Pilates for all, naturally

A group of about 20 pilates fanatics from all over KZN braved the unusually cold weather on Friday, June 5 to attend a two hour marathon mat class in Salt Rock.

The class was hosted at the Linc Church campus and presented by BASI Pilates’ Theo Botha, who came all the way from Pretoria to nurture and promote pilates in KZN.

Botha, one of only two BASI pilates principal instructors in the world, challenged the class, largely made up of pilates instructors, to dig extra deep with a gruelling session of advanced moves to test even the most experienced instructor’s metal.

The only thorn among the roses, Julian Pearce, surprised everyone with his level of form and flexibility, proving that pilates is not just for women.

Pearce used to be an all-round sportsman who used to run, paddle, surf and rock climb until a back injury forced him to give it all up. He was advised to try out pilates. His back responded so well that he continued practicing pilates and today he is an instructor and in great shape.

Botha said pilates compliments other sports because it improves flexibility and posture, helps with injury prevention and helps to enhance performance. “It targets muscles that support joints and is also used in many rehabilitation centres as an exercise of choice,” said Botha.

She said the beauty of pilates lies in its inclusive nature. Everybody can do pilates, regardless of age, gender, fitness level or weight, even those with sports injuries can join in.

Anyone interested in joining a pilates class can contact Tash B Pilates on 079 219 7288.