The Move Well Be Well podcast

Here at Glow, there is no such thing as the Pilates Police. In this episode we chat about the culture we have created here at Glow- an interactive, inclusive environment, where your questions are welcome and where our clients and us as teachers are all on the same level. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode explores what it means to move- and live- without clinging to perfect outcomes. We reflect on perfectionism in both our physical practice and realities of running the studio, from scheduling chaos to learning to loosen control. Through repeated exposure of uncertainty, we're learning how to let go, trust the process and keep showing up regardless. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode explores what it means to "learn to fail"- and why that is essential for moving well. We dive into nervous system regulation and the difference between understanding the benefits of failure logically versus actually embodying it when things feel messy, wobbly and uncomfortable. It is not about looking good, it is more about embracing the wobble, staying present and learning to move through that discomfort. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Catherine is joined by Karen Kruger Menopause & Cancer Coach and Stage 3 breast cancer survivor. Catherine and Karen have created The Rise Room.The Rise Room supports women after cancer and menopause to rebuild strength, restore confidence and trust their bodies again. Women will feel better, live better and move forward physically, mentally and emotionally.Rebuilding strength. Restoring Confidence. Rising after Cancer TRY FOR FREEWe are delighted to offer you a FREE one day pass so you can try a live class or check out the on-demand library. Suitable for all levels. The studio also includes workshops with nutrition, lifestyle & menopause coach:https://catherine-browne.mykajabi.com/offers/3p2zPu65?coupon_code=FREEPASSTRY ONE MONTH 50% OFFThen if you want to continue I can offer 50% off there first month here: https://catherine-browne.mykajabi.com/offers/BKKXF43Q/checkout?coupon_code=WELCOME50For more information follow us:@care_cancerrehab@karen_menopauseandcancer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if perfect movement doesn't exist? This episode explores how freedom, efficiency and pain-free range of movement matters more than chasing ideals of how an exercise "should look". We dive into neuromuscular control, the power of practice, and why client-led decision making is key to true movement mastery. Check out previous episode this topic:Ep 73. "As much as necessary, as little as possible"https://open.spotify.com/episode/22JSa1to3ygRsKFOv5ffv1?si=LA7OdXzdQc2u3InaUIMWXw Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore how shame can fuel everything from overtraining to our career choices- and how it can keep us stuck in patterns and habits that we want to change. As movement professionals, we share our personal experiences along with what we see every day in studio and with clients. This episode links movement with body connection, starting to learn what variation is best for us on any given day- ultimately, breaking the shame cycle to build a healthier, more sustainable relationship with your body- inside the studio and out. To learn more about your relationship with food listen to this episode with Dr. Emilia Thompsonhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/0XX5wrXGDGl2rjzY6zMdOP?si=cddbfdc96cd742c2For more:@emiliathompsonphd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Catherine and Leah discuss weight training for women and why it matters. Catherine chats about how her Weights & Reformer class began and shifting myths around what strength training is. She also discusses her upcoming Strength training workshop- helping you define your goals and intentions so you can design your own strength programme. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah introduces her upcoming workshop series "Kinda Curious", designed for inquisitive Pilates movers who love to explore beneath the surface. Leah chats about how she has cultivated curiosity among her clients- and this workshop will allow space and time to embody and explore movements on a deeper level. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are back for Season 5! We're chatting intentions, goals, why February is suspiciously short and the power of language (with a little PhD insight from Leah). Expect light energy, honest reflections and a sprinkle of Move Well Be Well Magic! Find more:@glowpilatesireland@leahhartepilates@cb_pilates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this bonus episode, Catherine is joined by Sarah Shannon founder of WILD & FREE Retreats in Portugal. GLOW x WILD & FREE collaborated in Nov 2025 to bring Pilates, Yoga and so much more to women!They discuss their shared ethos around the mind-body connection-how movement and bodywork is the access point into that deeper wisdom that the body holds. They chat through some common concerns and barriers to booking your first retreat- the solo travel, the guilt of giving back to yourself- the "self-indulgence" perceptive to slowing down and investing time and money in yourself. Sarah tells us that these are all very common thoughts and beliefs among her women.APRIL RETREAT: https://www.sarahshannonyoga.com/glowretreat-april2026For more information on Sarah:Instagram: @sarahshannonyogaWebsite https://www.sarahshannonyoga.com/April A Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Season Finale- Leah and Catherine chat about how to keep moving in December and how to avoid the "all or nothing" mentality. Those small habits and pockets of movement really do add up. Taking care of yourself from a place of compassion is a year round task but can be more of a logistical challenge in December. