Instructor in Focus: Ann Wilde

Instructor Name: Ann Wilde
Studio(s) you work at: Master Pilates
Location: Melbourne, Victoria
Instructor training: APMA & PITC
PAA Level: Principle Trainer

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

I moved to Melbourne at the age of 18, moved from Albury to study Ballet full time. A year later I suffered a major back injury, and to rehabilitate I began Pilates with physiotherapist Rebecca Harding. Pilates not only enabled me to dance again, it became my passion. I established Master Pilates South Yarra in 2010 so as to help others have a Pilates experience like I had.

What did you eat for breakfast?

A slice of Oliver Lane banana, honey and coconut gluten free bread with a cup of English breakfast tea. Delicious!

In one word, describe your first Pilates experience?

Puzzled (I was 19 and I didn’t understand yet)

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

We had to close for Lockdown #1 and then again now for the Victorian lockdown. It has forced me to come up with something new. First of all we made sure we could service the Master Pilates clients that wanted to continue their practise and still provide income for the Master Pilates team by offering Virtual Privates and Duets via Zoom. Almost all of the Master Pilates staff have continued to work from home during both lockdowns which is great. To add to the offering, my husband (a photographer) and I embarked on a new project together, called “the Bubble” which is online, on demand Pilates by subscription.

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

I have really enjoyed still being able to connect to my clients weekly via Zoom. I think without that it would have been much worse mentally, to be closed. I have also fallen in love with Pilates mat work. I have to admit I have always been a studio instructor relying mostly on equipment so it made me think outside the box and I have noticed how much I have gone back to my roots as a dancer and how I would warm up, workout and stretch.

What’s the best thing about your job?

The Instructors and clients. We have a very special community at Master Pilates. It’s often described as a family due to how long both the instructors and the clients have been coming. We all feel so much care and kindness from our clients and as a result we all love to be at work. It’s very hard to be closed and not see everyone!

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

Pilates Anytime – I just love how lucky we all are to have that resource at our fingertips. You need never be uninspired!

The best advice you’ve ever had?

My Dad said the day before I opened Master Pilates and I had no idea if anyone would come to the studio: “Build it and they will come”

An indulgence you can’t live without?

Red wine and chocolate

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

I have been a member since 2014.

Do you have a motto?

1) Just do it
2) Do everything properly, with love

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?

The admin of running a business. It’s endless……

How do you use PAA?

Keeping up to date with industry information

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

Paula Baird Colt. She changed my life and how I look at Pilates as a whole. She is a genius and taught me to think outside the box. I think I owe it to her that I am still teaching as she reinvigorated my love for Pilates. She was so kind to me by teaching me and let me sit in on her classes for over a year at the Australian Ballet.

What do you appreciate most about your body?

That I could have my two beautiful babies. Thank you body……

The book you’re currently reading?

Normal People by Sally Rooney.