Instructor in Focus: Carla Mullins

Instructor Name: Carla Mullins
Studio(s) you work at: Body Organics
Location: Brisbane
Instructor training: PITC, Polestar, APMA
PAA Level: Level 4 Professional Instructor

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

I was working as a lawyer in Sydney when in 1993 started to suffer from neurological problems. I was having seizures and progressive weakness. My neurologist suggested I try something to strengthen myself and calm my mind. I found Megan Williams in Double Bay and started Pilates. Three classes a week and a lot of effort meant that I was stronger than ever and was able to manage my seizures. I started attending random pilates workshops in Sydney at the time to learn more about the method. Then in 1999 I had a major relapse and lost all use of my hands. Megan then died in 2000 from breast cancer and I decided I need to make changes in my life. A chance conversation meant that I ended up studying Pilates.

What did you eat for breakfast?

As I live in the goats cheese line of inner-city Brisbane, it will be no surprise that I had sourdough toast with goats curd and truss tomato.

In one word, describe your first Pilates experience?

Disastrous

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

In April 2020 I was scheduled to present my first workshop on Pilates Anytime on the topic of immunity. The trip was cancelled and it was very disappointing particularly given the relevance of the topic. On the overall scale of things, it was a first-world problem given the troubles experienced by so many people around the world. In the end I felt there were gifts in the garbage for me as it meant that I was able to recalibrate my life and make things simpler for me and my family. The process also reinforced the importance of working with others within your industry.

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

The process was challenging, and mostly because of the technology. I was fortunate to work with other teachers and studio owners and we sort of stumbled our way through the process.

What’s the best thing about your job?

No ironing required
creativity.

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

Body Organics

The best advice you’ve ever had?

Don’t break a person’s spirit, including your own.

An indulgence you can’t live without?

Gin

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

I convened and facilitated the first PAA meeting in Sydney at the Marlborough Street Studios in Surry Hills.

Do you have a motto?

Don’t die wondering.

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?

Work life balance.

How do you use PAA?

Professional association of like-minded people.

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

My two idols are strong, intelligent fearless women. They are Elizabeth Larkham and Mary Bowen. I have met both. I think Mary Bowen is just a little bit cheekier and naughty and I do admire those qualities in a woman.

What do you appreciate most about your body?

The illnesses and injuries which have taught me empathy and respect for my own health.

The book you’re currently reading?

I have recently had eye surgeries because over the last few years I have been going blind. I have been promised that in a few months time the surgeries will mean I am able to read again. For me that is exciting and it will mean that I can finally finish the book Sapiens (Yuval Noah Harari).

We're looking for our next Instructor in Focus!

We’d like to get to know you!

Every two weeks we highlight a PAA member as our Instructor in Focus. We’d love you to be our next Instructor in Focus, just answer a few questions and submit a photo of yourself (min. 570px wide).

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