Emerging Instructor in Focus: Kelly Lehmann

Emerging Instructor in Focus

Instructor Name: Kelly Lehmann
Studio(s) you study or work at: Work at Quality of Movement, studied at Queen St Pilates Studio
Location: St. Agnes & Croydon, SA
Instructor training: Tensegrity Integrated Diploma of Contemporary Pilates and Teaching Methodology
PAA Level: Student

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

I tried Pilates for the first time around 12 years ago because it sounded like it would fun and good for my body. I instantly fell in love with it. I had breaks from Pilates at times but I always missed it and came back to it.

Around 5 years ago I went back to Peppa’s studio Quality of Movement and really realised that this was my happy place and that I needed to make it a priority. Around the middle of 2022 Peppa shared a post about Leanne’s instructor training at Queen St Pilates Studio. I made a light hearted joke about wishing I could do the training because it would be amazing to learn more about something I love, but where would I find the time?!?!?

I remember Peppa looking at me and saying you definitely need to do it, if anyone should be an instructor, you should Kelly! This really got me thinking and realised I would really love to do this, and I haven’t looked back since!

What did you eat for breakfast?

An apple

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

Intense

What was the most unexpected part of your training?

I was surprised at the amount of knowledge I’ve been able to absorb and put into practice while instructing

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

There are 2 or 3 instructors on Instagram that I love to get inspiration from. I have been very selective about who I follow on Instagram, to be sure that it is demonstrating correct technique etc.

What’s your favourite Pilates podcast? Why do you recommend it?

I think I am one of the few people that doesn’t listen to podcast’s, I love to get lost in music instead.

The best advice you’ve ever had?

Leanne from Queen St Pilates, throughout our entire training, kept repeating that we should trust the process, that the information will absorb and it will be there when we need it. This was absolutely true. Going back to the fundamentals of what I learnt gives me the knowledge if I’m second guessing myself when I’m instructing.

An indulgence you can’t live without?

Coffee, I love a good cup of coffee.

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

I have been a member of the PAA since 2023 through my training

Do you have a motto?

Pilates is my happy place

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

I have found the most challenging part so far is the mental exhaustion after teaching a class. I find my mind is working overdrive, thinking of the next exercise I need to instruct to each client, whilst checking for form and alignment, making sure everyone is moving safely, checking that I’m continually cueing and demonstrating appropriately and that I’m keeping the mood of the class happy and light. Some classes it feels huge but after every class I feel great.

What would be your advice for new students?

Find a study/teacher that has the best possible knowledge. I feel a great deal of security knowing that I couldn’t have had any better training as an instructor.

How do you use PAA?

I’m still getting to know the PAA, I find it useful to know that there is a great community of Pilates people.

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

I don’t think I have a Pilates idol. I find I get the most inspiration and support from the wonderful people around that I have trained from, work with and studied with.

What do you appreciate most about your body?

I appreciate that it is strong and flexible. Having seen many different body types, including many that are struggling with the most basic daily movements, I’m very grateful that I have a strong flexible body.

The book you’re currently reading?

I just finished reading a Billy Connolly biography.

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