Have you ever tried explaining Pilates to someone, only to be met with a skeptical look or a dismissive “What’s the big deal?” You’re not alone. Maddie Nichols, one of our instructors here at Pure Movement, was once in that same spot. This Mother’s Day, we’re reflecting on Maddie’s journey and the mother-daughter duo who discovered the real “why” behind trying Pilates: being together.
When to try Pilates?
At 18, Maddie thought she had fitness figured out. A former competitive tennis player, she was strength training and doing hot yoga, but still struggled with chronic back pain. When her mom, Jill, suggested Pilates, Maddie brushed it off. After all, why try her mom’s Pilates workout? What could it offer someone her age?
Still, Jill persisted. A few weeks later, Maddie reluctantly tried her first private Pilates session at Pure Movement. She’ll never forget that day—how much her legs shook during feet-in-straps and how awkward making circles felt. But after that first session—and then her fifth, her twentieth—something shifted. Her back pain started to fade, and her tennis game improved dramatically. Pilates wasn’t just helping; it was transformative. It brought strength, stability, and fun into her life—and it didn’t feel like a chore. Maddie was hooked.
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Why Try Pilates Together?
From 2015 to 2022, Maddie and Jill shared many duet Pilates sessions. At Pure Movement, we celebrate many families who train together! Whether laughing mid-session or supporting each other through challenging moves, they made Pilates a shared joy.
Even during her teacher training, when other instructors warned Maddie about teaching family, she didn’t hesitate. Jill was always honest, encouraging, and ready to be her daughter’s biggest fan. Together, they’ve shown that Pilates is suitable for people of every age. But why try Pilates together? Doing it side by side can be even more meaningful.
Want to find your own duo?
Try our All-Levels Community Class
Meet friends, learn new skills, and fall in love with Pilates all in one class. Wednesdays 6:30 PM starting at $15.
Why Try Pilates For Mental Health and Wellness
By 2021, Maddie was working full-time as an HR specialist and training to be a part-time Pilates instructor. But after years of struggling with physical and mental health, and especially after losing her brother to suicide in 2022, Maddie realized Pilates couldn’t just be a hobby. It had become her passion.
Through her grief and healing, Pilates gave Maddie space to connect with herself, mentally and physically. It helped her stay present, rebuild her strength, and rediscover clarity. Joseph Pilates once said his method was for the “mind, body, and soul.” For Maddie, that became undeniably true.
Why Try Pilates? It Meets You Where You Are
One of the most beautiful things about Pilates is its adaptability. You don’t need to be an athlete or in peak condition. Pilates meets you wherever you are in your journey. Whether you’re healing, strengthening, or just looking for something new, Pilates has a place for you.
Celebrating Pilates and Mother’s Day Q&A with Jill
1. What’s your favorite thing about Pilates?
I love the variety. There are so many apparatus options and movements that challenge you both physically and mentally. It keeps every session fresh.
2. Favorite piece of equipment and why?
The trapeze table! It feels like something from the circus, and it’s incredibly versatile. No matter your age or ability, it can be modified to fit your needs.
3. What have you learned most from Pilates?
How it helps in everyday life. Gaining strength, balance, mobility, and alignment makes daily tasks easier and safer.
4. What’s it like working with Maddie?
She’s creative and flexible, always adjusting exercises to meet my needs. Watching her grow through her training was inspiring. Maddie’s passion is contagious, and even when I’m sore or nursing a minor injury, she shows me that there’s always something we can do—no excuses!
Disclaimer:
THE INFORMATION EXPRESSED ON THIS SITE IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. WE DRAW ON OUR EXPERTISE AS PILATES AND MOVEMENT SPECIALISTS BY EXPANDING OUR PROFESSIONALISM THROUGH CONTINUING EDUCATION AND PERSONAL EXPERIENCES. WE AIM TO PROVIDE VALUABLE INFORMATION CONCERNING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, PILATES, FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT, AND FITNESS. YOU TAKE FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR ALL DECISIONS NOW OR IN THE FUTURE CONCERNING YOUR HEALTH, LIFE, AND WELL-BEING. THIS INFORMATION IS NOT TO BE USED AS MEDICAL ADVICE EITHER TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE OR AILMENTS. YOU SHOULD CONSULT A PHYSICIAN BEFORE BEGINNING ANY EXERCISE PROGRAM.
