Beyond the Reformer

It’s Time to Replace Outdated Pilates Cues with Ava Rodriguez

• Nic Lenny • Season 2 • Episode 21

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Outdated cues and generic fixes won’t create lasting mobility. Science-driven strategies will.


In this week’s episode of Beyond the Reformer, Nic is joined by Ava Rodriguez, also known as The Joint Whisperer.


Ava is the founder of Move Beyond with Ava and the Mobility Fitness Academy, where she helps teachers and fitness professionals integrate joint mobility principles into their work.


Ava shares how her own injuries shaped her approach, why so many cues in Pilates and fitness need an upgrade, and what it truly takes to help clients move beyond pain and restriction.


She shares insights on sticky shoulders, neck pain, and the nervous system’s role in mobility, while explaining how to assess joints effectively and help clients progress.


She also talks about her journey as an international educator, the sacrifices behind building a global business, and how continuing education can transform the way teachers show up for their clients.


Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Ava Rodriguez

01:58 Breaking down outdated movement cues

04:47 Ava’s journey into movement and mobility

08:20 Beginning a career in Pilates

15:01 The creation of the Mobility Fitness Academy

19:55 Bringing science-based strategies into teaching

26:20 Sticky shoulders, neck pain and common misconceptions

29:18 Healing through movement

30:40 Challenges within the education industry

33:54 The nervous system’s role in mobility

38:59 Setting client expectations in mobility work

41:44 Balancing travel and teaching

44:59 Sacrifices and lessons from building a business

48:03 Quick fire round questions


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