Congratulations on being our PILATES STAR!

This month Rebecca is a LEADER in our community for dedication and commitment in coming to Pilates classes. We took a moment to talk with Rebecca about why she loves Pilates and what motivates her to come to class each week.

What inspired you to start coming to pilates classes?
I knew that I needed to find some kind of exercise to help strengthen my body after having two kids but nothing really inspired me that much until I found out about pilates. The idea of an hour to myself away from the chaos of little kids was also good motivation! I had done yoga on and off over the years but I really didn't know very much about pilates at all before I started coming to classes. I stumbled upon a flyer for Mountains Pilates classes in the letter box by chance and decided to be brave and just turn up and give it a go.

How long have you been practicing for?
I have been practicing for 18 months ​

​Can you describe some of the benefits you've experienced?
Pilates has been fantastic for rebuilding my ab and pelvic floor muscles. My posture has also improved - I no longer find myself slouching at my desk at work, which has helped to prevent back pain. I sit at a computer desk for most of the day so it is easy to forget about engaging my core muscles and I now remember to do that through out the day.

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How do you manage being a busy mum and committing to coming to class consistently each week?
Sometimes it is really hard! It's difficult to find time to exercise at home or before/ after work so coming to pilates early on a Saturday morning helps as I can just get up and be at class before the business of the day really starts and other things take priority. 

What are some of your favourite exercises and stretches?
I really love the star/ side plank. When I first started pilates I couldn't do this exercise at all but it is amazing how quickly you can build up the muscle strength and balance to be able to do this gracefully and not fall in a heap on the floor! Surprisingly I have also learned to love the hundreds... it is a challenge every time but it is so good for building up abdominal muscle strength.

What is the most challenging exercise for you (concentration, flexibility, endurance, abs, gluteal work etc) 
I find holding a plank really difficult but it is slowly getting a little easier every week. I also find the roll down really challenging as I am yet to be able to roll back up from lying down in one 'graceful' movement. Concentrating on the exercises and remembering to breathe properly is also a challenge at times!

For someone who has not tried pilates before, what would you say to them about joining in?

Just be brave and give it go! You will be amazed at how strong and confident you feel, even after just a few weeks. Everyone is so friendly and Ellissa and Jo are always there with encouraging words.