Tag: strength

Ladder Barrel encourages both spinal stability and spinal mobility

by lebureauetc, posted in Pilates, Uncategorized

I have worked very hard over the years to build strength and more stability as by nature I am hyper-mobile.  in my 47 years – I have broken my back, leg, arm, and neck…. I do not plan on any more broken bones and I feel very grateful to still be capable to move the way I do.  As you may have guessed, I love to move as it makes me feel so free.

Too much stability can cause stiffness and tightness..and yes too much mobility can overstretch our ligaments, muscles, and joints causing strain.  Both overdone could lead to compensation issues and imbalance.

In pilates method the goal is always to find balance.  how can we both strengthen and mobilize  our bodies to optimize our posture and feel our best day-to-day?

The ladder barrel is extra special in my opinion as it offers a firm, supportive curved surface that encourages spinal articulation in extension, flexion, and side bending to both strengthen and and create more space in all our sides – front/back/side body.

in this clip I am highlighting spinal articulating with some inversions.  The support of the ladder barrel allows me to shine bright like the sun as I feel strong from the support of the barrel that allows me to radiate out through my whole body.

check this ladder barrel workout on my Youtube

Meet Marilyn Heinemann: Pilates Enthusiast and Inspirational Client of the month

by lebureauetc, posted in Uncategorized

Marilyn Heinemann is Le Bureau’s spotlit client of the month.

Marilyn has been practicing classical Pilates with me for 14 years plus!  I met Marilyn shortly after I started working as the Pilates coordinator at Seattle Athletic club in Seattle.  At the time she was lifting weights and looking to try something new for overall strength and flexibility; I remember her enjoying the leg springs series on the Cadillac. She has been a regular practitioner ever since, practicing 2x a week when she can!

When she is not practicing Pilates at Le bureau, you can find Marilyn tending her immaculate garden, preparing new culinary delights to share with her family and friends, attending some ‘arts’ event, or just watching her favorite new show.  She is respectful of others and herself, always dressed to a tee, and stays up to date with the times!  Her positive attitude and mental/physical abilities reflect someone much younger than she is. Thank you Marilyn for inspiring me in so many ways.  I love working with you and learning about all the things you are up to.

“The things I gain most from Pilates is a sense of greater balance in my movements and it has enabled me to develop and keep strength in my body. I just feel more aware of how my body allows me to keep doing the activities I enjoy as I age.”

-Marilyn