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Client of the Month :: January :: Makenzie

Let us count the ways in which we adore Makenzie... she is a burst of fun energy every time she come through the door; she loves working hard and getting things right; she coined my favorite Pilates term ever: "core floor." What is there not to love?? Read on to hear more of her story...

Q: Why did you decide to start Pilates?

A: For a while, I thought to myself, “Gosh, I should really look into Pilates---strength, toning and stretching all in one," but I never took it a step further and actually went to a class.

I was doing Crossfit for the past three years, and in those three years I tore both rotator cuffs---that was my breaking point. I needed to find a workout that was challenging, not hard on my body and gave results. My friend always spoke about her Pilates experiences and I finally decided to take it to the mats. I’ve been doing Pilates since July and I love it.

Q: What do you like best about Pilates?

A: I love how I feel after class. I walk out of the studio more confident and feeling better about myself. I like that I don’t have to be in pain or sore to have a great workout. I love that I’m more aware of my body, my core, and my posture. Every class is different and challenging, I can’t believe how fast they fly by.

Q: How do you describe Pilates to your friends?

A: It’s an AWESOME workout----you work muscles you didn’t even know you had.

Q: Why do you like coming to our studio?

I love coming to Young Pilates because Brooke and Dave motivate me to push myself, they have great attitudes, and are awesome instructors and people. They care about you “inside and outside of the studio.”

Q: What are your health goals for 2012?

A: My goals are to make more time for Pilates, continue to tone my muscles and core floor. I''d also love to drop a size (or two).

BalleCore Certified Instructors at Young Pilates!

We are proud to announce that Brooke and Viviane are now certified BalleCore Pilates instructors!

The ballet/Pilates combo is a hot one right now, and with good reason: Never have two disciplines been so perfectly made for each other. BalleCore was the original combination, developed more than ten years ago, and many others have recently popped up that are similar but not quite the same.

BalleCore utilizes specially-designed bars that help develop tone in the arms, shoulders and back, help with balance while doing standing work, and strengthen and stabilize the trunk muscles. Participants get their own bar to use instead of having to fight over space along one central bar, so every participant gets the full benefits of using the bar.

At the moment we will be using BalleCore Pilates in our regularly scheduled classes, with the possibility of offering BalleCore specific classes in the fall/winter. Come check it out!

Pilates for Kids :: Starts in July!

Our much-anticipated Pilates for Kids series starts in July! Taught by Jessica Veach, who is a teacher with the Edmonds school district as well as a Pilates instructor. Here are the details for the class:

6 Wednesdays beginning July 20th and ending August 24th
4-4:50pm
Suitable for kids 9-13
Cost: $60 plus tax
Classes taught at Young Pilates by Jessica Veach
Pre-registration required: jveach@gmail.com or 206-915-1909

Please direct questions about the class to Jessica! Thank you and happy summer!

Client of the Month :: May :: Jill

We are so proud of Jill and how dedicated she has been to getting back in shape. She has lost weight, looks amazing, and it is obvious that she feels great as well. We think she is really an inspiration for anyone who needs a little help remembering their New Year's resolution to get fit and healthy!

Q: Why did you decide to start Pilates?

A: My adult son bought me a gift certificate to your studio for my 55th birthday. I put it in a drawer. My cousin in NJ has done Pilates for years, really likes it, and is very fit. I was really fed up with myself and feeling like a slug. I had a gained about 30 pounds in the last 3 years. Finally last summer, I scheduled my first appointment and have been hooked ever since.

 Q: What do you like best about Pilates?

A: Pilates has helped me improve my posture and regain my confidence. I have also been exercising with an aerobic boot camp group. Many of those women work harder and faster than I do, but Pilates has taught me how to focus on my core and breath while exercising in a way that I have achieved a much more noticeable loss of inches. I also shed all the weight I had gained in about 5 months. When I’m in Brooke and David’s studio, I feel like I’m concentrating the entire time I’m exercising. That makes it more enjoyable than other exercise methods. Combine that with Brooke’s description of amazing recipes she is making and you have wonderful hour.

Q: How would you describe Pilates to your friends?

A: Pilates is a combination of balance and focused muscle toning. I enjoy the reformer with its springs much more than weight machines at the gym. I like the combination of tools that Brooke and David have at their studio. The Wunda chair is very challenging for me as I’m not yet that strong or balanced but I like the change in routine it provides. The jump board is super intense and really fun. I would choose to do some jump board every class. The mat and rubber ball exercises are simple and very effective. I am glad there are enough tools at Young Pilates to change up the routine.

Q: Why do you like coming to our studio?

A: I love the personal attention from both Brooke and David. The studio is a wonderful combination of serious and quiet training with fun and humor. I like the intimate size of the classes since it allows for David to comment on correct posture. I feel like they know me and I know them well enough to feel like it’s getting together to friends to focus on healthy living.

Q: What are your health goals for 2011?

A: I would like to continue firming up my muscles and core. I would like to be about 10 lbs lighter and one pants size smaller. I would like to continue to improve my balance. I’m looking and feeling younger and so I think next year I’ll turn 55.

Congratulations to Liz & Laird

Our much-beloved client, Liz, is pregnant with her first baby!  We know that the baby will be beautiful (like his/her mama), that much is a given. But it also turns out that because Liz has continued practicing Pilates with us during her pregnancy, her baby will be born with a toned, well-defined Pilates body!  Who knew?  All we can say is, check out the biceps and deltoids on this bambino!

Congrats to Liz and Laird and we can't wait to meet baby this year! -- Brooke & David

Pilates For Men :: Save 20% in April

Did you know Tom Cruise does Pilates every single day? He has the equipment in his house and devotes 90 minutes a day to using it with a trainer.

We really can't stress how important and how beneficial Pilates is for men. This is because it addresses common issues that most men have: tightness in the hamstrings and low back, poor deep core strength, and imbalanced chest-to-back musculature that can cause that familiar hunched shoulder look.

Most men who exercise frequently are strong, but their muscles are incredibly tense and tight. For this reason they likely have difficulty doing a strength and reach test, or sitting straight with their legs stretched out in front of them. This lack of range of motion could be why most men at some time in their lives experience some form of back pain.

Do men want stronger bones, less body fat and better orgasms? Of course they do, but Pilates has been falsely identified as a “woman only” exercise. People forget that Pilates was created by a man for men. The first practitioners of Pilates were soldiers, boxers, and athletes.

Everyone knows Pilates has been great for women, but it is less well know just how beneficial Pilates is for men. All the top level athletes in any sport do Pilates regularly. It helps keep them limber which avoids injury, and it also strengthens them in their core where they need it the most. They find that their game is better, no matter if they swing a golf club or ride a bike. Pilates is just that good.

Because of its focus on bringing balance to the body, there is no better exercise prescription for the male body than Pilates. If you know a man who could benefit from doing Pilates, send him our way. He will get 20% off his first package with us in April!

Client of the Month :: March :: Mary

Mary has been coming to see us since our doors opened in 2004, and we have seen her through the birth of one baby (and now another!). She is great fun to work with because she loves a new challenge, and she has almost Super Woman strength! She makes everything look easy and is a great model to have in class for the other students to see. We are very much enjoying teaching her through this second pregnancy, and are very impressed with how well Mary manages to balance work, motherhood and life.

Q: Why did you decide to start Pilates?

A: I was doing mat work on my own for awhile and was pleased with the core strength I developed. I wanted to take it to the next level and try all of the apparatus out. I also needed to find a way to stay in shape while toning down my rigorous "no pain, no gain" exercise mind set when I was trying to get pregnant with my first child.

Q: What do you like best about Pilates?

A: It is the best way to strengthen and tone your entire core, and really balances out my exercise regimen of running and weights. I used to struggle with knee problems from running caused by imbalance in my hip strength. This has virtually gone away since I've been coming to the studio regularly. I also think the exercises are fun and energizing. Working on the reformer makes you feel like your lengthening and toning your muscles at the same time. The chair is great because the exercises are challenging and require constant focus. There seems to be endless variety with Pilates. I'm always amazed that after coming for many years, I am still learning and improving.

Q: How would you describe Pilates to your friends?

A: It's a full body, low-impact workout with a focus on strengthening your core muscles. The reformer and chair are crazy looking machines that allow you to work muscles you never knew existed (and that Brooke and David know all the names of). It requires you to use your brain to focus on proper alignment to maximize the results.

Q: Why do you like coming to our studio?

A: I decided to come to the studio because it is conveniently located a block from my house. I immediately felt welcome. Brooke and David have a friendly and laid-back style. I was pretty intimidated by the apparatus at first, but their teaching style put me at ease. I love the variety they offer in the classes. They go out of their way to get to know their students and challenge them with new exercises or variations so it's impossible to get bored. I like to push myself and they seem to get that.

Q: What are your health goals for 2011?

A: To stay as active as possible through the rest of this pregnancy and spend the second half of the year getting back to pre-pregnancy shape. I hope to be back to twice weekly classes this summer and ready to run the Seattle Half Marathon in November.

Thanks Mary! -- Brooke and David

Pecan Date Bonbons

Looking for a new healthy but delicious treat? These bonbons are loved by both kids and adults, are super quick and easy to make, and travel/store well. Have vegan friends, or friends with food allergies? These are a perfect dessert idea.

-This recipe comes from Cynthia Lair, nutritionist, author and professor at Bastyr University. It includes miso, a ferment of soybeans and rice that contains live bacterial cultures and active enzymes, both of which enhance digestion. But these little things are so delish, you won't even know they are good for you!

Makes 8-10 bonbonsr /> Prep time: 10 minutes
3/4 cup pecans
1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
1 tsp orange zest
pinch of sea salt
1/1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/2 to 1 tsp white or brown miso
1/4 cup shredded coconut

Preheat oven to 300. Place pecans on cookie sheet and bake/toast for about 10 mins, until they begin to give off aroma.

