Reformer Training

I am in the process of becoming certified in Pilates through BalancedBody. I have already taken Movement Principles as well as Reformer for Rehab Professionals. A large part of learning is teaching, and I am so excited to be able to provide discounted private sessions from the comfort of my home. 

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Sessions include guided breath work to activate deep abdominal muscles and strengthen the pelvic floor, trunk integration, spinal mobility, isolated muscle movements to strengthen as well as plenty of assisted stretching to lengthen. Sessions end with a lavender infused cool cloth and choice of sparkling water. 

The reformer, while intimidating and slightly confusing upon first glance, has changed my life. 

I remember sitting at my work desk, feeling bloated and worn out and just blah about myself. My son was a little over a year old and I just wasn’t where I wanted to be in terms of physical or emotional health. I’m pretty sure I googled something along the lines of “work out for exhausted mothers/business owners” While nothing of importance came up with that search, I had a subsequent thought to search for Pilates studios. I had never tried it, knew almost nothing about it, and yet I had a feeling it would be good for me.

Six years later, it’s my one nonnegotiable monthly expense. It’s changed my body and, more importantly, my relationship with my body. 

Getting dressed is easier, as my clothes fit better and I don't have "nothing fits!" meltdowns anymore. Helping my husband with yard work or moving furniture is pain free as I have the strength and mobility to manage it. I can (mostly) keep up when playing with my son. My pelvic floor is stronger so postpartum bladder issues are nonexistent and sexy time is more enjoyable (TMI BUT HAS TO BE SAID!)

I get the question a LOT about the difference between Pilates and yoga. In my experience, yoga is about surrender and Pilates is about control. It was literally coined The Art of Contrology by Joseph Pilates, physical therapist and inventor of Pilates. I don’t know about you, but I feel GREAT when I’m in control.

There are a lot of similarities between Pilates and yoga, and I believe they each have their own benefits. Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years and is rooted in the desire to heal ourselves and/or connect with a more divine energy. I fell in love with yoga at 15 and practiced for many years.

Unfortunately, my hypermobility issues started to prevent me from doing yoga as much as I wanted to. When your joints move too much and are too loose, stretching can create injury.

Pilates doesn't have that risk because it encourages us to meet ourselves where we are. It’s shown me where my boundaries of movement are and It helps me isolate and activate the stabilizing muscles around my joints to prevent injury.

Beyond that, Pilates is about connecting my mind and body. It’s a way to get me out of my head and into my body. We never stay in one position for too long, so my ADHD brain enjoys the variety.

Some of the moves are literally FUN (rolling like a ball, anyone?)

The spring based weight system allows the workout to be tailored to any body (literally!)

Plus, what other activity gets you sculpted while laying down?! 

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Investment: $60