Pilates Elephants

Do biomechanics predict running injuries? Learn how to move beyond single-factor thinking, the 80/20 of injury prevention, and why simple changes like increasing cadence can reduce risk. Clear, actionable tips for Pilates instructors to help clients run injury-free, or rehab injured runners.Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbenderDownload a free course guide:Pilates CertificationVisualized AnatomyCitations and my notes for this episode are in a Google Doc hereWatch this episode on YouTube hereMentioned in this episode:Get 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioGet 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/privacy

Flow is a cornerstone of Pilates, but can there be too much of a good thing? Raphael Bender and Heath Lander dive into the balance between seamless transitions and overwhelming choreography. Learn how to harness flow to keep your clients engaged, avoid common pitfalls, and create transformative sessions that leave them saying, “Where did the time go?!”Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbenderDownload a free course guide:Pilates CertificationVisualized AnatomyMentioned in this episode:Get 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioGet 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/privacy

This episode is my Christmas gift to you: a done-for-you promo that will help you attract new clients, increase revenue, and make your current clients feel like the ultimate gift-givers. 🎁I'm releasing this episode a day earlier than usual to give you an extra day to run the promo.What’s Inside:How to run a $270 gift card promo for just $50, to generate new clientsStep-by-step instructions and a timeline.Why this strategy works to grow your studio.Ready to launch your promo?Grab the email templates and terms of use here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ORSyqxYRhjSkE74YMVwl4AypOenndJOoGwIu9btnhks/edit?usp=sharingSet it up today, and watch your studio thrive this holiday season! 🎄Watch this as a video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/PuwdQ0vVklsThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/privacy

The most versatile, valuable exercises to know (like the back of your hand) to master group reformer programming and teaching.Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbenderDownload a free course guide:Pilates CertificationVisualized AnatomyMentioned in this episode:Get 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioGet 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/privacy

In this episode of Pilates Elephants, Raph sits down with Heath Lander to explore a surprising truth: great Pilates teaching is simple—but not easy.They discuss why simplicity is the ultimate challenge for instructors and how it sets the best apart from the rest. You'll learn how to focus on what really matters, avoid over-complicating your teaching, and deliver classes that inspire and transform your clients. Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned pro, this conversation will challenge your approach and leave you thinking differently about what it takes to be exceptional.Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbenderDownload a free course guide:Pilates CertificationVisualized AnatomyMentioned in this episode:Get 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioGet 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/privacy

In this episode of Pilates Elephants, Raphael Bender and Heath Lander break down how to truly progress your Pilates clients for long-term health, happiness, and longevity. They challenge conventional wisdom about progression, spring settings, and perfect form, offering practical insights to elevate your teaching.For more insights, tune in to the full episode on YouTube.Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbenderDownload a free course guide:Pilates CertificationVisualized AnatomyBecome a Breathe Education Mentor Affiliate: Program infoMentioned in this episode:Get 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioGet 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/privacy

In this episode of Pilates Elephants, Raphael Bender and Dr. Kevin Wernli dive into the surprisingly nuanced relationship between movement and pain. They explore why changing movement patterns doesn’t always reduce pain, (and when it can!) the limits of the biomechanical model, and how beliefs and context play a crucial role. Discover actionable insights for Pilates instructors on fostering more effective, evidence-based approaches to managing low back pain.Resources mentioned in the episode: Does movement change when back pain changes? Systematic Review hereKevin’s case series hereQualitative interviews hereGracely 1986 dentist study hereWatch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/vjpyxHr3lLYAbout Kevin Wernlin: Kevin is a Physiotherapist from Perth, Western Australia. He completed his PhD with esteemed supervisors Peter Kent, Peter O’Sullivan, Anne Smith, and Amity Campbell. His research investigated how movement, posture, and psychological factors relate to persistent low back pain, particularly as people recover. He has appeared on numerous podcasts and radio segments, published research in high-quality international research journals, and presented at national and international conferences. He has a passion for using technology to help make healthcare more equitable and effective, and translating research into the real-world, evidenced by his work as the former producer and co-host of the popular empowered beyond pain podcast, and now as co-founder of a digital health startup called Matilda Health which helps people undergoing endometriosis surgery optimise the pre and post-surgery journey.Connect with Kevin Wernlin: A bunch of resources I’ve put together: https://www.backtoliving.health/givingbackresourcesPodcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ogpeLlDGLRLiHofEWvCjeRESTORE clinical trial: https://www.restorebackpain.com/Social media links: Twitter|FB|IG|LinkedIn - @KWernliPhysioORCID - 0000-0001-6035-9873Connect with Raph on Instagram: @the_raphaelbenderDownload a free course guide:Pilates CertificationVisualized AnatomyMentioned in this episode:Get 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioGet 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/privacy

In this episode, we break down four science-backed methods to help your clients feel that post-workout “burn” every time. Learn how to use the principles of the Repeated Bout Effect (RBE) in reverse to keep your classes feeling fresh, challenging, and effective. These tips will help you consistently create that sought-after soreness so clients feel like they’re progressing with each session!What You’ll Learn: How the Repeated Bout Effect works and why muscles adapt to reduce soreness over time.Proven strategies to reverse the RBE using eccentric exercise variations and overload methods.Tips for balancing soreness to maintain high client satisfaction without risking burnout.Key Points Covered: Rotate Eccentric-Focused Exercises: Prevent adaptation by introducing new movements each class.Increase Time Under Tension: Slow down the eccentric phase for greater muscle micro-damage.Vary Angles and Planes of Motion: Challenge muscles differently to increase soreness.Add Eccentric Overload with Bilateral Concentric/Unilateral Eccentric Movements: Use both limbs on the lift and one on the lower for targeted eccentric overload.Related Links and Studies: Proposed Mechanisms and Mediators of the Repeated Bout Effect: Mechanism Overview: PubMed Link 1Supporting Study: PubMed Link 2Protective Effect on the Opposite Limb (Contralateral RBE): PubMed LinkWatch on YouTubePrefer to watch instead of listen? Catch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pplrScFQArYConnect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbenderDownload a free course guide:Pilates CertificationVisualized AnatomyBecome a Breathe Education Mentor Affiliate: Program infoMentioned in this episode:Get 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioGet 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/privacy

Resources mentioned in the episode: Watch this episode on YouTube hereDownload the slides as a PDF hereConnect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbenderDownload a free course guide:Pilates CertificationVisualized AnatomyBecome a Breathe Education Mentor Affiliate: Program infoMentioned in this episode:Get 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioGet 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/privacy

Resources mentioned in the episode: Charlotte’s IG @aurorapilates hereCorkinetic post on “compensations” hereConnect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbenderDownload a free course guide:Pilates CertificationVisualized AnatomyBecome a Breathe Education Mentor Affiliate: Program infoMentioned in this episode:Get 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioGet 1:1 coaching with me to grow your studioThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/privacy