Pilates Perspectives

Proprioception is often described as the body’s “sixth sense,” but what does that really mean for movement quality? In this episode of Pilates Perspectives, Joy talks with Misha Von Bechtolsheim about proprioception, kinesthesia, and the sensory systems that shape how we move through the world.Together, they unpack the relationship between proprioception, kinesthesia, the vestibular system (balance), and the visual system. You’ll learn how these systems work within the neural hierarchy to help the brain make better movement decisions and improve neuromuscular control.Misha explains why high-quality sensory input is essential for improving movement quality, developing body trust, and supporting the nervous system. Plus, she shares simple exercises you can do at home to improve proprioception, enhance body (somatic) awareness, and use sensation training for more connected, confident movement.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

How do we teach Pilates in a way that empowers rather than corrects? Joy and Cara Reeser, Master Teacher and second-generation Pilates educator, explore a more nuanced, relational approach to Pilates teaching. Drawing inspiration from Kathy Stanford Grant’s gentle dissuasion of performance, Cara reflects on the value of helping clients move how they actually move, not how they think they’re supposed to move.Together, they unpack how mindfulness in Pilates requires attention, intention, and attitude. They discuss the importance of nurturing both the teacher-client relationship and the client’s relationship with themselves, offering a model of teaching rooted in self-exploration, curiosity, and embodied learning.If you’re a Pilates teacher interested in mindful movement, client-centered cueing, and more empowering ways to teach, this conversation offers a thoughtful perspective and practical insight.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

What does it really mean to practice “classical” Pilates, and is that even the right word? In this thoughtful conversation, Blossom Leilani Crawford, owner and director of Bridge Pilates in Brooklyn, reflects on the classical Pilates traditions that shaped the method and how it continues to evolve today. Drawing from her close mentorship with Kathy Stanford Grant, Blossom shares intimate insights from Kathy’s post-class writings, the generosity she brought to teaching Pilates, and the deeper philosophy behind the work.Joy and Blossom explore the unique perspectives of each Pilates Elder —from dancers to injury recovery to chronic illness—and how those experiences have shaped the Pilates lineage we know today. The Pilates Elders brought diverse backgrounds that enriched the method’s evolution and continue to influence traditional Pilates methods.This episode is an excellent reminder that great Pilates instruction doesn’t come from complexity. By returning to the source, keeping the work simple, and understanding the “why” behind every movement, Pilates can remain both rooted in tradition and open to evolution.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

Pilates is more than a workout; it’s a path to better health, holistic wellness, and a more meaningful life. In this inspiring episode, Dr. Brent Anderson, Founder of Polestar Pilates, joins us to explore the Pilates method as a lifestyle rooted in the integration of mind, body, and spirit. Joy and Brent discuss the movement philosophy behind the original Pilates method, the importance of functional movement so we can fully participate in life, and Joseph Pilates’ powerful belief that a deeper mind-body connection could help “cure the world of its ills.”Dr. Anderson also shares a refreshing perspective on Pilates exercises as “deconstructed play,” bringing levity, curiosity, and joy back into physical activity. You’ll hear expert insight on why hope is essential for rehabilitation, healing, and better health outcomes, along with thoughtful reflections on the balance of work, play, and rest.This episode is a must-listen for Pilates instructors, fitness professionals, and anyone interested in holistic health and the deeper purpose of movement. Tune in to discover how mindful movement can support physical wellbeing, emotional resilience, and a stronger connection to self, nature, humanity, and a higher power.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

Join Joy and Nora St. John, renowned Pilates educator, acupuncturist, and massage therapist, for a rich conversation on Pilates for care of health and how movement can support healing in practical, lasting ways. Nora shares how professionals can leverage their education with more nuance, why most clients don’t need all the bells and whistles to make progress, and how returning to Pilates fundamentals often creates the biggest breakthroughs in recovery, functional movement, and long-term results.Together, they explore why awareness in the body is the key to meaningful change, how the mind-body connection supports healing, and what makes Pilates uniquely powerful in the context of health and wellness. You’ll hear Nora’s perspective on holistic, 3D movement, movement solutions vs. manual therapy, and the neurological benefits of Pilates. This episode offers essential insights for anyone interested in Pilates for healing, mindful movement education, and the therapeutic applications of classical Pilates principles.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

