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

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

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

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

How Many Times a Week Should I Be Doing Pilates?

Every week we get asked this question at least once, it’s a popular and a great question!

Now, if I was all about the money 🤑🤑🤑 then I would be telling you to do Pilates every day, every damn day, and to only do Pilates with an instructor and never at home alone.

But I’m not, and as much as I would love to see your face in my classes every day, ain't no-body got $$$ 💰💰 for that! And, you can absolutely do Pilates at home on your own without an instructor!

So here’s the deal on how many times a week you should do Pilates and how you can add in some extra sessions to your schedule.

Buninyong Pilates, Ballarat Pilates, Reformer Pilates Ballarat

What Did Joseph Pilates Recommend?

Joe was renowned for saying “In 10 sessions you'll feel the difference, in 20 sessions you'll see the difference, and in 30 sessions you'll have a whole new body". he also followed this by recommending you do Pilates 3-4 times a week.

When Joseph created Pilates he also published a book “Return to Life” and in this were photos and instructions of how to do each of the mat exercises with the intention that you do these exercises at home. He was all about enabling people to do Pilates on their own at home because he knew that if you did it regularly you would most certainly notice the difference.

What Does Current Evidence Suggest?

The Australian Government Department of Health currently recommends that adults do muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week. (you can see the guidelines here) Sooo, Joe was pretty close to the current evidence!

What do We Recommend?

We are big believers that everyone has to start somewhere and that what works for one person won't necessarily work for the next. So we usually say, if you are doing a Class once a week, then you are off to a great start and better off than you would be if you were doing nothing at all.

Our clients who attend regular classes two-three times a week, definitely comment on the significant changes they see in their bodies, like strength and flexibility and the ways that Pilates is making a difference to their everyday lives, physically and mentally. They also see a greater improvement in their Pilates ability over a shorter period of time, in comparison to those who attend once a week.

How Can I add in Extra Sessions To My Schedule without Breaking the Bank?

We understand that each person is different; we all have different goals, different incomes, different commitments and different things going on in our lives. So suggesting to each person that they attend Pilates classes 2-3 times is not always realistic.

So if you find you are struggling to get to more than one class a week but would like to see more improvements in your technique, strength and mobility here are our suggestions;

1. Get yourself a $10 mat from somewhere like Kmart, or clear a patch of carpet so you can do your own additional Pilates Practice at home once or twice a week

2. Aim for a 30 minute session or two 15 minute sessions twice a week

3. Be consistent with your practice each week - schedule it into your diary and commit to it like you would when you book a class at the studio

4. Rather than changing the exercises completely each time you work out, keep some of them the same so that you can see improvements in your body

What exercises can I add into my daily practice?

Use our March Matness videos on Instagram to help get you started - pick the first 5 or 6 exercises and use these as your self-practice.

There are variations on most of the posts, so if you find that an exercise is too difficult for you at the beginning, use the variation to slowly build it up!

If you are after a set home Pilates workout that you can follow along with, try out my friend Lesley’s online Pilates classes

For just $5 USD a week you get access to a 30 minute Mat Pilates Workout that you can do as many times as you like for that week. Then the following week a new workout is released. Sooo convenient and sooo cheap!!!!

Why Workout At Home Too?

The best part about working out at home is that you can do it at any time that suits you. It is also a fantastic accompaniment to your regular in-studio Pilates class each week.

Working out at home allows you to get in that second or third session that you haven’t been able to factor into your budget or your schedule and trust us - it will make you feel great - physically and mentally.

But if you’re worried that your technique on a particular exercise in your home routine isn't quite right or up to scratch - pop into class 5 mins early and check with your instructor! We would be so happy to help you and would love to hear all about your home practice and how it is working for you.

Alternatively, if you think that you are able to work that second or even third class into your life - let us know and we can help you find an extra class! Or you can click here and check out our timetable.

We would love to know what exercises you end up choosing for your Home Practice.
If you need some help staying accountable then let us know and we can make sure you are getting your sessions done!

Steph & The Pilates HQ Team

Xx