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Wow! There were moments when I’d think to myself, “How can I possibly reach this 100-Day goal?” Then, as the days turned to weeks and months, my daily Pilates routine became natural. I am excited to continue beyond 100 days. I feel strong and healthy. Thanks so much to all of you who supported me and continuously asked what day I was on. Your enthusiastic responses to my posts were a tremendous reward and motivator.
Some days, it was a challenge to make time for Pilates; others, I could spend hours. Here are a few examples:
The ability to do Pilates anywhere, at any time, with no special equipment truly proved to be “goal saving” on one particularly hectic day. I taught early that morning and at day’s end had to rush home with little time to spare before heading to the airport to catch an evening flight.
The plan: Do Pilates at the airport and on the plane. The result: Surprisingly successful, with a few considerations. Waiting to board the plane, the majority of passengers sat uncomfortably in their seats. Some were on cell phones or laptops, others read, most appeared desperately bored. Unlike the others, I had an interesting goal to meet.
With strange looks from others, I challenged my balance and posture while seated, practiced seated spinal rotation, and even seated hundreds (a Pilates move). At first, I felt self-conscious and uncomfortable. Then, I realized people lost interest rather quickly and went about their business. I managed 15 minutes of seated Pilates at the airport.
Once on board my flight and at 30,000 feet in the air, I attempted to continue my routine. It took about five minutes to realize, though possible for the obsessive, Pilates on an airplane isn’t something I would recommend. However, I managed to reach my 20-minute minimum workout requirement that day!
As a warm-weather worshiper, I wanted to take advantage of every mild, sunny day. Whenever the opportunity arose, I took my mat outside, found a level spot in my backyard, and completed a mat routine. Sometimes, I practiced Pilates under the stars, as long as the bugs weren’t too bothersome. In the darkness of night, I gained a heightened sense of body awareness never before experienced. It was fascinating.
The mat work is fantastic. However, I truly enjoyed getting on the reformer and tower to do my Pilates routine. I challenged myself as much as possible, but also gave myself a few gentle sessions. Being in the studio gives me a wonderful sense of calm. Often, I would come to the Center around 5:00 a.m. At the start of my 100-Day journey, it was still dark outside. More recently, it’s been much lighter. Either way, I found it very peaceful. It was during these sessions that I could focus on what I was asking my body to do. This became my favorite time to do Pilates.
When I began this journey 100 days ago, I wasn’t completely sure what to expect. It was a bit of an experiment. The incredible improvement in my digestive system was one of the biggest surprises. The discomfort I have been suffering since my surgery has decreased significantly. If nothing else, I will continue daily to do Pilates for this reason alone.
Losing weight was not a goal for me; however, people have asked if I’ve lost weight, noting I look leaner. The scale has only decreased by one pound. But, I see the difference, too. Joseph Pilates said, “In 10 sessions, you will feel the difference. In 20 sessions, you will see the difference. In 30 sessions, you will have a whole new body!” I believe he was right.
Thank you again for joining me on this journey. Please visit the studio or contact me to discuss Pilates and how it can enhance your life. Pilates can help you achieve your own fitness goals.
