Monday, May 2, 2011

Session 30

I just wanted to take a moment to wrap things up about my experience over the last ten weeks. My experience has been amazing, everything I thought it would be and more. Just a few short sessions into this journey I noticed that my lower back pain was gone and my posture and spinal health improved. As I had hoped I also have more energy too. So many Saturday mornings it is hard to be motivated to get up and start moving, but those days when I start my out with Pilates I have more energy throughout the day.

Pilates is for everyone. It does not matter what kind of physical shape you are in or how old you are; Pilates will help improve your overall health and well being. I even surprised myself when after just a couple of weeks I was able to do more intermediate exercises, and my Teaser keeps getting better too!

Pilates is never dull or boring. While there is somewhat of a script and order to the exercises, there are so many variations that can be done. Props like the Magic Circle or weights can be added and each exercise has modifications which can increase the challenge or ease any muscle tension. It is important to find a studio like BodyMind Balance that has all of the Pilates apparatus available for use. Pilates is not meant to be done on the Reformer alone. Many of the exercises can be performed on several pieces of the equipment because it will engage the muscles in a new way.

Lastly I have seen changes to my physique. Since my posture is improved I do feel like I stand/sit up taller. My waist is more defined and I have lost some inches around my waist and hips. (Most of my pants are baggier!) I have noticed that my calf muscles are more toned as well.

This is not the end of my journey. As I continue to practice I still plan to share with all of you my thoughts on Pilates, and my victories as I conquer the Teaser, the Chair, etc. I hope you will consider starting your own Pilates Journey too. You don’t have to do it alone. Join me for mat class at 10:00am on Saturday.