In this episode of Pilates Perspectives, Joy has an open conversation with Stephanie Comella (Co-Founder & CEO of Zebrafish Neuro) and Vanessa Cameron, PhD (nurse and disability advocate), about ableism in healthcare and movement spaces. Vanessa shares what it was like to become a wheelchair user and the ostracization she experienced, highlighting the subtle ways bias shows up in clinics, Pilates studios, and “helping” professions within the wellness industry.Together, they explore how to support disabled clients with more respect and better outcomes: ask what they need instead of assuming, shift from being the “authority” to being a collaborator, and move away from the mindset of trying to “fix” someone. You’ll also hear nuanced guidance on person-first vs. identity-first language, why word choice matters in accessible fitness instruction, and how floor-based programming and adaptive Pilates can expand access and confidence for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility, without sacrificing challenge, skill-building, or autonomy.This essential conversation addresses disability inclusion in Pilates, accessible movement education, and creating welcoming spaces for diverse bodies in wellness environments.This special release episode is also available to watch on YouTube.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

Amy Rost, Founder of Arc Pilates, joins Joy for a powerful conversation on building real community through Pilates education and events. She shares how to create inclusive Pilates spaces that feel like home, how to create a community if you can’t find one you feel you belong in, and how connection can be an antidote to loneliness and burnout in the wellness industry. Together, we explore the shift from an individualistic to a collectivistic mindset, where belonging, collaboration, and service to the greater good become the foundation for sustainable impact in Pilates instruction and community wellness.Guided by Amy’s north star: connection, collaboration, community, this episode is an invitation to build something bigger than yourself. If you’re interested in Pilates community building, creating welcoming movement spaces, or developing educational programs that foster genuine connection, this conversation offers practical insights for building lasting community impact.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

In this Pilates history episode, Joy interviews John Howard Steel, author of Caged Lion, and Ken Endelman, founder and CEO of Balanced Body, for a rare firsthand telling of what it was like to train directly with Joseph Pilates, the creator of Pilates, in New York. John recounts the atmosphere of Joseph Pilates’ original studio, Joe’s focused teaching methods and classical Pilates training approach, and the principle he repeated again and again: “never stop moving.”You’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories about John’s friendship with Joe and Clara, including Clara’s hospitality and the personal care that shaped the original Pilates studio culture. John also shares a powerful takeaway from learning with the founder of Pilates: you didn’t have to be perfect, you just had to try your best. The conversation explores Joe’s philosophy of the human body, functional movement principles, and why he believed that if people learned to breathe better and move better, society itself could improve.If you’re interested in the origins of Pilates, the history of Pilates, Joseph Pilates’ original teaching style, Contrology methods, classical Pilates training, Pilates instructor education, and the legacy of the Joseph Pilates method, this episode offers essential insight and inspiration into authentic movement education.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

Tonya Amos is the kind of leader who expands what Pilates can be and who it can be for. As the owner of the award-winning Aspire Pilates Center and Artistic Director of the Grown Women Dance Collective, Tonya has delivered more than 22,000 hours of classes internationally, while building programs that pay it forward through scholarship access and community reinvestment. She shares what it means to bring Pilates to disinvested communities and demographics that haven’t historically had access, and why those communities may use Pilates differently.Tonya also opens up about her experience with long COVID and how it reshaped her relationship to capacity, recovery, and care. Joy and Tonya explore the “rich tapestry” of Pilates through the lens of inclusion, cultural context, and Black liberation, and dig into practical ways studios and instructors can reduce barriers. If you’re interested in the future of Pilates, this conversation will challenge, inspire, and ground you.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

Mychele Sims has one of those “wait, how do these worlds connect?” careers: legal investigator, certified Pilates instructor, and dancer. In this episode, Joy sits down with Mychele for a conversation that reveals the surprising through-line between all three, and the skills of observing, listening, and interpreting human behavior with care and context.Together, they unpack how Mychele’s “legal brain” and “movement brain” inform one another, from helping people breathe and stay calm in the legal realm to showing up with empathy in the Pilates studio. Mychele also shares why she prefers “body neutrality” over “body positivity”, and how that body-neutral framework can create a more grounded, sustainable relationship with movement and body image, especially for people who feel left out of mainstream wellness messaging and fitness instruction.You’ll also hear a practical, values-driven discussion on accessibility in Pilates: what it really means to serve underserved populations through inclusive movement practices, why inclusive Pilates programming has to go beyond good intentions, and how Pilates instructors and movement professionals can design welcoming spaces, inclusive language, and accessible fitness training that welcome more bodies without making anyone feel like an afterthought.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

