Sandy Wilcox is one of our new employees at our Fitness & Wellness Center–welcome to the J, Sandy!
She started teaching at our center during the first week of March and she has been a fabulous addition to our incredible team. Read all about her passion for Pilates and what motivates her to teach.
Why did you become a Pilates instructor?
Sandy Wilcox: I had been practicing as an RN, and I discovered that Pilates helped alleviate my lower back pain. I enjoyed my sessions so much, I investigated into becoming a teacher. Teaching the Pilates Method has given me the opportunity to utilize my nursing knowledge to help people become, better and stronger in a studio, instead of in a hospital.
What makes Pilates such a great, well-rounded exercise program?
SW: Pilates is a method of exercise that can be practiced at any age and any fitness level throughout your lifetime. Pilates was created as a functional exercise program, meaning what you learn in Pilates classes, you can apply to everyday activities. The posture, balance, strength, focus, and flexibility you learn in Pilates, help you to live your life in a pleasant state of self-awareness.
Who are your Pilates idols? Is there anyone from the Pilates world whom you’re dying to meet?
SW: I have been lucky to meet some of my Pilates idols. Kathy Grant, Lolita San Miguel, and Mary Bowen, first-generation Pilates teachers that trained with Joseph Pilates, when his Method was still known as Contrology. I’ve also been lucky to attend workshops with many leaders in the Pilates Method. I consider Rebecca Leone, the developer of the Pilates Safe Spine Technique, a great mentor.
What’s your favorite thing about being an instructor?
SW: My favorite thing about teaching Pilates, is sharing my knowledge on how to better take care of your body. People are so busy with everyday tasks, that caring for their own body and mind, is a second thought. I have been guilty of this as well. Taking an hour out of your life to reconnect with body that works so hard for you all day long, is a small sacrifice for a better life in the long run. I feel that Pilates meets those needs in a safe, challenging, and fun way.
What do you learn from your students?
SW: My students are my greatest teachers. The questions they ask, the problems their bodies may have, and their need for understanding why I am teaching them in a particular way, challenges me to be a better, more educated teacher.
Any words of advice for Pilates beginners?
SW: To beginning Pilates students: be patient, Pilates is like nothing you have experienced before. The equipment can seem daunting at first, but the basics will come quickly. Once you feel positive changes in your body, and the activation of muscles that you didn’t know you had, you will be hooked on the wonderful Pilates Method of exercise.
