Growing by Leaps and Bounds
Fall can sometimes be a time of hibernation and slowing down, but not so in our studio! This Fall has gotten off to an AMAZING start at The Pilates Center Fort Worth! The environment and setup of a Pilates studio play a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience of everyone who steps foot in our doors. That’s why we were SO excited that we completed our studio expansion at the end of August. We truly appreciate everyone’s patience throughout the construction, and we’re so happy with the results! The expansion wasn’t just about getting bigger, it was about getting better for our clients. Our new space provides a sense of tranquility, allowing individuals to shift their focus inward and connect with their bodies. The use of natural light, calming colors, and well-ventilated spaces creates an inviting and peaceful atmosphere. Additionally, we’ve ensured ample space for movement, allowing for a seamless flow and uninterrupted sessions. The cleanliness, organization, and accessibility of our equipment and amenities are important to us, as they contribute to a safe and comfortable environment. In our new space, clients and instructors can fully embrace the mind-body connection, optimize their workouts, and achieve their wellness goals with greater ease and enjoyment. If you haven’t been in our new space yet, please- come check us out! On top of our expansion, we were blessed to welcome two new instructors in September: Anna Anders, a current TCU Classical and Contemporary Dance Major. Anna Anders is working to earn her BFA in Ballet and Modern Dance at Texas Christian University’s School for Classical & Contemporary Dance, along with a Pilates Teacher Training Certificate. Anna began her dance training at Western Arkansas Ballet and later joined the organization’s Pre-Professional Company, furthering her training in classical ballet, pointe, modern, and jazz. As a company member with Western Arkansas Ballet, Anna also had the opportunity to perform at Regional Dance America Festivals across the country. Since being at TCU, Anna has performed in excerpts from Swan Lake, excerpts from the Sleeping Beauty, and in a work by Christian von Howard, along with choreographic works set by members of the graduating classes of 2022 and 2023. Anna has also spent several summers with Burklyn Ballet Theatre, performing roles from Giselle, La Bayadére, Swan Lake, Graduation Ball, as well as other works of choreography set by master teachers. Anna is currently working towards certification through TCU’s 600-hour Pilates Teacher Training program. She looks forward to engaging with the Fort Worth community while furthering her knowledge and training in Pilates! Faith Wood, a current TCU Ballet and Strategic Communications major in the Honors college Faith is working towards a BFA in Ballet and Strategic Communications in the Honors college at Texas Christian University. She began her dance training at North Atlanta Dance Academy and then moved to Gulfshore Ballet in Fort Myers, FL where her parents reside today. Since dancing at TCU, Faith has had the opportunity to perform pieces choreographed by Adam Mckinney, Joy Bollinger, William Isaac, etc; along with choreographic works set by members of the graduating classes of 2021, 2022, and 2023. She fell in love with Pilates through TCU’s Pilates Teacher Training Certificate program and has been teaching Pilates classes in Fort Worth for the past year. Through Pilates and dance, Faith has found an appreciation for mind-body connection that she strives to share with her clients. Her passions for movement, curiosity, and teaching work together to create an environment that supports each client’s personal journey. Most importantly, Faith works to ensure her clients leave each session feeling empowered and proud of their work. We would love for you to come workout with us. View our Schedule and Rates here or book your first session here.
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Well fellow Texans, we survived the summer! With its sweltering days, I thought the heat might never end. It can be hard to prioritize our health and wellbeing in the summer, with the kiddos out of school, the heat intense, and crazy summer schedules. But come this Fall, there’s never been a better time to start (or restart!) your Pilates practice.