Put all ingredients except coconut in food processor. Pulse until you have an even mealy texture. With moist hands, roll the misture into 1-inch balls. Spread the coconut on a plate and roll each ball in the coconut, covering each one evenly. Serve with orange slices from the orange you zested.

 

Client of the Month :: February :: Robyn

Robyn is new to our studio, having just started with us this winter. We love that she is so excited about Pilates, and it reminds us why we love this job that we get to do every day with such great people. Robyn is a breath of fresh air, and we are enjoying our time with her immeasurably.  p>

Q: Why did you decide to start Pilates?

A: I decided to start Pilates because I was tired of being unhappy with my body and the way I looked, I needed a change. I have always enjoyed working out, but I was doing the same exercises and not getting the results I was looking for. I wanted to do something different than I had done before. Something that could get me excited about exercise again.

Q: What do you like about Pilates?

A: One of the greatest things about Pilates is the new awareness that I have of my body and where my strengths and weaknesses are. I like that Pilates has made me look forward to exercising. I love the way I feel during and after my Pilates session. The time flies and a great session always leaves me wanting more. I enjoy using all the different equipment which helps target specific muscles and I leave feeling like I have had a great work out.

Q: How would you (or have you) describe Pilates to your friends?

A: I would tell my friends that if you think of your body like a machine with a lot of different parts, Pilates is the one and only tool that you need to fix all your parts. I think it is a great strength training activity and a lot of fun.

Q: Why do you like coming to our studio?

A: The greatest thing about coming to the studio is having the opportunity to work with Brooke and David. It is such a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, but you are always encouraged to push yourself to your limit. They are excellent instructors and teachers that are extremely knowledgeable and really good people.

Q: What are your health goals for 2011?

A: In 2011 I plan on regaining control of my life. I want to make lifestyle changes that will allow me to be the person I want to be. I hope to eat well, lose weight, be happy, and continue my Pilates practice. I want to make both physical and emotional changes all for the better and all for a happier new year.

Thanks Robyn! We hope 2011 is a healthy, happy year for you! -- Brooke & David

 

Client of the Month :: January :: Nicole N.

Nicole has been coming to us for so many years I have lost count, and every time she comes through the door I am overjoyed to see her.  She is the pretty redhead you might have seen in the pictures on our site, and we are thankful that she continues to come to us week after week (despite the birth of gorgeous twin girls and a move to another neighborhood).  Nicole is a busy mom and working woman and still manages to find time to take care of herself, which we highly admire. 

Q: Why did you decide to begin Pilates?

A: I had been really into working out at the gym and wanted to find something new and different to jumpstart my enthusiasm.

Q: How do you describe Pilates to your friends?

A: It's an exercise program that completely strengthens your core like nothing else can and it creates long lean muscles rather than bulky ones. 

Q: What is your favorite thing about Pilates?

A: In the past I had tons of problems with my back and since doing Pilates the problems are virtually gone... AND doing Pilates pre-twins really helped me get back into shape quickly post-twins!!

Q: What are your health goals for 2011?

A: To find time to do more Pilates or at least more exercise.

Q: What do you like about coming to our studio? 

A:  I know I will always be challenged and you're both so knowledgeable about Pilates that there is always more to learn or new/ different ways to do things to constantly push my body.

Thanks Nicole!  -- Brooke and David

Client of the Month :: December :: Courtney S.

If we had an award for "Best-dressed" client, Courtney would have to win the prize.  She works for a local retailer and since she comes to us straight from work, she is always dressed in the cutest outfits, complete with the perfect accessories to match.  I seriously want to raid her closet!  She is also totally committed to her workouts, comes regularly and has stuck with Pilates through a foot injury that required time off from exercising (and had her rolling around downtown Seattle in some kind of crazy contraption while it healed).  We love this kind of dedication, and this is why we are excited to have Courtney as our Client of the Month!

Q: Why did you start Pilates?

A: I was looking for a form of working out that I actually enjoyed and was getting married this past August. I had heard great things about Pilates from a number of my girlfriends, and my friend Becky had been to Young Pilates and loved it!

Q: What do you like about Pilates?

A: I love that the classes fly by and that you are not exerting yourself so much that you are in pain. You get a great workout, but it’s not painful….well not all of it! :) I have also found that I have a lot more upper body strength than I have had in the past.

Q: How do you describe Pilates to your friends?

A: It’s a great workout, but you don’t necessarily sweat a lot. It's the first workout that I have ever found that I look forward to going to and don't want to miss!  You work muscles you didn't even know you had, for an all over body tone.

Q: What are your health goals for 2011?

A: Oh boy...well... After the wedding I let bad habits start up again. I could easily aim to drop around 10 lbs. My goal is to add cardio back into my weekly routines along with Pilates. I also plan on eliminating unneeded sugars and carbs and adding veggies & protein to my diet!

Thanks Courtney!  -- Brooke and David

Why is Pilates good for kids?

This spring, we will have a fantastic instructor joining our team here at Young Pilates, and she specializes in Pilates for kids!  So many of you have asked us about kids programming, specifically, and we think it is a great idea.  This article from WellSphere does a great job of detailing why Pilates, in particular, is great for kids:

"Kids today are growing increasingly lazier and fatter due to sedentary lifestyles. Fast food is becoming the main staple of food in homes too busy with work and extra-curricular activities to cook a real meal. Watching too much television and playing video games has become the preferred activity for kids. Kids are not getting outside enough and exercising with play activities.

Over 30% of children up through the teen years are overweight these days and 15% of them are labeled obese. These figures are quite startling and will only climb upward unless both kids and their parents do something positive and constructive about it. With a large focus on getting healthier this 21st century, more and more parents are finally waking up to the fact that they need to help their kids create healthier life habits in order to live longer. Organized exercise through fitness centers and sports are enjoying increasing popularity.

Kids are not prepared physically to start any rigorous or demanding exercise schedule. Their bones and skeletal frame are vulnerable because they are still growing and are susceptible to injury. Cardiovascular and aerobic exercises popular with adults in fitness clubs and gyms are not appropriate yet for children, so they need something that will tax them physically without causing injury. The answer to this dilemma is Pilates for children.

The Pilates exercise program has a number of benefits for children. Just like with adults, children will develop better alignment of the spine and their postures will improve. They will develop stronger muscles and have greater flexibility along the core muscles located in the trunk of the body like the hips, spine, upper thighs and abdominal areas. Their overall performance in other athletic pursuits will improve as well. Kids will develop sleeker bodies and develop an awareness of how their bodies move and the proper way to exercise, keeping in mind body alignment and movement efficiency.

Children’s bodies change rapidly which affects their physical performances and for this reason, Pilates is a great exercise option. It is easily and readily manipulated to adapt to a child’s growing and changing body. Best of all, because part of Pilates is concentration and focus on how the body moves in proper ways, these kids will grow up with the right physical tools to alleviate pain and reduce the chance for injuring themselves in other physical pursuits.

Building the core muscles along the body’s trunk is also important for the development of healthy children’s bodies. Strong core muscles will help them maintain posture and comfort during long periods of sitting in a classroom desk. This means they will better be able to concentrate on the lessons and homework without spending too much time and energy trying to be comfortable and maintain focus.

Pilates is about intense focus and being aware of your body. When kids learn these principles, they are better equipped at maintaining physical shape in other pursuits as well as learning how to relax. Being in control of their body means they will have more self-confidence and self-esteem too. If you are ready to have your children become involved in Pilates, be sure to choose a class where the instructor has had experience teaching this unique exercise program to younger people. The best age to start Pilates with adult supervision is around 8 years of age."

If you're interested in learning more or signing your child up for Pilates this spring, email or call the studio.  We know you will love the instructor and that your kids will have a great time!

Article taken from wellsphere.com, September 2010

Client of the Month :: November :: Aimee M.

Aimee is a blonde ball of energy, who blows in to the studio twice a week to brighten our early mornings.  She keeps us entertained with her funny stories and bubbly, bright personality, and everyone here loves her to pieces.  We simply couldn't imagine mornings here without her.

Q: Why did you decide to begin Pilates?

A: I began Pilates 3 years ago because I was looking for a different type of exercise that would result in the "body look" that the gym and running were not giving me. I felt that the machines at the gym were bulking me up too much and I wanted a longer, leaner muscle look.

Q: Why have you stuck with Pilates?

A: I have stuck with Pilates because I love the results that my body has achieved. I feel taller, longer and more lean in all areas of my body especially in my core muscles.

Q: How would you (or do you) describe Pilates to your friends?

A: Pilates is a work out that improves your strength and flexibility while tightening and toning your body especially the core muscles.

Q: Why do you like coming to our studio?

A: I love coming to Young Pilates because both Dave and Brooke have such great attitudes, are effective instructors and the studio is filled with a positive vibe. You are always greeted with a cheerful  "hello" and a smile which makes getting up to attend my 7 am class easier to bare.  Thanks guys for having such a friendly studio environment!  

Thank YOU Aimee! -- Brooke and Dave

Client of the Month :: October :: Jodie J.

Jodie and her husband have been coming to see us every week since we opened our doors.  We took an instant liking to them and are happy to consider them friends just as much as clients.  Jodie is an ideal Pilates student, paying close attention to her form, and after all of these years I am proud to say she is quite the model of perfect Pilates form.  She can do anything we throw at her and seems to grow with each challenge, incorporating everything she learns right into her body.  I love having her come to class every week, and it is fun thinking of new ways to keep her challenged and motivated. 

Q: Why did you decide to begin Pilates?

A: In July of 2004, my husband, Leland, and I got on a get fit kick.  I had a couple of friends who had tried Pilates and were very pleased with the results.  So when I discovered Young Pilates and Fitness, I convinced Leland to join me in trying it out.  We started a regular practice of duets and have been working out ever since.

Q: Why have you stuck with PIlates?

