Pilates Students' Manual
Episodes
A Closer Look At The Push Up
27 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today's episode is a deep dive into the mat Pilates version of the pushup! Tune in to hear how Joseph Pilates describes the exercise in his book ...
Setting Goals & Growing In Your Pilates Practice
20 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Curious about how to get where you want to go in your Pilates practice? Tune in to learn about the capacity gap and how your teacher and a consistent ...
Osteoporosis & Pilates
23 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Learn about osteoporosis and how it affects your Pilates practice!I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and follow the podcast on Instagram and...
Anatomical Terminology In Pilates
04 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Sometimes it may feel like your Pilates teacher is speaking in another language when you hear words like supine, abduct, external rotation, or hip fle...
The Power Of Proprioception
05 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This is episode is all about proprioception - what is is, why it's important, and how our Pilates practice can help it improve. Tune in!I want to...
Shapes Of The Spine - Rotation
04 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We saved the best for last! Today's episode looks at the instances of rotation in the Pilates repertoire! We explore the muscles involved in rota...
Shapes Of The Spine - Extension
06 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Today's episode looks at the wild world of extension in the Pilates repertoire! We explore the muscles involved in extension, the planes of movem...
Shapes Of The Spine - Flexion
09 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week's episode dives into one of the most frequent shapes we make in Pilates: spinal flexion! We explore where this shape appears in mat and...
Shapes Of The Spine - Lateral Flexion
11 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Today's episode kicks off a mini series diving into the different shapes the spine makes in Pilates, exploring the planes of movement, the muscle...
What Makes Mat Pilates So Difficult?
07 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I share my first experience with mat Pilates and explain what makes mat Pilates exercises so challenging. I discuss the physical and ...
You Are Invited To Try Pilates In 2025
06 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Whether you're starting a new Pilates practice for yourself or encouraging a friend to take a Pilates class with you in the new year, you are inv...
How Adaptable Is Pilates?
01 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
There are many reasons why you might need to adapt Pilates exercises: structural limitations, recommendations from your doctor or surgeon, or personal...
Your Pilates Reading List
04 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today's episode explores some of my favorite Pilates books for learning about Joe, the history of Pilates, anatomy, exercise variations, and shar...
Pilates Is A Brain Game And A Body Game
30 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Pilates is great for strengthening your body, but it is also great for your brain. Whether you're looking for a complex exercise to stop your min...
Knowing When To Level Up
05 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
How do you know when it's time to try something harder in your Pilates practice? Some Pilates studios level their classes, but what is the right ...
A Closer Look At Footwork
24 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This episode is a deep dive into all things footwork. Curious about the why behind the what of one the most common reformer Pilates exercises? Learn w...
The Power Of Patience
26 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
There are benefits to doing Pilates in the short, mid, and long term, and the longer you consistently do Pilates, the more benefits you can gain. I&...
What Is March Matness?
29 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
You may have seen a recent influx of people posting Pilates mat exercise on social media in March. Tune in to today's episode to learn about the ...
What Is The Goal Of Pilates?
01 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
What is the purpose of doing Pilates? You may already have your own answer to this question, but there's lots of ways to answer it and lots of di...
2023 Wrap Up
08 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
As 2023 draws to a close, we look back on this year's episodes, look forward to 2024, and reflect on the incredible milestones met this year. Tun...
Normal Human Variability
03 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It is normal for human bodies to be a little bit different, from the shape of our bones, to how tall we are, to how flexible we are. We can work to im...
Decoding Pilates Jargon
06 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When you look up the description of a Pilates class, you may seem some unfamiliar terms. Classes may be listed as mat or equipment, classical or conte...
Mat vs. Reformer Pilates
25 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Some Pilates classes use different pieces of Pilates equipment and two common formats are mat and reformer Pilates. Spoiler: they're both Pilates...
Why Props Are Your Friend
28 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Props like the magic circle, resistance band, yoga block, stability ball, etc. can provide support and challenge to us as we practice Pilates. They ca...
Pilates Class Tips
30 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Over the years of teaching and taking classes, I've amassed some good advice and best practice for you in your Pilates class. Today I share my to...
Why Every Pilates Exercise Is A Core Exercise
02 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Pilates is all about the core, but what does that really mean? Today we dive into Pilates as a system that moves the spine in all directions and works...
How Often Should You Do Pilates?
05 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
How many times a week should you do Pilates? Is once a week enough? Is every day too much? Tune in to hear what I recommend as a Pilates teacher and w...
Why You Should Give Pilates A Second Chance
07 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
If you tried Pilates and didn't fall in love with it immediately, this episode is for you! Today we explore why you may have not continued Pilate...
What Is A Pilates Body?
10 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Have you heard the phrases "a more toned look" or "long and lean muscles" in Pilates marketing? They're talking about the &qu...
Does Adding Springs Make Pilates Exercises Harder?
27 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Have you ever done an exercise in your Pilates and thought about adding a spring to make the exercise a bit harder? Today we deep dive into how the sp...
Season 5 Wrap Up
02 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Today we're wrapping up 2022 and Season 5 of Pilates Students' Manual! I share some exciting news, the season stats, and a look forward to w...
