I began Pilates about 3 ½ years ago after 5 years of more “traditional” training; heavy weights etc…My trainer at the time moved out of State, setting me adrift in the process. My wife was taking Pilates and after convincing me the discipline was not just for women, I decided to give it a try. My only regret is I didn’t discover Pilates sooner! It’s a fabulous discipline, the hallmarks of such, strength and flexibility, are appreciated more and more, especially as I approach my 61st birthday.
I’m not sure I have a single favorite thing about Pilates, there are so many. I remember when I started Pilates I told Kelly, "I‘ll never be able to touch my toes"; I now reach my toes quite reliably. I incorrectly assumed that all of the hard Pilates exercises were for other people. I now know better; I execute those hard exercises. I’d suffered with a herniated disc in my neck, peripheral neuropathy of the feet (non-diabetic), poor balance and back pain for years with recommendations for different surgeries. I’ve avoided surgeries and have experienced tremendous relief of my symptoms, most days I am actually symptom free. If I have to pick one favorite thing about Pilates, I suppose it’s the way I feel after each session. There are days when I think “ maybe not go this day” but I’m always glad I did on the way home after each session!
One of the things I was worried about when I started Pilates is I would lose strength because I was used to lifting weights, not so! If anything, I’m stronger now but without the bulk of weight lifted muscles, Pilates is amazing.
As for Kelly, she is a doll. She is the consummate professional. I took sessions from other Pilates instructors at the Dallas studio but it became obvious that Kelly’s experience was superior. She has a way of making you work but have fun at the same time. How much do I enjoy her workouts? I live in Dallas but don’t mind driving to her Murphy studio because she is the best!!
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