Pilates as a Lifelong Method for Strength, Stability and Long Term Health

By Carolina Desloge

Pilates was originally developed as a method designed to enhance the overall quality of life through physical conditioning. Its founder, Joseph Pilates, created the system in large part to transform his own health. Long before modern wellness culture emphasized functional movement and preventive fitness, Pilates recognized that optimal health begins with strong, balanced physical conditioning.

Today, the Pilates method remains one of the few exercise systems designed to support the body across the entire lifespan. It can be adapted for individuals of virtually any age or level of physical conditioning, making it uniquely sustainable as a lifelong practice.

My own relationship with Pilates began more than twenty years ago. Initially, I approached it as many people do—simply as another exercise trend that promised improved fitness and perhaps a few cosmetic benefits. At the time, my primary athletic focus was endurance training, particularly triathlons. Pilates was simply one component of a broader fitness routine.

Over time, however, my relationship with the method changed dramatically. In my thirties, while actively training for triathlons, I began experiencing persistent lower back pain that gradually interfered with my ability to train. My goal at the time had been to continue progressing in the sport and ultimately compete in a full Ironman event in Florida. Instead, I found myself facing an unexpected physical limitation.

The issue was eventually diagnosed as sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction caused by hypermobility in the joint. Stabilizing the joint required a different approach to training than the one I had been following. Years of high-volume cardiovascular training—running, cycling, and swimming—had created repetitive stress without sufficient emphasis on strengthening the stabilizing muscles that support the spine and pelvis.

In many ways, the pain itself was only a symptom of a larger imbalance. What I needed was not simply rest, but a method that could help restore stability, improve movement mechanics, and strengthen the deep musculature responsible for supporting the spine.

Pilates ultimately provided that solution.

Through the method’s emphasis on controlled movement, core stability, and precise muscular engagement, I began to develop the structural strength that had been missing from my training. Rather than relying solely on endurance conditioning, Pilates helped create a more balanced and resilient foundation for movement.

This experience also led to a significant professional shift in my life. Prior to discovering Pilates as a rehabilitative and strengthening method, my career had been rooted in business, sales, and marketing for more than fifteen years. As I continued practicing Pilates and learning about the principles behind the method, my interest deepened. What began as a personal solution to an injury eventually evolved into a complete career change.

I began studying the method in greater depth, apprenticing under experienced instructors and dedicating significant time to learning the mechanics and philosophy behind the work. The transition required both commitment and humility, as I was entering an entirely new professional field.

Nearly eighteen years later, Pilates continues to be central to both my professional and personal life. I continue to practice, study, and refine my understanding of the method, and I now mentor an apprentice of my own. This ongoing learning process reflects one of the most compelling aspects of Pilates: it is a discipline that evolves with the practitioner.

The Pilates method is designed not only to improve strength and flexibility but also to enhance coordination, stability, and overall body awareness. When practiced consistently, it can support long-term physical health and help individuals maintain mobility and strength well into later stages of life.

For many people, the most effective approach is to practice Pilates several times per week. Sessions lasting approximately 45 to 55 minutes, performed two to three times weekly, can provide meaningful improvements in strength, posture, and functional movement.

While I also incorporate other forms of activity—including yoga, cycling, and power walking—Pilates remains the foundation of my personal fitness routine. In particular, I continue to value the STOTT Pilates system, which offers a highly structured and comprehensive approach to both training and equipment design.

Ultimately, Pilates is more than a workout program; it is a method of movement that supports long-term health and physical resilience. After more than two decades of practice, I remain deeply grateful for the role it has played in transforming my own physical well-being and in helping my clients achieve similar outcomes.

It is a method that truly can be practiced for life.

Carolina Desloge
Writer and long-time observer of the wellness industry.

Health Is the New Wealth—Why Longevity Is Becoming the Ultimate Luxury

By Carolina Desloge

For decades, wealth was most visibly expressed through material signals—homes, travel, fashion, and luxury experiences. These symbols still exist, but something more fundamental is beginning to replace them.

Increasingly, the true signal of wealth is health.

