Hailing from WA with a background in contemporary dance, Kayla Douglas is the freshest face at The Alignment Studio. Introduced to Pilates after a shoulder injury derailed her dancing in 2018, she is a passionate proponent of the method – both for pre- and rehabilitation – obtaining her teaching qualifications in 2020.
Inspired by a range of movement modalities, with a part-time role as a choreographer, Kayla brings a unique perspective to Pilates teaching. Read on to learn more about her instructing journey and how she lets her hair down when off the Reformer.
HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN INTERESTED IN HEALTH AND WELLNESS?
Yes! Training to become a professional dancer from a young age meant that taking care of my body was (and still is) imperative for longevity in my career.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A PILATES INSTRUCTOR?
Two weeks out from my first professional dance performance, I ended up with a SLAP tear in my left shoulder, which meant I was unable to perform. It was devastating.
I was introduced to Pilates through my rehabilitation journey. I came out the other side stronger and way more attuned to my body than I had ever felt before. I was eager to become a Pilates instructor to help others alleviate their pain and discomfort and guide them to discover their full movement potential.
WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB?
Getting to know my clients. I find great fulfilment in witnessing my clients’ journeys – watching their confidence grow as they cultivate a sense of security and empowerment within their own bodies.
IS THERE ANYTHING UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR TEACHING STYLE?
I draw inspiration from a diverse range of movement modalities and somatic practices. My approach is enriched by my background in contemporary dance, with the integration of elements from Kinstretch, Franklin Method, Yoga, TRE, and so on.
I have no expectations for a client when they walk into the studio. I’m here to meet their body where it is today and guide them through their personal journey.
WHAT’S THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT PILATES?
That it’s only for young, fit women. The amazing thing about the Pilates method and the equipment Joseph Pilates created is that it can be accessible to anyone. Through the use of springs and various small equipment, exercises can be adapted to provide support or intensify the challenge, rendering them customisable to each individual’s needs.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE PIECE OF PILATES EQUIPMENT?
My two favourite pieces of Pilates equipment are a match made in heaven. I use the doublar recharge balls to release tension in the muscles adjacent to my spine and then the spine corrector to facilitate fluid articulation between each vertebra. As Joseph Pilates once said, “You are only as young as your spine is flexible.”
WHAT’S YOUR PERSONAL APPROACH TO WELLNESS?
Variety, compassion, and consistency. Each day, I aim to engage in some form of movement. Some days, that looks like a professional dance class or tackling the more advanced Pilates repertoire. And, other days, it might look like taking a walk while listening to a podcast or doing release work and stretching.
I prioritise listening to my body’s cues and responding accordingly, adapting my routine to meet its changing needs.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN NOT TEACHING?
Outside of teaching, I love climbing, cheap Mondays at Cinema Nova followed by a little treat next door at Brunetti, sharing a meal and playing board games with friends, listening to records and engaging with live performances and music.
MY FAVOURITE WAY TO UNPLUG, UNWIND AND RECHARGE IS…
At the end of the day, I turn to Yin Yoga to help me unwind and prepare for restorative sleep. The postures, breath work, and humming mantras help to tone the Vagus Nerve, an important regulator of the ‘rest and digest’ response. Of course, cuddling with my cats Maurice and Maeve also helps me to relax, too.
MY SECRET TALENT IS…
Tucked away in a corner of my brain is a whole lot of knowledge about films. I am practically IMDb.
Book an appointment with Kayla online, or call reception on 9650 2220.
Pete Hunt is a highly skilled physiotherapist with nearly three decades of experience working in sports physiotherapy and private practice. The Director of The Alignment Studio, he has a special interest in musculoskeletal and sports injuries, orthopaedic rehabilitation and postural syndrome. With a caring, communicative approach, Pete uses a combination of joint and soft tissue mobilisation and exercise prescription to treat his clients. He’s also passionate about education for injury prevention and lasting results.