In this two-part season finale episode, host Joy Puleo sits down with the visionary minds behind Pilates Anytime: first, co-founders John Marston and Kristi Cooper, then current CEO Kira Sloane, to explore how one platform reshaped the global Pilates community.In Part 1, John and Kristi share the story of bringing Pilates online at a time when streaming fitness was just emerging. They reflect on breaking free from rigid definitions of classical Pilates, their mission to represent the full breadth of the practice, and how accessibility and inclusivity are imperative to the future of Pilates. Together, they explore what it means to honor tradition while expanding the reach of Pilates to all bodies, backgrounds, and abilities.In Part 2, Kira Sloane dives into the evolution of leadership and humanity in the Pilates world. From shifting from yoga to Pilates to cultivating the “founder energy” that drives transformation, Kira shares insights on how personal growth and connection are at the heart of meaningful teaching. She discusses the “third space” that emerges in the studio and the “quality of quietude” that defines Pilates—a space where transformation happens through the smallest, most mindful details.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

Host Joy Puleo sits down with renowned educator Karen Frischmann (Pilates Educator, Mastery Series, Classical Progressions continuing education programs) to explore how contemporary and classical Pilates share the same destination, even if the paths look different. This conversation explores Pilates as a holistic approach to health, cultivating systemic balance, disciplined practice, and durable core strength for foundational exercises. Karen unpacks Jay Grimes’s guidance: “It’s all in there” and “trust the work”, and shows how approaching movement with curiosity helps teachers and students alike shift from chasing perfection to building longevity. Gain practical wisdom on why you should just get moving (it’ll be messy, and that’s part of it), how to progress intelligently, and where the magic of Contrology equipment elevates learning in the studio. Whether you identify as classical, contemporary, or a comfortably hybrid approach, you’ll leave with actionable insights for Pilates programming and refining your own Pilates practice and pedagogy. Perfect for Pilates instructors, studio owners, and dedicated movers searching for evidence-informed, tradition-respecting ways to grow.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

In this powerful episode of Pilates Perspectives, Jessica Valant, physical therapist, Pilates instructor, and women’s health expert specializing in perimenopause and menopause, joins Joy for a deeply honest conversation about community, vulnerability, and empowerment through movement. Jessica opens up about her own health journey, including a breast cancer diagnosis and other challenges that reshaped her understanding of connection and resilience.Together, Joy and Jessica explore how movement fosters community, the responsibility of instructors to create safe spaces, and why clear boundaries and expectations are crucial for establishing trust and safety. They discuss how vulnerability in Pilates and mindful movement can lead to personal agency, helping clients advocate for themselves, understand their limitations, and embrace the nuanced wisdom of the human body.Whether you’re a Pilates teacher, wellness professional, or movement enthusiast, this episode will inspire you to foster authentic connection, honor individuality, and see how even small acts of community can create profound impact.You can find Jessica at jessicavalant.com or on Instagram @jessicasvalant.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

In this captivating conversation, Joy Puleo sits down with Elizabeth Larkam, co-founder of Polestar Pilates, author of Fascia in Motion, and co-editor of Pilates Applications for Health Conditions, to explore how Pilates can be a powerful partner in rehabilitation. Elizabeth shares how her sister inspired her life’s work, reveals behind-the-scenes stories from Polestar's early days, and explains how a deeper understanding of movement science helps to integrate Pilates seamlessly into post-rehab care.Together, they unpack the sensationalization of Pilates on social media and the confusion it creates for clients, advocating instead for evidence-informed, individualized programming. The episode dives into proprioception, gait-based assessment, and the importance of not taking physical ability for granted. Elizabeth also reflects on dance medicine, the value of true collaboration across healthcare and studio settings, and where the next wave of Pilates innovation is headed.Elizabeth teaches daily online classes at: http://www.bewellstaywell.net/elizabethlarkamThis episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

Host Joy Puleo welcomes two pivotal voices in Pilates history: trademark attorney Gordon Troy and Ken Endelman, CEO & Founder of Balanced Body, for a deep dive into the landmark Pilates trademark lawsuit. What would the Pilates landscape look like today if “Pilates” had remained a protected trademark? They take you inside the heat of the courtroom, the legal strategy, and the decisive ruling that unlocked open access to Pilates for studios, instructors, and everyday fitness enthusiasts. Along the way, Ken and Gordon share personal stories from the front lines, including what it was like to work closely with Pilates elders to safeguard Joseph Pilates’ legacy.This episode unpacks how the ruling reshaped the industry, fueling global growth, innovation in Pilates equipment, diversified teacher training, and more accessible pathways for people discovering Pilates for strength, mobility, and pain relief. They answer questions like, Was Pilates ever trademarked? Can you trademark a method? Why the court said no, and how that decision affects the community today. Gordon also explores other notable Pilates lawsuits and their implications for studios and consumers.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

