The Beauty of Shared Growth: Lessons from Pilates and Life

In both Pilates and life, our learning often feels linear. We look up to mentors, placing them on pedestals, believing the path to growth comes solely from absorbing knowledge from those ahead of us. This mindset—where expertise flows downwards from those who “know more”—is deeply ingrained. While it has value, this approach can be limiting.

The Gift of Learning from Mentors

I’ve been incredibly lucky to have learned from some of the most brilliant minds in the Pilates world. Over 22 years, master teachers such as Mary Bowen, Lolita San Miguel, Ton Voogt & Michael Fritzke, Wendy LeBlanc-Arbuckle, Kathy Corey, Debora Kolwey, MeJo Wiggins, Kathryn Ross Nash, Blossom Leilani Crawford, and Elizabeth Larkam have profoundly shaped how I understand movement, the human body, and even the psyche. Their guidance wasn’t just about techniques; it gave me permission to find my voice, innovate, and make the practice my own.

Mentors make our journey more efficient, saving us time and helping us avoid unnecessary mistakes. They elevate us and challenge us to see new possibilities. For all of this, I am deeply grateful. But over the years, I’ve discovered that learning isn’t a one-way street.

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The Power of Horizontal Learning 

Some of the most profound lessons I’ve learned didn’t come from experts or seasoned mentors. They came from peers, clients, and even students who were just beginning their Pilates journey. This is the magic of horizontal learning—where insights flow in every direction.

Horizontal learning is inclusive. It reminds us that anyone can hold wisdom, regardless of their experience level. A client might ask a question that reshapes how we explain movement. A colleague might share a struggle that sparks a breakthrough idea. A student might bring a fresh perspective that deepens our own understanding. This is the kind of learning that builds community, strengthens bonds, and reminds us that growth isn’t just upward—it’s outward.

Shifting from Expectations to Appreciation

When we focus only on learning from those “above” us, we can approach situations with rigid expectations. We expect mentors to have all the answers. We assume knowledge only flows one way. But when we replace those expectations with appreciation, something shifts.

Appreciation lets us see the value in every interaction—a colleague’s vulnerability, a client’s question, or even the silence of reflection. It helps us embrace the unexpected and recognize the beauty of shared growth. When we focus on appreciation, we’re less afraid to share our knowledge and more willing to embrace the give-and-take of learning together.

Lessons from Life Itself

This shift in perspective doesn’t just apply to Pilates—it applies to everything. My dear and loving stepfather’s recent passing was a profound loss, but even in his death, he left me such a valuable lesson. He used to say, “Never die in the morning; there’s always something to be learned during the day.” True to his words, he passed in the evening, embodying his principle to the end. It was a powerful reminder that learning is always happening if we stay open to it.

Building a Culture of Collaborative Growth

As Pilates teachers, we often focus on perfecting techniques, mastering knowledge, and honing our craft. But imagine if we expanded our focus to include learning from one another—not just from mentors but from peers, clients, and everyone in the broader community.

I’ve learned so much from clients who challenged my thinking, apprentices who brought fresh ideas, and colleagues who shared their stories. Their input has expanded my understanding in ways no textbook ever could. By embracing this shared learning, we not only enrich ourselves but also build a culture of support, creativity, and connection.

Expanding the Mindset of Pilates Teachers

To my fellow Pilates instructors: I challenge you to expand your approach to learning. Yes, seek out mentors who inspire you and push you to grow. But also look around. Learn from peers, clients, and life itself. Recognize that teaching is as much about receiving as it is about giving.

Let’s create a community where we’re not afraid to share, where we uplift one another with curiosity, care, and presence. Let’s move from a place of abundance, knowing that the more we share, the more we grow.

Balancing Vertical and Horizontal Growth

Growth isn’t linear—it’s layered and multidimensional. Vertical mentorship gives us tools to climb higher, while horizontal learning keeps us grounded and connected. Together, they create a balanced, dynamic approach to learning.

So, as you continue your Pilates journey, I encourage you to embrace both. Seek out mentors who challenge and inspire you, but never overlook the wisdom that surrounds you in unexpected places. Let’s trade expectations for appreciation and create a community where learning flows freely in all directions.

After all, the best teachers are also the best learners, and the most transformative lessons often come from the most unexpected places.

Your Voice, Our Platform: Let’s Make You Heard

As we continue this journey of shared growth, I want to extend an open invitation to all Pilates teachers—whether you’re part of the Iva Pilates community or a dedicated instructor in the wider Pilates world. If there’s a topic you’re passionate about, an idea you’ve been nurturing, or a unique perspective you’re eager to share, I would love to hear from you.

This is more than an invitation; it’s a call to connect, collaborate, and grow together. I deeply believe that every teacher has a story, a spark, and a wisdom that can inspire others. If you’re searching for a platform to bring your vision to life, know that we’re here to support you every step of the way.

I am genuinely excited to learn from you, celebrate your passion, and help amplify your voice within the Pilates industry. Let’s build a future where every teacher feels empowered to contribute to the growth and transformation of this incredible practice we all love so much.

Book a call with me here — I’d love to hear your story and chat about how we can bring your ideas to life.

Let’s make something amazing together!