1. When you decided to take Pilates were you skeptical it can actually help you get into shape?
Yes, I was skeptical. I respected Jeanique as a yoga teacher. I felt that her yoga routines made me healthier and fitter. However, Pilates seemed like something that only advanced users can do – it looked like a combination of ballet and cross-training from the pictures! Being a beginner in all things related to exercise, it was intimidating. But I was willing to learn from Jeanique because she is a teacher who pays close attention to participants who are serious and guides them according to their limitations – I felt I needed an approach like that in my new health & wellness journey.
my biggest takeaway is we need to understand our body
Can you share your journey so far?
My journey with Jeanique started out in her yoga studio, where I responded well to her firm but compassionate teaching methods. When I needed to address my health issues, I sought her out and started Pilates with her, and this quite literally changed my life. Pilates has opened up my body to me – it gives me control, pliability, and energy. When I keep it up regularly, I see a significant difference in my posture, form, and overall fitness. The Pilates studio is a safe space to push your body’s limits. I am still learning, and there is so much to learn – and I can’t think of a better teacher than Jeanique. She guides gently while keeping things real. She shares her knowledge sincerely. She helps you move forward if you meet her half-way. I hope to continue my journey with her.
2. What convinced you that it works?
Experiencing it. I joined a 20-class private class package with Jeanique. I struggled at first, but slowly I began to discover muscles and tissues I didn’t know I had. It was a whole new level of consciousness. I could now better understand what caused stiffness in my neck or the slouch that made me slump not just in my posture but also in my personality. It really did give me a spring in my step and after every class, I felt like I could take on the world.
What was your biggest take away.
My biggest takeaway is that we need to understand our bodies. We need to channel what we learned in middle school science – how all organs, blood flow, muscles, bones, nerves are all connected with each other – and when you start taking care of one part, you understand the next part and so on. When you understand your body holistically, your mind opens up, ideas open up, feelings are managed – you can do anything!
Losing weight often revolves around numbers and targets. Pilates is a more holistic and long-term view of your health – it’s not about numbers, it’s about being well, not just for now, but in general.
