pilates is whatever you need it to be

I began my journey with Pilates when I first moved to NYC in 2004. I was (am and will always be!) a passionate long-distance runner. When I thought about how I could improve my sport — and took stock of what my body was doing when I ran — I noticed I was only really using my legs (quads, specifically) to power my runs. Realizing there was more I could do to bring strength to my running, I looked into Pilates.

Turns out, that was one of my best decisions ever.

The focus on core strength, breath and functional movement patterns made a world of difference in my running. I credit my Pilates practice with helping me qualify to run the Boston Marathon, with a time of 3:44.25 in my second NYC marathon. Just a few years earlier, my marathon times were one hour slower. One full hour slower.

I first became interested in teaching Pilates (scroll down to see my teaching resume) when I was recovering from injuries — physical and professional. When I went to the Pilates studio, I found that I felt not only stronger and better in my muscles and bones, but also in my heart and soul. I wanted to bring that sort of healing and nourishment to my friends, family and community, and continue to love doing so.

Now, your journey into Pilates might not be the same as mine. In fact, it won’t be. And I can’t promise you Pilates will completely change your sport or your life as it did mine. But it could!

This is the cool thing about Pilates: It’s there for you, for whatever you need it to be. I’ve worked with athletes (including NFL players), people who have had joint replacements and surgeries, those living with neurological conditions like Parkinson’s Disease, golfers who want to up their game, humans who experience learning differences and folks who just want to get a great strengthening workout. Pilates is for all these people. And Pilates meets you where you are: There are no prerequisites or assumptions to start a Pilates practice. You don’t have to be flexible or strong. You just have to want to give it a try.

Email or text me if you’d like to talk about Pilates and what it could bring to your life and body... and/or to schedule a virtual session or an in-person appointment in Charlotte, N.C. (Southend or South Park).

Jodylovespilates@gmail.com | 917-703-4587