus on improving all of these aspects.

This can be done with the following four exercises

1. Roll Up

2. Rolling Like a Ball

3. Spine Stretch Forwards

4. Open Leg Rocker

Try adding these 4 exercises into your Pilates Workout 2-3 Times a week and you should start to see some improvements in your Roll Over!

Pop a Comment Below and let me know how you go or tell me some other exercises that you might like some help with.

Happy Rolling!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx