The Exploratory Spine

The spine is a masterpiece of design containing over one hundred joints and associated muscles and ligaments. Complex design requires conscious maintenance so in this workshop we will explore structure and function using imagery and simple movement to help you embody a new understanding of your spine. We will cover how the spine converts compression into elasticity, how the spinal joints manoeuvre to create ease of motion and stability and how specific imagery can be useful when exercising the spine. Learn how a clearer mechanical understanding of the central column of your body can transform into efficient sitting, standing, walking and, of course, your Pilates practice.

Sunday 16th July 2023 10am-1pm

Workshop fees:

‘Just dip your toe in’:
$195 for any individual session

‘A curious George’:
$175/session for any 3 workshops in the series, total $525

‘Sinking your teeth in’:
$155/session for any 6 workshops in the series, total $930

‘Becoming a Master’:
$135/session for the full workshop series, total $1215

About the Presenter – Bruce Hildebrand:

Bruce completed a Sports Science degree in 1997 before travelling to the UK and studying Pilates with Body Control Pilates in the late 90’s. Bruce’s Pilates influences from around the world include Siri Dharma from Los Angeles and Michael Miller from Colorado. Bruce also studied with Eric Franklin and would later run workshops across Australia and New Zealand for many years. Towards the end of his time his time in the UK Bruce was invited to manage the first Body Control Pilates studio in Scotland, where he worked with members of UK rock band Radiohead and members of the cast of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Upon returning to Australia in 2004, Bruce owned and ran Balance & Control Pilates in Melbourne for 15 years growing the business to 3 locations, employing over 70 staff, all while fulfilling the role of Strength Coach at the Australian Ballet School for 6 years from 2005. Bruce has worked with a range of elite athletes across Australian Rules Football, national level Netball and Soccer, Actors, Musicians, Dancers and Olympic and Commonwealth Games athletes. Bruce has also facilitated nationally accredited Cert IV and Diploma Instructor training programs in Melbourne for the past 6 years. In his spare time Bruce is host and producer of The Pilates Diaries Podcast; he volunteers his time on the board of the Pilates Alliance of Australia, and is soon to launch a Pilates-industry booking system app named TRIMIO helping both studio owners and instructors become more profitable in running their businesses.

Feedback from previous session participants:
“Thanks for your contribution and the interesting material we’ve covered so far. I’ve really enjoyed the conversation and I love learning from such a great communicator. Thanks again Bruce!”

“Thanks for all the wonderful information Bruce. Loving the discussions , stories and movement exploration and exercises ! We always come come away from your sessions saying we could listen to you all day !”

“Yep, totally in agreement with all the above praise of you, Bruce – this has been one of the massive plus sides to this (covid period).”

“It is wonderful to see how easily movement quality improves using the tools you gave me”. – Tania, Wellington, NZ.

“Awesome information – a great presentation and visualising workshop.  Made a huge difference to how I experience my pelvis, my bones and my awareness. Love your work!” – Amy, Sydney, FILEX Convention.

“Great teaching & delivery – the knowledge, experience and enthusiasm for the topic is infectious… with all the pearls of information you are offering! You’ve wetted my appetite for Franklin Method. I’m now very keen to do more to enhance my own teaching in mind/body exercise practices”. – Monica Linford, Founder of the ChiBall Method™

“Thanks for the weekend workshops.  I get it now.  You really clarified the bones moving and I have greater understanding of the dynamic muscles to enhance movement & strength.  It’s more than that though! The breath, core musculature & pelvis are all co-ordinated in a far more dynamic way than I had previously understood.  This has really enhanced my use of Pilates based exercises & equipment.  The simplicity is astounding.   My clients are amazed.  I’m looking forward to the next workshops”. – Mark, Pilates and Gyrotonic Teacher, Perth.

“Not only was your course EXCELLENT, but I really enjoyed your style of presentation…..you know your stuff, and you present it in a friendly and personable way that it was very easy to relax and have fun with it!  You have really inspired me to have a great week at work. My Pilates sessions have become much more interesting, my daughter (the ballerina) is benefitting, and all in all it was great – keep up the good work!“ – MQ, Physiotherapist, Perth.