Ever walked into a "Pilates" class and thought… Is this actually Pilates? You’re not alone. In this episode, host Katie Crane dives into the heart of what true Pilates is—and why that distinction matters more than ever.

With 18 years of teaching under her belt, Katie breaks down the real difference between a reformer fitness class and the full Pilates method. She shares why slapping on some weights or trendy labels doesn’t evolve the method—it risks watering it down. If you're craving more depth, more clarity, and more purpose in your Pilates practice or teaching, this episode is a must-listen.

Whether you're an instructor, a dedicated client, or just Pilates-curious, Katie brings the truth, the passion, and the clarity you didn’t know you needed.

What You’ll Walk Away With:
✔️ Why lumping everything under "Pilates" can dilute its impact
✔️ The real difference between reformer fitness and the full Pilates system
✔️ Why learning on real bodies—not just manuals—is essential for teachers
✔️ When props and weights help (and when they distract from the work)
✔️ How clearer language can unify and elevate the Pilates community
✔️ A reminder that Pilates is not just a workout—it’s a long-term relationship with your body

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In this episode, Katie Crane explores the increasingly popular concept of training with your menstrual cycle. Is it legit—or just another wellness trend?

Inspired by a recent social media conversation, Katie shares her personal journey of discovering the power of natural hormone cycles and how they've influenced her own approach to training and well-being. She breaks down the four phases of the menstrual cycle and explains how each phase can affect energy, strength, motivation, and emotional health.

Katie also challenges the outdated view of the body as a machine that should perform the same way every day, advocating instead for a more holistic, hormone-aware approach to movement. She discusses the science, the myths, and why fascia, stress, and recovery all play a major role in women’s health and performance.

💡 In This Episode:

• Is menstrual cycle training fact or fiction?
  
  

• Katie’s journey from hormonal suppression to natural awareness
  
  

• The four phases of the cycle and what they mean for your workouts
  
  

• New research on muscle-building and timing your training
  
  

• The connection between fascia, hormones, and stress
  
  

• Why your nervous system matters more than a perfect training plan
  
  

✨ Key Message: Understanding your cycle isn’t about limitations—it’s about liberation. Listen to your body, adapt your movement, and embrace the full spectrum of your physical and emotional self.

🌐 Discover more resources or sign up for updates https://www.thepilatesprofessional.com.au

📩 Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow Pilates professional who needs to hear this!

👋 Follow us on Social Media Handles for more tips, reflections, and behind-the-scenes inspiration.

Thanks for listening! Be kind with your words—and we’ll catch you next week for another meaningful conversation on The Pilates Lounge.

Welcome to another episode of The Pilates Lounge, hosted by Katie Crane! This week, we're diving into a powerful and often overlooked topic: how the words we use as instructors can either heal or harm.

Katie unpacks the profound impact of language in the Pilates space —especially when it comes to trauma-informed teaching. From shocking examples of inappropriate cueing to practical tips on positive instruction, this episode is a must-listen for any instructor who wants to create a safe, empowering space for their clients.

The Hidden Harm in Everyday Cues

Psychological Insights That Matter

Trauma-Informed & Empowering Cueing Techniques

Katie’s Perspective on Instructor Responsibility

Words aren’t just instructions—they're experiences. As instructors, we have the opportunity (and responsibility) to choose language that heals, empowers, and reconnects clients to their bodies. Your words matter more than you think.

Exciting things are coming! Katie is working on a new resource focused on trauma-informed teaching in Pilates. Stay tuned for more details—especially if you're ready to deepen your impact as a mindful, compassionate instructor.

🌐 Discover more resources or sign up for updates at https://www.thepilatesprofessional.com.au/

📩 Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow Pilates professional who needs to hear this!

👋 Follow us on Social Media Handles for more tips, reflections, and behind-the-scenes inspiration.

Thanks for listening! Be kind with your words—and we’ll catch you next week for another meaningful conversation on The Pilates Lounge.