A: I continue to do Pilates because it improves my body awareness, strengthens my core and improves my posture.  Pilates duets are also a great way for me to connect with my husband.  My Pilates practice has helped me improve my yoga practice and my burgeoning interest in jogging. 

Q: How would you (or do you) describe Pilates to your friends? 

A: Pilates is a form of exercise that enables you to strengthen your core muscles, improve your body alignment and posture, and increase your flexibility.  Pilates can be done with mat (floor) exercises and/or with machines (which look like stretching machines).  There are such a wide variety of exercises, it stays fresh each appointment.  It's a great way to challenge your body.

Q: Why do you like coming to our studio? 

A: I enjoy coming to Young Pilates and Fitness because the instructors (Brooke, Dave, Sue) take an interest in me as a person, and the atmosphere is fun and welcoming.  At Young Pilates & Fitness, I feel challenged and encouraged.  I also have a good time when I'm working out -- it feels more like a treat -- never drudgery.

Thanks Jodie! -- Brooke and David

New in September!

Pilates for Men



Pilates seems to be the secret of most professional athletes, who have found out just how much benefit can be derived from it.  Everyone from David Beckham to Tiger Woods to Lance Armstrong uses Pilates to help with flexibility, deep core strength, endurance, injury prevention/recovery and more.  And each of them has said that they credit Pilates with changing their game.
 
This class, designed exclusively, for men, will address common issues that most men have: tightness in the hamstrings and low back, poor deep core strength, and imbalanced chest-to-back musculature that can cause that familiar hunched shoulder look. Because of its focus on bringing balance to the body, there is no better exercise prescription for the male body than Pilates! If you know a man who would benefit from this class, please send him our way!

When: Five-week series on Saturdays at 9am, beginning 9/18
Cost: $75 plus tax (covers 5 classes)
Register for the series: Secure your spot in class by calling or emailing us

Ballet/Pilates Conditioning



Let's face it, no one knows better than ballerinas how to sculpt the body into fierce shape. This class will combine the booty and leg blasting regimen of a ballerina with the intense core-conditioning of Pilates.  This class is designed for "regular" folk, not dancers, so no previous dance experience necessary!

When: Thursdays at 7:30pm beginning 9/16
Cost: $25/class
Schedule: by calling or emailing the studio to secure your spot

And, last but not least, we are honored to be nominated again for Best Pilates Studio in Western Washington.  But we need your help to win!  You can cast a vote for us here:



Thank you so much!  We hope to see you in the studio!

Coming Soon... in September!

Stay tuned for new classes in September!  We will be offering Pilates/Ballet conditioning with Margaret Roberts, a class designed to tone and sculpt your booty just like a ballerina!  Also coming in September are Men's Pilates classes, which are designed just for men.  Know a guy who thinks Pilates is for girls?  Send him our way.  Check back on our schedule page or email us to find out when these classes will begin.

Also a big thank you to all who bought our deal on Living Social!  We look forward to meeting all kinds of new people, and sharing Pilates with many, many more of you! 

 

Client of the Month :: August :: Sarah S.

Sarah is a new addition to our studio and we couldn't be happier.  She is sunny and bright and always full of good cheer.  We were beyond thrilled to hear how well she had done at her first half marathon, and we know there are many more fitness goals she will achieve.  Perhaps we will celebrate after the half marathon in Paris this March, if we can convince Sarah to join us there!

Q: What was your fitness background before coming here?

A. I had very little fitness background for most of my life. I rode horses and hiked, but had never done much formal fitness training until early 2009. I was living in Singapore at the time and had just had major surgery on both feet and decided that personal training would be a good way to help with my recovery. I saw a trainer regularly in Singapore, but was still not doing much so as to protect my feet.

Q: Why did you decide to try personal training?

A: When I moved back to Seattle in January 2010, I wanted to continue the training I started in Singapore and increase it to prepare for my first half marathon in June 2010. I was walking and running on my own, and wanted guidance on my training regime, particularly strength training.

Q: What results have you seen so far?

A: David has been of fantastic support! He created a customized training plan to get me ready for the half marathon that worked in my training sessions with him and runs on my own. I went from barely being able to run 2 miles in January, to a place where I was easily running 4-5 miles 2 days a week plus one long run of 8 miles by June. The best part was my completion of the Seattle Rock 'n Roll Half though. It was my first ever race (other than a 3k Dad & Me Fun Run when I was about 7…) and my goals were 1) to finish, and 2) not be injured. I did both and more – I finished in under 2.5 hours and felt great afterwards. I am ready to sign up for my next half!

Q: Would you recommend this to your friends?

A: Absolutely! And I have already! The level of personalized support and professionalism makes Young Pilates stand out for me.

Q: Why do you like coming to our studio?

A: Mostly I love coming for Brooke & David. You can tell they love what they do and care about every client. I feel I have personal attention to my needs and someone who knows what I want and helps push me to get there. We work hard and laugh hard every time. The focus is holistic – balancing fitness, life, nutrition – not just on weight lifting or Pilates. I also appreciate the closeness and intimacy of the studio. It is a great facility that has everything (and more!) than you would need, without being too busy and crowded. I’m able to do a variety of strength training, Pilates, weights, boxing, etc. giving me individual attention in a lovely space.

Thanks Sarah! We can't wait to cheer you on for your next half marathon!  -- Brooke and David

Summer Soiree

Hello summer!  As a way to say thank you to some of our longest-attending clients (some of whom have been coming to our studio since we opened 6 years ago), we put on a little soiree.  Dana Wooten, from DanaTreat, was kind enough to cater the event and she provided us with all manner of delicious vegetarian fare. 

Lowell's kids and Pascha's new puppy were by far the hits of the evening, and a certain pink dress received a lot of compliments as well.  We had the loveliest time, surrounded by some of our favorite people in all the world.  Considering that we see many of you more often than we see our family and friends, you have earned a space in our hearts, and a heartfelt thank you for your loyalty all of these years.  We wouldn't be here without you, and it is a joy to see you every week.  Cheers!

New classes: Advanced Group/Novice Group

New: Advanced Pilates for the Experienced Student

Some of you are approaching an advanced Pilates level and would benefit from personalized instruction in a separate class. Here we will take familiar exercises to the next level, and you will be shown how to make adjustments in the regular group classes consistent with your advanced level. These classes are for clients who have been coming regularly for a year or more and have instructor permission.

First class offering will be: Tuesday, July 20th at 7:30pm
Second class offering will be: Tuesday, August 17th at 7:30pm
Third class offering will be: Tuesday, September 14th at 7:30pm
Cost is $25/person, per class **pre-registration required

You can register for one class or all three, and must be have permission from Brooke or David to join the class.

New: Intro to Pilates for Group Classes

On the other end of the spectrum, we often have folks who are interested in trying Pilates but don't have the experience necessary to jump into the group classes.  Many of you have asked us, for example, about letting friends join the group classes who don't have any Pilates experience yet. 

We will now be offering classes each month designed specifically for new people who want to flow into our regular group class schedule.  As you may know, performing the exercises correctly is crucial to getting the most out of your time in class, and these basic classes are also perfect for anyone wanting to hone their skills for a better Pilates foundation. Class size is limited to 4 people for enhanced individualized attention and correction. 

First class offering will be Monday, July 19th at 7:30pm
Second class offering will be Monday, August 16th at 7:30pm
Third class offering will be Monday, September 13th at 7:30pm
Cost: $25/person, per class **pre-registration required

You can register for one class or all three, and please feel free to invite friends who you think might be interested.  Please email or call the studio to reserve your spot in class.

Serena/Beckham got in their best shape with Pilates!

"Aging" athletes have to do more to stay on top of their game, and both David Beckham and Serena Williams have recently said that doing Pilates has gotten them in the best shape of their lives.  Beckham, 34, says that Pilates will help him extend his career until he is 40 and so he does it every day (good for him!).  Serena says she saw results with Pilates in just a week, and that is has helped her lengthen her already strong muscles and get a longer, leaner look as well as drop some dress sizes.  Not too shabby!

Client of the Month :: July :: Dawn R.

Dawn has been coming to our studio for years now, and where she does both Pilates and personal training with us.  Like many women, she miraculously juggles the responsibilities of wife, mother, friend with her own self-care and somehow finds the time to "do it all."  We love her positive attitude, her bright energy and that she loves food, wine and France as much as we do! 

Q. Why did you decide to begin Pilates?

A. I’ve tried numerous fitness routines, gyms and activities to stay fit, and I often find that I quickly become bored with them, and frankly I really dislike most gym environments.  I was looking for something to hold my interest that allowed for a cardio workout without the impact of an aerobics class, the toning effect that you can achieve through weights, and that would help me stretch out every tired pinched and tight muscle in my body.  It seemed like an impossible wish list, but  then I tried a Pilates mat class, and found out how diverse and challenging a Pilates regime can be.

Q. Why have you stuck with Pilates?

A. Since starting Pilates 10 years ago I’ve found that the work evolves with me, it never becomes easy or mind numbing.  Getting ready for a wedding, working all through out my pregnancy and the recovery after it I’ve seen my strength increase as well as the overall shape of my body improve. More importantly, I don’t foresee ever having to give it up, it’s the perfect lifetime exercise.  

Q. How would you (or do you) describe Pilates to your friends?

A. I would describe Pilates as a mesh of a great physical and mental health routine.  With a focus on the core, everything else feels longer, stronger, and better after a session in the studio.  I love when people who balk at how something that seems so low impact could possibly make you break a sweat, quickly change their mind after a session on a reformer.

Q. Why do you like coming to our studio?

A. I love Young Pilates because the class sizes are small enough that even in a group environment you get individual attention.  The instruction provided by Brooke and David is superior.  They do a great job of helping you maximize a specific exercise in a constructive and clear fashion, never hesitating to demonstrate, or repeat (numerous) times the correct method.  The studio is clean and bright, and it is clear that this dynamic duo love what they do, which really makes it easy to spend time with them, taking care of myself.

