Serena’s gifts

I have said this many times and I will say it again. I do believe as a Pilates teacher I am always learning just as much from my clients as they are learning for me.  This couldn’t be more true of Serena.  Serena is turning 80 this year and I really wanted to get her something for her birthday because she holds a very special place in my heart. Serena has been coming to see me for Pilates for almost 8 years and is so dedicated to her Pilates practice.   But what do you get the woman who pretty much has anything that she wants and really doesn’t need a whole lot?

One of the things I know about Serena is that instead of getting birthday presents, one of her favorite things is to give someone else a gift in honor of her birthday. So I thought my gift this year to Serena would be sharing with you some of the many things I’ve learned from her over the years! 

Here are just a few of my favorite things I’ve learned from Serena:

  1. Go with the flow   Can you imagine walking in to take a private Pilates session for your first time at a new studio, with a new instructor and having some stranger say to you, “Do you mind if I watch this session and take some pictures for the local newspaper?”   The first session makes people pretty nervous usually and as a studio owner and teacher I know this and would never let this happen to any client on their first day at the studio! But that is exactly what happened the very first time I met Serena. I had just relocated to  a new space and she came in for her complimentary first session.  

    As we were getting started, a newspaper reporter who was doing an article on the studio moving locations popped in and asked me (in front of her) if he could take pictures during the session.   She immediately said sure I don’t mind!   She was so sweet about the whole situation and even though she had just met me was more than happy to help me and my business out by being in the pictures.      

    It didn’t take me long to realize that Serena was definitely one of those people who would have a lot of impact on my life. She is so good at just going with the flow and making the best of things. It’s definitely made an impression on me to encourage me to do the same.

  2. Keep Moving.   Like most people as they age, Serena has had a variety of things she’s had to deal with when it comes to her health.  Yet never since I’ve met her has she questioned if she was going to continue with her Pilates practice.  

    If she has an ache or pain, an illness or even something like getting her hip replaced…her attitude has always been one of  resting if she needed to and doing what she could when she had a chance.  So many people quit moving altogether when they experience a health distraction and are nervous to get back exercise.  I really believe that continuing to practice Pilates and her dedication to keep moving has kept her so active and healthy over the years.  

  3. Adding little bits of dedicated movement into your life will make a big difference.  I don’t ever worry too much about Serena losing strength and mobility if she hasn’t been to the studio due to travel or life. I know how great she is about adding small bits of exercise and movement time into her life.

    Serena makes a habit of doing a variety of stretches and movements in her bed each morning before she gets up!  She also does things like practice balancing on one leg when she puts something into the microwave!  Her dedication to keep moving not just at the Pilates studio but also in her daily life is such a great example of how to age strong and gracefully that we all should follow!



  4. Mindset is everything.   Most recently, I remember one day when I was asking about how her day had been. Serena mentioned how she got a lot of great walking in when she was walking the halls of the hospital as she helped her husband to various doctors appointments! She does such a great job of taking situations many of us would complain about and finding a positive in them.  

  5. Give people genuine compliments.  Whether it’s to me, one of our Rivercity Pilates staff or a client she meets in the lobby…Serena is so great about giving genuine compliments that leave the receiver feeling fabulous.  It is always a reminder for me of how much a simple compliment can change someone’s mood so simply!

  6. Giving is better than receiving.  Serena is always making a point to give others thoughtful things that are truly treasured  by the receiver.  It always reminds me of that tried and trued saying, “it’s the thought that counts” and reminds me that giving to others no matter what it is a such a great way to brighten someones day and show them you care. 

  7. Self Care is not selfish.  Since I’ve met her Serena has made a point to always make time for her Pilates sessions and regular massages. She really appreciates how these 2 things help to keep her healthy and happy and she knows that taking care of herself is needed so that she can be of service to others.  She’s always great about asking me when I last had a massage or took time for myself, and it’s a great reminder of how important it is to take time for some self care.

  8. Men sweat, Women glisten.   This one always makes me laugh and the conversation we had about it was so long ago that I don’t even remember exactly how it went…but I love the idea and will always remember Serena telling me this!

Denise — our Zumba Gold & Ballet for Fitness instructor!

Tell us about yourself / your family.  
I’m an Iowa girl. I grew up in Des Moines, moved to Manchester, where my husband Scott grew up, raised our 5 kids there, & just moved to Cedar Rapids.