Here are the top 10 reasons why you should consider starting a Pilates practice this fall. 1. Stress Relief and Mental Clarity As the leaves change and the weather cools, Pilates provides the perfect opportunity to unwind and find mental clarity. This mind-body exercise helps reduce stress levels, allowing you to focus on breathing and movement. Say goodbye to the pressures of everyday life as you find tranquility on your reformer. 2. Improved Posture Sitting at a desk all day or looking down at screens can lead to poor posture. Pilates targets core muscles while promoting proper alignment, helping you achieve a strong and confident posture that supports long term spinal health and enhances your overall appearance. 3. Increased Flexibility Did the stress of summer leave you tight and stressed? Or maybe fall schedules are the stress culprit! Pilates can help improve your flexibility by elongating muscles and increasing your range of motion. Embrace the changing season by exploring the autumnal wonders with a more supple body. 4. Enhanced Strength and Muscle Tone Pilates is a full-body workout that engages muscles you never knew you had! By focusing on controlled movements and resistance, Pilates helps build lean muscle mass. Strengthen your body and witness the transformation as you embody grace and strength. 5. Boosted Energy Levels As the days grow shorter and darker, we may start to feel fatigued. However, Pilates can be your secret weapon against the fall slump. Engaging in regular practice will boost your energy levels and leave you feeling invigorated. 6. Injury Prevention In your athletic endeavors and even just the hustle and bustle of daily life, injuries can easily occur. Pilates, with its emphasis on proper form and alignment, acts as a shield against potential injuries. Incorporating Pilates into your routine this fall will provide a solid foundation for a healthier, injury-free lifestyle. 7. Weight Loss and Body Sculpting As cozy sweaters and layers become essential fall attire, staying in shape is crucial. Pilates is a low-impact exercise that burns calories and helps you shed those extra pounds. Let Pilates be your cornerstone for achieving your weight loss and body sculpting goals this season. 8. Improved Balance and Coordination Navigating through slippery leaves and uneven terrain can make fall activities challenging. Pilates enhances your balance and coordination, making it easier to stay agile and confident. Embrace autumn adventures with a newfound grace and stability. 9. Mind-Body Connection Pilates isn't just about the physical benefits; it's also about connecting with your mind and body. This holistic approach allows you to tune in, be present, and better understand yourself. You'll leave each Pilates session feeling renewed and balanced in both mind and body. 10. Community and Support Starting a Pilates practice this fall means gaining entry to a welcoming community of like-minded individuals. At The Pilates Center, you'll find camaraderie, encouragement, and a support system to guide you through your Pilates journey. Celebrate the changing seasons together and forge meaningful connections along the way. Joining the world of Pilates this fall offers an array of benefits that extend far beyond the exercise itself. From reducing stress and enhancing posture to improving strength and balance, Pilates is a transformative practice. Embrace the vibrant season and discover the countless ways Pilates can enrich your life. Start your journey this fall and witness the positive impact it has on your overall well-being. Let Pilates be the golden leaf of change that ignites your passion for a healthier and happier you! Pilates During Menopause: A Match Made in Heaven!
While menopause is a natural stage in every woman's life, it often comes with its fair share of physical and emotional challenges. Though we can’t avoid going through this stage of life, there are ways to alleviate its symptoms and improve overall well-being. One of my most highly recommended is, of course- Pilates! 1. Promotes Bone Health During menopause, estrogen levels decrease, leading to a loss of bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Pilates emphasizes weight-bearing exercises that are low impact and stimulate bone growth, improving overall bone health. The controlled movements and resistance utilized in Pilates workouts help strengthen the bones, reducing the likelihood of fractures and improving stability. 2. Enhances Posture Menopause can often result in changes in posture due to hormonal imbalances, loss of muscle mass, and altered body composition. Pilates workouts focus on core strength, alignment, and elongation of the spine. They aid in correcting postural imbalances, preventing issues like round shoulders, forward head posture, and reduced flexibility, ultimately promoting better body alignment and balance. 3. Increases Muscle Tone and Strength With the decrease in estrogen during menopause, women naturally experience a loss of muscle mass. Engaging in Pilates exercises can help combat this muscle loss by targeting and toning various muscle groups. The controlled resistance training involved works to build lean muscle, increase overall strength, and restore muscular balance, resulting in improved functional abilities and vitality. 