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Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast

Health & Wellness Podcasts

Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT helps you become a more skilled, knowledgeable, and confidence Pilates Instructor by sharing practical and science-based strategies to uplift your career.

Location:

United States

Description:

Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT helps you become a more skilled, knowledgeable, and confidence Pilates Instructor by sharing practical and science-based strategies to uplift your career.

Language:

English


Episodes
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188. Understanding Knee Stretches on the Reformer

5/6/2026
Dr. Adam McAtee PT, DPT explores the biomechanics of knee stretches on the Pilates reformer, emphasizing understanding external and internal forces, muscle engagement, and exercise evolution. He shares insights on how to adapt exercises for different goals, highlighting the importance of biomechanics knowledge for effective teaching. Offerings for Pilates studios: Click here to learn more about our Foundations of Anatomy & Biomechanics Course made for teacher training programs. This program is a done-for-you anatomy module! Click here for 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club Studio Membership. For a ridiculous deal you can get your entire staff full access to the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club & the Pilates Club! Offering For Pilates instructors: ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free Muscles Guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:27:16

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187. Controversial Cues: Are They Really That Bad?

5/3/2026
In this episode, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT explores the nuances of Pilates cues, challenging common beliefs and emphasizing the importance of context in instruction. He discusses controversial cues like 'scoop the belly in,' 'tighten your core,' and 'shoulders back and down,' providing evidence-based insights to help instructors refine their teaching techniques. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free Muscles Guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:35:13

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186. A Simple Way To Build Muscle in Pilates

4/29/2026
In this episode, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT shares a simple, evidence-based approach to building muscle in Pilates by doing exercises twice per session, aligning with ACSM recommendations. He discusses practical strategies, common misconceptions, and how to incorporate hypertrophy principles into Pilates practice. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free Muscles Guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:22:09

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185. Rebuttal: Bone Strength Through Pilates?

4/26/2026
Dr. Adam McAtee PT, DPT critically examines a Balanced Body article claiming that Pilates can significantly improve bone strength. He discusses the scientific validity of concepts like Wolf's Law, axial loading, alignment, and resistance training for bone density, emphasizing evidence-based practices and the importance of accurate education for Pilates instructors. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free Muscles Guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram. Click here to view the LIFTMOR Trial video. Click here for the high intensity vs. Pilates trial. Click here for the systematic review on Pilates and Yoga for bone density.

Duration:00:47:34

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184. Five Keys to Being a Successful Pilates Instructor

4/23/2026
In this episode, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT explores the keys to success for Pilates instructors, emphasizing consistency, continuous learning, passion, and excellent client service. Adam shares practical tips on teaching, communication, maintaining passion, and expanding knowledge in anatomy and biomechanics. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:48:23

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183. Understanding Thigh Stretch on the Reformer

4/12/2026
In this episode, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT breaks down the anatomy and biomechanics of the thigh stretch exercise on the reformer. He explores external and internal forces, muscle anatomy, and practical modifications to enhance understanding and teaching of this Pilates move. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:34:36

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182. Are Pilates Injuries Actually on the Rise?

4/5/2026
In this episode, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT critiques a recent article from The Guardian makes bold claims without any supporting evidence (click here to view it). They claim that injuries are on the rise in Pilates an use common tactics spread misinformation in the absence of any supporting data to justify their positioning. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram. Click here to read about CrossFit injury rates. Click here to read about injury rates in recreational runners.

Duration:00:41:24

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181. So, Your Client Feels Their Quads in an Abdominal Exercise...

3/31/2026
In this episode, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT explores why clients often feel their quadriceps during abdominal exercises, despite modifications. He explains the anatomy of the quadriceps, hip flexors, and abdominals, and offers practical strategies for instructors to improve their understanding and teaching of movement, enhancing client outcomes. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:28:28

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180. The Science of Skeletal Muscle

3/23/2026
This episode dives into skeletal muscle physiology, covering muscle types, contractions, and biomechanics essential for Pilates instructors and fitness professionals. Learn how muscle structure influences strength, movement, and training effectiveness. DISCOUNT on the Building Strength & Muscle in Pilates course. Click here to learn more. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:42:12

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179. Inspiration for Pilates Instructors

3/18/2026
In this episode, Dr. Adam McAtee offers encouragement and practical advice for Pilates instructors at all levels. Topics include starting from zero experience, managing setbacks, continuous learning, and building a supportive community. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:30:44

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178. The Biomechanics of The Push-Up

3/6/2026
In this episode of the Evidence Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee delves into the biomechanics of push-ups, emphasizing the importance of understanding both concentric and eccentric muscle contractions. He discusses the common misconceptions surrounding core control in push-ups, highlighting that upper extremity strength is often the limiting factor. The episode also covers how to scale push-ups for different fitness levels and the significance of incorporating them into Pilates classes. Adam encourages instructors to foster a positive mindset around push-ups, transforming the narrative from 'I can't do this' to 'How can I do this?'

Duration:00:40:35

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177. A Science-Based Shoulder Programming Framework for Pilates Instructors

3/3/2026
In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT discusses a comprehensive framework for programming shoulder exercises in Pilates. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the shoulder complex, including the glenohumeral joint, and how to effectively incorporate various movements such as vertical and horizontal pushes and pulls. The conversation highlights the significance of a structured approach to programming while also recognizing the nuances of individual client needs. Adam shares insights on how to stimulate shoulder strength and mobility through targeted exercises, making it a valuable resource for Pilates instructors and physical therapists alike. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:39:13

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176. Part Two: Are Pilates Educators Allowed to Redefine Strength?

