Small & Focused
I like to know my people. Authentic connections are my approach to Pilates. I used to work (and loved my awesome clients) at a national chain Pilates which I will fondly call The Club.
The business model was to fill 12 reformers for every class. I respect the focus to making Pilates affordable and accessible to all!
However, it wasn’t exactly my vibe. I want to know things like your goals, any you medical issues, how do you feel about your challenges and body.
The Club had everyone fill out an intake - but I didn’t get to see it before they took a class. I’d ask the class if anyone had injuries or surgeries that might affect their movements, but rarely would anyone speak up. It’s only after class would I discover things like pregnancies, bulging discs, recent knee/hip replacements and in one case someone disclosed ‘I had a stroke 2 months ago and my hand/arm/balance strength are off’.
Gah!!!!!!! The first law in my code of ethics is DO NO HARM!!!!!! More than a liability issue (yes, they signed a disclaimer) - I never want anyone to get injured or be unsafe. This is why my classes are small. I review medical intakes and ask questions.
My true calling is my personal interest in every student. I care about their goals - so every session is custom to body. I teach them to connect to their body so the movement patterns become subconscious and functional to life.
I care for parts of their mental health. I’m not a therapist, but I hold no judgements and provide a safe space. Exercise is proven to increase dopamine hormones (the feel good neurotransmitter) and sometimes my students just need to move and breathe and I adjust the lesson plan.
I might be the only person who offered a word of encouragement that day. Most recently, a student disclosed her cancer diagnosis to me before anyone else. Why? She hadn’t found the words yet to tell her family when she could barely say the words herself. After tears (on both our parts), she had confidence to share the diagnosis with others.
On the way out the door, I offered a hug and she said, “Oh! I’m so sweaty!”
I pulled her in tight and whispered, “I love sweaty hugs”.
This is why I ❤️ small classes. It’s so I can love my people more.
Your top choice for Pilates in Midland, Texas, and Odessa, Texas. Specializing in mat Pilates, beginner Pilates, and private Pilates sessions in Midland. Book your Midland or Odessa class (Texas)