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine chat about the natural evolution of their social media accounts. Both of them reminisce about having lots more movement videos on social media in the earlier days and the reasons for that. They chat about how they have different intentions now, and movement videos don't always convey Glow's ethos of creating a positive movement experience and building body autonomy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss their add in a local magazine. They dissect what they mean by the tagline in this advertisement, explaining it's more than just a word salad!Nourishing movement includes movement that FEELs good but also aids in alignment, nervous system regulation, building strength and flexibility with purpose without just beating the crap out of ourselves. They explain the true power of Pilates-a tool or a method for enhancing the mind-body connection. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this weeks episode, Leah and Catherine discuss the benefits of footwork, from grounding at the start of class to the benefits of pelvic hip dissociation refers to the ability to move your lower limbs independently from your trunk/ pelvis- which can help you function better when walking, stepping, running. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine chat about when technique, alignment and awareness matters. Catherine talks through the common error she see's among women doing Pelvic Floor exercises- not only are they often wasting their time but sometimes it can actually cause you more harm than good. They chat about the Pilates industry at large and how sometimes this phrase is thrown around-again not always helpful. Catherine offers some practical tips on how to encourage pelvic floor connection and function. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Catherine chats about her recent breathwork training and the impact that has had on her teaching style. She describes this natural evolution with more focus on breathing patterns, holding tension and deepening connection. Catherine spent the last 6 months training in Conscious Connected Breathwork, which is a 300 hour training programme. This style of breathwork is a subtle yet powerful form of breathwork which focuses on shifting energy in the body, helping to regulate the nervous system. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine catch up after a little break. Leah discusses the reality of running two Pilates studios and managing several staff members, the non-glamourous side to Pilates. Studio updates include new teachers and new class offerings. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Leah and Catherine chat through the concept "as much as necessary, as little as possible"- Brent Anderson Polestar Pilates. In the fitness industry "squeezing" and "tightening" has been a big focus. However, this cue can over-recruitment of muscle fibres and over time this can become an issue. For efficient movement strategies we only need to recruit "as much as necessary". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine delve into a common client concern. Firstly, they discuss the word "toned" and what that really means. The reality of looking toned is largely influenced by body fat percentage. Catherine clarifies the difference between strength and hypertrophy training. Also the real life cost of having these abs- are you willing to put in the time and effort required? And is that effort worth it to me?Home Truth- There are no quick fixesOther things to consider is the type of core work you are doing, isometric exercises (planks) will not necessarily create the necessary stimulus to build muscle bulk. Working to muscular failure is essential to create necessary stimulus to build strength. Building muscle bulk requires more reps at a lower load. In order to be able to tolerate that we need a well functioning core system. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode is for you if you are a new Pilates teacher and struggle with class planning. Leah and Catherine discuss things to consider as a new teacher planning a reformer pilates group class. Begin Supine: Footwork and the importance of grounding Aim to move all joints through all ranges Efficiency and flow: Reduce disruption and minimise transitions to get the most out of your timeProtect your own energy: Talking less and consider your position in the roomChoosing exercises: Consider base of support, transition from a more stable base to less stableSafety first, than get movingAs the teacher, you are honing the skill of responding to what your are observing in real time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss things they never say as Pilates teachers:"Squeeze your glutes"- Catherine describes the difference between squeezing/tensing muscles and actually applying load to those muscles. Yes maybe it might help your awareness of that muscle, improve that neuromuscular connection. However, this is not the same as building strength or improving movement patterns. "Engage your core"- Leah discusses her pet peeve "engage your core"- the abundant phrase heard frequently throughout the fitness industry at large. This immediate feedback does not mean you are doing it correctly. It over simplifies the function of the core. Alignment and set up is important when it comes to your core not engaging. "Pin your shoulders down"- They chat about the anatomy of shoulders/ribcage and why letting your shoulders rise to your ears is actually