Instructor in Focus: Liane Geeves

Instuctor Name: Liane Geeves:

PAA Level: Level 4 Instructor.

Studio/s where you work: Owner/Operator of Pilates Connection

Location: Lane Cove, Sydney NSW

 

Questions

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

I enjoyed a few mat Pilates classes offered by a local community group and found that Pilates was a bit like coming home. ( I had many years of dance training as a child).

I stumbled upon a fully equipped classical Pilates studio while out on a morning run and the rest is history. I was hooked.

What did you eat for breakfast?

Almond, berries, yoghurt and almond milk shake.

In one word, describe your first Pilates experience?

Uplifting

What’s the best thing about your job?

I love the challenge of having to body read the client as they move through the first few roll downs and pelvic curls, quickly gathering as much information as possible to ensure that I offer a safe, effective and stimulating workout for that body as it presents in front of me on that day.

Then seeing the body unwind out of its bends tilts and rotations into a more neutral and pain free position where the client can hopefully find better core activation. So satisfying.

I love the fact that I am constantly able to use my training as a Structural Integrator in the Pilates environment, selecting specific exercises to address the fascial line that needs the attention.

Never a dull moment.

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

Pilates Anytime is a favourite, such a great tool for us instructors. A subscription to Aclands Anatomy is also a good investment.

The best advice you’ve ever had?

Make sure that every client, regardless of their ability, walks out of your studio feeling like they have achieved something,

An indulgence you can’t live without?

Netflix is my guilty pleasure, though a 30 minute afternoon nap is a close second. (Those early starts!)

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

Since 2007, when I began my training with Pilates International, all students were encouraged to arrange a student membership. – A smart move.

Do you have a motto?

Not really, but I recall someone saying, ” It’s nice to be important, but it’s important to be nice”. And it resonated.

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?

Finding well trained, fully certified studio instructors to hire.

How do you use PAA?

Its a great source of local industry (and beyond) information.

I am very appreciative that we have the PAA going to bat for us down in Canberra, it’s such a disappointment that us Pilates instructors are no longer being acknowledged by Australian health funds.

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

An afternoon stroll with Joe Pilates, Ida Rolf, Gill Headley and Joe Musculino, discussing the merits of the Deep Front Line, core activation and how they work in gravity. Movement Nerd Heaven !

What do you appreciate most about your body?

The fact that it still does most of the things that I ask of it, though I have to work harder at it these days.

Ironically, I believe that I have better body awareness as I age and for this I am thankful.

The book you’re currently reading?

Two on the go. Structural Integration and Energy Medicine: Jean Louise Green and The Catcher in the Rye. J.D. Salinger