Pilates Integration in most mainstream gyms has created an opportunity for expansion in terms of a greater, better, more challenging curriculum than the one that was initially introduced during its rebirth at the end of the 1990s. With new schools of thoughts burgeoning everywhere, the “unearthing” of the complete work of Joseph Pilates, introducing every possible and imaginable version of his entire repertoire (including modifications and variations) made the movement even more accessible to everyone from elite athletes (NBA, NHL, NFL, MLB, PGA, LPGA, etc…) needing more of a challenge and/or corrective rehabilitative movement, to those of us looking for a fun way to add resistance training to our ongoing fitness routine. Pilates can be used to complement your favorite sports activity or as a standalone way to maintain good health and stay in shape. Pilates can also be a valuable tool for those of us who are just trying to function gracefully and/or pain-free. Children can also reap the benefits of Pilates, as its gentle and mindful exercises are easy on their developing skeletal frames, providing a safe and effective mind-body experience and keeping young, aspiring athletes strong and flexible, reducing the risk of potential overuse injuries commonly seen in many sportsspecific activities. Pilates can be both a humbling experience (for those of us who think Pilates is easy) or an exhilarating one (for those of us who think we cannot do it). It will make anything you do better, from yoga to any sports activity, to walking without pain or even getting out of bed without grabbing the nightstand. Don’t wait any longer and get Pilates in your schedule!
Christine Lulek psc mt
fall 2015 BET TERLIFE | 21
Christine teaches a Heated Yoga Sculpt class on Friday mornings at 11:00 a.m. in the DC Ranch Hot Yoga Studio.