When I teach, my most often used quote is: “If the resistance applied to the extremities is greater than the ability to maintain proper breathing and alignment, then the resistance is too heavy.” Yes, I said it! It’s not about strength. It’s about balanced and coordinated movement. In addition to lifting functional loads, one of … Read more
Let’s start with an analogy. The beloved wine we know as Champagne is authentic only if it comes from the Champagne region of France. That’s why Italian white sparkling wine is called Prosecco. California sparkling wines are not veritable Champagnes. In relation to Pilates, the proper word for this is “classical.” If you teach the … Read more
As a studio owner, a Pilates teacher, and a continuing education provider, I have come to understand that a discussion on how our industry is evolving is overdue. Teaching in Palm Springs allows me to work with students and teachers from all over the world. In a typical month, I can have anywhere from 30-50 … Read more
In the early 2000s, I worked as a personal trainer at a big box gym in Portland, Oregon. I remember those early days as grueling and necessary for character building. I worked long shifts and constantly lifted weights between clients. No matter what my other goals were, I wanted visible results, like muscular growth. I … Read more
As a young adult, I had a misguided approach to getting into shape. My quest took me countless years and many painful lessons. I subjected myself to endless hours at the gym, lifting heavy weights, running on the treadmill, and attending group classes while hoping to find something that resonated with me. I learned from … Read more
My day started like any typical Saturday. I woke up, drank a cup of coffee, and prepared my breakfast. The Seattle winter had been dreary and cloudy, but this morning, there were high clouds and partly sunny skies. After two cups of coffee and oatmeal, I was fueled and ready for a road trip. The … Read more
When I was a kid, physical critiques were not an issue other than the occasional “You are looking too skinny” yelled at me while Mom prepared meals. My adolescent insecurities did not stem from body image or wanting to “look” a certain way. I struggled with fitting in and constantly worried about “acting” a certain … Read more
“Well, now,” my doctor murmured. He lowered his eyes to his clipboard and raised them solemnly. His look said it all. After what seemed like an eternity, he finally spoke. I wasn’t surprised to hear what he had to say, nor was I in any position to debate the facts. For years, I’d lived with … Read more