Client Spotlight: Lisa

On a virtual workout with Natalie

I am so excited for you to meet Lisa! Last week on the blog, we talked about MS and how Pilates can be beneficial. Now Lisa, one of my real-life clients for almost 8 years, is going to share a little about her Pilates journey while living with MS. She is such an inspiration and a true example of what can be accomplished through dedication and consistency. I have pushed her to stretch her limits, and she has risen to the challenge and more!

What originally drew you to Pilates, and what made it feel like the right fit for you? 

I don’t have the patience for yoga, and I’m not fond of loud, high-intensity classes or team sports. Pilates was the perfect fit.

Before starting Pilates, what challenges (physical or mental) were you experiencing related to your lifestyle and/or your MS symptoms?

Balance and strength were both physical issues early in my MS journey. Mentally, confidence was a big struggle. These continue to be challenges I grapple with, but now I have the tools to punch back.

In what ways has Pilates helped you feel more supported in your daily life and activities, including your MS diagnosis?

Pilates is a true mind/body experience. MS affects both, so it’s important to keep the brain and the muscles on their toes. MS symptoms come and go, which means I’ve always got to make sure I’m as strong as possible.

How has Pilates changed the way your body feels or moves in everyday life? Have you noticed any improvements in strength, mobility, balance, or confidence? Is there a moment when you realized Pilates was really working for you? 

I think it’s allowed me to feel more at ease with my body. I move more intentionally throughout my day. Although I’ve improved by leaps and bounds, the thing about Pilates is that it will continue to challenge me in new ways. It may take me a year to master a move, but when I do, Natalie levels it up to remind me that there are infinite ways to improve.

How does Pilates fit into your current routine? 

I do 30 minutes of some form of Pilates with Natalie four times a week via Teams from my home gym.

What would you tell someone who is hesitant to try Pilates, but curious about its benefits?

I’m 57. I have never liked exercise, I was never good at sports, and I’ve had MS for 25 years. If I can do it, you can do it.

If you could describe Pilates in one word or phrase, what would it be? 

Pilates meets you where you are, and takes you further than you ever thought possible.

Is there anything else you would like to share about MS,  your journey with Pilates, or working with Natalie? 

I have been training with Natalie since 2018, when I was a member, and she was a Pilates instructor at the Claremont Club. When COVID hit in 2020, she didn’t miss a beat. She set us up on Zoom and ensured we would have a challenging and comfortable experience at home. Natalie understands my body and my difficulties, but she will always nudge me gently forward. She believed in me more than I believed in myself.

The power of dedication and consistency!

Thank you for sharing your journey with us, Lisa! You are truly a gem!!

-Natalie