4. Alleviates Hot Flashes and Reduces Stress Menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings can be anxiety-inducing and disruptive to everyday life. Pilates, with its emphasis on controlled breathing and intentional movement, helps regulate and deepen the breath, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. Through mindful exercise, Pilates can enhance mental clarity, reduce anxiety, and contribute to better management of hormonal fluctuations. 5. Improves Pelvic Floor Health Menopause can sometimes lead to pelvic floor dysfunction, resulting in issues like urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Pilates exercises specifically target the deep core muscles, including the pelvic floor. Regular practice can strengthen the pelvic floor and enhance its function, minimizing the risk of pelvic floor disorders and improving overall pelvic stability. While menopause can bring about various challenges, incorporating Pilates into your daily routine can greatly contribute to managing menopausal symptoms and promoting overall well-being. Pilates not only addresses physical changes but also offers numerous mental and emotional benefits. By focusing on core strength, flexibility, and posture, Pilates becomes an invaluable exercise companion for women navigating the transition of menopause. Embrace this empowering practice and take charge of your menopausal journey with Pilates as a trusted ally! Embrace the Gentle Path: Why Punishing Our Bodies for Exercise is Unnecessary In our fast-paced, outcome-driven society, the concept of exercise is often accompanied by the idea of pushing our bodies to extremes. Many of us have grown accustomed to equating pain with gain, believing that punishing ourselves during workouts is the only path to achieving our fitness goals. However, at The Pilates Center, we believe there is a better way. Why is Punishing Our Bodies for Exercise is Unnecessary? 1. Sustainable Progress: Punishing our bodies through intense workouts might offer immediate results, but it often leads to burnout, injuries, and a lack of long-term commitment. True progress lies in adopting a sustainable approach, one that nurtures and respects our bodies throughout the journey. Exercise should enhance our overall well-being, not leave us feeling depleted and defeated. 2. Mind-Body Connection: Punishing exercise regimens can be mentally and emotionally draining. They create an association between exercise and negative emotions such as dread or even incompetence. By opting for gentle movement practices like Pilates, we can establish a positive mind-body connection grounded in self-care, self-acceptance, and self-love. This fosters a healthier relationship with exercise and promotes mental wellbeing. 3. Reduced Risk of Injury: Intense workouts often push our bodies past their limits, increasing the likelihood of injury. On the other hand, Pilates promotes mindful movement, focusing on core strength, flexibility, and balance. By gently engaging our muscles and joints, we minimize the risk of strains, sprains, and other exercise-related injuries. This allows us to be proactive and efficient about our physical health without putting unnecessary stress on our bodies. Why Pilates? A Gentle Path to Movement Don’t get me wrong. Gentle does not equal easy. You will sweat and you will work hard in Pilates. But you will move your body mindfully. You’ll learn to work with your body instead of against it. Pilates is a comprehensive exercise system that prioritizes developing the whole body, including strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance. By practicing Pilates, we engage in a holistic approach to movement that benefits not only our physical fitness but also enhances our mental clarity and overall wellness. Pilates also emphasizes body awareness, teaching us to listen to our bodies and move with intention. This is much different than just mindlessly running on the treadmill. It’s not that running or other high impact programs are bad. I was a runner myself in another lifetime, and was greatly benefited by cross-training with Pilates. In our exercise regimes, as in life, we need balance. Try adding in some Pilates into your routine if you’re not already, and feel the difference that mindful movement can make in your everyday life. Discover Your Path to Success as a Certified BASI Pilates Instructor
