Arm Yourself: Build Upper Body Strength for the Advanced Pilates System

Arm Yourself: Build Upper Body Strength for the Advanced Pilates System

Let’s face it—there’s nothing more frustrating than feeling your arms tap out before your abs or legs are done working. And if you’ve been diving into advanced Pilates work, you know how crucial upper body strength becomes. It’s not just about aesthetics or pushing weight—it’s about support, alignment, and unleashing the flow of movement that defines classical Pilates.

That’s exactly what the Arm Yourself Workshop is all about. Hosted at Pi Studios in London and led by expert trainer Christos Niaros, this session is your fast track to stronger arms, smarter movement, and more confident transitions.

Why Focus on the Upper Body in Pilates?

Most people associate Pilates with powerhouse core strength—and rightly so. But here’s the catch: without a solid upper body, that core has nowhere to go. Think about it:

  • Struggling with overhead movements like push-throughs?

  • Avoiding inversions because your shoulders can't keep up?

  • Losing flow during transitions because your arms fatigue first?

Then, friend, your upper body is trying to tell you something.

A strong upper body provides:

  • 🔹 Support for complex movements like Snake, Twist, and Handstands.

  • 🔹 Stability during Reformer and Cadillac work.

  • 🔹 Alignment that allows the spine and pelvis to stay centered and mobile.

  • 🔹 Confidence as you level up your Pilates practice.

So, if you’re serious about moving forward in the classical system, it’s time to train smarter—not just harder.

What You’ll Learn in the Arm Yourself Workshop

This isn’t just a sweaty workout (though yes, your arms will feel it!). The “Arm Yourself” workshop is all about functional strength, intelligent movement, and understanding how the upper body fuels your entire practice.

Here’s what’s packed into the 90-minute session:

✔ Apparatus-Based Strength Training

From the Reformer to the Chair, Cadillac, and Barrels, you’ll explore how each piece helps sculpt stronger arms and shoulders.

✔ Integrating Arms with Core

You’ll learn how to connect your arms into your core for real, grounded stability—not just brute force.

✔ Teacher Tools for Class Integration

Pilates teachers, rejoice! Walk away with cueing tips, mini-sequences, and progressions that you can bring back to your studio clients.

✔ Personalized Coaching & Form Correction

Christos Niaros brings decades of classical Pilates knowledge to help you fine-tune your technique and uncover habits that may be holding you back.

Who Should Attend?

This workshop is open to movers of all kinds. Whether you’re a teacher, a dedicated Pilates student, or simply someone who wants stronger, safer movement, this session delivers real, usable tools.

👩‍🏫 Teachers – Expand your teaching toolkit with advanced arm sequences and intelligent cueing strategies.
💪 Practitioners – Build the strength you need to progress into deeper work with confidence.
🏃‍♂️ Athletes & Movers – Complement your sport or movement practice with smarter arm training.
🧘‍♀️ Curious Explorers – Learn how Pilates creates upper body balance without strain or bulk.

Why Christos Niaros?

Let’s be real—you want to learn from someone who knows their stuff.

Christos is a classically trained teacher who’s studied with some of the best minds in Pilates, including Bob Liekens through the LEAP Masters Program. With deep roots in the Classical Syllabus®, Beyond the Syllabus®, and PPATT™, he’s got the experience and the heart to challenge and support you at the same time.

He doesn’t just teach exercises—he teaches understanding. Expect clarity, encouragement, and those satisfying “Aha!” moments.

Why Pi Studios is the Perfect Setting

Nestled along the Thames in London, Pi Studios offers a stunning riverside environment that’s both peaceful and energizing. It’s a place where the classical method thrives and evolves.

With top-tier equipment and a welcoming vibe, it’s the ideal space to explore your edges and build real, functional strength.

Workshop Details At a Glance

📅 Date: Friday, December 12, 2025
⏰ Time: 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Pi Studios, Ransomes Dock, 35 Parkgate Rd, London SW11 4NP
🎓 CPD Points: 2
💷 Pricing: £160.00
👤 Trainer: Christos Niaros
🔗 Booking: Details at bottom of this article

How to Prepare

Nothing complicated—just come ready to move!

  • 👕 Wear comfortable, fitted clothing (so the trainer can see your alignment).

  • 🧴 Bring a towel and water bottle.

  • 🙌 Be open to working hard, learning new techniques, and feeling stronger than you thought possible.

The Real Payoff: From Support to Power

Your arms are more than levers—they’re links. When your upper body supports your spine, hips, and core properly, the whole system lights up.

After this workshop, you’ll walk away feeling:

  • More connected between arms and core

  • More stable in transitions and overhead work

  • More capable in advanced exercises

  • And most importantly, more empowered in your own practice

Joseph Pilates’ Vision Lives On

Joseph Pilates designed his method as a full-body system—where every limb, joint, and muscle plays a role. This workshop stays true to that legacy by training you to treat your upper body as the second powerhouse, right behind the core.

That means smarter strength. Safer movement. And yes, some serious gains.

FAQs About the Workshop

Q: Is this workshop only for teachers?
Nope! While teachers will gain valuable tools, the workshop is equally suitable for serious students or movers looking to grow.

Q: Will we work only on one piece of equipment?
No, you’ll rotate through multiple apparatus—Reformer, Chair, Cadillac, Barrels—for a full-body experience with an upper body focus.

Q: I have a shoulder issue—can I still attend?
Please consult your physio or doctor first. Modifications may be possible, but this is a physically demanding session.

Q: Can I get CPD points?
Yes! You’ll receive 2 CPD points for attending.

Let’s Recap – What You’ll Gain

  • Upper body strength that supports the whole Pilates system

  • Smart strategies to teach and practice arm integration

  • Deeper awareness of alignment and movement mechanics

  • Confidence to go further, safely

Ready to Arm Yourself for Advanced Pilates?

Don’t let weak arms limit your strong potential. Whether you’re teaching others or deepening your own practice, the Arm Yourself Workshop will help you move with more clarity, strength, and intention.

👉 Click here to book your spot now – spaces are limited, and your next level of Pilates awaits.

Booking & Contact Info:
💷 Investment: £160.00
📍 Location: Pi Studios, London
📧 To reserve your spot, contact: [Insert contact details or booking link]
🎓 2 CPD Points

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