"Before starting my work with Ward Pilates, I was reluctant to garden vigorously
because my back and arms (especially my left wrist) weren't strong enough. Through
Pilates, I've realized how important it is to do a broad variety of exercises and
stretches so that the development of my body is even and strong.
How has Pilates impacted your day-to-day life? What activities are easier
for you now?
Aside from being much stronger, I find that most of the aches and pains
(primarily in my back and my feet) are gone now. I was starting to have both
on an alarmingly frequent basis and was considering going to see specialists,
which I dreaded.
I started gardening again a year ago (after 6 months of Pilates) when I decided
to put in a huge perennial border in the back of my garden. I thought
I would have to have a lot more help than I ended up needing. I find that I
am able to do many of the activities I'd stopped doing after I'd had wrist
surgery in 1997. This year, (after 18 months of Pilates) I can do even more and
I find that if I do push myself and my back hurts, a session of Pilates stretches
puts me right within a day or two (as opposed to a month or more before I started
my Pilates practice). This is a gift because gardening is my passion and my
sanity.
What's the most inspiring thing about your sessions at Ward Pilates?
When I find I can do something much more easily than I could before. It helps
when my clothes fit better, too!
Aside from the improvement in my appearance because of the workouts, I find that
the hour I spend in the Studio is the antidote to life's stresses on any given
day. There is the intensity of the workout and the focus of the instructor on my
individual needs, which is heaven, as well as a good deal of humor and a sense of
friendship which I deeply appreciate.
I have vigorously and consistently avoided trainers, studios, gyms, and health
clubs because I like my workouts to be private. I came to Ward Pilates because
friends had told me how much improved their bodies were from Pilates workouts and
that coincided with publication of Kathryn's interview with the Darien Review.
From my very first workout I have not only felt like I was becoming strong, more
flexible, and more agile, but I've had more laughs and happy moments at the
Studio than you'd ever expect. I can arrive at the studio in the most frustrated
or anxious state and I always leave in a much-improved state of mind. The
atmosphere is not only supportive, encouraging, and non-judgmental but there is a
comradery that grows stronger month by month. It's like family!"
"In recent years I had started to feel gradual pains in my elbows, knees, and lower
back. In general, I felt very unfit, and unenergized.
Once I began doing Pilates, I was surprised by how strong and flexible I can feel.
Currently, I have no more fears of hurting joints, I enjoy a greater strength,
and I attempt more things.
In short, everything is easier!
Recently I went for a golf lesson, and the pro had to adjust my swing because
I was so much more powerful and strong. Without a doubt, the incredible
professionalism, expertise, and creativity of everyone who works at Ward
Pilates is the most inspiring thing about my sessions. Everyone is so supportive
and encouraging, so I attempt more, and I always enjoy praise! The sense of
community I feel at Ward Pilates is warm, fun-filled, kind, and authentic.
I appreciate the attentiveness, understanding, and empathy. It's a great place
to play, and I laugh all the time there!"