Pilates Reshaped My Body

by Kim McGuire
(Green Valley, AZ, USA)

I have been working out ever since I was 19 years old and though I was a college sophomore, it was my first year away from home and I gained the "freshman five." I started with "Ladies Only" workout facilities, and through the years moved into co-ed fitness centers. I did free weights, Nautilus machines, cardio workouts on the treadmill and bike, and every manner of classes including step aerobics, yoga, and jazzercise.

Yes, I think all of the years of exercise put me way ahead of the game. But it was only when I began to do Pilates a few years ago that I actually saw my body change shape.

As I moved into my 40's, I could see that my waistline was getting less defined and my rear end was getting larger and lower!

After committing myself to Pilates workouts (and also training to be an instructor), I happily observed my waist once again becoming "cut in" at the sides, and my rear actually shrunk and seemed to become more lifted.

I had become so bored by the weight lifting routine, and am happy to report that now ALL of my strength training is done through the use of Pilates equipment. I am stronger than ever.

I had surgery on my knee 10 years ago, and it had never really healed correctly. At least once a week, it would "give out" as I was walking along. Now, thanks to Pilates, that never happens anymore. I even played tennis for the first time in three years, and I ran for the ball without any fear!

As a Pilates instructor, I can watch my clients decrease their pain, reshape their bodies, become stronger and happier. Physically and mentally, Pilates has been a wonderful addition to my life.