This was the first class since 2008, and I was nervous to go back to a fitness routine and meet new people. EVERYONE made me feel welcome and part of the team and made me feel inspired to do my best even though I am extremely out of shape for 50 years old. Allison had encouraged me to schedule more sessions. I have been SORE ALL weekend, but, this is telling my body that it is working and worth the hard work. I have a lot of limitations to deal with, but they work with you to achieve you best workout. Thank you Allison!!!!
Here is a little bit about me:
I’m an events and communications manager at a non-profit by day turned Pilates instructor at night. While athleticism wasn’t inherently natural for me, I always found myself dabbling in staying active. I played soccer and basketball at a young age and then turned to color guard in high school (yeah, I was the kid who tossed flags, sabers and stuff). In my twenties, fitness became more of a task to manage my weight. That is until I found my place at Absolute Pilates as a dedicated client and now instructor. I finally realized that fitness is about the amazing things I can do with my body as opposed to a fight against the things that are naturally me like my curves. Fun Fact: I love a good theme and cheesy puns! Like seriously love them. To the point of having a cat themed wedding, we got meowied on July 1, 2017 (did I mention I have cats).
My Resume:
I earned my bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Penn State University and I am one of those people who bleed blue and white (sorry Allison). I put my degree to work as an events and communications manager for a local non-profit with the mission of providing primary health care for those in underserved communities.
I’ve been a dedicated Absolute Pilates client since 2014. I consistently kept up with my Sunday Jump Board (now Pilates Power Hour and More) classes and eventually upped my game to 5 classes a week. In 2017, Allison finally convinced me to turn my passion into teaching. I received my Mat Pilates certification in December 2017 and then started on the fast track to the full equipment teacher training.
My Teaching Philosophy:
Pilates is for ANY Body! There’s no sign saying you must be this tall or weight limit to ride the Pilates ride. As someone who has always been curvy, I can honestly say that Pilates doesn’t discriminate. An instructor I took class with always said, “as long as you’re moving that’s all that matters.” I’ve taken that to heart and found there’s always a modification for every exercise. I will always modify something to fit your needs, but we will also work to improve and make the more difficult exercises a goal.
My Rocks:
My wonderful husband has always been my biggest support! I am so grateful to have him by my side encouraging me and picking up the slack when I need it. I am also blessed to have an amazing group of best friends that are like sisters to me. It’s been such an encouragement to have a group of women around you that are so supportive and inspiring in their own ways.