Inspiration of the Month: Theresa Johnson

Inspiration of the Month
Theresa Johnson

When did you start Pilates and what inspired you to start?         
I talked my friend Diana into taking a beginning class with me. I have had back problems for years and I was looking for a way to get stronger and relieve that pain. I had just finished up a round of physical therapy and knew I needed to continue with some type of exercise. (What I have found is that many of the movements we practice in Pilates, are the same or similar to what the physical therapist was teaching me to do.) I was scared that I would not be able to do the Pilates exercises, but Carey was so helpful in teaching me how to modify the movements to protect my back that I was able to do everything!  

How often do you practice Pilates and what type of sessions or classes have you been doing?
I try to attend classes twice a week. I mix it up between mat classes and the tower. I also do the stomach series most mornings at home.

What benefits or improvements have you noticed in your body and life from doing Pilates?
My back pain is so much better. Before Pilates, I would have to miss work and take muscle relaxers when my back went out. I have not called in sick to work, because of my back in a year. I am so much stronger. I love it!

Do you have a favorite exercise or piece of equipment (or both)?
I really like doing roll down on the Tower, because the stretch is incredible. But, I am proudest of the fact that I can now do Teaser! It took a while, and it isn’t always pretty, but I can do it!

What would you say to someone who is thinking about doing Pilates?
Just do it. Take a beginning series class and don’t be afraid to tell the instructor about any issues you have in your body. If I can do it, you can too.