Client Spotlight: Mary
Mary showing off her skills on the Cadillac at the studio
Meet Mary: loveable, adorable, strong, and kind. Mary has been a client of mine since 2019, and we will celebrate our 7-year Pilates-versary next month! Last week, the blog focused on racquet sports and how Pilates can help. This week, Mary is going to give you her perspective as an avid tennis player and how Pilates has changed her game.
What originally drew you to Pilates, and what made it feel like the right fit for you?
I was intrigued by a Pilates class being offered at my local fitness club. I had not done any regular exercise class in years. I had a bad knee and plantar fasciitis, and I understood Pilates was low-impact.
Before starting Pilates, what challenges (physical or mental) were you experiencing related to your lifestyle and/or your ability to play tennis?
I couldn’t play tennis anymore. I had a major health incident about 10 years before I started Pilates. My knee was bad, I was overweight I was afraid to attempt playing again.
In what ways has Pilates helped you feel more supported in your daily life and activities, including tennis?
I fell in love with Pilates from my first class and quickly was doing 3 classes a week. Natalie tailored the classes to strengthen my knee and core. During Covid, I continued to get stronger, lost weight, and decided to attempt playing tennis again.
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 am really strong, fast, and no longer suffer from knee or foot problems. At 63, I consistently compete with women 20-25 years younger than I am. I have never felt or performed better on the court, and now compete in 3 different USTA leagues.
How does Pilates fit into your current routine?
I do Pilates 3 times a week. It is the foundation of my fitness routine. I play tennis about 5 times a week and could not sustain this pace without the individualized training I have received. Pilates is the most regular, sustained, uninterrupted exercise I have ever done.
What would you tell someone who is hesitant to try Pilates, but curious about its benefits?
To me, Pilates is about strengthening your entire body. It also addresses your weaknesses and gradually improves your fitness. It is constantly challenging your body, and you can feel your body getting stronger.
If you could describe Pilates in one word or phrase, what would it be?
Complete.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your journey with Pilates or working with Natalie?
I have been training with Natalie for 7 years. She is a complete professional. She truly cares about your results. She tailors your workout to what you need. Every year, we pick a move to work on. Teasers, snake, and this year- side planks. Each lesson builds on those goals. She is so much fun to work with!
Thank you, Mary!
She truly is inspirational, and I am so lucky to have her as a client. Here’s to many more years of Pilates to come!
-Natalie
