Hello there,

Welcome to the community!

Whether you’re returning to the studio, joining us from afar, or stepping into this practice for the very first time, I’m thrilled to have you here this month as we dive into the role of your upper body in Pilates. This September, we’re focusing on deepening your connection to strength, embracing the full potential of mindful movement, and committing to your practice.

Let’s kick things off by tackling two common misconceptions that might be holding you back, especially when it comes to building upper body strength:

Hold yourself accountable for your body, practice, and learn to move with intention. @jeaniquepilates 

1. “I don’t want to get broad shoulders or look too masculine.” This is a belief I often hear from women. But here’s the scoop: balanced strength doesn’t mean bulk. It’s about creating harmony and support for your body, not looking a certain way.

2. “I need more spring resistance to feel my muscles and build strength.” This is a thought many movers share, regardless of gender. The truth is that getting stronger starts with the following:

a) learning how to move from your centre with good alignment.

b) breathing and moving simultaneously.

Now, you can add resistance. Simply piling on resistance without mindful practice and right movement won’t build strength and might cause injuries.

These beliefs sometimes stop us from achieving the balanced strength and posture we aim for. Time to let go of these ideas this season and open ourselves to a more holistic understanding of strength. We’ll explore what it means to move with intention and how this can transform your body and your whole life approach.

Solution for Week 1: Hold yourself accountable for your body, practice, and learn to move with intention.

Today’s video will guide you through five simple exercises to help you move your arms and upper body more intentionally from your centre. No excuses—just a chance to transform your movement!

Enjoy, and let’s get moving!