2/26/2026
In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT addresses critiques regarding the redefinition of strength in Pilates education. He emphasizes the importance of questioning educational content and understanding the scientific principles behind muscle contraction and strength training. The discussion highlights common misconceptions in the Pilates community and advocates for a more evidence-based approach to education and practice. Adam also clarifies the difference between intentional and purposeful strength, reinforcing the need for proper loading in strength training. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:47:00

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175. Are Pilates Educators Allowed To Redefine Strength?

2/24/2026
In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee passionately critiques the current state of Pilates education, emphasizing the need for a stronger understanding of anatomy, biomechanics, and the true definition of strength. He argues against misleading narratives from various Pilates educational institutions that attempt to redefine strength and movement quality. Dr. McAtee advocates for progressive loading as a fundamental principle for building strength and encourages Pilates instructors to seek out accurate, science-based education to better serve their clients. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:44:31

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174. Five Tips for New Instructors to Thrive in 2026

2/18/2026
In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT shares five essential tips for new Pilates instructors to thrive in their careers. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging limitations, the value of continuous education, the necessity of maintaining a personal practice, the diverse ways to achieve success in Pilates, and the significance of building strong relationships with clients. Each tip is designed to empower instructors and enhance their teaching experience. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:38:18

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173. Rebuttal: Studios Selling 'Pilates Reformer' Don't Understand What They're Selling

2/10/2026
In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT addresses a controversial Instagram post that suggests studios promoting reformer classes do not teach true Pilates. He emphasizes the importance of understanding Pilates as a method rather than being limited to the equipment. Adam discusses the value of fitness in Pilates, the diversity of teaching styles, and the business aspects of running a reformer studio. He encourages instructors to embrace their unique approaches and highlights the need for inclusivity in the Pilates community. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the Studio Membership. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:34:14

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172. Joint Hyperextension: What Pilates Instructors Need to Know

1/31/2026
In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT discusses the complexities of training individuals with hyperextended joints, particularly in the context of Pilates. He explores the nuances of hypermobility spectrum disorders, the lack of substantial evidence in training practices, and the importance of understanding client experiences and histories. The conversation emphasizes the need for Pilates instructors to be educators, adapting their approaches based on individual client needs while ensuring safety and promoting effective training strategies. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Pilates studio owners! Want to get your entire staff into the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club (for a DEAL)? Click here for 2-week free trail of the studio membership. Ready to take your own teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:52:46

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171. Does Pilates Target the “Tiny Stabilizing Muscles”?

1/26/2026
In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT discusses common misconceptions in the Pilates community regarding muscle functionality, particularly the idea that larger muscles overpower smaller stabilizers. He emphasizes the importance of understanding muscle roles, the sensory experiences during exercises, and the concept of muscle imbalances. Through evidence-based insights, he encourages Pilates instructors to rethink traditional narratives and focus on creating balanced movement rather than fixing perceived imbalances. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram. Click here for the paper on shoulder muscle activation.

Duration:00:32:40

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170. Bones, Muscles, Tendons, & Ligaments

1/19/2026
In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT dives deep into the anatomy of various tissues relevant to Pilates practice, focusing on bone, muscle, tendons, and ligaments. He emphasizes the importance of understanding these tissues beyond mere memorization, advocating for a comprehensive grasp of how they function and interact during movement. Adam explains the roles of bone tissue, including its structure, the significance of bone density, and how mechanical loading through exercise can stimulate bone health. He also discusses the different types of muscle contractions—concentric, eccentric, and isometric—and their implications for Pilates instructors when designing effective workouts for clients. The conversation further explores the distinctions between tendons and ligaments, highlighting their unique functions in the body. Adam stresses the importance of loading tendons appropriately to enhance their efficiency and strength, while also addressing the role of ligaments in maintaining joint stability. Throughout the episode, he provides practical insights for Pilates instructors, encouraging them to integrate this anatomical knowledge into their teaching to better support their clients' health and fitness goals. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram. Click here for the paper on muscle adaptations throughout the lifespan.

Duration:00:47:25

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169. Pilates vs. Not Pilates: Swan Edition

1/12/2026
In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pilates Podcast, Dr. Adam McAtee, PT, DPT delves into the nuances of the Swan exercise in Pilates, contrasting traditional and contemporary interpretations. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the biomechanics behind the movements and encourages instructors to adopt a flexible mindset when teaching. The discussion highlights the duality of what is considered 'Pilates' versus 'not Pilates,' advocating for a more inclusive approach that recognizes the value in different styles and methods. McAtee also addresses common misconceptions about extension and compression in the spine, urging listeners to focus on client-centered care and the individual needs of their students. Have a teacher training program? We have a done-for-you anatomy module for you to use in your training. Click here to learn more. Ready to take your teaching career to the next level? ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Anatomy & Biomechanics Club.⁠⁠ Click here⁠⁠ for a 2-week free trail of the Pilates Club. Click here for a free muscles guide. ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ to follow Adam on Instagram.

Duration:00:34:17