Pilates Inspiration of the Month – Shelley Oglesby

 I started at Rivercity Pilates in January, 2012. My first introductory session with Carey reminded me how much I liked and missed doing Pilates and the emphasis on developing strong core muscles and flexibility. Carey was very encouraging and the studio was well equipped and not far from home. After being diagnosed with an auto-immune disease in June 2013, I knew I needed to make my health more of a priority and commit to regular Pilates classes.

 When I do Pilates consistently I see benefits in strength, flexibility, posture and balance from my fingers to my toes! I had some gaps last year when I couldn’t come to classes consistently and I noticed how quickly I weakened at my age. Committing to classes makes me accountable to taking care of myself and the teachers at Rivercity Pilates are encouraging. Pilates is very good for my mind and emotions too, and learning the proper breathing is a great stress reliever. It has helped strengthen my immune system and my thyroid condition has improved.

Why did you decide to do the 2014 Empower Your Body Challenge?

I wanted to be more consistent with exercise. I knew I would improve and strengthen by body and the healthy competition inspires me. Some of the Pilates moves like Teaser and Rolling Like a Ball are very challenging for me and I really want to be able to do them correctly and well.

 

What has been your favorite part about the Challenge so far? 

I am stronger and really making progress in my weak areas. The daily emails and logging exercise and food are very helpful in keeping me accountable to my goals. The group encouragement and prizes are great incentives too! After just one week I have lost pounds and inches.

 

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

I like Tower, the piece of equipment and the Tower exercise. I feel stretched and at the same time very strong during this exercise.          (Shelley is doing the Tower exercise in her picture above!)

 

What would you say to someone who is thinking about doing Pilates? 

Pilates is a wonderful form of exercise for all ages and body types. You will gain strength and flexibility all over and the movements can be modified for all levels of ability.

Moving through the exercises with just the sound of the teacher’s voice and no distracting music keeps you very conscious of what you are doing and trying to achieve. Learning the Pilates breath helps you move through the exercises and helps in so many other areas of your life. Each session is different and never boring!