The spine

  This is a little example of some exercises for the spine. They are also “ab work” which Pilates is known for. And ab work is great but the real benefit of Pilates is the focus on the spine. So few fitness methods focus on the spine. And without a healthy spine nothing else inContinue reading “The spine”

What the heck are “movement patterns “?

I have written about movement patterns quite a lot and I’ve realized that perhaps people might not really understand what that means and why they’re important. So I will try to explain the what and why. Movement patterns are just how the body is, well, moving. Walking, sitting, reaching, bending. You’ve been told “lift withContinue reading “What the heck are “movement patterns “?”

Why do Pilates?

Pilates can be intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be!  It’s really not supposed to be for anyone special, it’s actually designed to be done by anyone in any stage of fitness, even if you are at your most “unfit”. If you have been sedentary and not exercising at all Pilates is perfect for you.Continue reading “Why do Pilates?”

“Pilates is too expensive “

Many people dismiss Pilates as “too expensive”. But if you look at prices for any form of personal training you’ll find that it is not any more costly than working with another type of trainer. Massage costs more per hour. And physical therapy is usually much more costly. Pilates can help you with pain andContinue reading ““Pilates is too expensive “”

Body positivity

This video is me doing a pretty advanced Pilates exercise. Don’t worry, you won’t be expected to try this in your first session!  I’ve got almost 30 years experience practicing Pilates, a gymnastics background and slightly long arms which all make this exercise possible for me.  At age 46 I’m pretty proud that I canContinue reading “Body positivity”

Why you need to work your glutes

Why do you need to work your glutes, AKA your butt? Hint…It’s not just for bikini season! The gluteal muscles are very popular to exercise but it’s often a purely  aesthetic  endeavor. The reality is that those muscles are vital for both good posture and good movement. When we sit too much, as most ofContinue reading “Why you need to work your glutes”

Extend yourself

Most of us are spending a lot of time flexing. Bending forward. Curling over a desk, computer, phone or steering wheel. So, does it make sense to spend a huge amount of your workout flexing?  Doing crunches and spending more time curled forward might not be the best use of your time or effort.  AndContinue reading “Extend yourself”