Outdated cues and generic fixes won’t create lasting mobility. Science-driven strategies will.
In this week’s episode of Beyond the Reformer, Nic is joined by Ava Rodriguez, also known as The Joint Whisperer.
Ava is the founder of Move Beyond with Ava and the Mobility Fitness Academy, where she helps teachers and fitness professionals integrate joint mobility principles into their work.
Ava shares how her own injuries shaped her approach, why so many cues in Pilates and fitness need an upgrade, and what it truly takes to help clients move beyond pain and restriction.
She shares insights on sticky shoulders, neck pain, and the nervous system’s role in mobility, while explaining how to assess joints effectively and help clients progress.
She also talks about her journey as an international educator, the sacrifices behind building a global business, and how continuing education can transform the way teachers show up for their clients.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Ava Rodriguez
01:58 Breaking down outdated movement cues
04:47 Ava’s journey into movement and mobility
08:20 Beginning a career in Pilates
15:01 The creation of the Mobility Fitness Academy
19:55 Bringing science-based strategies into teaching
26:20 Sticky shoulders, neck pain and common misconceptions
29:18 Healing through movement
30:40 Challenges within the education industry
33:54 The nervous system’s role in mobility
38:59 Setting client expectations in mobility work
41:44 Balancing travel and teaching
44:59 Sacrifices and lessons from building a business
48:03 Quick fire round questions
If you enjoyed today’s episode, make sure you subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a conversation.
Share this episode with a colleague or friend who would love it, and don’t forget to rate and review the show to help us reach more teachers around the world.
Connect with Nic:
- Beyond the Reformer Instagram
- Soul Pilates Instagram
- Soul Pilates Education
- Nic’s Instagram
- Join Soul at Home
- Book a Pilates Class
Connect with Ava
- Website: Move Beyond with Ava
- Instagram: @movebeyond.withava
- Email: ava@movebeyondwithava.com
Get 5% off Balanced Body Pilates equipment with the code SOUL PILATES
If you’re a pilates studio owner looking for a mastermind to help you scale, systemise, and grow your business, check out Studio Grow here.
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