Jan 132019
 
I saw this article online and just thought it was brilliant – especially at this time of the year when we are thinking of starting new exercise regimes!

5 things that happen when you start Pilates

Image result for pilates in midlife

By Kelly Vero.

The wonders of Pilates.

I’m Kelly, I’m 43 and I live on the sunshine island of Malta. After turning 40, those little niggles and twinges in my back, my legs (I did a marathon or two) and all of those years standing up, sitting down and drinking wine by the telly resulted in a slipped disc in March. I decided to get a grip of my body, my outlook on life and bloody well do something.

That something has become Pilates and I’m hooked.

So, here’s 5 things that have happened to me since I started attending Pilates classes:

  1. I can touch my toes! I’ve been crippled by back pain all of my life and I’d given up on being flexible, and yet, in a few short weeks I have kissed back pain goodbye and I can touch my toes for the first time in years.
  2. I have confidence. I mean it. Pilates is not just about stretching and bending and getting to grips with the equipment, it’s also about mindfulness and going to that place where you can focus on yourself and think about exactly how you want to improve. Our teacher John says this a lot: “this is your time,” and he’s right, it is and I make the most of every second. Because of that I feel so different about myself and my outlook on life.
  3. I eat better. Largely due to my classes being in the evenings I’m a bit more careful about what I eat. Of course I dream about a big fat burger but let’s be honest, what good would that do, really??
  4. It’s a gateway to a better understanding. The tightness of my hamstrings from years of walking, standing and dancing meant that I needed some extra help; my Pilates teachers suggested I get one of those stretchy exercise bands to fill in the gaps between sessions. This has led to the understanding that I thought I always had about my body completely changing. It’s not about diet or exercise, diet and exercise or taking supplements, it’s about understanding how you got to this place and how you can improve.
  5. I haven’t lost any weight, you know, I need to make that bit clear. No, no. Instead, my posture has changed, my ribs are lifted and so is my bum, my abs are supporting my frame.

It just goes to show that it is never ever too late to start Pilates and it can really help in transforming your physically and mental wellness.

 Posted by at 4:34 pm

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