People frequently ask me "Can I lose weight doing Pilates?" "Is it a vigorous workout?" "Will it tone my body?" My answer is usually, "Yes, yes, and yes! However, how much depends on you."
Randy Davis, a 30-something publishing industry manager, is one of my inspiring students of Pilates. Her story is worth telling - in her own words without my feeble attempts at interpretation, glitz or set up - as she tells it directly, succinctly and without hesitation. This is the same manner that Randy has approached every Pilates Mat class session since we met in April 2003, the start of the first program at her residential gym/spa in Bergen County.
She usually arrives as the first person to class, and quietly bounces out the door when the class concludes. She has always made sure, (whether through large group classes or small-group private sessions) that she found a way to practice Pilates a minimum of 2X a week. A good practice to keep, if you can maneuver it into your life schedule. It is one that I also personally employ, although my sessions incorporate use of the Pilates apparatus, with my private instructor in a NYC studio.
As one of my regular students, I invited Randy to speak with me about her personal Pilates experience and offer her story for the benefit of the many other students who seek to find a way to tone, tighten and strengthen their bodies as they lengthen their muscles. Whether 30-something or 60-something, conscientious attention to the work can help you uncover, as did Randy, a life with a little more splash!
When did you start using Pilates as an exercise discipline?
I started Pilates Mat work in April 2003 and I have been doing the work consistently for three years now.
What caused you to start a Pilates Program?
At the time I knew my body had changed for the worse from lack of exercise. I really didn't know how to get started with an exercise program. I had been a varsity track and field athlete in high school and college, but ten years out of school, I no longer had any interest in trying to start running again. When I saw the flyer advertising the new Pilates class, I thought it would be a good way to ease back into working my body without any impact.
When and what led to you know it was the right program for you?
I knew Pilates Mat was the right program for me when at the end of the 12-week session; I was not willing to wait for the next program series to start up again. There was an extended break between series, and instead of waiting those few months, I asked Gina about the possibility of private sessions. She was able to get a small group together for a semi-private class and I knew right then I had the desire to be consistent with the work. As I have progressed, I understand more why I like this type of exercise so much. I started in modified versions of the basic exercises, and two years later, I'm doing variations of the intermediate exercises and full versions of the basics.
In Pilates, I will never master a move for Gina will always find a way of increasing the challenge. It's the challenge I look forward to each week.
What body changes (posture, weight, size, muscle tone) have you or others noticed along the way? I love the new body I have been creating with Pilates! My waist has cinched in and my muscle tone has improved in my shoulders, arms, chest, abdomen, thighs, butt, and calves. My legs look and feel longer, and all of my joints are more open and flexible. I walk taller and can walk up stairs without tiring out. My clothes fit better and best of all, my husband has absolutely noticed! So needless to say, I feel sexier! Pilates has helped me lose 20 pounds, though my friends and co-workers tell me I must have lost more because I look like a different person.
What other physical/fitness activities have you pursued while training? I have increased my physical activity by walking to work from Port Authority and walking back each day instead of using the subway, as well as taking the stairs instead of the elevator every chance I get. I am amazed at how much extra activity I can squeeze into every day. I also enjoy the Outdoor Fitness Excursions along the Palisades Interstate Park, and skiing in winter when I get the chance.
What have you noticed about your energy levels? Stress levels?
Eating habits? Injuries? Aches and pains? Pilates has given me a greater sense of my body. I can tell where I am weak, and understand more how to move correctly and alleviate aches or stiffness. Pilates treats my old track injuries pretty gingerly so I am not worried about re-injuring my knee or ankle. Two summers ago I injured my shoulder while back diving into a swimming pool. I was pretty nervous about my doing some of the Pilates Mat exercises, but I was determined to continue my progress. The work itself enabled me to find strength in my shoulder, instead of favoring it out of fear. My energy level has increased overall, and after a Pilates session, I am completely pumped and ready for the day. Pilates has been a great way to work out the stress from my job that I tend to bring home with me and I am motivated to make good food choices to help promote the physical changes I am so proud of achieving. I definitely eat more on the days I have class!
Any comments you would like to make? I love the fact that Pilates is so personal for me and my ability even though I am in a class environment. The level of work and how deep I push myself is my choice. I can see and feel the results, and that motivates me to get out of bed or do whatever it takes to get to class.
Gina has been the perfect instructor for me because she understands the balance between pushing me to work hard, and easing off a bit because I'm having a bad day. She combines praise with challenge and I respond to that very well. I am at the point now where I feel ready to increase my fitness activities by adding more components, and I know Gina is there to help me and direct me to reach my full potential.
Randy Davis lives in Bergen County and commutes daily to NYC. She faithfully practices Pilates weekly at 6:00 and 8:00 am.
About the Author
Gina Jackson, MBA, CPT, holds Advanced PFT recognition as a member of the International Association of Fitness Professionals (IDEA); and is certified as a Power Pilates Teacher who made a conscious career and lifestyle change to fitness in 2000. She assists clients in lifestyle fitness training programs, as the Fitness Consultant, creator and energy behind http://www.prescription4fitness.com
|
