During World War I, a German-born fitness trainer named Joseph Pilates found himself interned in a camp on the Isle of Man. His fellow internees were bedridden, deconditioned, and losing hope. He didn’t have a studio full of gleaming equipment. He had hospital beds.

So he took the beds apart.

Fifteen years into my dance career, I was sitting in an orthopedic surgeon’s office listening to him tell me—with the casual certainty doctors sometimes have—that he’d see me back for surgery after I tried physical therapy. My back injury had stopped me cold, and according to him, the knife was pretty much inevitable.

Here's something I notice almost every week in class: a student tries a movement, I offer a gentle tip to help them refine it, and they immediately apologize. "Sorry!" As if learning something new were a failure.

It breaks my heart a little, every time.

It’s January, and for many of us, that means it’s time for a new fitness adventure. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a total newbie, it feels better when we know what to expect. Let's dive into everything you need to know to thoroughly enjoy your first class!

When people think of Pilates, they often picture slow, controlled movements. But here's something that might surprise you: in its original form, Pilates was fast, dynamic, and built for dancers, boxers and other athletes.

Are you curious about the secret to a healthy spine and better posture? Look no further than the multifidus muscles! These deep back stabilizers play a crucial role in your body’s function and therefore in both my Pilates and mobility stretch classes. Let's explore why these muscles are so important and how you can strengthen them.

Have you ever heard the phrase "use it or lose it"? Well, it's not just a catchy phrase – it's a fundamental principle of how our amazing bodies work! Whether we're talking about strength, flexibility, balance, or even our brain's ability to adapt (AKA neuroplasticity), our bodies are constantly responding to the demands we place on them.

Whether you're a regular in our Pilates sessions or you're stretching it out in our Mobility classes, there's one golden rule that applies across the board: technique trumps range of motion. Let's explore why focusing on proper form and stability can transform your workouts and boost your mind-body connection in all our classes.

New to Pilates? Start your journey with this comprehensive tutorial video. Learn proper form, basic movements, and breathing techniques you can use in any Pilates class. Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to refresh their practice.

As a Pilates and Mobility Stretch instructor, I often hear the terms "flexibility" and "mobility" used interchangeably. However, these two concepts, while related, are distinctly different. Understanding the difference can help you tailor your fitness routine more effectively and achieve better overall body function. Let's dive in!

What’s the Difference Between Yoga and Pilates?
Yoga and Pilates both offer incredible benefits, but they cater to different needs, while also complimenting each other.

Have you ever wondered why so many people swear by Pilates? It's not just another fitness trend – this holistic approach to movement offers a wealth of benefits for both your body and mind. Let's dive into why Pilates might just be the perfect addition to your wellness routine!