important for upper limb function. This episode is permission to NOT do these things and actually enjoy your movement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine share insights into class planning so that you can deepen your understanding into why you are doing what you do. The goal is moving as many joints in as many planes as possible. Next we can add props to either help add support or to add more challenge. Finally they discuss the benefits of choreography for brain health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss the anxiety that surrounds returning to movement. Leah shares her personal experience returning to a yoga class recently and the anxiety it provoked in her. Entering a new space, meeting a new teacher and new people can all be overwhelming. Catherine shares a similar experience on her return to the gym. This episode normalises the feelings of anxiety that returning to movement after a break can evoke. They also discuss getting back to movement after shorter breaks/holidays and catching the negative self-talk loop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss posture. There is no "good" or "bad" posture- it is not a fixed state. Dynamic posture is the concept of optimal alignment as we move through various positions. Leah explains this dynamic posture with an analogy of stacking your "spheres". Key point to note is that there is no perfect position or one exercise that will "correct" your posture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss how to navigate knee pain during your Pilates class. Knee issues can range from acute injuries to more chronic degenerative conditions. They chat about how they can help you as your Pilates teacher but also things you can do for yourself during your Pilates class. We need to load our tendons to keep them healthy but modifying that load so we don't aggravate symptoms is key. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tidbit Thursday is our new short series where Leah and Catherine discuss a specific exercise, what muscles are involved, how it relates to moving in normal life and tips to watch out for when practicing. This week they chat about the infamous "Plank", a visual will also be available on Instagram, Youtube and Tiktok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Leah and Catherine delve into the current social media trend "Pilates Propaganda we are not falling for". These includeYou need cute matching sets to do PilatesYou must feel the burn in every classMarket only thin bodies to draw clients in The harder you work the better the workoutPilates is for absNo pain no gainYou need to engage your core10minutes isn't worthwhile Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss the concern "I don't feel my core". They delve into factors such as alignment, consistency and breathing to optimise your body's experience of that exercise. However, building a foundation of muscular strength and endurance is important before we layer in other factors. Leah chats about our alignment through imagery of "spheres" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tidbit Thursday is our new short series where Leah and Catherine discuss a specific exercise, what muscles are involved, how it relates to moving in normal life and tips to watch out for when practicing. This week they chat about "Bridging", a visual will also be available on Instagram, Youtube and Tiktok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine return for Season 4. They chat about the most important thing in Pilates. Spoiler alert- there is no ONE most important thing. Social media often promotes a simplistic answer- correcting your breathing, fixing your alignment, engaging your core, the list is endless. The answer is there is no magic solution. Doing Pilates is the most important thing about Pilates. Leah and Catherine delve into the importance of consistency and why showing up is the most important thing you can do. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this season finale, Leah and Catherine reflect on their podcast journey to date. They discuss one of their "OUTs" for 2025- "All or nothing" thinking in the context of teaching Pilates but also how we can enhance our own movement practice by letting go of this black and white thinking. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss nourishing movement. They chat about nourishing your spine and how to gift your spine with multi-directional movements- flexion, extension, rotation and side-bending. They also mentions the additional physiological benefits of movement such as disc hydration, lymphatic drainage and improving circulation. They also chat about the freedom that comes with learning to listen and nourish your body. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Catherine talks about the new monthly event at Glow- the "Move & Manifest" Journal Club. Manifestation is a fierce belief in possibility. This 75 minute class will include:An energetic mat-based Movement classBreathworkMonthly Manifestation book- chats/discussionJournaling about our own manifestations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss their "OUTs" for the year ahead. -Fitness Wearables: Catherine discusses why she is getting rid of objectively tracking her stats this year-Burning Out: Leah chats about how she is prioritising small simple steps to help avoid burn out this year-Punishing ourselves: Reducing negative self-talk and finding more self-compassion-All or Nothing Mentality: Less black and white thinking and more trying to find the middle ground approach Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss their "INs" for the year ahead:Nourishing MovementTrusting myselfCreativityManifestingAnd of course- would you rather is back! