Q&A with Chelsea
Pilates Certification: Romana’s Pilates Certification
Other Training & Coursework: MS, Biobehavioral Science: Motor Learning and Control from Teachers College, Columbia University.
Years Teaching Pilates: 10
What Motivated You to Become a Pilates Instructor?
I was introduced to Pilates at the very young age of 13. I was always “good” at it and seemed to have a knack for not only doing Pilates, but also for understanding the system on a deeper level. I was highly encouraged by my teacher to become certified while in college. The true motivation for becoming a teacher arose when I sustained a significant hip injury while I was still becoming certified. The doctors said I had a 50/ 50 shot of needing surgery, but I used the system and was able to avoid the surgery. This sparked a desire to use the system of Pilates to help people feel better and move better.
How has Pilates Helped You?
Pilates has helped me in so many ways. Physically, it has helped me learn the limits of my body and how to move smartly in everyday life. Pilates has given me strength and awareness, and I always know that I have a system to fall back on. Mentally, Pilates have given me a gift. I love the puzzle of each body I teach, and how I can adapt the method and utilize it in a way that is unique for each person. This mental aspect to Pilates is probably what I love the most about it!
Proudest Pilates Teaching Moment:
I was teaching a client who had a very complicated situation. She had her legs essentially reconstructed three times. It was her goal to be able to pick up her children without her back hurting and to be able to get on and off the floor. These are some rudimentary things that people do in their everyday lives and take it for granted. After months of training she was seeing progress and after a year she was able to successfully get up and down off of the floor and pick her children up with no pain. We both cried and hugged each other because as a team we did it. I will never forget the pride and joy I had in that moment for her. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing your student achieve something amazing.
What Types of Client/Pilates Challenges Get You Most Excited?
I love clients that have a goal. I enjoy a good puzzle and trying to figure out how to get someone to achieve that goal by breaking it down iinto manageable skills and pieces. I am not the teacher that cares about the aesthetics that Pilates can enhance, but more about the why and how Pilates can help you feel better, move better, and live better.
Why Did You Create Kinexology?
I felt that there was an opportunity to fill a void in the Pilates industry for both teachers and students. Too often students experience judgement about their bodies, their mobility, or how they should participate in their sessions. It’s not uncommon for teachers to instruct in a rigid manner with an emphasis on choreography vs. true learning. I wanted to create a space where both students and teachers can feel safe and where they can grow and learn from one another without judgement. I wanted to break down the rigidity of the “system,” and use science to open doors for teachers to think critically and ask questions of “why” and “how” instead of simply repeating a standard script. Incorporating science and evidence-based methods for teaching and learning will only enhance the Pilates that we all know and love.
On the flip side, I wanted to create a positive community for Pilates teachers where they can learn from one another, challenge ideas, and collaborate on how to solve tough challenges. After a lot of reflection and planning, the answer came together in Kinexology where we teach Pilates, but also train teachers how to teach more effectively. One person can’t know it all, so why not surround yourself with others who can teach you more!
Who Is Your Ideal Client?
A beginner client! I love teaching beginners because I get to help them establish a strong foundation and work on big goals, but I also work with a lot of Pilates teachers who want a different approach from that they themselves learned, or who have injuries of movement dysfunctions.
Favorite Pilates Exercise: I love Swan!
How Do You Use Motor Learning and the Kinexology Method in Your Sessions?
I utilize motor learning concepts into every program. I am able to adjust my feedback to the learner to optimize learning and retention of skills.
What Can Clients Expect From Working With You?
Clients can expect a warm, supportive learning environment. I make sure to match the program and the feedback to the level of the learner. Your program will grow as you improve and retain more skills. I believe each session is a team-based effort. So I expect you to not only put in the physical work, but also the mental work during your session. This is how together we can help you achieve your goals!