Not simply appearance, but energy, vitality, mobility, and cognitive clarity. The ability to move freely, sleep well, think clearly, and remain pain-free into later decades of life is becoming one of the most valuable assets a person can possess.

In this sense, health is becoming a new form of wealth.

The Shift Toward Longevity

Several forces are driving this shift.

Populations in developed countries are aging. Medical costs continue to rise. At the same time, advances in preventative health, wearable technology, and longevity research are giving individuals more insight into how their bodies function.

For the first time, people are asking a different question about their future:

How long can I remain fully functional?

Longevity is no longer just about lifespan. Increasingly, it is about healthspan—the number of years someone can live actively, independently, and with a high quality of life.

This shift is quietly reshaping the wellness industry

From Systems to Fragments

The original wellness movement understood health as a system.

Early wellness pioneers and retreat/spa environments taught an integrated approach: movement, nutrition, sleep, stress management, and mindset were all interconnected. Health was something cultivated through daily habits and lifestyle patterns.

Over time, however, the modern wellness marketplace has fragmented this philosophy.

Today consumers are offered an endless array of isolated solutions:

• supplements

• injections

• biohacking devices

• detoxes programs

• single-focus therapies

Each promises to improve one aspect of health.

But the human body does not operate in fragments. It operates as a system.

When health is approached as a series of disconnected interventions, the result is often confusion rather than lasting improvement.

The Next Phase of Wellness

The future of wellness will likely move back toward systems thinking.

Emerging technologies—including advanced diagnostics, biometric monitoring, and artificial intelligence—may soon allow individuals to understand their health with far greater precision.

Rather than chasing isolated solutions, people will increasingly be able to see how sleep, metabolism, movement, stress, and nutrition interact as a unified system.

In this environment, the most valuable resource will not be a single product or therapy, but knowledge and understanding of how the system works.

A New Definition of Wealth

Material wealth will always have value.

But the ability to live with vitality, mobility, and mental clarity may become the most meaningful form of wealth in the decades ahead.

The next generation of luxury will not be defined only by what we own— but by how well we function.

In that sense, health truly is the new wealth.

Carolina Desloge
Writer and long-time observer of the wellness industry.

Pilates was never meant to be done in large groups..

Like the title says, Pilates was never meant to be done in large groups. The equipment classes were never meant to be taught to more than 4 people. The instructor needs to be able to see and correct people’s form. It is this form and precision that makes Pilates so effective. But today, Pilates has been homogenized for the masses. Some versions are even considered Pilates on steroids. Hybrids of the reformer have been created for this type of workout which markets itself as Pilates but definitely is not Pilates.

In the 25 years that I have been doing Pilates it has morphed into these variations you see today. Now to the consumer or client, it is clearly misrepresented. I am writing this blog to perhaps give some clarity to this confusion.

Pilates is done ideally one on one with a certified instructor from a comprehensive training program that has had ongoing continuing education. It takes years to master Pilates and at least 10 years to become a master instructor. Your instructor should be highly skilled in teaching clients with various injuries, post rehab, pre- and post-natal etc.

Pilates itself had historically been misunderstood as the equipment looks medieval and intimidating. A highly trained instructor has spent thousands of hours on their training, and practice teaching. It is this level of expertise of the instructor and the unparalleled level of the equipment that requires extensive training and instruction.

However, the combination of an experienced instructor teaching you on top-of-the-line equipment, the results are better and more efficient than any other resistance type workout you will do in your life. It is precise, efficient and fun. This is a workout you look forward to. My clients are always thrilled to do their Pilates workout the minute they walk in the door to Pilates Works. Then as they leave, they are renewed, refreshed, and with a new sense of confidence in their body as they walk out the door. The type of Pilates I teach develops long, lean muscles, enhances coordination and balance.

I love doing and teaching Pilates because it really works to enhance the quality of people’s lives. It is an investment, but an investment you make in your own well-being, which will truly make better every aspect of your life. There is nothing better because Pilates Works!

If you are ready to take the next step that will make you look and feel better, ask about our New Client Special 3 Private Lessons for $299.

