The way you cue in Pilates matters more than you think with Diane Nye

All Episodes

May 25, 2025 • 69 mins

Pilates isn’t just about teaching the movements. It’s about a whole-body, holistic approach to the practice. Nic is joined today by Diane Nye, Polestar Pilates educator, Franklin Method teacher and a deeply respected voice in the Pilates world. Diane reflects on her 30-year journey from high-intensity fitness instructor to movement mentor and shares the lessons that changed the way she teaches and lives. They explore how true transformation in Pilates comes from creating space for clients to feel, notice and unravel. Diane shares insights into nervous system regulation, the myth of “engaging your core,” how the body compensates around imbalance, and why less is often more. If you have ever questioned the way Pilates is taught or want to go deeper in your teaching, this episode will completely shift how you see your role as a teacher.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro to Diane

01:55 Diane's journey into Pilates

04:24 Teaching in community spaces and adapting studio work

08:38 Becoming a Polestar educator

11:31 The importance of continuous learning

16:54 Common teaching myths and why they persist

26:44 The role of safety in movement

32:06 Incorporating mindfulness in Pilates

35:43 Balancing awareness in Pilates

36:21 The depth of simple movements

37:26 The importance of noticing changes

38:58 The trouble with traditional anatomy and outdated cues

48:30 Holistic approach in Pilates

54:57 Challenges in Pilates education

01:01:17 Quick fire questions

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with your Pilates friends. It really helps us reach more people with thoughtful conversations like this.

If you’re looking to take your Pilates practice one step further and sign up for Nic’s comprehensive teacher training programme, use the code BEYOND at checkout: Soul Pilates Teacher Training

Connect with Nic:

Connect with Diane: