 Not All Pilates Are Created Equal...... I am frequently asked the question, "What should I look for in a Pilates Studio and Pilates instructor?" And my answer is always, "Well it depends on what you are looking for." The possibilities are endless today but it's important to note that the presence of a reformer doesn't automatically mean you will receive authentic Pilates instruction. You have many choices ranging from a "True Pilates Studio" which train students in the method Joseph Pilates developed, to a "Pilates-Inspired Studio" which may incorporate yoga, boxing and any other number of different techniques. Both will offer many physical benefits, but it is important to do your research to ensure you are receiving the highest possible quality of instruction in the method to gain the most physical benefit for your body. Many studios today offer their own certification program and the quality of these programs vary greatly. Here are a few questions to consider when selecting a Pilates Instructor:
If you have thought about trying Pilates, it's likely because you've heard about the many benefits and perhaps feel the practice could help you achieve a specific goal for your body. So just remember, the presence of a reformer does not automatically equal a Pilates workout. Choosing the right Pilates instructor is important because you're going to invest time and money, and as with any investment you'll want to get a good return.
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We are just over a week into 2018 and with a new year comes new resolutions. As a self-proclaimed self-help addict, I tend to make lots of grand plans as each new year approaches. But then real life happens. I plan my workout but then a kid spills a gallon of milk on the floor and the dog poops in it before tracking it all over the house. In my role as a wife, mother of 4, small-business owner and active member of our church, I am plagued with a constant nagging of how I should be better. How I could be a better wife, mom, or volunteer. Or how I should be giving more to my business. But over the years, I've made a conscious effort to be more realistic. Not give up on myself, but to give grace to myself. I still think resolutions are a good idea and here are 3 worth making:
1. Pick something to start doing. What is it that you have felt convicted to start doing? Is it eating healthy? Working out? Reading more? Finding community? Developing a skill? If you're like me, perhaps the answer is all of the above? The key work here is pick. Pick 1 (or maybe 2) and really focus on doing it well. 2. Pick something to stop doing. I don't mean just bad habits here like injecting heroin or picking your nose. I mean something that, if you are honest with yourself, you don't really have time for. In this era of extreme busyness, we have to learn to prioritize our time with our roles. Maybe you need to drop the book club, or dinner club, or *gasp one of your kid's activities. Not because any of these things are bad, but because it's the only way you can do the more important things well. 3. Pick a cause. Instead of focusing solely on ourselves, let's focus on the one thing that has scientifically been proven to make us happier, more fulfilled individuals. Let's focus outward and find ways to be more generous. What pulls your heartstrings? Is it animals? Children? The homeless? There are countless ways for us to use our gifts to bless other people. Whether it's your time or money, pick a cause and get involved. When we give to others, we experience more joy in our lives, because people get a lot more joy out of giving than getting. |
Heather GradkeI'm BASI Faculty and Certified Pilates Instructor by day, somewhat competent mom by night. 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
October 2024
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