All The Ways Pilates Changes Your Body … From a Former Moulin Rogue Dancer

If you’ve ever been curious about Pilates, Rachel Crompton, Head of Pilates at Elixr Health Club, is the perfect person to guide you. With over two decades of experience, a background in professional dance, and an infectious passion for movement, she knows exactly why Pilates is a game-changer for your body.

Rachel’s Pilates journey began in 2002 after a career in dance that took her from Moulin Rouge to choreographing for the Sydney Paralympics. Searching for her next step, she stumbled upon a mat class and was instantly hooked. “I’ve never looked back,” she says. That love for Pilates yet to fade, and after 20 years at Elixr, she’s still inspired every day. “The members! I love being around people who value exercise, and I love the positive impact exercise has on their lives. I have the best job ever!”

So, what exactly makes this workout so transformative? Here’s what Rachel has to say about the power of Pilates to change your body (and soul)!

Posture perfection

One of the first things you’ll notice when you start Pilates is how your posture improves. “Pilates focuses on core strength and correct body alignment, which naturally improves posture. By engaging the core muscles and being mindful of how you move, your body learns to sit, stand, and function with better alignment and overall body mechanics,” says Rachel.

A sculpted, toned body

Want that long, lean look? Pilates is your answer. “Pilates builds strength through controlled movements that engage both deep stabilising muscles and larger prime movers,” says Rachel. “Unlike heavy weight training, Pilates promotes balanced muscle development, which creates a toned and sculpted physique without excessive bulk.”

It’s a flex

Ever wish you could touch your toes with ease? According to Rachel, Pilates makes that possible. “Each Pilates class incorporates mobility exercises that help improve flexibility to increase range of motion. This allows for smoother, more efficient movement while reducing stiffness and tension,” she says.

Better balance

Rachel has seen firsthand how Pilates sharpens your coordination and balance. “By strengthening the core and stabilising muscles, Pilates enhances both balance and coordination. Every movement in Pilates requires awareness and control,” she says. Over time, this improves your ability to stay steady on your feet and allows you to execute complex movements with greater ease and confidence.

Pain-free living and injury prevention

For Rachel’s partner, Pete, Pilates has been life-changing. “He’s had many back issues over his adult life and first did Pilates as rehabilitation after a back operation. He has been doing Pilates now for over 30 years and religiously does three reformer classes at Elixr a week.” Why? “Pilates corrects structural and muscular imbalances while promoting proper alignment and functional movement patterns. This helps to prevent injuries and alleviate pain. By strengthening the body in a balanced way, Pilates enhances stability and reduces strain on joints and muscles.”

A mental reset

Finally, beyond the physical perks, Pilates is also a form of mindfulness. “Pilates isn’t just a physical workout—it’s a mental reset as well. The focus on controlled breathing and mindful movement helps reduce stress and boosts clarity. You leave feeling recharged, both physically and mentally, ready to take on the rest of your day with a clear mind and renewed energy.”

Rachel doesn’t just preach the benefits of Pilates—she lives them. Whether it’s training her kids, Remy and Essie, to strengthen their athletic abilities, helping Pete maintain a pain-free back, or leading classes at Elixr, she has seen how Pilates can transform lives. And, in case you were wondering, her secret to looking so youthful? “Enjoying life but being balanced about it. Getting enough sleep each night, having discipline with what I eat, and also drinking in moderation, are all key. Working in a gym, I am fortunate to always be around healthy and happy people.”