Are Your Pilates Exercise Sessions in a Recession

Do you look at your private Pilates sessions as a luxury or a necessity? These days most Americans are cutting back on luxury items, but if you think of giving up your Pilates workout you may be missing out on some healthy dividends.
Are your private Pilates exercise sessions in a recession? A recent poll showed most Americans, in order to save money, are cutting back on manicures, hair salon appointments and their personal trainers, the so-called luxury items. In challenging economic times, getting more bang for your exercise buck is more important than ever. I can see doing away with manicures, but for some people cutting back on personal training, either with Pilates exercise or at the gym, can be a dangerous step towards losing what they worked so hard to obtain.

Having trouble committing to your weekly workouts because of cost? Adhering to a workout routine works better if you make an appointment with a trainer or private Pilates exercise session for the very fact that if you make an appointment and risk losing money for canceling, you will probably keep that appointment. The important thing to remember is that exercise, private or not, should be viewed not as a luxury but as a necessity.

I have several private clients that are feeling the economic pinch, but refuse to give up their Pilates exercise because it’s exactly what they need in these tough times. Pilates helps them to relax, breathe and focus on bettering themselves. For one hour, they have no other worries other than perfecting their teasers or attempting a great open-leg-rocker.

There are many great physical benefits of Pilates exercise and the mental benefits are equally as important. I have one particular client that views her Pilates appointments as therapy. That is not to say that Pilates instructors are meant to be psychotherapists. That is not in our scope of practice! But I spend time with clients who I get to know and most of them feel comfortable telling me about what is on their mind. It could be family trouble, financial trouble or something funny they heard.

I am merely a sounding board for them and accept that this is part of our working relationship. When the whole world is in crisis, my clients are as well. What ever the topic of conversation is, we chat, make contact, connect on a personal level, and then we get down to business. A great Pilates exercise workout is what they are here for and I intend to give them their monies worth.

Not all exercise has to be expensive. There are many group Pilates exercise classes to choose from and they are a great way to get your workouts in without spending a fortune. Mat classes or small group equipment classes can add to your workout quota for the week without breaking the bank.

Recruiting an exercise buddy is a fun and economical way to do your workouts. Duets, or semi-privates, can be a money-saving venture and will keep you in shape while you’re saving a penny and hanging out with your friends.

However you choose to get your Pilates exercise in, or any type of training, remember that staying fit and healthy is as important in these challenging economic times as ever before. Work your mind and body, not your wallet. Exercise is not a luxury we can afford to lose.
Are Your Pilates Exercise Sessions In A Recession
Do you look at your private Pilates sessions as a luxury or a necessity? These days most Americans are cutting back on luxury items, but if you think of giving up your Pilates workout you may be missing out on some healthy dividends.

By susannah marchese
Published: 4/13/2009
 
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