How and when do you begin Pilates at ProHealth?

I became interested in Pilates when an out-of-town family friend stayed with us.  She came to take classes from the highly acclaimed Pilates instructor Dr. Karyn Staples, PT, and work towards her Polestar® Pilates Comprehensive Teacher Training credential. 

Each night she raved about Dr. Staples, the facility, staff, and everything she was learning, including strength training, pilates classes, and pilates practice. As a thoughtful gesture, she purchased a starter package gift certificate from ProHealth for me.  A year ago my new journey in Pilates began.

What got you first interested in Pilates?

After 40 years of being a flight attendant, I had lots of aches and pains. I needed help managing pain from arthritis, building core strength, and working on my posture. I’d exercised in the past but never tried Pilates. I connected with Pilates Teacher Brenda Marion and she changed my life!  I look forward to weekly private sessions with Brenda, who tailors my session to meet my needs. 

For the first time in my life, I look forward to exercising.   Pilates helps my mind-body wellness.  No matter how my day starts, I always feel better after leaving class.

What have been surprising benefits to Pilates at ProHealth?

A benefit of the Pilates workout is my ability to incorporate the cues, movement, and posture lessons I’ve heard from Brenda into my daily life. I’ll hear a little voice saying “shoulders back and down and chest out” as I walk.  My family noticed the improvement in my posture, too. Brenda taught me exercises to do at home to reduce pain, strengthen my core, and stay flexible between classes.

Favorite piece of Pilates apparatus and why?

My favorite Pilates apparatus is the ladder barrel.  I enjoy the incredible stretches you can achieve.

What’s a Pilates goal you have?

Pilates has been a game-changer for me.  I’d like to continue working on using my body weight to gain core strength, balance, and posture.  Brenda is so knowledgeable and very in tune with my body.  She knows how far to push me to achieve my goals.

If you were talking to a friend who was on the fence about trying Pilates, what would you tell them?

ProHealth PT and Pilates Studio is the most professional, well-run business I’ve ever dealt with. It’s a beautiful, clean facility with plenty of windows to see surrounding nature.  The prompt, knowledgeable staff is friendly. I highly recommend it to all my friends