Instructor in Focus: Lisa Peresan

Instructor Name:  Lisa Peresan

Studio(s) you work at:  Turning Pointe Pilates & Evolution Pilates and Physiotherapy

Location:  Dee Why and Annandale, NSW

Instructor training:  Advanced Diploma of Professional Pilates Practice, PilatesITC

PAA level:  Trainer Level 2

What originally motivated you to try Pilates and then go on to train as an instructor?

I had returned from dancing professionally in Europe in the late 80s, and was finding it hard to get a normal job.  At the time, Pilates was not very well known and there were no group mat work classes in gyms.  I saw an ad in the paper to train to become an instructor, so I came to Pilates firstly as an instructor in training.  Part of the training was to do regular self-mastery.  I found the self-mastery really helped with my dancing, as I was still working professionally at the time, in the commercial genre.  I really loved how it felt in my body, and I found I really loved helping my clients find the benefits too.

What did you eat for breakfast?

Corn crackers & cheese for protein, and a good Italian coffee

In one word, describe your first Pilates experience?

Fun

What impact has the recent COVID-19 virus had on your world?

All my classes are now run online through ZOOM.  It’s been hugely challenging.  Teaching dance is especially difficult.  I try to look at the bright side – I have been able to take advantage of online offerings from some great overseas teachers.

How have you handled your Pilates teaching with the COVID-19, any advice to other teachers?

Self-care is very important.  You can’t give to others from an empty cup.  This includes being mindful of how you hold yourself when demonstrating, and what you do with yourself in your spare time.  Walk the talk, right?  I have been experiencing brain fog from the technology, especially on days when the internet is erratic (mine or theirs).  I find the best way to deal with this is to get out in nature.  My new hobby is ocean swimming and I love putting my head under the water and experiencing the visual beauty of our coast line.

My latest great find, is Bluetooth air pods – they mean my clients can still hear me regardless of which way I am facing, so I can focus on my alignment when demonstrating and I don’t need to yell to make sure they can hear me.  Truly a great investment!

Plus, I still make sure to have an experienced instructor push me in my self-mastery, aiming for once a week.  It’s too easy to miss those exercises you don’t like (because you are not good at them and you need them), or to not be aware of compensatory muscle recruitment.

What’s the best thing about your job?

Definitely the people I come into contact with.  I love them.

Your ‘go to’ website for all things Pilates (other than PAA)?

I love science-based evidence, so I often check google scholar for studies, and Pilates Anytime.

The best advice you’ve ever had?

Jay Grimes – “it doesn’t have to be perfect!”  Sometimes its easy to get hung up on perfect form and alignment (especially if you are a perfectionist!), but at the end of the day, movement is so nourishing for our body.  Just keep moving!

An indulgence you can’t live without?

Hugs!  (is that an indulgence or a human need?)   – seems COVID19 is making it an indulgence!   Ok – chocolate!

How long have you been a member of PAA and how did you hear about PAA?

I first became a member of the PAA in 2005 when I completed my first qualification with Pilates International.

Do you have a motto?

Move it or lose it!  That includes brain matter – which is why I am doing a High-Performance Sports degree at Uni.  Enjoying the ride, and hoping one day to complete it! haha

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?

The number of hours you need to work to make a decent living.  I could have picked a more lucrative career, but I have never been motivated by money.

How do you use PAA?

I look to PAA to monitor and promote quality of training, and represent my profession in the community.  I have been particularly grateful for the wonderful job the committee have been doing with providing guidance and resources during the Pandemic.

Who is your Pilates idol or would love to meet, and why?

Mary Bowen.  I love that she is also a Jungian psychoanalyst.

What do you appreciate most about your body?

It’s resilience! At 55 I’m feeling stronger than I was at 35, just post my 2^nd baby.  Persistence and discipline have been the key.

The book you’re currently reading?

Understanding Nutrition by Whitney, Rolfes et al.  No time for fiction atm, but looking forward to the university break.  I am an avid reader and belong to a club – The Bee Keeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri is waiting!