ELena Bovay COACH LONDON Pilates instructor tells us how Pilates changed her life.

Had it not been for Pilates, my life as a former dancer would be very different. Like anyone who has sustained an injury, I had to find a way to support my recovery. For me, the answer was regular Pilates practice which has helped me maintain a healthy spine and knees, despite a few slipped discs, and an operated knee.

But it is not only Pilates remedial properties that I find so vital to my wellbeing. Pilates is often called “the thinking person’s exercise system” because it is the only workout that gives maximum results with minimal effort. Some exercises might look too easy or not very exciting at first but they are very effective. In fact if performed correctly, you may be surprised by their intensity. You will also discover new or under-utilised muscles, which is one of the reasons why I love teaching Pilates.

There something new to be learnt by everybody and it is fascinating to see how a correctly chosen exercise can produce a real change in a person’s physical abilities. Usually after six sessions (taken twice a week) you will start noticing improvements in your posture and feel more toned, defined and flexible. Your range of movement increases as does your general understanding of how your body moves. Many athletes and dancers practice Pilates to enhance their physical performance. Research has shown that even musicians play better with regular practice. As for office workers, Pilates does wonders for relieving back pain.

In my teaching I like to include some elements of ballet – which, I promise, can be done by anyone! These movements are an ideal way to get fit without placing too much strain on your body. Each Pilates move has a deeper meaning which I try to relay in my teaching. Many exercises teach you how to hold yourself better from your centre which is incredibly useful in your daily life, and can help your avoid dangerously twisting your spine, losing your alignment or putting strain on your back. Is you’re sued to weigh training and cardio, you’ll probably find these exercises very different from your standard gym routine – this is because the aim is different. Pilates is about building up strength from your core, without enlarging superficial muscles, in order to give your body a lean look. Everyone is welcome in my classes whether you want to work on particular issues, strength and flexibility or just look your very best.

Change is always possible! To quote Joseph Pilates, “Change happens through movement and movement heals”

Written by Elena Bovay, COACH LONDON Pilates Instructor. For more information on classes or 1-to-1 Pilates Instruction please call (0) 207 315 4260 or email info@coachlondon.uk.