Instructor Spotlight
Instructor Spotlight: Elaine Strachan
“Add bands, balls, circles etc to add challenge and keep it interesting”
STUDIO PILATES COURSES COMPLETED
Matwork Course
Ball, Circle & Band Course
Foam Roller Course
Small Pilates Ball Course
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE STUDIO PILATES COURSE TO COMPLETE?
Mat… first experience of teaching Pilates was really enjoyable – and hard work!
I wonder what exercises I could use for my PT clients’ abs and core if I wasn’t a Pilates instructor! Pilates is the best option for men and women and offers so many options- especially for clients with injuries or limitations.
HOW HAVE YOU BEEN USING YOUR PILATES SKILLS SINCE COMPLETING YOUR INSTRUCTOR TRAINING?
Yes- every day as a busy, self employed personal trainer in a privately owned, large gym.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST CHALLENGE AS A PILATES INSTRUCTOR?
Being fit enough to do Pilates with every client, all day. Remembering to use my full repertoire of exercises and not just sticking to my favourites!
HOW HAS COVID-19 CHANGED HOW YOU INSTRUCT?
No Zoom for me – I prefer one-on-one PT.
I am more aware of hygiene and spend time disinfecting equipment and ensuring personal distancing….less “hands on”.
Benefit is – I am busier than I have ever been…no one can go away on holiday or for business trips. Everyone is stuck in Cairns missing friends & family and not being able to go on holiday. So everyone needs positive action to cheer them up, feel happier, feel healthier and keep off the “covid kilos!”
WHAT IS ONE HEALTH OR FITNESS RELATED ITEM THAT YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT RIGHT NOW?
My phone…..it is my appointment book, my contact with clients, my social media posts and connection to news, funny memes, covid updates, education and friends.
WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL PILATES OR EXERCISE PHILOSOPHY?
Exercise to have and maintain a body that works well (fit, strong, flexible and with good balance) so you can live pain free, feel confident, enjoy life, take care of your family, travel and do fun sport and activities (I love scuba diving so I need to be fit & strong to do it).
WHAT SONG OR PLAYLIST IS KEEPING YOU AND YOUR CLIENTS MOTIVATED IN CLASS RIGHT NOW?
Whatever is playing in the gym… though we do dance if it is the Bee Gees or Abba!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE EXERCISE TO INSTRUCT RIGHT NOW AND WHY?
“Dying bugs” with a small ball in hand. It works so many muscles, it is simple to teach and learn….and the progression starting in tabletop is challenging for more advanced clients… also everyone loves the name.
WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST TIP YOU COULD GIVE ANOTHER PILATES INSTRUCTOR?
Add bands, balls, circles etc to add challenge and keep it interesting… Try and get more men to do Pilates.