Pilates is everywhere right now. Reformer Pilates, hot Pilates, high-intensity Pilates. But how much of what we’re seeing is actually Pilates?

This week on The Well Known Podcast, Shannon Conklin sits down with Amanda Duckstein, founder of Reyva Pilates in Water Mill, New York, to talk about what Pilates was designed to do, how it’s changing, and why harder doesn’t always mean better.

With 16 years of experience teaching Pilates, Amanda has seen the fitness industry evolve firsthand. She and Shannon get into the difference between classical and contemporary Pilates, the importance of core strength and controlled movement, and why breathing and the mind-body connection deserve just as much attention as the workout itself.

Shannon also shares her recent hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) diagnosis, opening up a conversation about joint stability, exercise modifications, and the importance of finding movement that supports your individual body.

And because this is The Well Known Podcast, they don’t stop at exercise. They talk about nervous system regulation, being present, intimidating fitness spaces, wellness trends, and why finding something you genuinely enjoy might be the most important part of your routine.

What You’ll Learn

• What separates classical Pilates from high-intensity Pilates-inspired workouts.

• Why core strength, control, and breathing are central to Pilates.

• How Amanda approaches movement and modifications for hypermobile clients.

• The relationship between Pilates, mindful movement, and nervous system regulation.

• Why fitness shouldn’t feel like punishment or require you to fit into a certain image.

Connect with Amanda:

Website: www.reyvapilates.com

Instagram: @reyvapilates | @aducks

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