Thank you Dawn! -- Brooke and Dave

La Femme Cooks

I have been super busy this past month getting my new blog, La Femme Cooks, up and running!  I intend the blog to be a resource for people who want to cook more at home, which is one of my great passions.  The site has only been up about 3 weeks and already I have had 1,000 visitors (!) so I am beyond thrilled.  I hope that you will check it out and become a subscriber, and in return I will post healthy, simple recipes for the everyday cook.  Bon appetit!

Client of the Month :: June :: Sharlean W.

We consider ourselves ridiculously lucky to own a business on 10th Avenue in Queen Anne because we adore the other business owners in our 'hood.  Sharlean manages Le Visage Spa, which is right next door to us, and of course I have spent many hours being pampered there (which I highly recommend!).  Sharlean and her husband are hoping to start a family soon, and when she heard about how fantastic Pilates is for preparing the body for pregnancy, labor, and post-pregnancy, she jumped right in. 

Q. Why did you decide to begin Pilates?

A. I love to try new things and get bored with working out easily. My focus now is on building strength and staying consistent. So after mentioning my goals to Brooke, she inspired me to give it a try. I was not disappointed!

Q: Why have you stuck with Pilates?

A. Brooke and David have definitely kept me intrigued by using the Pilates Reformer machines, the Wunda Chair and all kinds of supplemental items to add in and change up the routine when I come to class. I work as an Esthetician so I'm using my back muscles a lot and my back pain issues have diminished as I have progressed!  Another reason I love Pilates right now is my husband and I are thinking about having children and Pilates keeps the stomach muscles supple and strong and that will be great for a post-pregnancy workout too.

Q. Is Pilates just like you imagined or different somehow?

A. It is different, actually. I pictured being on mats doing boring postures. I had no idea those Reformers/chairs could be so intense and fun. Actually I have to be kept in check a lot in class because I start laughing at how hard it is and that I actually enjoy putting myself through such a challenge! I feel so refreshed when I leave and full of energy.

Q. Why do you like coming to our studio?

A. Brooke and David are very professional and really educated on how to hold your body correctly when doing Pilates as well as how to use the equipment to get the best results. The classes are never more than six people at a time so it's almost like having a private session because you are not surrounded by so many people and you get undivided attention. I did try a few privates lessons first so I could get the hang of it before I went to class which I highly recommend.

Thanks Sharlean!  It is always a pleasure :) -- Brooke and David

Have you tried raw food?  We love: Thrive Restaurant!

Like many people, we had been interested in the raw diet and lifestyle, but sticking that first toe in the water seemed a little daunting.  We were so excited when Thrive opened in Ravenna recently, and they did not disappoint. 

In case you are new to the raw food idea, the raw food diet is a diet based on unprocessed and uncooked plant foods, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, sprouts, seeds, nuts, grains, beans, nuts, dried fruit, and seaweed. Heating food above 116 degrees F is believed to destroy enzymes in food that can assist in the digestion and absorption of food. Cooking is also thought to diminish the nutritional value and "life force" of food.

Proponents of the raw food diet believe it has numerous health benefits, including increased energy, better digestion, weight loss and more.  It makes sense though, doesn't it, that if you eliminate the processed foods that most Americans are consuming and replace them with healthy whole foods that there will be many health benefits.

In any case, we loved the food at Thrive. Their "Awaken" bowl with red Bhutanese red rice, quinoa, fresh veggies and house-made sesame-ginger dressing was a knockout, as were the smoothies.  Don't think of the traditional, heavy, dairy- and sugar-laden concoction that you get most places.  Here, the smoothies are made with fresh, sweet young coconut and raw nuts and are blended into ephemeral goodness that defies explanation. They are super rich and velvety but light as air at the same time. If this is a health food, sign me up!

They also offer classes on how to make a lot of these foods yourself, which I think is a great resource for folks who want to try their hand at making healthy food at home. If you are near Whole Foods and find yourself hungry for a snack, I highly recommend stopping in at Thrive to see what's on the menu.

 

Client of the Month :: May :: Lowell W.

We have talked before about how great Pilates is for men, and yet surprisingly few men participate in a regular Pilates program. (I would venture to guess that they were latecomers to yoga as well, but once they tried it were hooked.)  Lowell was the perfect Pilates candidate when he came to us, because his goals were achievable and he was (and is) very enthusiastic about Pilates and learning new things.  Most men think they are pretty fit, but suffer from nagging injuries that make their favorite sports hard to enjoy.  It has been a true pleasure to see Lowell get stronger, more flexible and more confident over the last few years. 

Q: Why did you decide to begin Pilates?

A: I have had a bad back for more than 20 years and had disk surgery about 9 years ago. Finally, I got smart (read: listened to my wife) and decided to try Pilates as a way of strengthening my core muscles and getting to root causes rather than just treating symptoms.

Q: Why have you stuck with Pilates?

A: It works! My back has not felt this good since I was 20. I’ve tried lots of different things, including swimming and physical therapy. None of the other things I’ve tried have kept me pain free for long stretches. Actually, it’s more than just being pain free that motivates me to stick with Pilates. Because I’m no longer scared that my back could seize up at any moment, I’ve gone back to downhill skiing (my absolute favorite sport, which I had given up) and more serious hiking. I was even brave enough to get on the flying trapeze at a dear friend’s birthday party last year. I was so grateful to be able to go back to back-intensive activities that when I returned from my trapeze adventure, I went to the Pike Place Market and bought a bouquet of flowers for Brooke and Dave. (I gave them to Brooke, so as not to embarrass Dave.)

Q: Is Pilates just like you imagined or different somehow?

A: I didn’t know enough to imagine. All I knew is that my wife said that her Pilates matt classes had been great for her core. I had never seen a Reformer, Wunda chair, etc. before starting Pilates. Even now that I’m a regular, I’m still amazed by how many different exercises you can do on these relatively simple pieces of equipment. Every class I take, Brooke and Dave introduce me to a new exercise (which I usually flub the first time).

Q: Why do you like coming to our studio?
 
A: It’s like the bar Cheers—a great community. And I suspect everyone knows my name, in part because I’m one of the few men who is a regular (even in this town of confident Metrosexuals). I also come in because I adore Brooke and Dave. They’re great teachers, and I can tell they really care about all of their clients.

Thanks Lowell! We love having you in class. -- Brooke and Dave

Pilates: The Secret to a Better Sex Life!

Taken from everythingaboutpilates.com:

The Secret Ingredients Of How to Have Better Sex Doesn't Come From A Cake Recipe
Discover An Improved Sex Life With Pilates And Your Waistline Will Thank You For It

Want to know how to have better sex? Let’s think. If good sex were a recipe, here are some of the ingredients that might go into a delicious portion of sex: mix some strong abdominals with some toned pelvic floor muscles, a dash of mobile hip joints, a pinch of body awareness and a smidge of concentration, all tossed with some good flowing oxygen and voila! An improved sex life. Wait a minute….those ingredients are also major benefits of a regular Pilates exercise routine. Yes, it’s true. Pilates is good for your sex life!

Studies have shown that a key to an improved sex life is a healthy fit body.  There are many body-strengthening benefits of a regular Pilates routine.

First and foremost, let’s talk pelvic floor. Know where your pelvic floor muscles are? Try this: think of the muscles that stop the flow of urine. Are you squeezing them now? Those are your pelvic floor muscles, which also factor into the famous Kegel exercises. They act as a kind of sling, or hammock, that support you from the very bottom of your pelvis.

Strong pelvic floor muscles equal stronger orgasms. It’s a fact; I’m not making this stuff up.

Next, stronger abdominal muscles help to sustain the actions of sex. Stronger core equals stronger movements for a longer period of time. Think of a belly dancer and the control she has over her core muscles. That undulating movement is created from very strong core muscles and years of practice. Pilates can offer that same control.

How about flexibility? Want to try some of those fabulous Kama Sutra poses, but can’t quite get your leg over your head? Pilates improves your flexibility and overall range of movement at the joints.

Looser hips give you greater ease of movement and a freer feeling body. Sounds good to me.

Some of the less obvious benefits of Pilates and how to have better sex have to do with oxygen. Pilates requires very deep, sometimes sustained breathing. This oxygenates your blood and sends oxygen to your muscles faster. The increased blood flow that comes from Pilates exercise can also benefit men who are experiencing some erectile difficulties.

Usually, an increased blood flow to certain areas of a man’s body, and you know what I’m getting at here, is all that is needed to feel improved strength. A stronger body also allows for better stamina and an overall feeling of well-being.

Sex is also just as mental as physical. We all know how a little mental concentration can boost your experience. (wink…nod) Pilates exercise utilizes imagery to achieve the correct form and feeling to each exercise.

So not all benefits of Pilates and how to have better sex are physical. The mental strength recruited during a workout can also be used in your sexual workout.

Joseph Pilates stated that the five basic principles behind his method of exercise are concentration, control, centering, flow, and breathing. All very good compliments to better sex.  And let's face it-- when you feel better about yourself and your body, you feel sexier.  This Pilates can do for you.

Be the master of your mind and body and you will have control in all areas of your life. Pilates will be the way to an improved sex life.

New morning classes added!

We now offer a 9:30am class on both Monday and Wednesday mornings.  Perfect for moms who have to drop off kids at 9am, or for those of you are self-employed and have your mornings free. Would love to see you there!

Client of the Month :: April :: Susie F.

If you could create a perfect Pilates student, Susie would be it.  She attends class regularly and is committed to developing as a student, which is a joy for us as instructors. We have watched her strength and flexibility increase, and her form is impeccable.  She executes the Pilates repertoire with an effortless grace I have not seen since my days teaching at the ballet.  She is also fun and funny and simply a delight to have in class. 

Q: Why did you decide to begin Pilates?

