Pilates Works Studio

Featured client: Elisabeth

Why did you start to do Pilates?

I started Pilates as an alternative to going to the gym. I wanted to keep muscle tone without building bulk and Pilates is perfect for this. I also found that regular Pilates classes strengthened smaller, less developed muscle groups and helped correct the muscle imbalance behind my lower back pain.

How did you hear about the PW studio?

Pilates Works was recommended to me by a friend here in Antwerp. It's great to have a complete Pilates studio around the corner from home.

Do you remember what your first impressions of a Pilates class were?

I attended my first class in Milan, Italy where everyone was an incredibly glamorous, ridiculously thin ex-dancer. It was a little intimidating, but I'm very glad I stuck with it!

What kind of effect do the Pilates exercises have on you?

Pilates provides a brilliant combination of strength training, stretching and relaxation, plus the concentration that you need to do a proper workout is a great way to clear your head after a rubbish day in the office.

What is your favourite exercise (and why)?

I love the back stretches on the Cadillac equipment. I feel about 10 feet tall after doing them.

How many times per week do you work out?

My ideal week involves a class on the reformer or Cadillac plus a group mat lesson. Ann does a great job of mixing up the exercises and the level, so classes are always challenging and fun.

Do you do Pilates at home every now and then?

When I am travelling (hotel room size permitting!) I try to run through the mat exercises. Some of the stretching exercises are great to do after exercise or if you need an energy boost.