I was in regular dedicated yoga practice until I had my second child when I found I could no longer cope with yoga’s inwards looking style of practice. Due to two difficult births and ongoing complications with my body after these, I had lost of trust in my body and my self-esteem had become degraded when it came to my body and its strength. Being alone with myself was hard so I even avoided walking to pick up the kids from school. With two young, energetic boys, I was frustrated with myself.
About a year after going through extensive pelvic repair surgeries when my youngest was four, I finally was starting to be able to walk for distances comfortably, climb stairs - all the things taken for granted - and I realised I had put on weight ad felt weak and uncomfortable in my body. I couldn’t be almost 40 and accept that this was it! I had done a course of reformer Pilates years before after my first born and had had great results. I had remained intrigued with the method. So, finally, with a back starting to hurt, and unable to look in the mirror, it was time to commit to me. I researched different studios and chose The Pilates Loft as it seemed a calm, professional, unfussy and uncomplicated option. I liked the way I began by working 1 on 1 with just one tutor as I was embarrassed to start something new after losing all my conditioning and confidence.
Around 18 months.
I prefer to come twice weekly, and enjoy a mixture of group classes and private sessions for when I need focused support.
It has been incredible. There were muscles hidden in there. My pelvic floor feels protected. I feel strong and have trust in my body now when we do bush walks, kick a ball etc. I have less sway back and a waist, I'm straighter and have a solid core to support my back. I'm not concerned anymore about the numbers, its okay because I feel fit. Summer comes and I'm not embarrassed in my swimwear or shorts anymore. Most importantly I have never felt pressure or felt I was compromising my pelvic repair work.
The reformer machines support your body, and the instructors your positions, so the work is targeted, working you hard without feeling too hard, meaning you want to come back and commit to your practice. Other types of Pilates had always felt too rushed and straining for me, and I like the small class sizes. I like the location in town so I can add on some me time with a coffee and easy parking. As well as this, the relaxing, airy space makes it feel not too much like exercise - more a lifestyle option ad time dedicated to my wellbeing. Stephen has treated me with professionalism, space, understanding both physically and mentally, and importantly, humour. Thanks to The Pilates Loft, I can face the future being comfortable with myself. I am strong, I am enough. And I feel like as a woman, after all I've been through, I have a positive way forward.
Climb a Tree. I like that it combines stretching and flexibility with strength and its one I've worked hard at to feel strong in.
Hundreds - it's a mental challenge for me!
If you are considering giving Pilates a go, we've got a great introduction offer for our new clients.