Paula Marie, Pilates Instructor, corporate wellness expert, business coach, grief advocate, public speaker, and professor at George Mason University, joins host Joy Puleo to unpack the business of Pilates and how to turn your passion into a sustainable career. Paula shares why “the riches are in the mistakes,” how growth happens in action, and the crucial role of boundaries so you can show up as your best self and fulfill your mission. You’ll learn what it really takes to balance teaching, business building, and well-being, plus practical strategies to market yourself and attract the clients you want. They explore brand positioning and values-led leadership that supports both studio profitability and client impact. If you’re a Pilates teacher, studio owner, or wellness entrepreneur, this episode is your roadmap to niche marketing, with real talk about mistakes, momentum, and staying aligned with your purpose. Find Paula at blackgirlsdopilates2.org.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

Everlea Bryant, Nationally Certified Pilates Instructor (NCPT), founder of Thique Sophisticate (pilatesbyeverlea.com, @pilatesthique), joins host Joy Puleo for a powerful conversation on building a more accessible, inclusive Pilates community. Everlea reflects on the legacy of Kathy Grant, the diversity of practice across classical and contemporary lineages, and how client-centered teaching empowers people with different bodies, identities, and needs. She discusses what it's like to feel “othered” as a person of color in a Pilates space, why curiosity and humility matter more than perfection, and how instructors can create safe spaces for healing through better language, consent, and welcoming attitudes. You’ll hear practical strategies for increasing accessibility, honoring client needs, and changing the world through small, meaningful actions, one session, one cue, one person at a time. If you care about representation in Pilates, equity in movement education, and community growth, this episode offers tools, inspiration, and a clear call to lead with empathy.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

Founder and CEO of Balanced Body, Ken Endelman, joins host Joy Puleo for a deep dive into the past, present, and future of Pilates. Ken shares stories from his early connection to Joseph Pilates, how he entered the Pilates equipment business, and the ways biomechanics inform every design, from Reformers to studio essentials. Hear what it was like collaborating with Pilates elders and master teachers, why feeling good in your body can positively influence the world, and how a purpose-driven ethos shapes innovation at Balanced Body. They explore design principles, community growth, and Ken’s ongoing commitment to building equipment that supports safer movement, smarter studios, and stronger instructors. If you’re a teacher, studio owner, or curious student, this conversation illuminates the craft behind world-class Pilates equipment and the values that keep the community evolving.Visit Pilates.com to learn more about Balanced Body's equipment and Pilates education.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

In our debut episode of Pilates Perspectives, host Joy Puleo sits down with Danica Kalemdaroglu, Owner and Master Practitioner at Pilates 804, to unpack what Pilates is, how to explain it to beginners, and why it’s such a powerful mind-body practice. They compare Reformer Pilates vs. the essence of Pilates, explore how Pilates complements calisthenics and physical therapy/rehab, and discuss how Pilates methodologies, from classical roots to contemporary approaches, can either work together or be in opposition. You’ll hear smart takes on accessibility in Pilates, the difference between leading a class and truly teaching, and how to address discomfort safely rather than just avoiding it. Whether you’re a new student, an instructor, or a studio owner, this conversation clarifies Pilates fundamentals and the benefits that keep people coming back.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.

Join us on Pilates Perspectives, where we explore how Pilates can enrich your life, no matter your experience level. Gain enlightenment on the varying methodologies, the history of Pilates, how Pilates fits into the wellness landscape and practical tips for application. Each episode explores a range of topics, from building community through movement to the benefits of Pilates as a physical therapy and rehabilitation modality. We also tackle hot topics like education standardization, the fight for greater diversity in the Pilates world and how it becomes a lifestyle that nurtures both body and mind. Get ready to be inspired and develop a deeper understanding of this transformative practice!Each episode features expert guests who share their years of firsthand experience and evidence-based insights, offering valuable knowledge for both Pilates beginners and seasoned professionals alike. Our mission is to provide useful information that enhances your wellness journey, fosters inclusivity, and broadens perspectives, ensuring that Pilates remains a dynamic and evolving practice for everyone.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.