Jennifer McGraw- May Star of the Month

How long have you been taking Pilates?

I started one year ago.  I only did three months at first then I stopped.  Then in December, I started back consistently.

What do you like about 15 to Fit?

I like that I get individualized attention while still in a class environment.

How has your body changed since beginning Pilates?

I’ve become really strong overall, but especially in my core.  I feel like if your core isn’t strong, then the rest of your body doesn’t seem to follow.  At this point in my life, it’s not simply appearance that is important to me.  I want to be happy and healthy. 

What have you done to achieve these results?

I come to class without fail at least three times per week.

What has 15 to Fit done to help you?

I am now 34, and I had been exercising in a big box gym since I was about 16 or 17 years old.  When I decided to branch out and try Pilates to mix things up, that was a big change for me.  Once I went away from the big gym and came to the smaller studio at 15 to Fit, I found that I was able to get a better quality full-body workout.  The instructors have also been able to modify exercises for me, as needed.

You went through a period where you stopped coming for a few months, but now you are back with a vengeance!  What motivated you to come back?

I realized that as you get older, it’s not as easy to change your body.  I had been working hard initially and nothing was happening.  Then I realized that I wasn’t making the necessary changes at home with food and in my daily lifestyle.  Back in December, I met with a nutritionist who showed me what I was eating versus what I should be eating.  This made me reevaluate my eating habits, and I began telling myself “NO” when it came to certain foods.  It took about two months to get on the right path with my eating habits, and then I was able to reengage with Pilates.

What would you say to someone who has a hard time sticking to an exercise routine?

I’d tell them that I’ve been there myself.  I wasn’t seeing changes in those first few months, and I got discouraged.  You just have to stick with it.  We live in a world of instant gratification, and body changes don’t happen overnight.  If you’re doing all the right things and being consistent, just be patient and your hard work will pay off!