Instructor Spotlight: Poppy Young
We speak with Pilates Instructor Poppy Young about her Pilates career to date and her teaching focus.
1. Tell us a little about yourself and your Pilates background.
My name is Poppy, and I've been teaching Pilates for around seven years. Before becoming an instructor, I trained professionally as a dancer and performer, so movement has been a huge part of my life from a young age.
When I decided to step away from performing, I knew I wanted to find something that would still allow me to express myself through movement. That's when I discovered Pilates. I instantly fell in love with the graceful, controlled movements, which felt so connected to my dance background.
I began my training in Contemporary Pilates before going on to study the Classical method. Classical Pilates is where my heart truly lies. I love its history, authenticity, and the precision behind the method. One of the things I enjoy most is that there's always more to learn, and that continual journey of learning is something that keeps me inspired as both a teacher and a student.
2. How did you discover Pilates?
I had done some Pilates growing up at my local gym, but it wasn't until I tried my first session on the Reformer that I discovered Pilates in a whole new way. At the time, I was working on the front desk at a gym, and one of the Pilates instructors invited me to join a class.
That experience sparked my curiosity, and I started researching and learning more about Pilates. The more I discovered, the more I realised it was something I wanted to pursue professionally. Looking back, that one session completely changed my career path.
3. How do you keep learning?
I find inspiration in many different places, and my own practice is a huge part of that. No two weeks are ever the same, and depending on what life throws at you, your body responds differently. It reminds me that Pilates is a lifelong practice and that there is always something new to learn.
Everyday life also shapes the way I approach Pilates. My goal is to stay physically strong, capable, and free in my body for as long as I can, and this influences the way I teach. I love helping clients create movement that supports them both inside and outside the studio.
My clients are another big source of motivation. Their dedication and commitment inspire me every day, and seeing their progress encourages me to continue learning so I can support them even further. I also love learning from fellow instructors I admire and, whenever I can, I jump into their classes and attend workshops to continue refining my skills.
4. The best advice you were ever given as a teacher?
Don't try to be a cardboard cutout of another instructor, find your own way and people will gravitate towards you.
5. Is there something you try and instil in each of your clients?
For me it has be instilling discipline. Discipline in the method, their own training and the way they move their body with intention.
6. The best Pilates course you ever did was?
Equinox Full Comprehensive Program.
7. What’s your favourite piece of equipment to use with clients in studio and why?
It has to be the Cadillac. The versatility of it is incredible. It provides you with an array of tools to use depending on what your client needs and when.
8. How do you stay motivated?
Going to classes, watching educational videos, reading back on my old manuals and running the order!
9. What makes you laugh the most?
I love being silly and finding humour in the everyday moments of life. Whether it’s having a laugh with my colleagues or a girlie catch-up with my closest friends, I can always rely on it ending in lots of laughter.
10. What’s your favourite way to spend a day off?
My favourite way to spend a day off would be a slower morning, taking the time to cook a nice breakfast before heading out for a walk with my partner, Angus.
Then I’d head to the gym with no time restraints, making the most of the sauna and cold plunge. This has become such a big part of my routine this year, and somehow the cold plunge has actually become quite easy now!
After that, I’d spend the rest of the day with my family and my adorable niece and nephews, before finishing the day by making dinner using vegetables from our own veg patch. There’s something so wholesome (and cool!) about picking food we’ve grown ourselves and turning it into a meal.
11. How many pairs of grip socks do you own? Do you love or hate a stretch band?
I have a few pairs, but I have to admit I don’t actually wear them that often and prefer being barefoot when training.
I love a stretch band, but I wouldn’t tend to use it in my Pilates practice. It would mainly come out when I’m training in the gym.
12. Does your family ‘really know’ what’s involved in your job?
I believe they do! My brother was recently doing some one-on-one sessions with me, which was great. I loved having the chance to educate him more about Pilates. When I first completed my training, I started practising on my mum and sister too, so they have all experienced some Pilates.