A: I was in bride mode.  My September 2008 wedding was five months away and I wanted to kick my workouts into high gear.  I had always enjoyed mat Pilates and had read about the benefits of doing Pilates with a Reformer.  A studio opened by my gym, so I decided to give it a try.  I've been hooked ever since!

Q: Why have you stuck with Pilates?

A: SImply put: I fell in love.  I love the fact that I am more flexible, stronger, more toned, my energy level is higher, my posture has dramatically improved (I am 1/4" taller!) , my form and breathing are better with my other exercise (yoga, cardio, strength training), and I have fun!

Q: Is Pilates just like you imagined or different somehow?

A: Both!  I knew it would be challenging, but I had no idea how much focus and concentration it requires, in addition to strength and flexibility.  I was also surprised to learn that there are hundreds of exercises possible on the Reformer, many of which have different variations for beginning, intermediate and advanced.  While I was expecting results, I was not expecting to feel so wonderful.

Q: Why do you like coming to our studio?

A: When my husband and I moved to Queen Anne last summer, I started my search for a new Pilates "home."  Young Pilates was within walking distance, they offered convenient class times and affordable rates, and had a long list of awards and accolades.  What sealed the deal, however, were the phenomenal instructors.  Brooke and David are experts at what they do.  Their knowledge and understanding of anatomy and exercise physiology are applied in every Pilates class.  They keep things fresh, whether it is a new exercise on the Reformer or the incorporation of the Wunda Chiar, BOSU ball, Magic Circle, ladder barrel or light weights.  No two classes are ever the same!  Brooke and David always make class fun, and they constantly motivate and encourage everyone to reach their personal best.  I have always had such a positive experience at Young Pilates that my husband started joining me! And now he is hooked too!

Thanks Susie! We appreciate your kind words! -- Brooke and David

Pilates is now the fastest growing exercise in the country.

No surprise to us!  According to a CNN poll out today, the increase in participants doing Pilates has skyrocketed 456% since 2000.  This is great news to us, and makes complete sense because Pilates is really just that awesome. 

But why the tremendous increase, you might ask?  The folks at Classic Form Pilates in Vermont express it well:

"We need only look at Pilates’ intention to find part of the answer.  It was created as a way to heal the body, to realign the skeleton and balance the muscles.   As a society, we are out of alignment – we spend our days sitting at desks, driving in a car, sitting on the sofa to relax at the end of the day.   We are stressed, and we carry the stress in our bodies – tight shoulders and neck, inflexible spine, hips that won’t open.

According to Joseph Pilates, “contrology” was meant to develop the body uniformly. You’re not working “just your abs” or focusing on any one part of the body.  You are working on the body as a whole.  In this way, Pilates is a gift – it opens the body and the joints without creating tension.  It strengthens you from the inside out.  It stretches you.  It balances you.  It tones you.  Chiropractors and Physical Therapists are recognizing the benefits of Pilates in rehabilitation settings, and recommending their clients to the method."

It also doesn't hurt that any professional athlete at the top of their game is using Pilates for that extra competitive edge (and also to help prevent injury), that women have found it an indispensible tool for pre- and post-pregnancy strengthening and recovery, and that people with back pain-- usually so hard to treat-- are having such incredible results with Pilates.

If you're not one of the 9 million people already doing Pilates in this country, we urge you to come see for yourself why this method is so popular.  We think you'll kick yourself for missing out this long! :)

New class Tuesday evenings at 6:30pm

Many of you have asked for a Tuesday evening class, so we have added one beginning April 6th.

To help us get this class off the ground, we are offering you and a friend ONE FREE Tuesday class in April  to try it out and see what you think. 

Simply email or call the studio to reserve your space in class.  No drop-ins please.

Remember that every time you bring a friend and they purchase a package of classes with us, you get a free class!

Rule #1: Eat Food

In his new book "Food Rules," Michael Pollan introduces many ideas about food and eating that should help us simplify what it means to eat healthfully and happily.  I love this book (and all others he has written) and each week will be featuring a new rule here on our blog. This first one is the simplest and also the most important because, according to Pollen, most supermarket items don't deserve to be called food.  He calls them "edible food-like substances: Highly processed concoctions designed by food scientists, consisting mostly of ingredients derived from corn and soy that no normal person keeps in the pantry."  They contain chemical additives that are foreign to our bodies and have no place in a healthy diet. If your great-grandmother would not recognize something as food, then you should pass it by.

"Convenience" foods meant to save you time in the kitchen are not saving you any time on this planet, believe me.  Loaded with preservatives, chemicals and artificial flavors and sweeteners, these are the worst foods out there.  People often say they don't have enough time to cook, but I bet if you measured the time spent on the internet, watching TV and other non-essential tasks you would find the time it takes to cook a healthy meal. I often make a big pot of soup from scratch on Sunday so that when we come home tired in the evenings all we have to do is reheat it and dinner is served. I make lentil soups, miso, southwestern black bean, minestrone, turkey chili-- the combinations are endless and we never tire of it. In the summer I buy big fat Brandywine tomatoes from my local farmer's market and make a ton on gazpacho to graze on all week. Salads are also really easy to put together quickly, and I marinate white beans in fresh herbs from my garden to sprinkle on top for protein, and I roll goat cheese in bread crumbs and bake it like the French do. I make my dressing from scratch and keep it in the fridge, and it is a million times better than anything bought from a store. 

If you are stumped for recipes, a great resource for making easy but yummy soups, salads and even dressings from scratch is "Moosewood Restaurant: Daily Specials."  The recipes are easy to follow and there are a ton of them, so you can make a new soup each week. Nothing from a can, nothing processed or fake in these recipes.

Client of the Month :: March :: Lisa D.

We always look forward to working with Lisa. She is hilarious and fun and motivated, and it has been great to see her confidence in herself improve as she masters each new Pilates challenge.  We love her positive attitude and her willingness to try new things, as well as her wicked sense of humor.  You can read more about her below:

Q: Why did you decide to begin Pilates?

A: A good friend of mine in Washington, DC swore by her Pilates classes. She claimed her weekly sessions made her leaner and happier than any other exercise routine. So, I searched through the Seattle area studios and found Young Pilates listed in King 5 - Evening Magazine's The Best of Western Washington 2009. I'm one of those people who needs instant gratification and Brooke was able to get me in for a session almost immediately. After one session I was hooked!

Q: Is Pilates just like how you imagined or different somehow?
 
A: I didn't really know what to expect from Pilates, so the short answer to the question is: neither. I had seen the different machines in other studios and thought they looked pretty complicated. After looking at some of the exercises (they look so easy on a poster!) I thought "this looks fairly simple." After one session I knew that it wasn't as easy as it looked - and I am not as flexible as I thought. Pilates is not like I imagined, nor is it different than I imagined - it's just GOOD for me.

Q: Why do you like coming to our studio?
 
A: I continue to patronize Young Pilates for many reasons. (1) Brooke and Dave have infinite patience with me. I am the least coordinated person I know. I've been a slow learner when it comes to engaging certain muscles and remembering poses. I like to think that I am a constant source of comic relief as well as a challenge to Brooke and Dave. (2) Every once in a while I surprise myself by being able to do something that I never thought I could do - and that feeling of "I DID IT?! Let's do it again!!" keeps me coming back over and over again. (3) The private sessions work with my schedule and the happy hour price works with my budget. (4) I see results - and that's what it's all about. My midsection is leaner, my arms look better and better every single day, and I feel myself getting stronger from the inside out. (5) Your studio is more than just a place where I can do good things for my body. I can donate toys/equipment for animals. I can help those less fortunate by contributing to your efforts to make Seattle a better place for everyone.

Q: How would you (or do you) describe Pilates to your friends?

A: Pilates is a 50 minute core strengthening exercise that incorporates every single muscle you never knew you had.

Thanks Lisa! -- Brooke and David

"Eat food, not too much, mostly plants."-- Michael Pollan

Clients often ask us what they should be eating to lose weight, and the answer we give is pretty simple.  We have always believed that real food is good food, and that anything that comes packaged or processed is not good for us.  We do not believe in healthier eating through chemistry; rather, we think that if it comes out of the ground and doesn't include an ingredients list you are probably making a good decision. Recently Michael Pollan has come out with several books on the subject, and his most recent "Food Rules" is our new recommendation for anyone interested in making real changes to their health.  We firmly believe that you don't lose weight through fat-free and sugar-free substitutes, but from eating real food created by nature (and not by a lab tech).

"Eat food" means to eat real food -- vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and, yes, fish and meat -- and to avoid what Pollan calls "edible food-like substances."  Here's how:

    1. Don't eat anything your great grandmother wouldn't recognize as food. "When you pick up that box of portable yogurt tubes, or eat something with 15 ingredients you can't pronounce, ask yourself, "What are those things doing there?" Pollan says.

    2. Don’t eat anything with more than five ingredients, or ingredients you can't pronounce.

    3. Stay out of the middle of the supermarket; shop on the perimeter of the store. Real food tends to be on the outer edge of the store near the loading docks, where it can be replaced with fresh foods when it goes bad.

    4. Don't eat anything that won't eventually rot. "There are exceptions -- honey -- but as a rule, things like Twinkies that never go bad aren't food," Pollan says.

    5. It is not just what you eat but how you eat. "Always leave the table a little hungry," Pollan says. "Many cultures have rules that you stop eating before you are full. In Japan, they say eat until you are four-fifths full. Islamic culture has a similar rule, and in German culture they say, 'Tie off the sack before it's full.'"

    6. Families traditionally ate together, around a table and not a TV, at regular meal times. It's a good tradition. Enjoy meals with the people you love. "Remember when eating between meals felt wrong?" Pollan asks.