I have 3 daughters & 2 sons. My oldest, Jessica, is an ASL interpreter fit the Cedar Rapids Schools. My daughter Amanda lives in Tampa, Florida, where she is s branch manager for one of the libraries. My daughter Meghan is a graphic designer who has duel citizenship in Israel & the U.S. She lives in Rishon Letzion Israel with her husband Shay & our grandson Rahmi. My two boys, Jordan & Cameron Live in Chicago. Jordan is a manager at a restaurant, Cam’s day job is in claims, but he is in a band that has been together for many years. They are getting ready to release their 5th cd.

Describe yourself in 5 words.  
Creative, caring, open minded, loyal

Tell us about your first Zumba experience.    
I started Zumba when the DVD’s came out years ago. Loved it! I’m a dancer/dance instructor, so the format just spoke to me

When/Why did you start practicing Zumba?  
As I mentioned above, I love to dance! I like that it’s based on Latin rythms, with a bit of hip hop, oldies, & world music in the mix.   I started with dvds, then live classes.

Favorite food / or favorite restaurant
Oh my gosh, I love lots of different foods & restaurants. I like trying new cuisines.   I love recipes passed down from my grandmas, so Mexican & Jewish food.

If money were no object, what would you do all day?  
Well, I’d still teach group fitness. I’d also teach dance classes for free/non profit for those who can’t afford class.    Then I’d travel!!

Why did you become a Zumba/fitness teacher?   
Because I love dance fitness, &  love to work with others to get/stay fit.

Describe why you love Zumba ( or dance) in three words.    
Fun, Fitness, Positivity

What are your favorite ways to incorporate movement into your life in addition to dance/fitness?    
I love working with free weights. Since I teach lots of cardio, I do weight training workouts whenever possible.

 

 

Have you taken a class with Rachel?

We have some new teachers in the studio, and we thought you might like to get  to know them better!    

Tell us about yourself / your family.  I absolutely love to read and I’m a total nerd, in general.  I love Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Science. I now love to nerd out over Pilates…

I met my husband, James, just after I turned 19!  We’ve always let each be who we are and we always have the best time together, even if we are just sitting around doing nothing.  We have a son who is autistic and he is our pride and joy.  He continues to make us better parents and people.  He’ll turn 7 this June.  We have two miniature schnauzers, who are totally nuts.  We love our family. My mom comes out almost every week (to do Pilates :) ) and my in laws live around the corner, so we see them almost every day.

Describe yourself in 5 words.   Honest, awkward, creative, loyal, helpful

Tell us about your first Pilates experience.    When/Why did you start practicing Pilates?  I was hurting a lot. Physically and mentally. I wasn’t sure if I would ever be able to get back into shape or be strong, again.  I went to my complimentary session with a lot of anxiety, but I ended up feeling so good about what I’d been able to do that I knew I had to go back.  I fell in love with Pilates so fast!  

I love how Pilates allows you to start at your own working level, which can change based on how your body is feeling that day.  I love how it allows you to feel results quickly, and it helps you gain control and strength. 

Favorite food / or favorite restaurant   I love pizza. And chocolate covered almonds from Trader Joe’s.

If money were no object, what would you do all day?  My husband said I would do Pilates and read and play with dogs.  He’s right, but I’d also make time for him and my kiddo :)   I also love volunteering and community work.

Why did you become a Pilates teacher?   I’ve always loved learning and teaching/training. 

One of my original interests in the teacher training program stemmed from my hope of helping correct my son’s posture and stance.  He tends to walk on his toes and hunches his shoulders quite a bit.   So far he has been very open to “doing some Pilates” and some days is very excited to “do some new moves”.  

I also had hopes that I could help others feel good about what they can do with their bodies using the Pilates method.

Describe why you love Pilates in three words.    For Every Body

Would you rather hike or bike?  I don’t do the outdoors. If someone made me choose, I would choose hiking because there would be shade. I would probably complain about the bugs, though. 

If you could live anywhere in the world — where would you want to live?  Somewhere with some cloud cover, minimal wind, and a temperature that only fluctuates between 65-70deg.

What are your favorite ways to incorporate movement into your life in addition to Pilates?    I’m sort of a busy body at the house – I’m always running around doing something.

