P i l a t e s
By Shana Klimeczko
“Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness” -Joseph Pilates
This has been quite the trying year, with many people suffering from depression, weight gain, financial distress and loss of loved ones. Now more than ever, it is imperative that we all focus on our mental and physical well being. Exercising is fundamental in your weekly if not daily routine. Health & fitness when combined are key to building your immune system and increasing your serotonin levels. That being said, Pilates is the perfect at-home workout during this pandemic. It’s Interesting to note that Pilates was originally called Contrology. Contrology is defined as “the complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit.” Pilates to me is the best total body workout. The exercises focus on using your core, which is not just your abdominals but also your hips, glutes, inner thighs and low back. Unlike any other workout, you really need to not only focus on the movements in Pilates but also recognize why you are moving that way. Using slow, controlled, precise movements with a focus on breathing and flow of the exercises. Pilates is truly for everyone of any age, shape and size. When committed to a Pilates program you learn to stand taller, stand 78 M. CITIZEN MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02
more confident and strong. I began teaching 8 years ago when I had my “ah ha” moment and realized that if you turn your passion into a career, you will never work a day in your life. So many people suffer from neck pain, low back pain, gut issues and on top of it depression and low self esteem. We have learned to adapt to staying in our homes this past year. Sitting, standing, driving and texting for long periods of time creates poor posture, rounded shoulders and neck & back pain. Adding Pilates to your workout regimen will help you recognize your misalignments and imbalances in your body. You can start to see and feel the benefits of pilates with a minimum of 3 sessions or more a week, and after approximately 3 months, your entire body will transform.
Click on the link (Page 77) for a full body workout designed for any level of fitness. And follow me at @shana_LA . Once you train with me I assure you will gain a confidence in yourself, you never knew you had. Don’t get me wrong, Pilates is definitely “humbling” your first time. Just like any challenge, the more you practice, the better you become.