Are you passionate about fitness and helping others achieve their wellness goals? If so, consider signing up for our upcoming BASI Pilates Instructor training! With its comprehensive training program and extensive global recognition, BASI Pilates offers you a unique opportunity to transform lives while nurturing your own personal growth. Trust in the BASI Pilates Legacy Established in 1989 by renowned Pilates instructor Rael Isacowitz, BASI Pilates has become a global leader in Pilates education. With over three decades of experience and a presence in more than 30 countries, BASI Pilates sets the gold standard in Pilates teacher training. By choosing to become a certified BASI Pilates Instructor, you align yourself with an esteemed organization that prioritizes excellence, integrity, and innovation. With access to unparalleled resources and support, your journey towards becoming a respected professional in the world of Pilates is bound to be exceptional. Comprehensive and Versatile Training Program At the Pilates Center, we offer both the Mat Teacher Training and the Comprehensive Teacher Training. The BASI curriculum is meticulously designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and techniques necessary to deliver exceptional results to your clients. Mat Program The BASI Pilates® unique approach to Mat Work as the foundation of the Pilates method permeates this exciting course. Taught to be applicable in many different settings and environments, it covers a very wide repertoire of Mat Work exercises and the integration of small apparatus. BASI encourages students to regard the Mat Work course as a springboard to the Comprehensive course. Comprehensive Program The BASI Pilates® Comprehensive Teacher Training Program gives students in-depth knowledge of Pilates theory, exercises, and skills to teach advanced-level clients on the Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Ladder Barrel, F2 Spine Corrector, F2 Arm Chair, Ped-a-Pul, Mat, and other auxiliary apparatus. The BASI Pilates Comprehensive TeacherTraining Program consists of 12 modules and, upon completion of all 12 modules, students are eligible to pursue a Comprehensive Pilates teaching certificate. Expand your Career Opportunities Becoming a certified BASI Pilates Instructor opens up a world of exciting career opportunities. As the demand for Pilates continues to rise, there is a growing need for highly qualified instructors who can deliver safe and effective sessions. Whether you choose to work at established Pilates studios, fitness centers, rehabilitation clinics, or even start your own business, a certification from BASI Pilates will set you apart from the competition. Industry leaders recognize BASI Pilates as a mark of excellence and professionalism, ensuring that you will be highly sought after by employers and clients alike. What are you waiting for? Register or learn more here. Why Should We Include More Plant-Based Foods in Our Diets
As we become more aware of the impact our diets have on the environment, our health, and the welfare of animals, more and more people are turning to starting to include more plants in their diets- YES!! And by plants, I DON’T just mean vegetables. A plant based diet includes foods like
At the heart of this shift is the realization that we can improve our health while also better protecting the planet by simply including more plant-based foods in our meals. So why should YOU start including more plant based foods in your diet? Better for our health Research shows that diets based on plant-based foods are better for our health than those based on animal products. Plant-based diets tend to be lower in saturated fats, cholesterol, and calories, and higher in fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients like vitamins C and E, carotenoids, and potassium. This can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Additionally, plant based foods are easily digested which leads to better gut health. Worried about protein? There are plenty of plant-based foods packed with protein like chick-peas, almonds and lentils. Plant-based protein powders are also easily accessible in the market. In summary, plant-based foods promote better overall health. And when we FEEL better, we LIVE better. Better for the environment Industrial animal agriculture is one of the biggest contributors to climate change, deforestation, and water pollution. By including more plant-based foods in our diets, we can reduce the environmental impact of our food choices. Plant-based foods require less land, water, and other resources to produce, and generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions and waste products than animal products. Better for animals Unfortunately in the US, the vast majority of animal agriculture involves factory farming in really deplorable conditions. Not only is this bad for the animals, it's bad for the land as well! By choosing plant-based foods, especially those from local and organic farms, we can spare animals from the suffering of factory farming, transport, and inhumane slaughter practices. This isn't to say we eliminate ALL animal based products from our diet (I love my salmon!). But the companies you choose to support can make a difference. Check out resources like Regenerative Mama that list resources for meat, dairy, and home goods that have been regeneratively/beyond organic farmed. Whether it's for our health, the environment, or animals, plant-based diets offer a host of benefits that are hard to ignore. So next time you sit down to eat, think about how you can incorporate more plant-based foods into your meal and enjoy the benefits of a more mindful and sustainable diet! Photos above from the Master I and II BASI Legacy Program in at BASI last month. I’m so thankful to to Rael, BASI founder, for sharing the gift of his life’s work with us and for all the faculty that generously guided us through an incredible 6 days! I’m bringing everything I learned back to our clients and I’m SUPER excited.
