My First Pilates Session

I've never done Pilates before and for me, this was was a little bit intimidating to do with a group, I mean, what if everyone else caught on before me? I’m not necessarily the most coordinated person so what if I couldn't keep up? It usually takes me a few seconds...ok, sometimes minutes, to get in the same groove with everyone else. No matter, I had made up my mind to make a change in lifestyle and pilates was going to be a part of it.

After reviewing all the classes Reforming Indy provided, I decided to start off with a private introductory course. This class would teach me the fundamentals, correct movements and principals of Pilates without making me look totally ridiculous in front of an entire class. I was also made aware of my form, and any imbalances or weaknesses I might have. This proved a smart move on my part as I feel far more confident now in joining a group. However, I must admit, after being in charge of a busy family I thoroughly indulged in the undivided attention I received from my instructor!

I began on the Pilates reformer, which looks a little medieval but is actually a smooth flowing, elegant machine. There are a few variations of reformers, some being wood and some metal, which usually include ropes or leather straps, and the reformer may or may not be on legs. However,they all provide the same goal in helping to develop flexibility, alignment and core strength by providing resistance. Then my instructor assisted me in deciding which height for the adjustable foot bar was best for me. She chose the proper springs to attach that provide resistance using the machine and my own body weight. These color-coded springs can be unhooked to increase or decrease the resistance. My instructor adjusted these according to what I felt I could manage.

I laid face up on the carriage of the bed which glides back and forth on the frame. This felt very natural, comfortable and I was extremely at ease. Many of my exercises were performed lying down followed by sitting, kneeling and standing on the carriage. At no time during class did I feel as if I just couldn’t do anymore of one thing. My body just seemed to flow with every position introduced.

Upon completion I didn’t feel overly tired or overworked, but there seemed to be a new energy of sorts. I wasn’t experiencing a huge burst of energy but rather one that sustained at an elevated level for the rest of the day.

When I awoke the next morning I was definitely sore in every single place, except it wasn’t the type of soreness I had expected. I’ve done exercises where I could hard walk the next day, it wasn’t like that. I could move normally but when I did I was made aware of the muscles I was currently using. No sharp pain just a "Oh I used you yesterday and I’ll be toning you up with future classes".

I’m looking forward to my next class. Actually, I’m excited. I’m thrilled knowing after all these years of taking care of everyone else’s needs, I’m finally doing something for myself. The results I can already feel and soon, very soon, I will begin to visually see. Plus, with the added flexibility that comes with Pilates, I’m pretty sure I’m going to be patting myself on my own back ;)