The Joy of Pilates

Constant back pain led me to take my first Pilates class in 2009 and I’ve been involved with Pilates ever since. I love the constant challenge, learning about different pieces of apparatus, and enjoy how different it is from any other exercise that I have done before. With time, my core (abdominals, lower back muscles and pelvic floor) has become stronger – now I rarely suffer from back pain.

Pilates can bring back flexibility, reduce pain

My instructor, Jen Wood, owns and operates Jen Woods Pilates, Yoga and Personal Training (shastapilates.com) in Mount Shasta. Jen says, “In many ways I’ve found that the Pilates Method gives people their power back in their lives. Pilates is not a fad or miracle cure. You must show up and apply yourself to the work. In many cases, people come to me when they are in pain and out of options. I’ve heard many people say that they used to ski, hike, golf or take walks, but now they can’t. We help change that. Again, they must do the work and make a commitment to their health, but I find that in most cases people get stronger, more flexible, overcome their pain and limitations and most often exceed far beyond their goals.”

Pilates is designed to condition the whole body

The Pilates Method was created by Joseph Pilates. He was a sickly child and sought to overcome these ailments through bodybuilding, gymnastics, diving and studying Eastern and Western philosophies and forms of exercise. During World War I, Joseph interned in a camp and aided in the rehabilitation of the disabled and sick. Eventually he moved to America and opened the first Pilates studio with his wife in 1926. Joseph Pilates developed apparatus and movements designed to condition the entire body, ultimately leading to correct body alignment and balance. He regarded his method as a way of life and as a path toward total health rather than merely a series of exercises.

“Pilates is more than just exercise,” says Melissa Speer, owner of The Pilates Barre in Chico. “It’s a journey to strength, control and balance. It empowers you to move with confidence, tones your body, relieves stress and connects you with a supportive community that lifts you up every step of the way.”

Whether your motivation is to target “problem areas,” rehabilitate from an injury, or gain greater physical strength and mental clarity, I strongly encourage you to try out a Pilates Mat or Pilates Apparatus group class. There are many benefits to practicing the Pilates Method – it can even improve performance in sports and other practices, such as yoga and cycling, by building strong abdominal muscles. If interested, seek out a Pilates studio or mat class at your local fitness center – it’s likely you’ll leave feeling inspired!