In this video we feature the traditional Pilates Shoulder Bridge exercise on the ball. This is a great exercise for building core strength, gaining flexibility in the back, and strengthening the arms and legs! Try it out and let us know what you think!
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Need a little inspiration?
Watch this video to see all of the Rivercity Pilates Inspirations of the Month from 2012!
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Jen Ferguson(right)- May 2013 Inspiration of the Month
When did you start Pilates and what inspired you to start?
About 10 years ago, after my first son was born, I bought a Pilates VIDEO after I saw an infomercial. I wanted to look long and lean like all the actresses in the video. I really enjoyed it but then we got a dvd player and got rid of our video player and that was it. Over the years, once in awhile I would do an online Pilates video but nothing too routine. Then last year, Rivercity Pilates had a Groupon or Here’s the deal. Some friends and I were all going to buy one but I ended up being the only one that bought it. I worked up my courage to go by myself and was hooked after the first class.
Why did you decide to do the Empower Your Body Challenge?
I like a challenge and thought that it would be fun to participate. One of my New Year’s Resolutions was to try going to two classes a week and I figured the challenge would help me get it started and make it routine. Also, with the two hour cardio requirement, I knew it would keep me active during a time of year that can be more difficult.
What are some of your favorite things about the Empower Your Body Challenge?
I enjoyed getting to know some of the other people in the classes a little better. I also enjoyed class three times a week – especially during the winter, it forced me to keep active. I had the opportunity to use all the different pieces of equipment and became a bit more comfortable with them all.
I feel stronger all over and my posture has greatly improved. I also don’t notice the aches and pains I used to have, especially in my knees. I also have noticed an increased flexibility.
How has Pilates improved your cycling?
Do you have a favorite exercise or piece of equipment (or both)?
This one is hard because I do enjoy everything, but I LOVE the exercise balls and also the reformer, especially jumpboard.
What would you say to someone thinking about starting Pilates?
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Dan Lusche- January 3012 Inspiration of the Month
When did you start Pilates and what inspired you to start?
I started Pilates now almost two years ago. I did not know much about Pilates. My friend Sophie Joly, who also takes Pilates classes, can be very motivating. She did not quit asking me to try it. I decided to be open-minded and I came, and stuck with it.
Why do you do Pilates and what are the benefits in your life?
Once I had tried Pilates, I realized how much it helps for my posture and mobility. It is simply a pleasure to see this kind of improvement. When I started, I had a tiny tear in my Achilles. I had a hard time walking pain-free. The strengthening of my body as a whole has improved it so much that I now consider running again, which I had quit due to the injury.
How has Pilates empowered your physical body?
I would definitely say that I noticed how much the breathing technique affects the control of the body and the possibility to obtain body strength. It is a good experience to observe how slight changes (actually whether I do it right or wrong) in how I do the exercises affects the outcome. All the instructors are so skilled in guidance that I have better learned to pay attention to the correct position of my arms, legs, etc. during a particular exercise. I am much more in control now. I think I can summarize the physical improvements that the various parts of my body as a whole are improving in terms of flexibility and strength.
Do you have a favorite exercise or piece of equipment (or both)?
I like the exercises that I have problems with because I can find out whether I am able to improve. I need that challenge. For instance, doing the Saw in mat class. I also like the exercises with the ball. Those are hard and good for me. Per aspera ad astra as the old Romans said, freely translated as through persistent exercise to reach the stars.
What would you say to someone thinking of starting Pilates?
It is worth a try, and if you like to be in charge of your body and like improvements, you will enjoy it. Be open-minded and persistent. From nothing comes nothing.
![ari duo top](https://rivercitypilates.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ari-duo-top.jpg")
February 2013 Inspiration of the Month – Ari Bult
When did you start Pilates and what inspired you to start?
I started Pilates in May, 2012. Sara Tack encouraged me to go. She kept telling me I had to go and I’d love it. She’s very persuasive. It was nice to know I could come and have a private session with Carey at no cost to help me see if Pilates was right for me.
Why do you do Pilates and what are the benefits in your life?
I started out because of low back problems and the low back pains went away after two weeks of Pilates (3 times a week) and have stayed away! The benefits for me are that I don’t have pain at work or when I sleep, but on top of it all I feel great, energized, less stressed, and have some muscles for the first time in my life. I feel strong in my mind, body, and soul. Amazing feeling!
Do you have a favorite exercise or piece of equipment (or both)?
I love the equipment classes, but I am now challenging myself to take a regular mat class. For me the equipment classes help me to relieve stress but the mat classes challenge me to be stronger.
What would you say to someone thinking of starting Pilates?
I do hair and constantly tell my clients about Pilates and what it does for you inside and out. Like Sara encouraged me, I continue to encourage others. But really, my body and spirit say it all!
Inspiration of the Month
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March 2013
Barbara Olson
When did you start Pilates and what inspired you to start?
I received a gift certificate for Mother’s Day from my daughter. I was inspired by her love of Pilates. I took my first Intro Class with Carey and really enjoyed it!
Why did you decide to do the 2013 Empower your Body Six Week Challenge?
I was at a plateau with my at-home exercise routine. I wanted something more that included a whole body enrichment regime. The Empower Your Body Challenge sounded like just what I was looking for!
I look forward to coming to the studio on a regular basis. I currently am taking three classes a week. Carey and Cassie have been very encouraging as have the other students that I have met during the past several weeks. I had only taken a few Pilates classes before the Challenge started so I have been new to most of the exercises. I enjoy the challenges in performing all of the different series and poses. I have balanced out my Pilates classes with the wonderful Yoga classes that are offered by Nicole. She also is a source of inspiration as well as a great teacher of the philosophy of Yoga.
What benefits have you seen by committing to a regular Pilates and Yoga practice?
I have become increasingly more aware of my body and its capabilities! At times I have thought to myself in class “You want me to do what??!!”. It has been fun and I love the challenges! I have experienced many benefits over the last four weeks. My clothes are fitting differently, which is extremely motivating. More importantly I think that I have become stronger and more flexible. My knees, shoulders and back do not seem to ache quite as much. I find that my posture has definitely improved as I am constantly thinking about “engaging”!
Do you have a favorite exercise or piece of equipment (or both)?
I have been searching for a Yoga class for some time that I felt comfortable with. I have found it at Rivercity Pilates Studio! I also enjoy the entire Pilates experience, both mentally and physically.
What would you say to someone thinking about starting Pilates?
Give it a try!! The private Introductory Class offered by the studio is a wonderful way to learn about the studio and the variety of classes offered there. The instructors are all very skilled and motivating and have created a very positive environment. I felt welcomed right away!