I often get asked, why BASI Pilates? Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century and has since gained worldwide popularity for its holistic approach to fitness and wellness. BASI Pilates is one of the many methods that have emerged from the original Pilates system, and The Pilates Center Fort Worth is proud to be a host studio for their Comprehensive Teacher Training Program. In this blog post, I’ll talk a little about the history and approach of BASI Pilates and explain how it is different from other Pilates approaches. Origin of BASI Pilates BASI Pilates was founded by Rael Isacowitz in 1989. Isacowitz was a professional dancer and gymnast who was introduced to the Pilates system while rehabilitating a dance injury. He immediately became immersed in the Pilates method and soon began to develop his own approach by incorporating his background in gymnastics and dance. Rael’s approach was based on a deep understanding of anatomy, kinesiology, and biomechanics. He believed that every person is unique and has different needs, and that the Pilates method should be adapted to meet those needs. This led him to develop a comprehensive teacher training program that emphasized the principles of the Pilates method, while also providing instructors with the skills and knowledge to modify exercises for different body types and fitness levels. BASI Pilates has since become one of the most respected Pilates methods in the world, with a presence in over 35 countries. Its reputation is built on its commitment to excellence in education, its focus on body mechanics and functional movements, and its dedication to helping people achieve their fitness goals through safe, effective, and mindful movement. The Approach of BASI Pilates BASI Pilates is a comprehensive approach to Pilates that focuses on the principles of concentration, control, centering, precision, breath, and flow. It emphasizes the development of core strength, flexibility, and balance, while also improving posture, alignment, and body awareness. One of the key differences between BASI Pilates and other methods is its commitment to individualized instruction. BASI Pilates teachers are trained to assess each client’s needs and abilities, and to adapt the exercises accordingly. They are also skilled in modifying the exercises to accommodate injuries or health conditions, making Pilates accessible to a wide range of people. With BASI Pilates, there is a strong emphasis on functional movements. This means that the exercises performed in Pilates are specifically chosen to help clients improve their movements in daily life, such as bending, lifting, and carrying. By focusing on movements that are practical and applicable to everyday activities, BASI Pilates can help clients prevent injury and improve their overall quality of life. The goal is to create stronger, more efficient movement patterns that will transfer to everyday living and help clients to maintain their independence as they age. BASI Pilates instructors are trained to analyze movement patterns and design customized exercises that address the individual needs of each client, making it a highly effective and personalized approach to fitness. So what are you waiting for? Book a private or group class with us today- and experience the absolute joy of BASI Pilates for yourself! In my family, we avoid foods that contain toxic ingredients like BPA, BHA, BHT and TBHQ in our food (at home where I can control it anyway)… I NEVER would have thought it could be in our clothes!
So I was really alarmed when I saw an article from CNN with this headline: A growing number of sports bras, shirts and leggings brands found with high levels of toxic chemical, watchdog warns With all that I’ve read about the harms of BPA, coupled with the fact that I basically live in workout clothes, this article certainly caught my attention. So what was found? The Center for Environmental Health (CEH) is a nonprofit whose mission is to “protect people from toxic chemicals by working with communities, consumers, workers, government, and the private sector to demand and support business practices that are safe for public health and the environment.” According to the CEH, an increasing number of sports bra and athletic wear brands have been found with high levels of BPA in them. BPA stands for bisphenol A, an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics and resins since the 1950s. Some research has shown that BPA can seep into food or beverages from containers that are made with BPA, and can seep into the skin through exposure to receipts. Exposure to BPA is a concern because of the possible health effects on the brain and prostate gland of fetuses, infants and children. It can also affect children's behavior. Additional research suggests a possible link between BPA and increased blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In 2018, the US Food and Drug Administration published findings from “the largest study ever conducted to study the full range of potential health effects from exposure to BPA. This study along with many others confirmed that BPA is safe at the very low levels to which consumers are exposed.” The state of California, however, went a step further and set the “safe” limit for BPA exposure at 3 micrograms/day. Based on California’s levels, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) claims to have sent legal notices to eight brands whose leggings, shorts, sports bras, and athletic shirts after testing showed the clothing could expose wearers to up to 40 times the safe limit of BPA. Which brands were affected? The newly tested athletic wear brands and their products include leggings from Athleta, Champion, Kohl’s, Nike and Patagonia, sports bras from Sweaty Betty, athletic shirts from Fabletics and shorts from Adidas, Champion and Nike. The group also tested athletic shirts from brands that included The North Face, Brooks, Mizuno, Athleta, New Balance, and Reebok and found similar results; as well as socks from over 100 different companies. They are actively encouraging these companies to reformulate their clothing to remove exposure to BPA. See the list of sock brands with high levels of BPA. See the list of athletic shirts and sports bras with high levels of BPA. What can you do? To limit your exposure to BPAs found in some active wear, CEH recommends:
You can also take action: Tell Fashion CEOs: Take the BPA Out of Socks Tell Activewear CEOs: Take the BPA Out of Sports Bras and Athletic Shirts! With all the fads, trends, and the explosion in athletic wear, first time clients and seasoned veterans alike often ask me–what the heck should I wear to my Pilates session?
