Meet Pilates Instructor: Heather Beaman

Studio BE: Heather, would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Heather: Right now I wear a lot of different hats. During the school year I’m an art teacher, at night I’m a college student, and finally I’m a Pilates instructor! Pilates inspired me to chase my dream of becoming a Physical Therapist. At my heart, I am a teacher and feel personally rewarded when my art students and Pilates clients really get what I am teaching. This is when I know I have been successful.

Studio BE: What first drew you to Pilates?

Heather: At first it was the idea of having sculpted abs. However, as I learned about the anatomical reasons a particular movement is performed, I realized it was much then aesthetic. I continue to do Pilates because of the whole body approach it encompasses. Pilates is as much about long lean, flexible muscles as it is about having a strong mind.

Studio BE: How has Pilates personally helped you?

Heather: As a child I grew up with scoliosis, wearing a back brace to correct the problem. I use Pilates to keep strengthening and working on the imbalances in my own body. By doing the functional movements of Pilates I have been able to limit further physical problems.

Studio BE: What would you like first-time students to know about Pilates?

Heather: Pilates is a practice that takes times. It is not just about getting fit. The attention you give to each exercise helps you gain more awareness of your body. In your everyday life you will start to notice different habits your body may have and know how to correct them.

Studio BE: What would you say to the person who is considering Pilates but feels too out of shape to start?

Heather: Pilates is a great way to start an exercise program it is meant for everybody. By working one on one with an instructor you can gently start strengthening and building up to where you physically want to be with guidance.

Studio BE: How many classes a week do you recommend for the student who wants to increase their fitness level and overall health?

Heather: I would recommend at least three classes a week, mixing in mat and equipment classes. The equipment was designed to help with the mat work because it assists you as you are moving. I love the mat work because of its portability.

Studio BE: You’re also a barre instructor. What would you say to someone who is thinking of trying a class, but feels a little intimidated by the pace?

Heather: Barre is a challenging class but stick with it!!! I think it is best to start with the barre basics class to get a good idea of what the movements are like and to start building strength for the barre blast class. The great thing about barre is that there are modifications that can be made. I tell my students to work from their personal strength. If plank on the ground is to challenging then try plank using the barre. There is usually another way or an adjustment to make an exercise accessible for everyone.

Studio BE: Are barre classes suitable for everyone? Why or why not?

Heather: I believe that barre classes are for everyone. When I attended the training I was worried that I did not have a dance background, but barre is a fun mix of yoga, Pilates, and ballet. You can modify the exercises so that it’s accessible for almost everyone.

Studio BE: What else would you like our readers to know about you?

Heather: I love teaching Pilates and barre. I enjoy working with and building relationships with the clients. The positive effect I have on helping a person feel better in the body they are living in is priceless!:)