    7. Don't buy food where you buy your gasoline. In the U.S., 20% of food is eaten in the car.

Whenever we visit Europe we pay close attention to the social norms surrounding food.  In France we never see people walking and eating at the same time.  People don't even take beverages to go.  They don't eat on the subway or in their cars.  They sit down to eat every meal, even at fast food locations.  When you enter a drugstore, all they sell is drug items (lotions and potions); gone are the bags of potato chips, candy, soda and gum that every American store carries.  Grocery stores carry a small selection of "junk" food items, but nothing comes in a large or "family" size. Their idea of food value is different and they look less for bulk than for quality.  Everyone walks to get where they are going, and many errands, such as food shopping, are done on foot.  If you have ever had to lug groceries home, you quickly understand the benefit of purchasing less.  Things like soda and gum are expensive, and this discourages their purchase. 

Americans are constantly being told to fear certain foods or to esteem others.  All marketing companies have to do is put "whole grain" on Cheerios and we think it is a health food, or "fat-free" and think it is good for us.  Next week I will post more from Pollan on food and nutrients and how to make healthier decisions right now.  Stay tuned!

Client of the Month :: February :: Jessica W.

Jessica is a serious runner and soccer player who is a great example of how Pilates can complement and enhance sports performance. She came to us with a lot of muscle tightness and some muscular imbalances that we have worked on fixing with Pilates, and what we love about her is that she always shows up ready to work hard. She is always up for trying anything and we appreciate her commitment to learning the Pilates method with us.

Q: Why did you decide to begin Pilates?
A: I had heard great things about it and I wasn't getting the results from traditional physical therapy that I desired.

Q: Is Pilates just like how you imagined or different somehow?
A: I had a sample introduction to it years ago, but didn't have a lot of background knowledge. It is more difficult at times than I imagined it, as I'm used to more physically active workouts. 

Q: Why do you like coming to our studio?
A: There are several reasons!  It was originated by the convenience in location, but I continued to come because Brooke and Dave make it feel more like friends than a structured gym environment.

Q: How would you (or do you) describe Pilates to your friends?
A: It is the perfect supplement for those active people (I'm a big runner and soccer player) and helps me concentrate on the smaller muscles and my abs, which I sometimes neglect with my traditional workouts. It reshapes my body more than anything else I have tried.

Q: What do you love about Pilates?
A: It is a workout where you walk away feeling tired and refreshed at the same time. I'm used to getting muscle "fatigue" only from workouts that make you sweat. With Pilates, I can go do my session, walk out the door and actually go do errands or go back to work without feeling like I have to shower and am completely a mess for the rest of the evening!

Thanks Jessica! --Brooke and David

FREE Wunda Chair class for you and a friend!

The wonderful "Wunda" Chair takes your Pilates routine to a whole new level. There truly is nothing else like it out there.

Hollywood celebs swear that the chair is what keeps them fit and toned, and if you have seen the infomercials for the Malibu Pilates Chair then you have a little idea of what the chair can do.

We are the only studio in Seattle to have the latest version of the Wunda chair on the market, and we are excited to share it with you.  

We know that once you try a workout on this amazing piece of equipment you will never want to go back to boring old mat Pilates again!  So we are offering you and a friend ONE FREE class to try it out and see what you think.  

Available class times for your free session are:

Wednesdays at 7am
Thursdays at 6:30pm
Saturdays at 10am

Simply email or call the studio to reserve your space in class.  No drop-ins please.

Not sure what the Wunda Chair is?  This little piece of equipment is a big workout!  It takes Pilates work to the next level in a fun, challenging workout.  Suitable for all levels, and great for intermediate to advanced clients.

Become a fan on Facebook :: enter to win a private lesson!

We are building up our Facebook site in order to bring special offers and interesting information to our fans there. To do this, we need your help!  For every friend from your Facebook list that joins our page, you will be entered to win a free private Pilates lesson.  Simply send us a list every Thursday of your friends who have joined our page and we will enter you that many times into the drawing that will take place every Friday in February.  You can friend us on Facebook here. Thanks so much for helping us build a better online community, dedicated to the health and wellness of our friends, family and neighbors!

1/20/10: Today's winner is Melissa S! Call or email the studio in February to set up your private lesson!

The Big Climb to Fight Leukemia :: Join Our Team!

On March 21st David will climb 69 flights of stairs, 1311 steps, and 788ft of vertical elevation to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  This will be his 4th year doing the climb, and every year he has managed to beat his previous best time.  We are rooting for him again!

But you don't need to race to be involved. Anyone and everyone is free to join our team, which you can do by using this link: http://www.llswa.org/site/TR/Events/BigClimb?px=1064782&pg=personal&fr_id=1110 Everyone who joins the team will receive free training sessions with Dave (and the team) to get in shape for the climb. If you prefer to donate instead of climb, you can use the link above to do so.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is the world's largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services. The mission of LLS is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Since its founding in 1949, LLS has invested more than $600 million for research specifically targeting blood cancers.

Once our team is established, Dave will contact you about training times. We look forward to having you on our team and thank you in advance for your donations!

Paws Gift Drive

In the spirit of the holiday season we have begun a gift drive for PAWS (Progressive Animal Welfare Society) that will continue through January 10th, 2010. To make it easy for our clients to donate to PAWS this year, we have started a collection bin at the studio and have already received items including pet toys, food and bedding. For a complete list of items you can donate to PAWS, please take a look at the 2009 Winter Wish List for the Animals. Any and all items donated will be greatly appreciated!

Client of the Month :: December :: Roberta D.

Roberta has been coming to see us since we first opened our doors in 2004. She started with private lessons and then moved into the group classes where she has been a regular participant every week for the last 5 years! We love her enthusiasm and good spirit and always look forward to having her in class. You can read more of her story here:

Q: Why did you decide to begin a Pilates program?

R: When I first started Pilates several years ago, I was in my early 40s and experiencing some new aches in my back. Luckily it wasn't due to an injury but "just getting older" and I realized that I'd better do something to strengthen up the core area to keep it strong. I was hearing quite a bit about the benefits of Pilates so I decided to check it out.

Q: How long have you been coming to our studio?

R: For the most part, I've been coming weekly since about 2004. To keep myself motivated, I need to have a variety of different ways to keep myself moving during the week.

Q: Why have you stayed with Pilates for so many years?

R: For many reasons – the whole package fits me well! 1) I live a block away. It’s so convenient that I have no excuses! 2) I don’t do well as a “gym robot.” The studio has a very friendly atmosphere and I get to know many of the folks who are regulars like me. 3) Finally, Pilates is an exercise that works well for me. Over the years, I notice the results in how strong my back has become as well as noticing huge improvement in my posture and how I carry myself.

Q: What is your favorite thing about doing Pilates at our studio?

R: I couldn’t go anywhere for this long if I didn’t like the “feel” of the place. Brooke and David are both very patient teachers, take a personal interest in helping me achieve my own fitness goals and are both fun to be around. The sessions seem to just fly by!

Q: If you were going to describe Pilates to your friends, what would you say?

R: I’d say that in one Pilates session, I can get an overall workout, strengthening my core as well as targeting all other areas. Over time, it all adds up and I see myself getting stronger all over!

Is Pilates Good For Men?

We get asked this question a lot, and the answer is YES!  Pilates is great for men. This is because it addresses common issues that most men have: tightness in the hamstrings and low back, poor deep core strength, and imbalanced chest-to-back musculature that can cause that familiar hunched shoulder look. Because of its focus on bringing balance to the body, there is no better exercise prescription for the male body than Pilates!

In fact, Pilates seems to be the secret of most professional athletes, who have found out just how much benefit can be derived from it.  Everyone from David Beckham to Tiger Woods to Lance Armstrong uses Pilates to help with flexibility, deep core strength, endurance, injury prevention/recovery and more.  And each of them has said that they credit Pilates with changing their game.

“I do an hour of Pilates a day. The medical set-up at Milan is fantastic and fitness-wise I am the best I have been for a long time.” -- David Beckham, 2009

What many men don't know is that Pilates was created by a man (Joseph Pilates) and originally used to rehabilitate wounded soldiers.  Joe Pilates then went on to train elite police forces and professional boxers, and it is only when he came to this country that the women of the dance world became fascinated with the system and thus passed it along to other women who fell in love with it too. 

We often get male clients who are sent to us by their wives. In many cases the husband has been complaining about back pain, or knee pain, and hasn't been able to find relief. We work on addressing these kinds of issues by bringing the body into better balance, which helps take the load off of stressed muscles, ligaments and joints. And something not talked about very much is how Pilates can improve one's sex life!  Because it strengthens the pelvic floor musculature, the deep abdominals, inner thighs and buttocks, Pilates is wonderful for that other kind of exercise.

 Here is a great USA Today article that you can forward to any men in your life who are thinking about doing Pilates!

Who was Joseph Pilates?

Often when I am working with clients on the Reformer, the Wunda Chair, and the Trapeze Table, I am struck by the fact that one single man developed ALL of this equipment and all of the exercises: Joe Pilates. No other person can claim to have developed such a diversity of unique equipment nor a total system of exercise unlike anything else out there. Joe was quite an amazing character, and his story is a great one. Marguerite Ogle, who writes many great articles about Pilates at about.com, has written a great piece about Joe that I am reproducing here:

German born Joseph Pilates was living in England, working as a circus performer and boxer, when he was placed in forced internment in England at the outbreak of WWI. While in the internment camp, he began to develop the floor exercises that evolved into what we now know as the Pilates mat work.

As time went by, Joseph Pilates began to work with rehabilitating other detainees who were suffering from diseases and injuries. It was invention born of necessity that inspired him to utilize items that were available to him, like bedsprings and beer keg rings, to create resistance exercise equipment for his patients. This was unlikely beginnings of the equipment we use today, like the Reformer and the Magic Circle.

Joseph Pilates developed his work from a strong personal experience in fitness. Unhealthy as a child, Joseph Pilates studied many kinds of self-improvement systems. He drew from Eastern practices such as yoga and Zen Buddhism, and was inspired by the ancient Greek ideal of man perfected in development of body, mind and spirit. On his way to developing the Pilates Method, Joseph Pilates studied anatomy and developed himself as a body builder, a wrestler, gymnast, boxer, skier and diver.

