After the frothy eggnog bowl is drained and the last Christmas cookie eaten, the results of neglecting physical activity during the holidays become a reality — a cold one. The New Year brings new beginnings, clean calendars, fresh starts, and a renewed dedication to health and wellness. If you jumped on the scale after holiday splurging, it’s time to weigh your options on how to get moving and burn some calories. I can hear you groaning, but just hear me out.
The Dilemma
COVID-19 restrictions impacted fitness facilities and numerous sporting events, which forced many to return to basic outside activities such as running, walking, and riding bicycles. The weather in our area remained wonderful until the fall equinox rolled around. Daylight Savings Time is not welcomed by solar-powered people. For me this was coupled with the fact that, as a former dancer, marathon runner, and one-time Augusta Ironman finisher, I had a bunion removed after my 80,000-mile checkup and was immediately shackled in a walking boot for the remainder of 2020. Sympathy gladly accepted! My recuperation on the couch is comparable to a little kid who cannot go outside and play on a rainy day. My parole is now up and it’s time to get back in the game, with some restrictions, according to the fine print on the doctor’s orders.
Gasp! Non-weight-bearing activities — surely the doctor is mistaken. Might as well take my knee stroller, fondly referred to as my “Pooter Scooter,” down the street and race with my neighbor, Miss Bobby Anne, with her walker. She often strolls with her dog Sophie and practices what she preaches. “If you want to stay young, you have to move,” says Miss Bobby Anne. In my current recuperative state, my Pooter Scooter and I are no match for this spunky lady and her vigor for life. “You’re not out of the game yet,” said my sister Nancy. “There’s Pilates and it’s designed to rehab ballet dancers.” My feigned race with my neighbor will have to wait. I’m headed to the studio to get my groove back.
Pilates
Joseph Pilates developed a physical fitness system in the early 20th century. Using controlled movements, Pilates improves flexibility, and strength, and develops control and endurance in the entire body. The emphasis is on alignment, breathing, and developing a strong core to improve coordination and balance.
While Pilates exercises are imperative for the ballet population, make no mistake — this is no dance class. Joseph Pilates trained a multitude of dancers after he immigrated to New York and opened his Contrology Training Studio next door to the New York City Ballet. Oftentimes Martha Graham and George Balanchine would send dancers to Joseph Pilates for rehabilitation. The marriage of dance and Pilates is undeniable. Both methodologies use the whole body in their movements; both use mind, discipline, and breath to create optimal posture and long strong flexible muscles.
A Local Connection
Aiken’s Pilates, Performance & Wellness classes are a blend of Pilates and fitness. “They are a blend of Classical Pilates and Contemporary Pilates with a bit of athletic performance as well. I love to bring variety to a workout and want clients to be challenged to ensure physical improvement,” says owner Cat Koman. Her clients range from college students to seniors.
Mrs. Koman suggests that when it comes to fitness, beginners need to find out what they enjoy doing and make it a lifestyle change. “I encourage people to come try a session to see if they like it. The Pilates method is a different way to strengthen your body, a gentle way to get stronger, leaner muscles.”
If you’re older, haven’t exercised for some time, or have health problems, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program. Pilates is no exception. Similarly, women who are pregnant should check with their health care providers before starting classes or other exercise programs.
“Change happens through movement, and movement heals,” said Joseph Pilates. Pilates offers plenty of benefits to your body, no matter your fitness background. You’ll improve your posture, focus on bodily alignment, and get one heck of a core workout. You’ll be taking a class that’s either based on a mat — a tad thicker than a standard yoga mat, to cushion pressure points — or on a machine called a reformer, a sliding platform complete with stationary foot bar, springs, and pulleys that provide resistance. Ask which one you’re getting into before you commit to your workout.
Whether it’s Pilates or another form of physical fitness, find the one you enjoy and make a resolution for better health. There are no more excuses — it’s time to take action and embrace the New Year and all it has to offer. For me, my resolution is simple: bid farewell to my Pooter Scooter, find life balance, and share my gratitude for good health with others for the next 80,000 miles. Happy New Year!
