My energy level has increased. My old neck injury has improved and I have fewer trips to the chiropractor. My posture is better than it has ever been.

REBECCA BRAMAN 51 Bookeeper, Gardener

I am amazed at the inner strength I've gained by doing Pilates. I'm in the landscaping business so my body takes quite a beating. I'm always dealing with minor back and neck injuries of some sort, soreness and stiffness. But things are different for me after just five months of Pilates. I have a new strength.

Now I feel like my strength inside is equal to the external pressures from work and the wear and tear of every day life. I still work just as hard but I've learned to use my body more efficiently. Now, I'm not as sore, I'm more solid, coordinated, more in alignment. Pilates also focuses on flexibility, elongation and grace. You feel more beautiful, confident when you're strong. I feel like a ballet dancer even when I'm running my chainsaw!

I'd recommend this type of discipline to anyone really. Anyone who wants to train their body to function better, feel better, look better. Anyone with pain or injuries can learn at their own pace to gain core strength necessary to help the body heal and become more resistant to future injuries and soreness. Young ones can especially benefit from this body training and set the stage for life for a better functioning body.

ARLENE TAUS, 37, Arborist