Clients’ Corner - Cara L.

WP: What inspired you to start at Westwood Pilates, and what keeps you coming back?

A good friend introduced me to Westwood Pilates right when things started reopening after COVID. I actually started taking classes in the parking lot before the studio reopened. From the very beginning, I loved how welcoming everyone was. What keeps me coming back is a combination of the amazing instructors and how my body feels. I leave every class feeling stronger, more balanced, and more connected to my body than when I walked in.

WP: How would you describe the atmosphere or community at Westwood Pilates?

The community at Westwood Pilates is made up of people who genuinely want to feel better, move better, and become stronger. I usually see many of the same people when I come in, and everyone is warm, welcoming, and encouraging. It feels like a place where people support each other, regardless of their fitness level.

WP: What advice would you give to someone who's brand new to Pilates?

Stick with it! At first, Pilates can feel slower and very different from a high-intensity workout. But every small movement has a purpose. As you build strength, flexibility, and body awareness, you begin to realize just how challenging—and intentional—the workouts really are. The more you practice, the more you appreciate the details, and the stronger you become.

WP: Which piece of equipment or exercise do you enjoy most—and why?

I have to be honest—the knee stretch series on the reformer is definitely not my favorite exercise. I groan every time Francine tells us it's coming, especially during the last ten reps! It's incredibly challenging. But I've also learned it's one of the most important exercises for building strength and control. Even though I don't look forward to it, I know it's making me stronger, and that's why I keep doing it.

WP: How has your understanding of movement or posture evolved since you began?

Pilates has completely changed the way I think about posture and movement. I catch myself paying attention to my posture when I'm walking, driving, or even lifting weights. I can practically hear Francine reminding me to relax my shoulders, pull my ribs in, and keep my neck aligned. Focusing on my core and proper posture has made a huge difference—not only in how strong I feel, but in how much better my body feels every day.