Everyday Athletes; Pilates and Conditioning

Pilates has always been about conditioning. Joseph Pilates himself said it best: “We must strive to acquire strong, healthy bodies and develop our minds to the limit of our ability.” That’s what we train for. This month, we’re showcasing how Pilates is a method of conditioning that helps you stay strong, prevent injury, move better, and continue doing what you love with a student testimonial. Thank you, Jim, for sharing your story with us and being a part of our community.

How did you get started at Pure Movement or Pilates in general?

When I retired in early 2018, my wife Carol’s friend Pat gave me an introductory private Pilates package as a retirement gift. Leah was my instructor. The pain I had in my piriformis muscles due to sitting at my job for 42 years went away due to Pilates. After that, I was hooked on Pilates and continued taking private lessons for over 5 years.

Everyday Athletes Pilates and Conditioning

What is something you appreciate about the instructors and classes?

I started taking classes in the fall of 2023, mainly with Leah, but also with Maddie and Brittney on occasion. In the classes, I was familiar with the terminology due to the private session. The instructors were also beneficial in ensuring I was doing things correctly. The instructors begin each class by asking what people want to work on. They are flexible with how the classes go. It is incredible how the instructors keep on task and on time.

What does the Pure Movement community mean to you?

Pure Movement got me started with Pilates, and I like the loyalty and continuity of the instructors. The owner, Tresa, has a connection to my hometown of Woodstock, Illinois, through her mother and grandfather, which is an added plus for me.

What hesitations or concerns did you have before starting Pilates?

My most considerable hesitation was that the vast majority of people taking classes are women. As the father of three daughters and married to Carol for 49 years, as well as the grandfather of 23 grandchildren, I have been positively influenced to continue and encourage other men to take up Pilates. One of my friends is now taking private sessions with Leah, which I recommended to him for his pain.

With conditioning, how does Pilates prepare your body for daily life or other activities?

Pilates has conditioned my core and improved my posture, which is a constant challenge for me at age 73. For me, Pilates is like a combination of physical therapy and self-chiropractic.  Pilates helps me regain my alignment when it slips out of place, which is a constant battle. Therefore, I am still able to run, travel, have fun with Carol, and play with all the grandkids, from 8 months to 18 years old.

What are some of your favorite exercises and why?

Bridges and footwork squats are my favorite exercises—bridges help condition my spinal alignment. I do bridges at home on the foam roller, too. Squats condition my mobility, particularly when getting up and down from chairs, and at church. Feet in straps are another favorite because they provide a great hamstring stretch, which, as a runner for nearly 60 years, I find gets very tight.

Get Started

Introductory Offers

Would you like to share your Pure Movement experience?

Share a Testimonial

This month, we celebrate the athlete in every one of you. You’re not just showing up—you’re leveling up. Want help tailoring your Pilates for your sport or hobby? Ask your instructor for tips—we’re here to help you move better, longer. You could be crushing pickleball tournaments, showing up for weekend tennis, running your favorite trails, or just loving the rhythm of regular movement. There’s nothing amateur about your dedication. Thank you, Jim, for sharing your Pilates story. And to all who have chosen Pilates as their method of conditioning, to keep doing what you love day to day.

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 AILMENT. YOU SHOULD CONSULT A PHYSICIAN BEFORE BEGINNING ANY EXERCISE PROGRAM.