Is It Still Working If I Don't Feel It?
04 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Have you ever done an exercise in Pilates class and not felt it the way you thought you should, then thought you might be doing it wrong? I've be...
Keeping Your Pilates Practice Fresh
07 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When I first fell in love with Pilates, I wanted to do it all the time. As I continued my practice over the months and years, my enthusiasm for my pra...
The Pilates Elders - Who Are They?
09 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Today we introduce the Pilates Elders, the first generation of Pilates teachers and students of Joseph Pilates himself. I share mini bios of the Elder...
Physical Activity Guidelines
12 Aug 2022
Contributed by Lukas
What are the physical activity guidelines and why are they so important? Tune in to this episode to learn how your Pilates practice can help you meet ...
How To Get Better At Any Pilates Exercise
15 Jul 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Looking to improve in your Pilates practice? Today we explore strategies for learning a new movement skill and how to break down an exercise into its ...
A Closer Look At Teaser
17 Jun 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Teaser is one of those "peak" exercises that can be really difficult to master, so let's break it down! Tune in to hear some of my favo...
Using Momentum In Pilates
20 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Have you heard that using momentum in Pilates is cheating? Today we debunk this myth by exploring how integral momentum is in Pilates exercises. how m...
Returning To In Person Private Sessions
22 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
If you had private sessions in person at your home, but went virtual for COVID, this episode is for you. Today we explore a behind the scenes look at ...
Pilates Class Survival Guide
18 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
What do you need for your first Pilates class? Today's episode is a handy survival guide of tips and tricks to feeling comfortable and confiden...
Why Pilates Works
21 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Today we look at why Pilates works, what makes it so great, things to keep in mind when we think about Pilates, and I share some excellent news about ...
Season 4 Wrap Up
31 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Today we're wrapping up Season 4 of Pilates Students' Manual! I look back on some of my favorite episodes of the season, and look forward to...
Collaboration in Pilates
17 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Pilates is not a one way street. There is a very important collaboration that happens between students and teachers that makes meeting expectations an...
Inversions in Pilates
19 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Today is all about Pilates exercises that take us upside down. Tune in to hear some of the benefits of inversions, the mental and physical challenges ...
Pilates and Strength Training
05 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Today we discuss the strength training and Pilates. Strength training, also known as resistance training, is performing exercises that increase muscle...
How Your Pilates Teacher Can Help You
22 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
This episode looks at the scope of practice of a Pilates teacher. Understanding what your Pilates teacher can (and can't) do for you helps you to...
All About the Pilates Reformer
08 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Let's look at the Pilates reformer, what it is, what it does, and what the springs mean. I also share what you can expect in a reformer Pilates c...
Buying Pilates Equipment
24 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
I've bought a lot of Pilates equipment over the years, and most recently purchased a reformer. Today I share what I look for when purchasing equi...
Shapes Your Spine Makes In Pilates
27 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Today we look at the different shapes your spine makes in Pilates, including neutral, flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation. Tune in to ...
Getting Out Of Your Comfort Zone
13 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Today's episode looks at the value of trying new things, taking classes with different teachers, and exploring movement in a variety of modalitie...
All About The Shoulder
30 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Curious about the shoulder and how teachers think about the shoulder in Pilates? Tune in to hear about the structure of the shoulder, how it moves, so...
A Closer Look At The Roll Up
16 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
This week we're breaking down the roll up exercise. Whether you're just getting started or a roll up pro, tune in to hear some tips and tric...
Choosing The Best Class Level For You
02 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Curious about class levels at Club Pilates, or what constitutes a beginner, intermediate, or advanced exercise? Tune in to learn about levels in class...
Pilates Students' Manual is Back
18 Jun 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome back to Season 4 of Pilates Students' Manual! Tune in for some thank yous, some big updates to the podcast studio, and a sneak peak of th...
Pilates in Daily Life
19 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
How does the work you do in your Pilates class apply to your daily life? It has real physical and tangible applications, but it can also impact your l...
Less Common Pilates Equipment
05 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Today we dive in the world of less common Pilates equipment, and there's some weird ones. Learn what they are, what they do, and why they're...
Common Pilates Equipment
12 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Today's episode explores pieces of Pilates equipment that are commonly used in classes, both in the studio and at home. I discuss the mat, reform...
Classical and Contemporary Pilates
22 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Tune in to hear more about different styles of Pilates! Learning about different styles will help you when you're looking at studios or classes. ...
Special Guest - Sonja R. Price Herbert
08 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Tune in for the second half of my conversation with Sonja R. Price Herbert about all things Pilates. She shares her perspective on classical Pilates, ...
Season 2 Wrap Up
18 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Here's a quick wrap up of Season 2 of Pilates Students' Manual. I'll see you with brand new episodes on January 8th, 2021. Have a lovel...
Your Guide to Doing Pilates During the Holiday Season
11 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
The holidays can be busy, stressful, and hectic, but doing Pilates can help! It can't stop the stress, but it can give you some time to connect t...
