[Sportsandrec] pilates

[Lilyth Berlin]

In my quest to lead a healthier existance, I learned about many forms
of exercise, pilates being very high on my list. I found that,
although I have some useful vision, a class setting was more stressful
than anything else. Luckily, I happened to mention my interest to a
good friend of mine.  As it turned out, she had partnered with a
pilates instructor here in NYC to make an hour-long pilates program
some time ago. It is just perfect for the blind in that it’s
completely accessible. If any one is interested, I’ve gotten
permission to pass along her number so that you may speak to her
directly. Feel free to contact me off-list and I’ll get you on your
way.

On 4/5/09, Jennifer Boylan <jaboylan at gmail.com> wrote:
> Hi Ashley!  I had an experience with pilates for a few months but it was
> under ideal circumstances.  One of the high-partial seniors at the blind
> center had taken classes at the community college.  She then returned and
> had sessions with all interested twice a week for an hour at the blind
> center.  She knew the techniques and could explain them well.  Also, we had
> a sighted volunteer on hand to quickly show us the correct positioning if
> the instructions weren't totally clear.  After a time or two, we had the
> movements memorized and could proceed smoothly.  The class was geared
> towards the elderly, not too fast or strenuous, but I felt I gained some
> benefit from it.  If you can't get an instructor to be more descriptive,
> maybe someone else from the class would show you moves before or after the
> session.  Hope it works out for you--if not, I'm sure you'll find something
> else great to try!  Jennifer
>
> On Sat, Apr 4, 2009 at 2:29 PM, Ashley Bramlett
> <bookwormahb at earthlink.net>wrote:
>
>> Hi all,
>>
>> Tell me about your experience with pilates.  What is the pace of the
>> class?
>>  What muscles are used and what is the purpose?  I am refering to pilates
>> mat exercises.  You can do pilates on a device named the reformer.  But
>> that
>> is different.  What benefits did you get from class?
>> How helpful was the instructor?
>>
>> I am considering taking it at my health club.  They offer them as a part
>> of
>> the membership.  They also offer private lessons for an additional fee.
>>
>> The director of group classes raised concerns about my ability to grasp
>> and
>> do the exercises before they move on.  She says pilates is precise and
>> controlled and they do 6-10 reps of each exercise.  and I will not have
>> much
>> time to figure out the move.  She says the instructors will be of
>> assistance
>> but they have to be accessible to other participants and keep the class
>> moving.
>>
>> Do you think its doable without previous experience?  I really don't want
>> to get lost; its not worth my time.  The director highly suggested I do
>> private sessions first before the class.  I am concerned too.  Without the
>> benefit of seeing the exercises, I do not know whether I'll understand
>> what
>> to do.  I will ask them to explain it.  But they cannot slow down the
>> class
>> for me.
>> So I am wondering is this someone doubting my ability or is this real?  I
>> know that due to the visual nature and pace of some classes, they are
>> difficult to follow.  I don't know if this is one of them.
>>
>>
>> Thanks for your thoughts.
>>
>> Ashley
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-- 
Peace, love and empathy,

Nefertiti