About Christine
Thank you for visiting Anywhere Pilates! This website is meant to be a forum for all things Pilates. I want to provide an outlet for those who are curious about Pilates and for those who have been instructors for years by discussing everything and anything Pilates related. We will learn about “tricks of the trade” to tried and true methods of movement in order to get the most out of a Pilates workout.
I began my Pilates journey some 8 years ago while still in college. I wanted an exercise program that focused more on the mind-body connection and less on calorie burning. I was working as a waitress; my hours were long and my feet were tired. I had all but stopped exercising all together- why run 3 miles when I probably covered that distance and more during my evening shifts? I had always heard that Pilates was a great way to get in shape, that you “lose inches, not pounds”. I purchased my first video and was hooked! Within a month I felt better. My posture improved and I found that standing on my feet at the restaurant was not as physically taxing as it used to be. Not only did I feel better, I started getting compliments on my “weight loss” (between you and me, I doubt I lost a pound ) . I continued a minimal Pilates program based solely on the videos throughout the next 6 years. I also biked, swam, ran, took step classes, and lifted weights. Needless to say, in addition to my job managing a restaurant, the high level of activity was too much on my joints and spine. I suffered several knee injuries and my neck was always sore. In need of an MRI, I went to the doctor for a referral. On the desk I saw a business card for a Pilates Studio. I remembered how good I felt years ago when I did Pilates religiously and called for an appointment. I had been considering a career change for some time so I also inquired about the Traditional Authentic Pilates instructor program.
In July I quit my restaurant job and by August I was taking individual private sessions with an amazing instructor, Mary Ann Briggs. I quickly progressed and by October I began my systems training. I was on the way to becoming a certified Pilates instructor! I now teach mat classes and private apparatus sessions as an apprentice. I love the T.A.P. method because it focuses on teaching the client strength, flexibility, and form the way Joseph Pilates taught. As an instructor I never participate with the class. I interact with each body, vocally coaching each movement for everyone in the class. This allows my to see who has tight hamstrings, who has lost their powerhouse connection, and who needs more instruction in order to master a movement.
I hope you enjoy joining me on my Pilates journey, during my present time as an apprentice and onward towards my certification! I will address key Pilates concerns, dissect movements, discuss different methods and most of all, continue learning and growing as an instructor.