Inspiration of the Month Kris Smith

When did you start Pilates and what inspired you to start?
I started Pilates in late April 2019.  My co-worker, Teena  invited me to a 6:00 am Friday morning mat class.  I was hooked after that session. 

How often do you practice Pilates and what type of sessions or classes have you been doing?
I practice about two times per week and enjoy a variety of equipment and mat classes.   

What benefits or improvements have you noticed in your body and life from doing Pilates?
Shortly after starting Pilates I was diagnosed with chronic rotator cuff/pulled muscle/frozen shoulder issues that I had been having for about two years. I emailed my concerns to Carey and she set to work devising a modified Pilates regimen that works in conjunction with my physical therapy.  She also suggested sessions with Sara Sea, who worked miracles with Neural Reset Therapy. I am impressed with how instructors at Rivercity Pilates are helpful and willing to truly “work at your level” for each class.

My greatest physical improvements are my core strength and posture, (shoulders engaged!). My range of motion for all joints has improved as well. Pilates has helped my shoulder and back issues immensely, something I don’t think physical therapy alone would have been able to do. Life/mental improvements are noted as better sleep and less anxiety, as I find myself taking “deep Pilates breaths” throughout the day. 

Do you have a favorite exercise or piece of equipment (or both)?  
Pilates Tower, Pilates Equipment and Foam Roller are my favorite classes. All exercises are my favorite—well maybe not Teaser.  Ha!

What would you say to someone who is thinking about doing Pilates?
Just do it and keep doing it.  Pilates movements do not come naturally, they take time and practice.  Take advantage of the complimentary sessions and new client private sessions, they are a great basis for starting Pilates.

Have you ever pulled a weed out that knocked you over?

I have to tell you about something someone told me this week!

My client says to me at the beginning of her session:      I was out pulling weeds and we had some really tall weeds, that were probably this high(she held her hand as high as her shoulder!) So I got down low and grabbed on and pulled and pulled and pulled(she was demonstrating as she told me) and then pulled some more and then finally it came out!  And do you know what happened? 

My answer, “… Oh no… did you fall backwards?”

Her answer:  NO, I  didn’t! And I absolutely think in the past I would have! I think all that practice on the balance board really helped me!! 

How amazing is that?  I love to hear client stories about how they are doing life better and avoiding injuries because of their Pilates time!! 

If you are looking to add more movement time into your life that helps you navigate whatever you are doing in life better… we’d love to help! Sign up for a complimentary session where we’ll get to know you, introduce you to some Pilates movements tailored to your body and help you figure out how to best get started!! 

Inspiration of the Month Shelley Waldron

Shelley Waldron, Rivercity Pilates Inspiration of the month for September 2019

When did you start Pilates and what inspired you to start?
I started doing Pilates about a year ago.  When my oldest daughter moved back to college for her Sophomore year she told me that I needed to start trying to do more things for myself that I like:). I had done Pilates a few times at Carey’s old studio and would still get the newsletters.  

Every time I saw the newsletter I thought about taking classes, so when Annah said this I realized that she was right. I really needed to find something for myself that I loved to do.  Once I had kids my time just naturally filled up with all of their activities and I kind of put myself on the back burner. I decided to purchase the one-month beginners package and commit to going to as many classes as I could and see how I felt at the end of the month. I think I went to around 17 classes that month, loved the classes and the instructors, and have been pretty consistent ever since.

How often do you practice Pilates and what type of sessions or classes have you been doing?    
I usually try to do 3-4 classes per week.  I really like to do a variety of classes.  I do both mat and equipment classes and I also like to do yoga.

What benefits or improvements have you noticed in your body and life from doing Pilates?
I have had a lot of lower back and hip problems since my son was born almost 18 years ago.  Pilates has really helped strengthen my lower back and my hip is not stiff and sore like it used to be.  I can really tell in the morning when I get out of bed, I feel so much better!

Do you have a favorite exercise or piece of equipment (or both)?
Right now I think my favorite thing is the Oov.  You don’t realize how hard your body is working during class and my back always feels so good after class.  Kimberly makes this class so fun, we always seem to have a lot of laughs during class.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about doing Pilates?
If someone is thinking about trying Pilates I would tell them to go for it.  It can be a little scary to go into a new studio and try some new classes but everyone at Rivercity is so nice and welcoming.  Not just the instructors, but the other students in class as well!  It is so much fun and such a great workout!