I never thought I would be admitting to becoming a gym junkie – but there you go! I have been more or less ‘allergic’ to exercise all my life – even more so recently with all sorts of excuses as to why I couldn’t possibly start doing anything now… not enough time… too tired… no one to look after Marlo.. (my little girl).. too cold. But my body was telling me something different and gravity was taking its toll. I had tried different gyms and at-home-video programmes in the past but exercise always became a chore and I lost interest very quickly.
Then I read a newsletter about Betty’s Bodyshaping that had been left at the Garfield St Childcare Centre, my interest was piqued – but not enough to galvanise me into action. Then Betty was invited down to the centre to demonstrate some basic movements as part of a ‘Parent De-Stressing and Motivational Night’ (and boy, do we all need one of those from time-to-time)! Pilates is easy – no fussy dance steps to trip up the uncoordinated (like me), not too much sweating, no fancy gear required…
That was October 2003 and now 9 months later I can honestly say I am enjoying the benefits of all the effort I have put in. Just to be able to wear clothes that were once relegated to the back of the cupboard because I had lost my confidence in my appearance (read stomach muscles). Surprisingly, I was actually feeling the benefits within the first couple of weeks so that made it easier to continue going back. Thankfully the classes run at all hours from early in the morning to late at night; so no matter what your work commitments or time constraints are, you could easily manage 2 – 3 classes a week. I usually have my little one in tow when I can’t find a sitter. And Betty is amazing – somehow she manages to keep a track of each student by name and ability and keep the classes challenging and stimulating.
PS – this is not a paid testimonial.
Vikki Hsieh, 1964 Vitange – Concord. NSW