In light of the current pandemic situation many of us are stuck at home. Many of us are feeling stressed and uncertain. In a time like this exercise is very important. I’m offering a pay what you can sliding scale for sessions via video chat. You can have a private session from home and getContinue reading “Online sessions”
Category Archives: Uncategorized
Modern Mat
The Pilates method of exercise was created by one man, Joseph Pilates. He taught a number of people, mostly dancers, who carried on teaching his method. They all had different experiences working with him and brought different perspectives to the method. But one teacher decided that their version was the “authentic” version, often known asContinue reading “Modern Mat”
The Teaser
Client testimonial “I feel 15 years younger! I started Pilates with Solara Jean about three months ago, twice a week every week. I used to go to the chiropractor every week for my back but not anymore! My chronic back pain is gone! Prior to Solara’s expert, unparalleled tutelage, I had injured my rotator cuffsContinue reading “The Teaser”
What does “fit” mean anyway???
My introduction into Pilates was entirely rehabilitative. It was prescribed to me by my orthopedic surgeon alongside my physical therapy sessions. At the time there was no Pilates as “fitness” to speak of. When I begin teaching it was still pretty unknown and most of the clients were there for rehab and help with chronicContinue reading “What does “fit” mean anyway???”
The fundamentals
Most images of Pilates show advanced and extreme exercises. Those are “showy” and perhaps aspirational. Not so “sexy” or impressive are the fundamentals. These are the building blocks that give us the skills to get to those advanced exercises. They might not be “fun” but they are vital. Sometimes these small deep exercises don’t “click”Continue reading “The fundamentals”
Fun!
“This isn’t fun for me!” A direct quote from a client. We were working on a standing balance exercise, improving balance was a goal for them. It was challenging for them. I was trying to help them make adjustments for better balance. And they got fed up and made that “not fun” pronouncement and gaveContinue reading “Fun!”
How often should I do Pilates?
I’m asked this question by every single person in their first session with me. And my answer is always the same. As much as you can. Pilates is often touted as a magic workout that will change your body in x amount of sessions. But truly, it’s not magic. It’s practice. It’s movement. And likeContinue reading “How often should I do Pilates?”
Good posture
What is “good” posture? “Hold your shoulders back!” “Stand up straight!” and “Keep your core tight!” are some common phrases that are associated with “good” posture. But the body is three dimensional. Holding the shoulders back usually means pinching the upper back tight which is not really effective or functional. Trying to stand up straightContinue reading “Good posture”
The Pilates equipment
The Pilates equipment looks kind of intimidating. But it’s actually quite the opposite of what it appears! Rather than various “torture racks” these machines use spring resistance to provide support and assistance making movements easier to accomplish and assist your body in finding new healthier ways of moving. In a Pilates mat class you’ve gotContinue reading “The Pilates equipment”
Practical fitness
I see many people who in their efforts to get fit wind up injured. Many fitness methods and trainers take a very aggressive approach. People subscribe to that “no pain no gain” ideology and it’s not really true. If your workout leaves you hurting it’s probably not doing your body any favors! Our bodies needContinue reading “Practical fitness”
Solara Pilates 