For 20 years, I have had the pleasure and joy of teaching Pilates. I started as a student and it so incredibly changed my life and body for the better that I knew I had to share this method with others. Since then, I've taken multiple classical certifications, worked in many studios and then opened my own, Pilates in Motion. I have seen Pilates work again and again.
In this article series, I will share with you different clients, from different walks of life and how Pilates has been the change they needed.
Dr Jenan Shraiteh, lives in Wellington FL, has her own very successful dentistry practice, and is a dressage rider. We have been working together virtually for two years. She already had her own apparatus at home, and had taken Pilates prior to working with me, in a contemporary studio.
Q- What made you start Pilates?
A- I wanted to improve my position as an aspiring dressage rider and help keep my body and spine physically fit from the strain of practicing dentistry.
Q- Coming into the sessions what physical limitations, if any, did you have?
A- Uneven hips, constantly in a twisted position from working on my patients.
Q- What were your first few sessions like?
A- In my first few sessions, I immediately noticed the difference between my past (non-classical) Pilates training and how you emphasized the proper form in all movements. I felt that Pilates is actually a lot harder than I thought!
Q- How do you integrate Pilates into your routine and schedule?
A- I strive for 2-3 sessions per week and would love to do more if my schedule permits.
Q- Virtual vs in studio, how did you choose? What are the benefits/drawbacks of both for you?
A- Virtual because I live in a different state than you but I love seeing her in person when she is in town because she is able to help me with more difficult movements that I can't find on my own.
Q- Have you noticed how the breathing and alignment have impacted not only your body but your mind? If so how?
A- Breathing and alignment helped me become more aware of my body and helped ease my anxiety because I was no longer straining as much.
Q- What other types of transformations have you noticed?
A- I have definitely noticed that I need much less chiropractic visits for adjustments, I am sitting better and more even in the saddle, and I can notice a significant decrease of muscle tension and pain after my work days. Life changing!
Q- Have you experienced a mind body transformation?
A- Yes, I have much more stress relief after my sessions and I am more confident in the saddle because my seat is so much more secure!
Q- Finally, how would you encourage people to try Pilates for themselves?
A- I would tell people that Pilates is unlike any other workout routine you can do. It truly has the capability of accessing muscles that you did not know you had, and can actually make you feel better, younger, and so much more energized. I used to think working out only counted if you were doing something high-impact that involved jumping and profuse sweating, but Pilates has proven that there is a kinder more effective way! You are so talented at what you do and I will be forever grateful to you for guiding my Pilates practice.
It is always such a special privilege to be part of my clients Pilates Journey's. I am always studying and learning, and there are not better teachers than my students. I personally practice everyday, because the method is a living thing that you carry within you, it's always evolving and growing in me, so I find the practice endlessly fulfilling.
I will say that it has kept me fit and strong these twenty years unlike anything else I have done, and I know it will continue to do so for the rest of my life.
I hope this brief article answered some questions, gave some insight, and maybe sparked your interest in Pilates.
If you have more questions, or want more information I am always happy to respond. You can reach me on my website, www.pilatesinmotionllc.com, or all my socials.
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