Merrithew® Master Instructor Trainer Laureen DuBeau is like a fitness superhero. She seems to be able to ace whatever she takes on. She’s certified and qualified in all of Merrithew’s education programs and is a fount of knowledge. She approaches every challenge with optimism, enthusiasm and a smile.
Here she tells us about what inspires her strong work ethic and why the details make all the difference to your workout.
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1. What’s your personal life motto?
I like to say, 'work hard and be nice'. Everyone has goals and aspirations, but we all know that they will not just come to us without any effort. I believe that if we’re not afraid of working hard, striving to reach our goals, we can achieve almost anything and make a lot of things in our lives better along the way. Being nice to ourselves and to others is such a simple thing to do. One small, nice gesture can make a big difference in someone’s day, and it will make us feel better too.
2. How long have you been in the fitness industry?
I received my first certification from Merrithew in 1994, teaching STOTT PILATES®. Since then, I’ve seen how Pilates has come to gain greater acceptance and credibility in the fitness industry. I’ve always enjoyed introducing people to the method who have previously only trained in more traditional modalities, along with helping instructors put more tools in their toolbox.
3. How would you describe your teaching style on Merrithew Connect?
I would have to say detailed. Anyone can do or teach any exercise, but without the details, they're just movements. The details help you get the most out of each and every exercise. Rather than just saying “lift your arm to the ceiling,” I’d cue, “start from the soles of the feet and feel the whole body lengthen up toward the ceiling, then let the arm follow, floating up to touch the sky.” They may look the same, but you’d get so much more out of the second.
Laureen DuBeau on the set of Merrithew Connect™.
4. What inspired the workouts you created for Merrithew Connect?
When new material is created for Merrithew, it is definitely a team effort. We have some really great minds working on all the new programs. The variety of influence in a number of different areas, including fascial movement, athletic conditioning and post-rehabilitation, just to name a few, brings a huge breadth of focus that is evident in all the new programming. Together we provide our individual insight and creativity before coming up with the finished products.
5. What’s one tip you have for fitness professionals/instructors?
Keep learning! The fitness industry is moving and growing in so many different areas, it's really important to keep on top of all the new scientific research and movement strategies. Whether the goal is to specialize in one particular element, or to just be able to offer a broader spectrum to clients, there's so much out there. Watch webinars, take courses, attend conferences, try different workouts and learn as much as possible. You will rarely be sorry you did!
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