After WWI, Joseph Pilates briefly returned to Germany where his reputation as a physical trainer/healer preceded him. In Germany, he worked briefly for the Hamburg Military Police in self-defense and physical training. In 1925, he was asked to train the German army. Instead, he packed his bags and took a boat to New York City. On the boat to America, Joseph met Clara, a nurse, who would become his wife. He went on to establish his studio in New York and Clara worked with him as he evolved the Pilates method of exercise, invented the Pilates exercise equipment, and of course, trained students.

Joseph Pilates taught in New York from 1926 to 1966. During that time, he trained a number of students who not only applied his work to their own lives but became teachers of the Pilates method themselves. This first generation of teachers who trained directly with Joseph Pilates is often referred to as the Pilates Elders. Some committed themselves to passing along Joseph Pilates work exactly as he taught it. This approach is referred to as “classical style” Pilates. Other students went on to integrate what they learned with their own research in anatomy and exercise sciences.

Joseph Pilates' New York studio put him in close proximity to a number of dance studios, which led to his “discovery” by the dance community. Many dancers and well-known persons of New York depended on Pilates method training for the strength and grace it developed in the practitioner, as well as for its rehabilitative effects. Until exercise science caught up with the Pilates exercise principles in the 1980s, and the surge of interest in Pilates that we have today got underway, it was chiefly dancers and elite athletes who kept Joseph Pilates' work alive.

Joseph Pilates passed away in 1967 at age 87. He had maintained a fit physique throughout his life, and many photos show that he was in remarkable physical condition in his older years. He is also said to have had a flamboyant personality. He smoked cigars, liked to party, and wore his exercise briefs wherever he wanted (even on the streets of New York). It is said that he was an intimidating, though deeply committed, instructor. Clara Pilates continued to teach and run the studio for another 10 years after Joseph Pilates death. Today, Joseph Pilates teachings are carried on by the Pilates Elders, and by a large group of contemporary teachers.

Joseph Pilates called his work, contrology. He defined Contrology as “the comprehensive integration of body mind and spirit.” This philosophy is beautifully elucidated in his book, Return to Life Through Contrology.

You can find more articles by Marguerite at about.com!

Needle + Thread features Brooke!

The Seattle PI fashion blog "Needle + Thread" photographed and interviewed me about fashion.  You can read the full text at http://www.needleplusthread.com.   Fun!

Client of the Month :: November :: Lee R.

Lee and his wife Jodie have been working with us since August 2004 when we first opened our doors here on Queen Anne. He and Jodie came for Pilates duets and personal training, and Lee struggled in those early days with implementing some of the concepts of Pilates. But he has stuck with it for 5 years and the progress has been incredible. Lee does Pilates with Brooke and Sue, and personal training with Dave, and all of us agree that he has made great gains in coordination, strength, flexibility and his confidence in the work has grown exponentially since his first months and even years here. We are proud of him for his dedication to fitness over the years and for never missing an appointment.  You can read more about Lee's story here:

Q: What do you like about Pilates?

L: I like that it is something that I can do together with my wife Jodie so that we can help to motivate each other. I also like that it can be a very intense work-out.

Q: What do you feel the benefits have been in combining Pilates and personal training?

L: By combining both Pilates and personal training with weights I've been able to improve my flexibility while simultaneously dramatically increasing my strength and muscle tone.

Q: Can you describe all of your instructors in one word?

L: Dave: versatile
Sue: conscientious
Brooke: traditional

Q: What do you like about our studio in particular?

L: I like the personal attention and the no-pressure atmosphere.

Q: how would you recommend Pilates and personal training to your friends?

L: I would tell them that incorporating Pilates into a workout regime has great benefits.  And I would encourage them to be open minded about Pilates: Tiger Woods, Kurt Schilling and the Seattle Seahawks all do Pilates, so it is definitely is not just for the Oprah-watching contingent.

Thanks Lee!  -- Brooke and Dave

Pilates Scholarships for Breast Cancer Survivors

We have been looking for a meaningful way to give back to our community and help make a difference in the lives of our friends and neighbors.  We know firsthand how the Pilates system of exercise can benefit everyone from elite athletes to seniors, but cost can be a deterrent for some folks.  We have always felt it important to keep our prices among the lowest in the city, but how to introduce the benefits of Pilates to folks who really, really need it? 

October gave us just the inspiration we have been looking for.  October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and here at Young Pilates we happen to have a stellar instructor who is Pink Ribbon certified: Sue Bream.  We are working with Sue to create 6 scholarships to study Pilates at our studio.  The benefits of exercise, and Pilates specifically, are great for survivors.  Pilates training can be an excellent way to address the postural issues and muscle-balancing necessary to recover from the side effects of breast cancer treatment. Pilates can help alleviate pain from breast cancer operative procedures, restore joint mobility and tissue integrity, and help regain lost strength. But most importantly, Pilates is a mind-body discipline that brings the two into harmony and can help remind us of the joy of movement.

Here are the details of our Pilates Scholarship program:

• This program is open to all Breast Cancer Survivors
• After folks fill out a short form, we will select 6 participants for the program
• Cost is FREE to all participants chosen
• Program runs Saturday 11/7 through Saturday 12/19 (excluding 11/28) for a total of 6 weeks
• Class will be held at Young Pilates each Saturday from 12pm-1pm
• Forms must be received by 5pm on 10/28.  Winners will be announced Friday, 10/30

 If you would like to apply for a scholarship, please click here to fill our our short questionnaire.

Thank you so much and we look forward to working with you!

Pilates for Breast Cancer :: by Sue Bream

Statistics show that there are over 2 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. According to the Center for Disease Control, breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer in women (non-melanoma skin cancer is the first). The American Cancer Society estimates that in the U.S. in 2009, about 192,370 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women and about 40,170 women will die from breast cancer. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer.

This being said, there are a lot of breast cancer patients and survivors out there, many of whom are seeking ways to stay active during various phases of treatment, or get active following treatment. Participating in Pilates is an excellent form of exercise that helps in the recovery process from breast cancer treatments.  Exercise in general has been shown to be effective in reducing the side effects of cancer treatments as well as the possibility of recurrences.

The many side-effects of breast cancer treatment include pain, limited shoulder joint mobility, and consequently, a loss of strength and endurance, lymphedema, as well as some self-esteem issues.  If you had a mastectomy or lumpectomy, your posture may have changed due to your surgery.  This change could create discomforts both physically and emotionally.

Pilates focuses on stabilizing the central core and working from there to effectively execute other movements.  Pilates can be a very gentle way to get moving after breast cancer treatment, especially if done initially in a private session with an instructor who is trained to work with breast cancer patients.  The many physical challenges that these women face can be dealt with very successfully through Pilates, including lymphedema.  Lymphedema is a possibility for any woman who has had lymph nodes removed.  The deep breathing and strong abdominal contractions in Pilates can help move lymph fluid out of the trouble areas.  Another benefit of Pilates is that it is very mind-body oriented.  This connection of the mind and body can help greatly in the recovery process.

It is recommended that breast cancer patients start slowly with their exercise programs.  The varied equipment in a Pilates studio provides ample choices of exercises to improve range of motion, strength, endurance, and to feel better.

There are a few specialty training programs available for Pilates instructors to gain further knowledge about working with breast cancer patients.  One such program is called the “Pink Ribbon Program” where an instructor becomes trained as a “certified post-rehabilitative breast cancer exercise specialist”.  The goal os to design a post-operative workout which will enhance recovery through Pilates-based exercise. 

Sue Bream is certified through this program and also teaches weekly exercise classes for Team Survivor Northwest at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.  To speak with her about how Pilates can benefit you, please call 206-300-3919 or email her at sue@suebreamfitness.

Client of the Month :: October :: Jessica V.

Jessica has been coming to our studio for almost 4 years, which is a pretty incredible milestone. She started with us before her wedding, loved the workouts and has graced us with her presence ever since.  Jessica also convinced her husband to give us a try a year or so ago and we have enjoyed working with them both at the studio.

Q: Why did you decide to begin Pilates?

J: Shortly after I got engaged in 2006 I was reading Seattle Bride Magazine and came across the "Best of Seattle Bride" section. I noticed the award Young Pilates won for Bridal Bootcamp. I looked up their website and emailed to find out more information. I was getting married the following summer and decided to give Bootcamp a try!

Q: Why have you stayed with it as long as you have?

J: I attended Young Pilates the entire year before I was married. When I started Bridal Bootcamp, I had only thought as far as my wedding. However, I enjoyed my time there so much, that I continued even after I returned from my honeymoon. I love the easy-going atmosphere of the studio and have gotten to know Brooke and Dave as friends. I look forward to my weekly sessions. Also, the studio is very affordable, and they have not raised the prices once since I have been attending.

Q: What is your favorite thing about Pilates?

J: There are so many things I love about Pilates! I have never been a gym person so finding Pilates was the best thing for me. Pilates truly gives you a full-body workout while strengthening your core and increasing your flexibility.

Q: If you were going to recommend Pilates to your friends, what would you say?

J:  I would highly recommend pilates to any of my friends, especially pilates at Young Pilates and Fitness. I would tell them about the results I have seen and the fun I have. I never dread a pilates workout which is more than I can say about going to the gym. I would also tell them about the affordable prices and knowledgeable trainers.

Thanks Jess! We love having you and Colin as clients and friends! -- Brooke and David

Pilates and Pregnancy :: Safe, supportive and effective

Pilates is one of the best ways to get your body ready for pregnancy, to keep it fit during pregnancy and to get it back afterward. In fact, we believe it is the BEST choice for women simply because of the focus on strengthening the core musculature. Like any exercise regimen, it is recommended to begin Pilates before pregnancy. This allows you to develop a relationship with an instructor who knows your body and can make informed adjustments to your sessions as your pregnancy progresses, and it also begins to strengthen the stomach, back and pelvic floor muscles that are crucial to supporting your expanding belly. 

