I first did Pilates in 1989, before it was widely known. I was a competitive gymnast and injured my knee. After ACL surgery my surgeon prescribed both physical therapy and Pilates. While the PT focused solely on my knee in Pilates I was able to move and work my whole body without adversely affecting my knee. It was wonderful to feel strong and capable with the rest of my body even though I was not even able to walk! My teacher was supportive and creative and I was so happy to go to those sessions and see progress each time.
Five years later I started teaching Pilates myself. A few years later it became quite a fad! It was great to see it gain popularity but I was aware that it was far more beneficial than the hype that surrounded it let on. Many fads have come and gone but Pilates is still around. It is over one hundred years old. It’s evolved and yet still maintained its original principles. But sometimes people think it’s not “in” anymore. That new fads are better, more fun. And there are plenty of fitness methods that have great value but after practicing Pilates for 30 years now I have not found anything that I think is better for both fitness and rehab.
As a dancer I had many injuries and Pilates was invaluable in helping me heal from each and every one. A few years ago I was teaching gymnastics and wound up with a shoulder injury from spotting the kids over and over. I had help from bodyworkers and an amazing acupuncturist but my Pilates work was the cornerstone of my recovery. Now I’ve fully recovered from torn rotator cuff tears and elbow tendinitis. It took time. It was frustrating. But I persevered and regained my range of motion and strength. Pilates is amazing.
I’ve learned so much from my Pilates teacher trainer and others I’ve studied with. I have also learned a huge amount from my clients and my years of experience. But I think I’ve learned the most from my own injuries. I know what it’s like to be in pain and unable to train gymnastics, or dance. I’ve been unable to do basic things like walk a few blocks or even chop vegetables to make a meal. I’ve faced those challenges and with careful consistent work on the mat and the Pilates equipment slowly returned to a fully functional pain free life. When I work with people who are in pain and limited by injuries I have a deep understanding of what that feels like. I know that focusing on the injuries is important but it’s also invaluable to work on the parts of your body that are not bothering you and let you feel capable in those movements. I’m skilled in working with you in a way that challenges you without flaring things up and setting you back. And when setbacks happen I can tell you from personal experience that those are part of healing and while discouraging do not mean that you’ll never get better. I listen to your concerns and fears and empower you with things you can do when it seems like you can’t do anything.
I love working with people who are fit, athletes and people want to train for activities. But my real joy in teaching is working with people who are struggling with injuries or pain. Those who have been trying things but feeling like nothing helps. People who might think that they could never do Pilates. I’m here to tell you that you can do Pilates. Pilates is for you. I’m here to help you get through your challenging time and issues and find the other side. Helping someone get back to a pain free day, return to normal life and joyful activities. That’s the real power of Pilates. A “flat” stomach or “toned” arms are pretty nice but I’m most interested in helping you feel better, move better and return to life!
Solara Pilates 