1. What are the three things you like best about the center Studio?
First, I love the instructors! I’ve worked most often with Mary Jo, Lia, Vicki, and Danny. But I’ve taken at least one class each from Jenn, Michelle, and Lari, and they are great, too. They all have different teaching styles, which keeps boredom from setting in. Second, I love the location and Arlene and Chandler who man the reception desk. Like the instructors, they are always available with encouragement and help. Finally, I like the variety of classes that are available. I especially like that you can do unlimited group classes of yoga, Pilates, TRX, and barre, all for the same monthly cost. Having worked up from one class a week to five and sometimes six, that is a great way to save money.
2. What did it feel like when you first started Pilates lessons at the center?
When I first started Pilates, I set up a consultation with Mary Jo to talk about what I wanted to accomplish, which is to be the best I can be for my age. Mary Jo was super helpful. One of the things they stress at the center is not doing anything that hurts. To be sure I was using the right techniques, which would keep my body from being injured, Mary Jo recommended that I start with just a few private or semi-private lessons. That way, I could learn the breathing (very important) and the basics for each type of exercise. I was also able to try out the different types of exercises and different instructors to see which made the most sense for me. That turned out to be a great idea because I really loved some types of classes and was less excited about others. However, I like all of the instructors.
3. How has Pilates helped you reach your health and fitness goals?
When I joined the center nine months ago, I also joined Weight Watchers online. Between the two, I’ve lost 25 pounds and feel confident I can shed the remainder of the weight I want to lose. But I really credit the workouts at the center for how much more energy I have and how much better I feel about myself. While I’ve not lost as much weight as I might have liked, I’ve lost inches and I’ve toned and tightened everything up quite a bit. I’ve gone from wearing loose-fitting yoga pants and t-shirts to body-hugging workout gear. And I feel good about how I look in them.
4. If you had a friend who was interested in starting Pilates but wasn’t quite sure about it, what advice would you give him/her?
Just try it! Go for a free consultation with Mary Jo, and take a free get-acquainted class or two. Take some time to talk to the different instructors about their training philosophies and the classes they teach. You WILL find something there that will be just right for you. And, if you decide to give it a try, take at least a couple of private or semi-private lessons first. Then join the group classes as soon as you can; we have a lot of fun in them.