This article was originally published on Core Arts’ Facebook Page.
“I felt inspired to become a Pilates instructor because I believe in the positive changes that Pilates can have on a body. Whether it’s tackling weight loss, rehabilitation, strength, flexibility, or preventing injury, Pilates is the key to transformation.”
Tell me about yourself
I am currently going into my junior year of college at the University of Arizona studying Retail and Consumer Science with a minor in Business Administration. During my first two years in college I was chosen to be a member of the university’s Pomline, dancing and cheering at football and basketball games. I have been dancing since I was old enough to walk, and my instruction extends between multiple states, including training at Backhaus Dance, Just Off Broadway, Mather Dance Company, Yorba Linda Ballet, Maple Conservatory of Dance, and Millennium Dance Complex. Outside of dancing, I enjoy skiing, creating art, going to the beach, and hiking. I look forward to finishing my education and receiving my certificate to teach Pilates!
When did you first encounter Pilates?
When I was younger and dancing, I often got the correction to pull my abdominals in and stop ‘swaying,’ or arching, my back. One of my ballet teachers was also a working Pilates instructor and suggested I come in for lessons to help strengthen my core and train my body how to stop arching. After the first session I fell in love, and after a few months of taking privates weekly, my dance teachers and I noticed a huge change in my dancing and core muscles. I continued going to Pilates to prevent any back injuries and keep my body healthy and strong. At this point, I used to always talk about how I would one day learn to teach Pilates because I believed in it so much!
What inspired you to become a Pilates instructor?
I felt inspired to become a Pilates instructor because I believe in the positive changes that Pilates can have on a body. Whether it’s tackling weight loss, rehabilitation, strength, flexibility, or preventing injury, Pilates is the key to transformation. I saw the shift taking Pilates created in my body when I was younger and correcting my extremely arched back, and ever since then, I have felt an urge to teach so I can help others reach their goals with the gift of Pilates.
What has surprised you about being a Pilates apprentice?
I have been taking Pilates since I was ten years old, so going into the program I felt that I had a pretty good understanding of the information I would be learning as an apprentice. Little did I know, Pilates is more than just knowing the exercises. From modifications for age groups, strength levels, and injuries or diseases, to so many more little parts that make the whole of Pilates, I had no idea what exactly I was getting into!
What is your favorite Pilates exercise so far?
My favorite Pilates exercise is front splits on the reformer!
What do you plan on doing once you become a certified instructor?
Once I become certified, I look forward to teaching classes in Tucson, Arizona where I go to school. One day I hope to own my own studio!
Why did you choose to get certified at Core Arts?
After finding Core Arts Pilates and taking a few lessons, I could sense the instructors were very educated and well trained. This is what pulled me to stay at the studio initially. After taking privates with Sharmila, I realized how knowledgeable she was through her experience in the industry. I wanted to train with someone with her level of expertise. I also appreciate the genuine care Sharmila gives to everyone that comes into her studio and wanted to really become a part of this Pilates family.