Pilates myth number three.... Pilates is going to make me look like a supermodel... Okay, so as a pilates teacher, I’ve lost count of how many celebrities list pilates as part of their fitness routine. And it’s true! Lots do indeed use it! But, here’s the thing... it’s often not the only thing. And that’s A okay! They use it as a tool within their toolbox to help them get stronger; to bring awareness to mind, body and soul; to help them get the most out of the body they have; to give them better alignment to help them look longer and leaner; to ensure they are fit for life. But chances are they are doing other things to get the physique they have, from other fitness activities to a clean and considered diet. I’ve recently had a wave of (potential) clients saying they want to lose weight... I do explain the benefits of pilates, but I’m also quick to point out that if your number one goal is weight loss, then perhaps they want to consider other things, sometimes instead, as well as in conjunction with, pilates. As a teacher, I firmly believe in listening to what a client wants, and being open and honest about whether pilates and myself can help. But, more importantly, I challenge them about what their motivation is behind this. I’m a big advocate of being strong, and this is where pilates can help. Not just for today but for later in life. Pilates, for me, is crucial to this. I’m also a promoter of body confidence, and as you become more comfortable in your own skin and proud of what you’re body can achieve - something which I truly believe pilates can offer - I see remarkable changes in my clients outlook on this. And this is where pilates is brilliant. Everyone can do it, regardless of age or fitness. As a very wise woman often says, “any body can be a pilates body”. And everyone can see and feel the differences in themselves as they progress. It’s the journey that makes this exciting rather than an end destination. For me, #strongisnotasize it’s a feeling. When I feel strong, I’m the most confident version of me. And I hope I make my clients feel the same way about themselves...