It cannot be overstated how beneficial Pilates is for strengthening the deep core muscles which include your postural stabilizers and pelvic floor muscles.  Pregnancy can put a lot of strain on the back and we work to strengthen the deep stabilizing muscles that counteract that strain.  We also work on strengthening the upper-back muscles to get them ready for breast-feeding posture and picking up baby from the crib and car-seat and all the bending over required from new moms. 

Pilates is also great for improving balance, and as your body changes your center of gravity shifts making balance more of a challenge.  At our studio we often use physio-balls or BOSUs with pregnant clients to challenge their seated and standing balance to great effect. 

But most important of all, Pilates does a great job of strengthening the pelvic floor muscles which contribute to a supported, comfortable pregnancy, and better labor.  It is also makes all the difference in recovering post-pregnancy.  There is a great article written about the pelvic floor muscles that you can find here. 

If you are planning your pregnancy and would like to talk to us about the benefits of starting a Pilates exercise regimen in preparation please do give us a call!  We love working with moms pre- and post-baby and we really believe that Pilates is one of the best thing a woman can do to prepare for pregnancy and birth!

Best of Western Washington 09 :: Vote Now!

We are in the running again for the best Pilates studio on Western Washington.  We placed 2nd last year and we know with your vote we can win it this time!  If you would like to vote for us you can do so here. 

Many thanks to our fabulous, supportive clients who have helped us do so well!

Pilates Happy Hour Extended thru September/October!

Enjoy 1/2-priced Pilates and personal training from 3-5pm daily!

Eating local :: Good for you, good for the economy

Last summer we read "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle" by Barbara Kingsolver and it absolutely changed the way we look at food, farming and the importance of nourishing ourselves and the planet in a thoughtful manner. We tried our own little experiment and decided to eat only what came from Washington State for the entire summer and fall.  I must tell you, we ate very well!  From incredible wine grown in the Columbia Valley to the heritage Wooly Pigs raised right here in the Northwest, we dined like royalty on the fruits of local labor. I even found out that the Palouse is one of the largest lentil-growing regions in the world and so we were able to source my favorite little legume from right here in our own state. It's amazing what can be found locally and I delight in  this discovery at our local farmers' markets every week.

As it turns out, eating locally is good for you, good for the small farmers who grow our food and good for the planet. It is also good for the local economy, which makes sense. The Washington Post has a good article today which states that if the population "in and around Seattle bought 20 percent of their food dollars at local businesses, it would inject an extra billion dollars each year into the local economy."  That would be a huge stimulus for our area and one not dependent on technology or software but from the bounty of the land.  Pretty incredible stuff.

If you are interested in reading the full article in the Post please go here.
To find a farmer's market near you look here: http://www.seattlefarmersmarkets.org/

Clients of the Month :: September :: Liz and Megan

Good friends Liz and Megan joined our studio in anticipation of Liz's wedding two years ago, stayed with us through Megan's wedding last year and are still regular clients in our group classes.  Dave and I love their fun sense of humor and how they brighten every class they attend.  You can read more of their stories below:

Liz and Megan relaxing on the EXO Chairs

Q: What made you decide to try Pilates?

Liz: I first decided to try Pilates about three years ago before my wedding. I not only wanted to get in great shape for that all-important wedding dress, but was also training for a half-marathon. Beyond running, I wanted to find something that would compliment this training and improve flexibility and strength. Pilates turned out to be just the thing I needed! 

Q: How do you describe Pilates to your friends?

Megan: I describe it by saying how every muscle is worked and it is concentrated on the appropriate movement and usage of the muscles. As opposed to cardio work, or weight lifting, I am getting a total body workout, especially on muscles that don't get a lot of attention. It is also focused as a small class to get complete training. I recommend it for everyone!

Q: Why have you stuck with Pilates?

Megan: I love the way I feel after a Pilates class and the day after, my body has gotten a great workout and it shows!  Brooke and Dave are very personable and it is always a joy to come to their classes as they are always upbeat and ready to help with any techniques.

Liz: For a number of reasons. One, I've stuck with Pilates because I know it works.  I've never felt better. If I happen to miss a class, my body is not happy with me, so I stick with it!  Two, Brooke and Dave are innovative and continue to challenge me, so I never get bored with a class, there is always something new.  Three, last summer, my good friend Megan wanted to try Pilates to get in shape for her wedding, so we started attending classes together, and a year later after her wedding, we're still attending classes together.  We keep each other accountable!

Thanks you guys!  Keep up the great work! -- Brooke and David

Funny! From someecards.com

Our new video is up and running!

We have been fortunate enough to work with the incredibly talented video producer, Matthew Billings, on our latest project: a short video introducing us and our business to the world.  Why a video?  Well, how does one choose a Pilates studio among the many offerings around the city?  We thought this short video would be a great way to distinguish ourselves from the pack and let people know who we are and what we are about.  You can find a link to our video on every page of this site above the navigation bar and we hope you enjoy it.  We definitely had a great time making it!  A big thank you to our clients who participated in the shoot: Zoe J., Celeste H., Jessica V., Katrina H., Renee Y., and a huge thank you to Matthew Billings who did an outstanding job for us.  You can find more of his work here: www.matthewbillings.com.

Seattle Weekly Best of 2009 :: We won!

Here is the text from the Seattle Weekly article, which debuted 7/29/09:

Regardless of the economic climate, new pilates studios seem to spring up around this city every month. While almost anyone who's been to a few classes will tell you it's a wildly effective and enjoyable way to get svelte, limber, and strong, it's also prohibitively expensive for many—particularly if it involves the use of pricey reformer equipment. Not so at Young Pilates on Queen Anne, where small-group reformer classes are just $25 per one-hour session, and even private lessons can be had for a paltry $35 if you make your appointment during their happy hour (Mon.–Fri., 3–5 p.m.). Luckily, all these bargain-basement rates are not reflected in the warm, light-filled studio and approachable, responsive teaching philosophy of husband-and-wife team Brooke and David Young. "I think it's pretty obvious we love working together," says Brooke, "and I feel like that gets translated to our clients by way of a fun, collegial atmosphere." (Indeed, David is a dry-humored indie-rock fan as likely to talk to you about the last episode of True Blood as he is to gently correct your form.) And those low prices? "We have more group reformers [eight total] than just about any other studio in the city," Brooke claims, "which allows us to fit more folks in and charge a little less than those studios that have only three or four. In fact, we haven't raised the prices on the group classes ever in five years."—Hannah Levin

Client of the Month :: August :: Katrina H.

Katrina has been working with us for 10 months and her progress has been amazing!  When she first began  Pilates she didn't have a lot of confidence in her fitness level, coordination or strength.  But seeing her improve on each exercise and each piece of equipment has made her more confident in her abilities and has made Dave and I very proud of all the hard work she has done.  Read more of her story below./p>

Q: What made you decide to try Pilates in the first place?

A: I had read a lot about Pilates and about how it had changed people’s bodies dramatically. I was headed on a bikini-laden vacation over the winter holiday and thought it would be the perfect way to tone my body and give me something new to complement my gym time. It’s been almost seven months since I’ve returned from my vacation, and I’ve lost an additional twelve pounds!

Q: What is your favorite thing about Pilates?

A: I love the way I feel after Pilates. I never feel that I’ve hurt myself, but rather I feel truly energized for the day.  I always look forward to it!  I will say that I love Brooke’s advice on wine and cooking.  Dave is great for comic relief (great stories!),  just don’t fool yourself into thinking  you’re going to get away with an easy fifty minutes!  He’s also a great source of human kinetic knowledge.

Q: How do you describe Pilates to your friends who
haven’t tried it?

A: My friends have noted how my body has toned up in the past seven or eight months.  I credit this to Young Pilates.  I tell them that Pilates uses your own body weight as resistance, using stretching and breathing as core elements.

Q: What are some of the advantages to Pilates over traditional strength training classes offered at the bigger gyms?

A: There are numerous advantages to exercising at Young Pilates versus traditional training gyms.  I still do cardio and some weight lifting at my gym, but that is about the limit to its fascination.  First, with Pilates I never have to wait for a machine to open up!  It’s amazing to think about how much time you actually waste going from machine to machine (sometimes using machines that the trainer never intended due to the fact that the machine s/he would like to use for you is already in use!).  Second, I know my trainers at Young Pilates. They know my abilities or lack thereof.  With the bigger gyms, your trainer is constantly changing or really has no qualified credentials to be training you (have you ever heard something that battled with your common sense from these guys?).  Brooke and Dave know my abilities and push me constantly without the possibility of me getting hurt.  I truly trust that they know what they are doing, plus their credentials are more than ones that they earned from working at the gym (dime a dozen I have found).  Third, Brooke and Dave are always responsive.  I am able to reach them via email or phone.  Most trainers will not even get back to you in a forty-eight hour period at larger gyms.  Brooke and Dave treat me as they would like to be treated, duly noted and appreciated!  There are at least another handful of positives that I could provide, but I think my recommendation speaks rather loudly. 

Thanks Katrina!  -- Brooke and David

Summer Special:: Pilates Happy Hour

Enjoy 1/2-priced private Pilates and personal training lessons from 3-5pm daily!
Good through July and August 2009

The Secret of Pilates? The Eccentric Contraction...

In Pilates there is more emphasis on the eccentric contraction than one finds in most exercise systems. It is the eccentric contraction that accounts for the long, strong muscles Pilates is known for.  When people ask us how working on the Pilates machines is different from work on traditional fitness equipment, we let them know it is all about the springs.  The springs provide more eccentric contraction in every exercise than one can get on gym equipment.  The same idea is carried over into mat work where every move is focused on control and precision in both concentric and eccentric contraction.

Read more about this phenomenon here: hhttp://pilates.about.com/od/technique/a/eccentric-contraction.htm