Though it’s definitely no fashion contest, there are some guidelines I like to provide so that you can get the most out of your Pilates class: Wear form fitting, comfortable clothing that you can move in Let’s start with the most basic one: the actual clothes that you wear! You’ll want to come to your class in something form fitting that doesn’t restrict your movement too much. I say form fitting because you don’t want to worry about whether when you bend this way or that, your shirt is going to fall down around your neck. Also, sometimes loose clothing can bunch in uncomfortable ways and/or get caught in the equipment. But, perhaps most importantly, you will want your instructor to have a good view of your spine and joints to ensure you get the most out of your session. So go for something that is snug enough to stay out of the way, but not too tight that it restricts your movement. Next you’ll want to make sure your clothing feels comfortable against the skin and when you move. The comfort factor is a matter of choice, but again- it’s more about not being distracting while you’re working out. This means avoiding anything with zippers or buttons, or shirts that tie in the back (you’ll be laying on that tie, which might be uncomfortable or mess with your alignment!) Some women swear by compression leggings and the like because they feel held in, and I’m all for that, as long as your breathing and movement is not restricted during your workout. Ladies: Invest in a sports bra you feel good in Did you know that researchers found that, contrary to popular belief, going without a bra doesn’t actually make your breasts sag more over time? So my recommendation here isn’t about health or esthetics, it’s more that a comfortable, well-fitting sports bra that just FEELS better when you’re working out. With so many new and different brands out there these days, my recommendation is to be open to sizing and styles: you might be one size in one brand and a whole other size in another brand. Cups should contain the breasts evenly, without creating spillage or cutting into your sides or the top part of your chest. Gaping means you may need a different cup size or a smaller band size. Baggy or wrinkled cups are a sign that a bra is too big. Spilling over the top and sides means a cup is too small. So try different sizes and styles to see how best you’ll feel supported, and what makes you feel good. Gents: Wear form fitting shorts Loose baggy shorts might be good for the gym or basketball, but for Pilates, guys will want to wear form fitting shorts- either on their own, or under a pair of slightly looser shorts. This is sort of the male equivalent to women not wearing see-through leggings. Remember - many Pilates exercises have your legs up in the air. Best to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions during class! Leave the jewelry at home Not only can jewelry get in the way while working out (rings can affect your weight bearing, and necklaces can fall into your face during inversions), they’re also dangerous for the equipment! Sharp jewelry can scratch or even puncture the vinyl, a very expensive repair to remedy. So leave the jewelry at home. Go with minimal makeup and frangrance free While I love a good body lotion and quick 5 minute makeup touchup, it’s best to come au naturale to your Pilates class. Not only does this make for some awesome #nofilter moments, the dyes and chemicals in your lotions and makeup can leave marks on the equipment and many are actually really difficult to clean out! With makeup as well, I can see that women get distracted, wondering if their mascara is running or if their lipstick has smudged. Save your lotions and potions for AFTER your Pilates class! To sock or not to sock The pilates sock can be very divisive! Some people are in the “no way” camp, feeling like socks interfere with the foot connection and don’t allow for proper ‘foot work’, which jeopardizes the whole Pilates system. Others argue- hey- they keep you from slipping all over the studio, they keep you from spreading foot germs on the shared equipment, and (bonus) they keep your toes warm in winter! I think there’s a place for both and it’s a matter of personal preference. If you decide to go sock free, what I would say is that it’s best