3 quick and easy ways to make sure you get your Pilates and Yoga classes in!

We hear it all the time…..I feel so much better after class.  I almost didn’t come to class, but now IMG_2605I’m so glad I did.

We  know that many times the hardest part is just getting here.  Sure class can be a challenge, but the focused movement and breathing are sure to leave you energized, de-stressed and feeling empowered if you could just get to class.

 

Here’s our top 3 ways to make sure you get to class:

1.  Put it in your schedule!  Whether you use your iphone or an old fashioned calendar, if its not written down or typed into your schedule it’s too easy to skip.  Make a commitment to schedule your classes or sessions ahead of time and put them into your calendar.

2.  Have your clothes ready to go.  Make sure you have your clothes ready to go so you have no excuses if you’re running a little behind.  Some people even leave an extra set of clothes in their car so they don’t have to worry about it.

3.  Find a friend to commit to a class with you.  Just knowing that your friend will be expecting you for class will keep you motivated to keep your commitment.  It’s also a nice little treat to have some quality time before, after and even during class with a good friend.

 

 

 

 

Try this quick but oh so effective Pilates move- the Plank!

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The plank is great for overall strengthening of your body and really prepares your body to do some of the more challenging Pilates exercises.  Make sure you really focus on your form by incorporating your Pilates fundamentals like engaging your deep abdominal muscles, breathing, and stabilizing your shoulders(don’t sink into the shoulders!).

Try one of these variations each day this month! See if you can progressively hold the pose a little while longer, but be sure to come out of the plank if you are straining your low back, shoulders, or wrists.

When you finish, you can sit back in a child’s pose or turn onto your back and hug your knees into your chest to stretch out your low back.

Pilates Inspiration Denise

denise

When did you start Pilates and what inspired you to start?

I started Pilates in June of 2013.  Katie Wera, the Cancer Care Coordinator from Mercy Hospital in Iowa City was my inspiration.  Ms. Wera is a dedicated and hard working cancer care coordinator who is truly concerned about her patients.

Soon after my bi-lateral mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments to treat breast cancer, I hired a personal trainer to help me regain strength, flexibility, and the full range of motion in my arms and shoulders.  My trainer’s main focus was on my weight.

After working with the trainer for one year I was getting discouraged because I was recovering from my third injury from working out with her.  In addition, my range of motion, strength, and flexibility was not improving significantly despite working out three to five times a week with her.

Katie suggested that I try Pink Ribbon Pilates at Rivercity Pilates in North Liberty, Iowa.

What benefits have you seen by committing to a regular Pilates practice?

My flexibility and range of motion are back to normal.  My strength is almost back to normal and I have lost 35 pounds.  In addition, my coordination, balance, core strength, and self-esteem have improved.

Do you have a favorite exercise or piece of equipment (or both)?

My favorite thing about Pink Ribbon Pilates is… I look forward to going.  Additionally, Pink Ribbon Pilates is geared specifically for recovering Breast Cancer patients.

Carey is very knowledgeable about what is safe and appropriate for her recovering cancer patients to do.  Carey is also enthusiastic and motivating. She has the ability to give me the confidence to try any exercise.  As soon as I can easily do an exercise she challenges me by making it harder in an effort to improve my strength, flexibility, range of motion, and balance.

What would you say to a cancer survivor who is thinking about doing Pilates?

I would highly recommend Pink Ribbon Pilates, at Rivercity Pilates.  Carey has helped me empower my new body and inspired my life.

 

Learn more about our Pink Ribbon program for breast cancer survivors by clicking here!