What Joseph Pilates Got Wrong (and Right)
04 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Joseph Pilates created a wonderful system of movement and exercise that continues to inspire students and teachers alike. While parts of his program a...
A Closer Look at the Ab Series
20 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Today we break the ab series down into doable pieces, find the real focus of the exercises, and workshop that pesky chest lift. This is definitely a s...
Flexibility, Mobility, and Hypermobility
13 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Today we're discussing flexibility, mobility, and hypermobility. The great news is, whether you're looking to become more flexible or find m...
Pilates and Active Aging
06 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
This week's episode looks at active aging, what it is, why it's important to think about, and how Pilates can meet you at all ages and abili...
A Closer Look at Bridging
30 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
What three exercises would you take with you on a deserted island? I'd definitely bring this one. Today's episode is an exercise breakdown o...
Benefits of Pilates for Runners
23 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
No exercise system ticks all the boxes for movement health. However, running and Pilates go so well together, and working with both modalities togethe...
Learning to Listen to Your Body
16 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Listening to your body may sound intimidating or even impossible, so I've got a few tricks to make it more accessible. Paying attention to what&a...
All About the Hip
09 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
The hip is an incredible, beautiful, and complex joint in the human body. Learn what it does, how it works (and sometimes doesn't) and ways that ...
Caged Lion and the Magnetism of Pilates
02 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
I just finished Caged Lion by John Howard Steel and it is full of information and stories that may interest you as a student. If you're curious a...
Can Pilates Help with Back Pain?
25 Sep 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Pilates can help you identify and remedy some underlying causes of back pain. Tune in to learn more about back pain and how Pilates can address it! ...
Am I Progressing in My Pilates Practice?
18 Sep 2020
Contributed by Lukas
How do you measure progress in Pilates? It's different for everyone, but I like to measure progress in two ways: how my body feels in and out of ...
Frequently Asked Questions About Pilates
11 Sep 2020
Contributed by Lukas
What are your burning Pilates questions? In this FAQ episode, learn more about what people on the internet are curious about! If these bite-sized answ...
Welcome to Pilates Students' Manual
10 Sep 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome back to Pilates Students' Manual Season 2! This mini trailer was made to share, so send it to a friend who loves Pilates! I want to hea...
Season 1 Wrap Up, Season 2 Teasers
28 Aug 2020
Contributed by Lukas
That's a wrap on Season 1! Fourteen episodes, over 1000 listens, and some amazing Pilates information shared and discussed! Tune in to hear what&...
Healing Through Pilates with Carla Shifflett
28 Aug 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Carla is a Pilates student, teacher, and the founder of Posture Studio in Charlottesville, Virginia in the US. She shares the ways that Pilates helped...
Rhythm and Flow - The Six Pilates Principles
21 Aug 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Today we explore the Pilates principle of rhythm, or flow. How is it embodied in our Pilates practice, and why is it Olivia's favorite? We also l...
Control and Precision - The Six Pilates Principles
14 Aug 2020
Contributed by Lukas
The next installment of The Six Pilates Principles explores the principles of control and precision! Both principles are extremely important to the pr...
Centering and Concentration - The Six Pilates Principles
07 Aug 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Continuing the series exploring the Pilates principles, this week we dive into the principles of centering and concentration. What are they? How are t...
Breathing - The Six Pilates Principles
31 Jul 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Introducing a series of episodes diving into the Six Principles of Pilates! Today we tackle breathing, the first and most important principle! We look...
Can I Do Pilates While Pregnant?
24 Jul 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Yes, you can do Pilates while pregnant! In fact, Pilates during pregnancy has many benefits. Tune in to learn the exercises to avoid, and what classes...
Is Pilates Yoga?
17 Jul 2020
Contributed by Lukas
This week we explore the similarities and difference between Pilates and yoga. Pilates is compared to yoga more than any other form of exercise, so I ...
Studio Etiquette
10 Jul 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Whether it's your first time in the studio ever or you're a long-time studio member, here are to tips to help you be considerate and be prep...
Is Momentum Fest for You?
03 Jul 2020
Contributed by Lukas
I think it is! Momentum Fest isn't an ordinary Pilates conference; it's a opportunity for Pilates students and teachers alike to come togeth...
What is the Core?
26 Jun 2020
Contributed by Lukas
The "core" is a buzzword in Pilates and the fitness industry, but what is it? Explore the multiple definitions, muscles, and functions of th...
What is the History of Pilates?
19 Jun 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Where did Pilates come from? Olivia takes a deep dive into the history of Pilates, sharing some stories and myths about Joseph Pilates, the history of...
What is Pilates and Why Should You Do It?
13 Jun 2020
Contributed by Lukas
What is Pilates, who was Joseph Pilates, what is Pilates equipment, and what are the benefits of doing Pilates? I jump right in and tackle these big q...
How To Get the Most Value from Virtual Classes
13 Jun 2020
Contributed by Lukas
There's no better time to explore the world of virtual classes. Learn strategies to get the most out of live and pre-recorded classes, and make t...
Introducing Pilates Students' Manual
09 May 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Everything you want to know about Pilates, all in one place! If you love Pilates, or are just curious about it, this podcast is for you! I'm Oliv...