Pilates with Dan

23/09/2026

• CHOICE •

As a member of Pilates-Land, and a mostly functioning adult, I see everything we do as a choice. What exercise to do next - choice. What cue to use - choice. What apparatus to use - choice. What classes to run - choice. Where to advertise - choice.

We are almost smothered by choices.
Some are hard to make and some are easy. Some I have power and agency in, and some I don't. But, ultimately, I know that with all choices I make there are invariably consequences for that choice. But I own that. Where possible I aim to land on choices that invite as many people as I can to move and possibly learn a little on the way. I aim to land on choices to remove barriers rather than put them up. Sometimes I fail - but I always learn.

We also see choices being made in the larger space of Pilates-Land - the one populated by larger businesses and organizations. The equipment manufacturers. The 'professional' bodies. The teacher training schools. The booking software companies.

They make choices too and time and time again the choices they make seem to aim to exclude rather than include. To separate rather than collaborate.

Choosing to provide education that includes pseudo-science and racism - choice. Choosing to support folk who actively bully other members of Pilates-Land - choice. Choosing not to hold members accountable for their actions and words - choice. Choosing to run events in countries that are oppressing people - choice. 🍉

All choices have consequences.
We can keep a tally. We can ask those larger bodies in Pilates-Land to learn and change.

It will then be their choice...and consequence.

22/09/2026

20/09/2026

Join Dan Baker and I tomorrow at 4pm PST/ Tuesday 9am AEST for part 2 of our Pilates history conversation. We will be chatting about JPs move to the states, opening his NY studio and more.

Didn’t catch part 1? Not to worry! You can watch the replay on the Anatomy of Pilates Substack. Part 1 was all about the historical context that JP began to create contrology in. We talked influences, the physical culture movement, busted some common myths… truly a fascinating story if you are curious about Pilates origins.

Looking forward to another chat with Dan!

19/09/2026

16/09/2026

• PERMISSION •

I'll let you in on a few little secrets.

You don't need to do exercise 'right' to get the benefit. You're allowed to feel it where you feel it, not necessarily where the teacher feels it.

You're totally allowed to make mistakes and stuff it up. In fact stuffing it up is part of the whole process of learning new things. Messy Pilates needs to be celebrated.

You also don't need to ask permission to adjust an exercise to suit you. Adult your body.
Teachers shouldn't be there to punish or admonish you for choosing an adjustment, assist or modification. If they're not happy with how you're doing it that's their fault not yours.

You are allowed to enjoy your time and have fun. Not every move needs to be a challenge.

You're allowed to move because it feels nice.

14/09/2026

Playtime on the Chair.

Exploring the middle point of The Grasshopper is one of my favourite places to be - the dynamism of the spring loaded pedal makes it a truly unique version of the exercise.

13/09/2026

• SCARS •

Your scars are not a weakness.

They are a sign of your resilience.

They are proof that you can get through hard times.

They are a reminder to give thanks and show gratitude.

They give you insight and empathy into what others struggle with.

Keep showing up.