I was having a lot of trouble with my low back. I could only play golf once a week. My golf teacher suggested I try Pilates, which he does for his chronically sore low back. My core is definitely stronger. As a result, I'm able to play golf 3 times a week and rarely experience any back pain on the golf course. I started noticing the improvement within one month of beginning with Dana. Before Pilates, I used to have to carry a massage gun with me to use on the course, and sometimes apply a CBD ointment to my back during the round. I don't have to do that anymore. Because I have a stronger core, I am hitting the golf ball at least 10 yards farther, more with the longer clubs. I would definitely recommend Pilates to friends and family. The guys I play golf with have noticed that I hit the ball farther. I explain to them and others that it's because of doing Pilates. I tell people with back pain that they should find a good teacher and try it for at least a month, a couple of times a week or more. -Jim

She’s present, appropriately challenging and fun. When I decided to apply for a world-renowned Pilates Teacher Training Program in Seattle - she helped me prepare and remains my Mentor. I’m standing taller and stronger because our paths crossed. -Jenn

as a way to strengthen my core and help alleviate and prevent lower back pain. I also had a herniated disc which I decided to rehab through physical therapy versus injections and/or surgery. Once the disc decreased enough (I believe the technical word is regressed) where I could increase my exercise beyond walking and physical therapy, Pilates became my exercise of choice to prevent future back injuries. Pilates has helped me in a variety of ways. The most important change was the decrease in lower back pain. The additional benefits I have received are increased flexibility, feeling stronger and an improved understanding of how to properly use various muscle groups when exercising. For example, any stretch where I am in forward flexion has dramatically improved due to what I have learned and practiced with Pilates. My favorite exercise is any of them where my instructor Dana, challenges me and has the confidence in me that I will be able to do it. -Tracey

This causes spasms and abnormal posturing. I don't walk well. I use a wheelchair to get around outdoors and a walker indoors. I became interested in Pilates as I have done Yoga before and it seemed very similar. I was getting weaker and having problems just getting up from a chair. A Pilates studio in Portland, Oregon that offered classes for Parkinson’s patients was recommended to me through the local hospital. Upon visiting the studio, I was introduced to Dana in the summer of 2015. I began practicing Pilates once a week in the studio, as well as, on my own at home. I've just been getting better and better from there. Since beginning a regular Pilates practice, the main noticeable difference to others is that I've lost 16 pounds. But that really wasn't my main goal. My core is definitely stronger, I stand up straighter, my arm doesn't hurt as often and I have more range of motion in my arm and my back doesn't hurt anymore. I also I have a lot more energy/stamina. Most activities are easier due to increased stamina. But for me it's the little things (things a lot of people take for granted). I can get out of the chair by myself. I can do the laundry without my back feeling like it's going to break. I can clean my teeth with my right hand (my bad arm). I can get more housework done as I can stay on the go for longer. I would recommend Pilates to anyone of any physical ability. The exercises can be adapted to suit your needs/goals. You don't have to go mad and expect to be super bendy within a few months. Pilates is about strength and control and above all - patience. Changes will take quite some time but if you stick with it and practice regularly, you will reap rewards. ~A.