Instructor in Focus: Angela McWhinney

Instructor Name: Angela McWhinney
Studio(s) you work at: Group Fitness and private classes, various locations
Location: Melbourne
Instructor training: Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction
PAA level: Trainer Level 1

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

I was motivated by a desire to assist my dance students to maintain good body posture, strength and stability for dance and I became even more inspired when I established a corporate workplace health and wellbeing program and followed my passion for movement.

What did you eat for breakfast?

Fresh fruit and yoghurt with a sprinkle of pistachios!

In one word, describe your first Pilates experience?

Empowering

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

It has given me the opportunity to realign, review my practice, conduct research and focus on education and professional development.

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

Whilst group fitness facilities have been closed, I have managed ongoing programs for my private students. My advice to other teachers would be to maintain your Pilates conditioning under any circumstances!

What’s the best thing about your job?

The best thing about my Pilates teaching work is being creative and keeping moving, helping and inspiring others to achieve beneficial results as well as being part of a community striving for positive change and adaptation.

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

I tend to follow a number of Instagram sites for “inspo on the go”. Pilates Anytime is also great for new challenges and access to an amazing range of teachers.

The best advice you’ve ever had?

“It’s all in the mind.”

An indulgence you can’t live without?

A swim in the ocean!

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

I have been a member since I graduated approximately 12 years ago. I heard about it through National Pilates Training.

Do you have a motto?

“Breathe, Connect and Move”

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?

Managing the work/life balance.

How do you use PAA?

Mainly to stay informed about current industry events and content and for professional development.

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

Romana Kryzanowska sounds like someone who was an amazing Pilates Method teacher. I would like to meet teachers from the Joe Pilates lineage who have a close connection to the Method the way Joe Pilates taught because Pilates has evolved so much and it’s always good to go back to the source.

What do you appreciate most about your body?

Now more than ever I appreciate the strength, mobility, grace and fluidity of my body.

The book you’re currently reading?

I am currently reading Only in Spain by Nellie Bennett. I have recently developed a passion for Flamenco Dance and it’s inspiring to read about it. The power of Pilates is when it’s applied and put into action. Pilates is the perfect complement to Dance.