What is Mat Pilates?
You've probably heard of Pilates and likely seen the equipment either in photos or in studios around town, but what exactly is Mat Pilates and how is it different from Pilates done on the equipment.
Mat Pilates is a way to stretch and strengthen your body, primarily the muscles of the core. Joseph Pilates developed this exercise methodology in the early 1900s to help fellow internees in a German national camp in England and, later, World War I veterans injured in the war. Later, Pilates brought his exercise system to the United States.
The standard Pilates system of exercise uses many different pieces of equipment, such as the reformer, cadillac and barrel. But, the Mat Pilates series of exercise is performed equipment-free, with the moves adapted to work with just your body and a mat for cushioning and support.
Toning, flexibility, better posture, more efficient movement, the body/mind connection — just about every benefit the Pilates method has to offer can be achieved through mat work.
What I offer
Mobile Training
I come to you and give you the same quality work out you would receive in the group classes but in the comfort of your own home. This enables you to add mat pilates to your life even when life is so busy you can't get to the studio.
Invite your friends to create a group or train privately, the choice is yours.
Private Classes
Focus on you, your body, your health. Classes are tailored to your level of fitness and programs are created to help you reach a set goal within your body.
In Studio Training
Classes are offered at The Village Clinic located in Tsawwassen.
Group classes are limited in size to allow personalized attention to each clients specific abilities. As you progress thru a session of group classes you will notice a change within your body and ability. Each class builds on the previous session to allow you to achieve a better, stronger you.
about me
My "back" story
In 2007 I returned to Vancouver after travelling thru Costa Rica, Ireland and England for a few years. After getting married and having my first child I discovered the practice of Pilates at a local studio. I was looking for a work out that was a challenge for my body but offered a break for my mind, where my focus could shift from changing diapers and preparing bottles to concentrating on my body, even if just for an hour.
I found more than that, I found a stronger me, a more focused me and developed a passion for the power of Pilates that I wanted to share with other people.
After moving to Tsawwassen and having my second child I knew I needed to bring Pilates back into my life so I found a local studio and started working out again. Thru the studio I was introduced to the BASI Teacher training program and in September 2015 began my journey to becoming a certified mat pilates instructor.
Then, life got a bit crazy.
In August of 2017 I started to experience a loss of sensation in my legs. I would notice during my pilates practice that my legs were no longer doing what I was telling them to. My condition continued to worsen until walking soon became a challenge. I knew this wasn't a good sign.
Fast forward a few months to December and I found myself admitted to the VGH Spinal Unit awaiting surgery to repair a herniated disc that was crushing my spinal cord to the point of almost paralyzing me. The Doctors and Neurologists were amazed that in my condition I was able to walk, let alone still able to practice pilates.
On December 19th, I underwent a 7 hour surgery where the doctors fused my T6, T7 and T8 vertebrae together. The surgery was a success and on Christmas Eve I walked out of the hospital to begin my road to recovery.
Pilates has given me back my strength, flexibility and most importantly, my life.
I can't wait to show you the power of Pilates and help you experience the benefits of it in your life!