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this mini-bite size episode, Leah describes the main piece of advice she would offer to her younger self starting off her career as a Pilates teacher. She discusses setting boundaries to protect her physical, mental and emotional energy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss the "mobility spectrum" and why stiffness is not always a problem. They chat through the terms "stiffness" "stability" and "tension" and why these are often fear mongering words. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss the nuances between flexibility, mobility and stretching. They define each term and then discuss how it relates to movement and why it might be important when considering your goals. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss how to structure your training based on your age. They chat through the following age groups:Teens-20s: Working to failure is optimal 30s: Focus on movement quality, compound movements, building resilience in your nervous system.40s: Due to hormonal changes, women have an increased risk of injury. Therefore, injury prevention and maintaining muscle mass is essential. Again a focus on movement quality and working to heavy 8/10 effort. 50/60s: It's never too late to start. Again focus on movement quality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine continue to debunk myths around training for women. The discuss#3 "Fasted training burns more calories"- a common misconception. Catherine explains the reasons why this can have a detrimental effect on your body. #4 "I will get too bulky if I lift weights"- They chat through some bigger body image issues and the reality of building muscle mass. #5 "Women in 40's should not do high intensity work"- They explain the difference between moderate and high intensity and why we need less of moderate intensity training. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Catherine chats with Colm Skehan- Online Fitness Coach and Strength & Conditioning Coach. Colm describes his personal experience with Pilates and how it has improved his rugby performance and recovery. They chat about some of the misconceptions and barriers for men starting Pilates. Colm also offers some nutrition tips for training and building small consistent habits. For more information or to work with Colm, find him on Instagram:@csstrengthcoach Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine debunk the following 2/5 myths:"Cardio is best for weight loss"- They discuss why this is not true and how focusing on body composition changes can be more helpful. "I need to feel wrecked after every training session" - They chat about moderate versus high intensity training and how more is not always better. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine chat about how to get the most out of your strength class. They discuss 3 main tips:Pre-workout intentions SnacksPost-workout strategies- post workout meal, breathwork, rest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss "Social Media Pilates" and why some of these exercises are not always suitable for a group class environment. They outline the disconnect between social media and reality, the practical and safety implications of such exercises and teacher experience/education. They return to Glow's studio ethos and why they teach the way they do. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine discuss this "back to school/routine" time of year. Firstly, they chat about reframing your mindset around your break. Secondly, it's some tough love that movement is a non-negotiable and accepting that sometimes it's just hard! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine talk about Mat Pilates. They discuss the differences and challenges around Mat Pilates. They also chat about the freedom and possibility of movement on the mat. If you are interested in doing more Pilates on the mat we offer a new class once a month- Sunday Strong Slow Flow with Catherine- check the schedule for dates! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Leah and Catherine discuss how to get the most from your group Pilates class. They outline 3 tangible ways you can make your class more intense- to maximize strength adaptations. They delve into load, pacing and alignment. They also chat through some other practical tips to set yourself up for success. One of these is choosing the correct class style for you. For more detail on this listen back to Episode 31 "How to choose the best class style for you". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine chat about the new Full Moon Women's Circle event in the studio. Catherine discusses the history of Women's Circles with their ancient origins, masculine and feminine energy and of course the lunar cycle itself. The Full Moon being a powerful time to pause reflect and come together with other women- and learning to let go of what no longer serves us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After some math deliberation, Leah and Catherine discuss how to get back into routine after summer. They delve into the importance of mindset- particularly how your expectation can impact your perception of success. They chat through the 4 stages of Competence and how that relates to movement. And of course "Would you Rather" is back! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leah and Catherine reflect on Season 2 of The Move Well Be Well Podcast. They chat about the challenges they faced recording this season and what is to come for Season 3! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.