to clean your feet before class. During a typical Pilates session, you’ll have your feet touched, stretched, and cued by the instructor. Clean feet are always appreciated, not just by the instructor, but to keep the equipment at its best as well. Tie back your hair Wearing your hair loose and free flowing might look nice, but it’s definitely a safety hazard. It can easily get caught in the springs or hinges of the equipment or fall in your face during inopportune times meaning you’re constantly needing to stop what you do to fix it. Best to tie it back and forget about it. Hopefully these guidelines for what to wear to get the most out of your Pilates sessions are helpful and take some of the guesswork out for you! Your Pilates instructor really can make or break your session, and I want our clients to have the very best! For this reason, we are proud to host the BASI Pilates Teacher Training Certificate Course, a world-wide leader in quality Pilates education. I’m super excited to introduce you all to our new apprentice instructors: Deven, Chris, and Amy.
All of our apprentice instructors have been through extensive training in the original work of Joseph Pilates, and fully trained on all apparatus. They also learn how to teach for all levels of fitness and how to challenge and inspire their students. They model the BASI values of excellence, passion, and compassion. We cannot wait for you to meet them! You can book private sessions with them for only $45 for a limited time! Meet Deven Deven knows first hand the benefits of total body wellness. As a licensed massage therapist with over 14 years of experience, she is excited to offer the benefits of Pilates & total body movement. Deven began her journey into Pilates, while looking for a way to improve her overall wellness. After many of her massage clients had touted the benefits they’ve felt from Pilates, Deven too wanted to discover the benefits of Pilates & total body movement. It didn’t take long for Deven to decide to pursue Pilates Instruction Certification as a compliment to her love of massage therapy. Deven & her husband Alan are always looking for fun ways to stay active while keeping in mind good form & function of the body. Deven is excited to utilize her knowledge of the body to skillfully guide her clients and help them feel all the benefits of Pilates and total body wellness. Meet Chris Although not a native Texan, Fort Worth has served as home to Christina for 35 years. She is married to her husband, Carlos, has two children, Casey and Caitlyn, and a grandson named Mateo. Being with family and friends, working out in the yard, and practicing Pilates are her favorite things in life! Christina is working on her BASI Pilates Comprehensive Certification and Balanced Body’s Reformer and Mat Certifications. Teaching Pilates has brought Christina “out of her box” and working with people is always a lot of fun! Christina was introduced into the world of Pilates five years ago, and fell in love with the practice. She hopes to pass on her passion and inspire her clients to discover the connections they can have to their own bodies and enjoy the difference it can make in their lives Meet Amy Amy Bonnett is a native Texan and has lived in Weatherford for over 18 years. She has always loved being active and initially discovered Pilates as a way to rehabilitate a neck injury she suffered while wake surfing. Amy was blown away at how well Pilates helped her heal her neck while also strengthening and balancing her entire body in a strong functional way. Right away she knew that Pilates was a gift she wanted to share with her friends and family and enrolled in the BASI Pilates Comprehensive Program. Amy is excited to start her career as a Pilates instructor and show her clients how strong their bodies can become. Book your private apprentice session here! |
Heather GradkeI'm a BASI Certified Pilates Instructor by day, somewhat competent housewife by night. I used to have hobbies but then CHILDRENS. I am married to the love of my life and somewhat charismatic Rustin Gradke. I have 4 kids that are wonderful sometimes but mostly they just eat a lot. I'm a lover of God and movement and the occasional bowl of queso. Archives
March 2024
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