Classes by Tracey Turner
~ Think tall and elegant! ~
Tracy Turner will start her Pilates classes at Marci's Mega Gym again this Thursday, September 8. The tall, lean and elegant instructor explains that Pilates is an exercise program that combines some yoga, ancient Greek exercises, acrobatics and more. The exercises focus strongly on the body's core. Pilates enhances overall strengthening of the muscles, and focuses on long, lean muscles instead of bulk. Pilates makes the whole body stronger she explains. She laughs and says: "I tell my class to think tall and elegant, much like a ballerina!"
Pilates was designed by Joseph Pilates, a physical-culturist born in Mönchengladbach, Germany, in 1883. He developed a system of exercises during the first half of the 20th century which were intended to strengthen the human mind and body. Joseph Pilates believed that mental health and physical health are inter-related. Pilates called his method Contrology because he believed his method uses the mind to control the muscles.
The first generation of students – many of them dancers who studied with Joseph Pilates and went on to open studios and teach the method – is collectively known as The Elders, and includes many prominent dancers. Modern day Pilates styles, both "traditional" and "contemporary," are derived from the teaching of these first generation students.
Pilates helps not only to build flexibility, but also strength, endurance and coordination in the legs, abdominals, arms and back. Tracy explains that she has been a personal trainer and fitness instructor since the 1980s and that she got referred to Pilates classes by a physiotherapist when she was being treated for an injury. She noticed a remarkable difference as she did the classes, and was sold on Pilates. She warns that Pilates does not guarantee a beach body in a month, but that you will usually see a difference in three to six months. Some might realize their clothes fit better around the waist and others notice they are stronger, sit up straighter and have more energy. She emphasizes that you have to be kind to yourself and build up your strength.
Her classes will be held twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 am at Marci's Mega Gym in Simpson Bay. The classes are for everyone, from teenagers to those in their 70s. Call Tracey at (00590) 690 22 01 06 or Marci's gym at 545-5616 for more information.
