5 Things I Love and Hate About Pilates

I’ve been attending Pilates reformer level 1 classes for about eight weeks now and the work is starting to reflect in my appearance.  This past week many friends and co-workers commented on my smaller, fitter size.

At times I probably sound like a Pilates evangelist when sharing how it’s working for me. But there are a couple of baby thorns in there with the roses.

What I Hate About Pilates

1. The 100s. The 100s is the exercise shown in the picture above and there are many variations.  It’s described as a warm-up abdominal exercise but I call it torture.

I’m sure it’s because my abdominal muscles aren’t very strong.  I will say I can see improvement but by no means do I have it mastered. It’s my least favorite part of the class.

2. The Cost. Because the class sizes are limited to the number of reformer machines (12 at my studio) classes aren’t cheap.  But it’s definitely less costly than physical therapy sessions!

I save money by taking advantage of package pricing bringing the cost per session down to $8-$10 but it adds up over a month.  Paying for a single session at the studio I attend is $20. Most studios do have special pricing for new attendees so you can try it for a lower cost.  I started out by purchasing a Groupon.

Things I Love About Pilates

1. Fun Classes. I love that after nearly 20 sessions every class has been different.  Although we repeat exercises, it’s never the same overall routine or they’re changed up by using different equipment.

2. Convenient. The studio I go to has classes from 6 am to 8 pm weekdays and a great selection on weekends.  It’s less than two miles from my house with only one stop sign between us.  Plus, I can go to any of the other five locations around San Diego if needed.

3. Results.  Here’s where I gush but I’ll put it in bullet form to make it easier to read.

• I no longer have back pain after walking more than 20 minutes
• There are muscles in my upper arms.  I haven’t seen them for decades!
• My posture is improved.  The stretching and exercises have improved my posture both standing and sitting a great deal.
• My clothes fit better.
• Compliments from family and friends.

I still have a long ways to go before I’m a pilates pro but my first goal is to improve enough to “graduate” to reformer level 2 class.  The pros far outweigh the cons so you’ll see me at the studio every Tuesday and Thursday at 6 a.m. What do you hate and love about your exercise routine?