Instructors
PETER CLERKIN
What makes your class so f’cking awesome?
My classes are never the same, I aim to be creative and attentive to the people in front of me so that it’s unique each time. Also, movement is fun so I want to get across why it is good for you to do.
What was your journey to becoming an instructor? How the hell did you get here?
I have always loved sport and exercise, I played football at a very high level until a serious injury, after that I started coaching, I have coached in the UK and The States and my undergraduate is in Sport and Exercise Science. I have been teaching Pilates for almost 10 years and I’m working towards a rehab specialisation with all Pilates equipment.
What’s your favourite way to keep a healthy body and a healthy mind?
I start every day with a 10-minute meditation, that has been a game-changer for a healthy mind. I run 3 times a week and listen to podcasts as I run, so I learn and exercise at the same time. I find teaching and participating in Pilates meditate also. Recently, cooking dinner with my wife and listening to music have become a fun way to keep a healthy mind whilst making healthy food!
How does your choice of exercise fit/help your day to day life?
More and more I am learning to create balance with my exercise. If I am running and lifting heavy weights a lot I can feel drained, so maybe I prioritise sleep and do more stretching and pilates practice. So if I get the right combination of exercise for that day I feel energised and vital. It’s about listening to your body and understanding what type of exercise it needs.
Who’s your fitness hero? Why?
My fitness hero is Paul Chek. He is not widely known but incredibly influential. He developed a concept called ‘the last 4 Doctors you will ever need’ Dr movement, Dr diet, Dr quiet and Dr Happiness. He says if your life and health is out of balance consult with your 4 Doctors. It seems very simple but if you explore it makes a lot of sense. Also, he is 58 years old and in fabulous shape so he lives it and is an example to stay healthy your whole life.
What is your signature style?
My style of teaching has become more about using visualisation and imagery for clients to become more embodied with the exercise. Exercises will change but the important part is developing strategies to perform them well. The common mistake clients make with Pilates is to strain to do the movements, use the breath and slow down and it will become more effectively and surprisingly challenging.
What people think I don’t see when my back is turned…
The pain on people’s faces, ha! There is a lot of bravado when I am looking and when my back is turned people don’t try to hide as much that the exercise is hard!
What’s your favourite way to feel good fitness wise & lifewise?
Running, I can work out a lot of different stresses in my life from running and I get the benefits of great cardiovascular exercise from it also. In my life reading helps me understand and make sense of the world around me more, stories are of paramount importance for people.