Emerging Instructor in Focus: Erin Diemar

Emerging Instructor in Focus

Instructor Name: Erin Diemar
Studio(s): Fluidform & Athletica Pilates
Location: Sydney, NSW
Instructor training: Pilates International Training Centre PITC
PAA Level: Professional Level 1 Membership

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

I’ve always been active doing lots of Swimming, Yoga and Aerials, so naturally gravitated to Reformer Pilates over the years as a stress relief and additional movement practice. It wasn’t until I had an injury from running that I started to move more towards Studio classes to support my rehab and as an ongoing preventative measure to enable me to do all things I love. This was also what inspired me to go on to do my Diploma to train as an instructor, I loved how Pilates was so complimentary to my other training and daily life, and I wanted to help other people move so that they felt good too.

What did you eat for breakfast?

Oats with muesli, hemp, chia seeds, and loaded up with fresh fruit.

In one word, describe your first Pilates teaching/apprentice teaching experience?

Inspiring.

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

All the rolling lockdowns, major life changes and additional stressors that COVID brought with it, my movement and exercise practice became essential for maintaining my well being. It’s helped me re-prioritise the things that fulfil me, find more balance, and make the most of the space that was created from usual busy life distractions.

How have you handled your Pilates teaching or training with COVID-19?

I was very lucky that I was only in the Matwork component of my Diploma through one of the lockdowns, so could really hone my verbal cueing and develop new digital teaching skills. The slower pace of life at the time really helped me juggle the coursework around my full-time Marketing job, and I was grateful to be back into Studios for the remainder of my equipment training and teaching since.

What was the most unexpected part of your training?

The authentic relationships I formed with my fellow students. We worked to really build each other up and create a supportive environment, and still to this day value those friendships as we continue through our teaching careers and ongoing learning – as it never stops!

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

N/A

The best advice you’ve ever had?

“Go softer, not harder”

An indulgence you can’t live without?

Ocean swims.

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

I’ve been a member since completing my Diploma and being recommended by my mentor.

Do you have a motto?

“Get out into nature and get into your body”

What’s the most challenging aspect of learning to teach?

Celebrating your successes and building confidence.

How do you use PAA?

Staying up to date with masterclasses and latest research.

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

Ashley DeLeon – I love their creativity, strength and fluidity of movement.
Anula Maiberg-Piper- For their no-BS approach to movement and inclusivity.

What do you appreciate most about your body?

The energy and mobility to continue to do all the things I love, like ocean swimming.

The book you’re currently reading?

Anything Murakami

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We’d like to get to know you!

Every month we highlight a PAA member who has recently begun their teaching journey as our Emerging Instructor in Focus. We’d love to hear your story, just answer a few questions and submit a photo of yourself (min. 600px wide) and/or a short video.

We look forward to getting to know more about our PAA community!