MY STORY
Even though I danced throughout my early years, exercising didn’t always feel great. It was uncomfortable and something that HAD to be done. I wasn’t really strong and being active often resulted in pain. Staying in shape often meant keeping a close eye on the scale while maintaining a restrictive diet. Staying pain free often meant staying away from the activities I enjoyed. I wasn’t living to my fullest potential.
Then I started Pilates…
In 2003 I was introduced to the method as an alternative to knee surgery, and it worked! I got to skip the operating table and in little time I stood noticeably taller and discovered the value of deep core strength. I experienced incredible change. I felt muscles I never knew existed and activities I struggled with before like running, cycling, and weight lifting became completely possible with no pain. It was life changing.
It entirely transformed what I am capable of doing and my understanding of what being in shape really means.
Because my body felt good during and after each workout, I stayed consistent. And eventually, I learned to make taking care of my body a sustainable and enjoyable way of living that didn't require pain or giving up the foods I enjoy. The more I practiced, the more I noticed change. And ever since, reaching my goals has become not only attainable but also sustainable – a way of living that is more balanced and that feels good.
Even during debilitating injuries I was able to keep moving and stay sane.
Pilates helped me tremendously in my recovery from an unexpected brain stroke in 2005 and again after a debilitating spinal injury from a car accident in 2011. My body went through a lot and with that came a deep appreciation for all that's possible through the transformative power of the Pilates method when combined with functional training and neuromuscular retraining techniques.
In 2013 I took the leap. I left my corporate career and became a certified Pilates instructor.
As I learned more about the body and movement through continued education, practice and experience working with different bodies from all walks of life, I developed a specialized method that makes the traditional Pilates exercises more accessible and effective to everybody – whether you’re just starting, looking to change your physique, prepare for a physical event, recover from an injury or simply have a more satisfying experience living in your body.
I am now a mom of two and despite c-section births and abdominal separation, I was able to restore my core strength and function.
This means that yes, I have abs again, but mainly that I have no back, neck or hip pain and a body that can keep up with my little ones. The best part… I learned to embrace the journey. And physical set backs aside, I feel stronger, more like myself, and very happy about all that my body is capable of doing.