Is she tight down there?
In this episode of The Pilates Lounge, Katie Crane takes another look at the pelvic floor and shares how her understanding and teaching have evolved over 20+ years as a Pilates professional. Katie explores pelvic floor hypertonicity, why constantly cueing people to "lift" or "squeeze" may not be appropriate for everyone, and how the feet, jaw, breathing, diaphragm, fascia, and pelvic floor may be connected. She also talks about the importance of staying curious as instructors, questioning what we think we know, and remembering that no single cue or approach works for every body. In this episode, Katie explores: Why pelvic floor cues don't work the same way for everyone What a hypertonic pelvic floor is and some signs associated with it The relationship between the feet and pelvic floor How trauma and stress can influence pelvic floor tension The role of fascia and its relationship with movement The connection between the pelvic floor and diaphragm during breathing How jaw tension, the tongue, and the pelvic floor may be connected Why Pilates instructors should observe rather than assume How curiosity can lead to better cueing and more individualised teaching Why learning something new doesn't mean you need to apply it to every client A thought to take into your next session Every body is different. Rather than automatically telling every client to "switch on" or "lift" their pelvic floor, take a moment to observe. Look at their breathing, feet, jaw, movement patterns and overall tension. The goal isn't to find one perfect cue. It's to become a better observer and give each client what their body needs. Katie's reminder: Think of everything you learn as another flavour of ice cream — it's another option to explore, not the only flavour you're allowed to have. Keep learning with Katie Want more resources for Pilates professionals, movement educators and Pilates lovers? Subscribe to The Pilates Muse, Katie's Pilates newsletter, where subscribers receive free handouts and resources connected to the topics explored on the podcast. And if this episode gave you something to think about, share it with another Pilates teacher or movement professional who might benefit from the conversation.
