Pilates and Puppies

Spending time with animals has a range of proven health benefits- so Pilates instructor and business owner Kat Tonks thought it was only fitting that she combined her practice with a litter of pups.

Pilates with Pups will be held this weekend at Kat’s studio. And while this will be the first class of its kind at KT Pilates since it began in 2020, exercising with pups not a new trend.  

‘I believe (Pilates with pups) started as another relaxation method, as time spent with animals is proven to decrease bloody pressure, lower anxiety and even increase serotonin and dopamine. It was also a great way for the puppies to connect and interact with humans from a young age to help develop their confidence with humans,’ Kat said.

‘With the known benefits, we wanted to bring something a little difference to the studio. We are always striving for that point of difference.’

Kat said it was important to her that the puppies came from trustworthy local owners and that they would also be comfortable in a studio setting with strangers.

The puppies are currently owned by one of Kat’s loyal clients, and she hoped the class would attract new clients to the studio to try something different, move their bodies and meet other people.

Currently, clients at KT Pilates ranges from eleven to eighty years old and include family members, friends, sporting club members, pre- and post-natal women and people coming in from rehab programs.  Kat said the small boutique allowed the staff to be more personable with clients and cater to their fitness needs and abilities so that they ‘don’t feel like a number’ and don’t get ‘lost in a crowd.’

‘I always wanted to create a space that anybody would feel comfortable in, no matter what shape, size or fitness level they were. A space that gave people confidence to work at their own pace, within their bodies boundaries and to show people that with discipline and consistency anything is possible,’ she said.

‘I’ve always had a passion for health and fitness and have been lucky enough to work in the industry for nearly twenty years now.

‘I learned the importance of respecting your body and how correct movement within the Pilates practice could promote mindfulness and body awareness while delivering an amazing outcome both physically and mentally.’

Kat encouraged anyone considering Pilates to take the leap.

‘Never wait for tomorrow to start moving your bodies, it may be one day too late. If you thought wellness is expensive, try illness.’

There will be three sessions of Pilates with Pups on 31 August at KT Pilates in Pakenham. Limited spots are still available.

Anyone wanting to learn more about KT Pilates can follow and message them on Instagram (k.tpilates) Facebook (KT Pilates) or call Kat on 0407 463 504.  You can also read about clients’ experiences on Google reviews.