Pilates has always been one of our most beloved offerings at the J, and recently, we had the opportunity to speak with Claudia Hirschman, one of our fabulous Pilates students, about her experience at the J.  

A recent newcomer to Denver from Michigan, Claudia looked to move closer to her family after the passing of her husband in 2020. And wouldn’t you know it…the J proved to be the perfect family-friendly facility she was looking for to heal in the presence of loved ones. After all, her daughter, son-in-law, and grandson are also members of the JCC, so the connection was almost immediate. 

Having become an official member in June of 2021, Claudia turned to Pilates and never looked back. She now attends class at least twice a week in addition to Yoga.  

What keeps her coming back to Pilates? That’s easy — the instructors and the total-body benefits.  

“Vered and Danit are wonderful instructors. Both of them are talented in keeping the Pilates class exciting and, most of all, challenging. They always work on different areas of the body and muscle groups” she states.  

Claudia also is sure to mention that these instructors are more than just well-educated and experienced — they’re entertaining! 

“They make Pilates fun,” Claudia shares. It’s safe to say that when an exercise regimen is fun, you’re more likely to stick with it, and that’s definitely been the case for Claudia.  

Outside of the great instructors (we agree, they’re the best!), Mrs. Hirschman shared her love of the core exercises and the reformer machine.  

“They strengthen a complete series of muscles during each practice,” she says. That’s one of our favorite things about Pilates, too! You get a full-body workout and strengthen the muscles you didn’t even know you had. The soreness is worth it for the long-term benefits it provides.  

When we asked Claudia for a few words of advice to share with those new to Pilates, she welcomingly shared: 

“If someone is new to Pilates, they should start with an evaluation with one of the instructors to clarify any concerns about existing injuries or issues. It also allows you to try all the equipment in the Pilates studio.”  

That’s the exact advice we share with those new to Pilates, as well! See what works for you, share any concerns with the instructors, and get to know the equipment and exercises. You’ll fall in love with Pilates in no time. 

As we wrapped up our discussion with Claudia, she made sure to let us know how important this center, and this community, are to her new life. 

“The JCC has made a real difference in my life in Denver.”  

And we can’t help but feel her presence makes the same positive difference to those who are lucky enough to make her acquaintance — in or out of the Pilates studio. 

Thank you for sharing your experience with us, Claudia. We wish you nothing but the best as you continue your Pilates practice. 

To learn more about our Pilates offerings at the J, click here!