International Pilates Day 2014
By: Kerrie Murphy | 20/05/2014
Saturday 3rd May was International Pilates Day. It celebrate, Infinity Pilates Studio hosted the screening of the documentary ‘A movement of movement’ by film maker Mark Pedri.
This was a beautifully crafted documentary about the life and times of Joseph Pilates and demonstrated the inspirational and transformative nature of ‘the method’.
Whilst the day was cold and winter-y, the Back Lot Studios provided a warm haven for our small intimate gathering of some of our clientele, fellow Instructors and friends. As we walked through the stylish blue-lit corridor into the beautiful cinema space, we knew we would be in for a special treat – and we weren’t disappointed! From the opening credits and history of Mr Pilates through to the closing credits, we sat, mesmerized by both the artistic images presented and seeing the many varied movements of the Pilates technique executed with flow, precision and perfection.
Also included were many interviews with Instructors from around the world: Jennifer Kries, Mary Bowen, Jennifer Stacey and Blossom Leilani-Crawford, to name a few. They outlined their own journeys to, and within, Pilates and shared their own gems of information about the method, Joseph himself, and the phenomenal changes within themselves and their clients.
Perhaps one of the most powerful moments for me in the film was Liz Ann Kudrna’s journey: After suffering a traumatic fall down a mountainside with rocks and boulders pummelling her body – and forced to spend the night on the mountain until rescue teams could arrive the next day – the camera then panned back to reveal her in a wheelchair and continuing to teach the work to a client…who was also wheelchair bound. I think it was fair to say many of us in the cinema were humbled by her experiences and even more inspired about our own practice!
Mr Pilates was inspired by movements of animals – cats in particular – and the footage of animals moving naturally juxtaposed with Pilates’ devotees performing their movements was particularly illuminating. Watching this film enabled us to see ‘ourselves’ more clearly: to understand the ultimate goal of mind-body unification; to recognise movements and equipment we ourselves utilise – and see them executed well; to realise that Mr Pilates was well ahead of his time and he knew his technique had longevity and that everyone would be doing it. He was so right.
Perhaps one of the most powerful aspects presented within this film – and that we all walked out with a better sense and acceptance of – was that the method is a JOURNEY: an ongoing process of refinement; of development; of comprehension for both Instructors and clientele alike. Post film discussions in the Back Lot Studio’s foyer revealed how we were all inspired and moved greatly by the film. Had there been mats and Pilates apparatus within easy reach, I’m sure we all would have been doing the Hundred there and then!
The evening was also a fundraiser for Life Saving Victoria. So a big thank you for your contribution. Paul Schembri.