Pilates Will Solve Your Problem

People start doing Pilates for all sorts of reasons. The one I am hearing the most lately is that people’s doctors, coaches, nutritionist have suggested they start doing a Pilates program. Everyone starts with a problem they are trying to solve. I myself started doing Pilates as a means of solving a problem. My problem was an overuse injury from doing endurance training. I had developed SI Joint dysfunction. Pilates solved my problem and to this day continues to solve any physical problems that I have.

My typical client has had some structural issues or injuries in the past that seemed to be aggravated by most trendy workouts out there today. Not to throw anyone under a bus but, the hybrid version of Pilates and even some of the ballet bar exercises are as a client of mine so eloquently put, are “an accident waiting to happen”.

So through trial and some big errors, they find Pilates. Pilates will give you the workout you need and the release of endorphins without risking injury. It builds confidence, stamina, muscular balance and coordination. It is a strength workout without the bulk. Fluid movements that are dynamic, and yet very precise. Hence the reason you do not have to do so many reps in Pilates. Usually just 8-10. Then on to the next exercise.

Each exercise builds upon the next exercise, opening the body and preparing it as well. So it is a logical safe sequence of exercises. Not at all like yoga. Sorry my yogis and not to throw you under any buses but, Pilates is much safer than yoga and much better for your back.

Pilates in my studio starts with an assessment of your goals and a postural analysis. From there, a customized program is created. There is no one size fits all approach or endless stretches to lengthen your muscles. Pilates is equipment-based exercises targeted to strengthen your whole body.

Pilates will enhance your sport whether it be tennis, golf, walking, hiking, running, cycling, skiing or boarding. Pilates exercises work on the small accessory muscles that give you the coordination to do your sport.

And one last word on finding an instructor that is certified and is well trained. I have been doing Pilates for over 20 years and teaching professionally since 2009. Stott Pilates is one of the most comprehensive and rigorous programs in the industry that require letters of recommendation, and various hoops to jump through in order to be accepted in the program. My program was 1000+ hours of training and took months to complete. And like those in the medical indusrty, I am required to take continuing education courses each year.

I have studied the essential, intermediate, and advanced level courses and am in the process of becoming an instructor trainer as well. Being a teacher is a passion for me, not a hobby and I take my work very seriously and my client’s safety as well.

So, in summary, whatever your problem may be, Pilates can solve it. Pilates is a method that will change your life and can be done for life. Finding the right instructor and studio is key. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me or DM me on any social media… I would love to hear from you!!!

In good health,

Nina

NinaDesloge@gmail.com

941-387-5343

Health Is The New Wealth

For a long time, a goal for many has been the goal of building wealth, as in financial wealth. People spend their whole entire lives working towards building up their nest so that they can retire one day. I have seen people go to extremes to achieve this goal. There are people who will, lie, cheat and steal to attain the elusive level of wealth, and perceived power that comes with it only to fall victim all sorts of cancers, infections, chronic illnesses all in the name of achieving money and financial status.

And then what happens? They spend all that hard earned money going from doctor to doctor, test after test, trying to gain back something that if they had paid attention to all along, they really could be enjoying their lives and all that money. Health is the new wealth.

You cannot buy health, no matter how much money you have. If you have cancer, you cannot buy your way out of it. Does not matter how much money you have, best doctors, treatment protocols, etc,. You could be Elon Musk, Bill Gates, or any billionaire, and you cannot buy your way out of it. If you did not do the work along the way to prevent heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and mental health issues, chances are you will develop a preventable disease.

I have seen too many people sacrifice their health for wealth only to reach a certain age and now they spend all their money and time trying to have health that they took for granted. They did not take care of their body, spirits or minds. You can lose your job, your car, your house and even your spouse and replace all of these. But once you have lost your health, that is the real game changer.

And this is not about going on a diet my friends. This is about developing habits that you will keep for life. This is about a lifestyle of health. Eating well, sleeping enough, regular exercise that includes cardio and strength training, and spiritual practice such as mediation or yoga. Seeing your doctor when you are young to make sure your hormones are in balance, not just for cancer screenings. All this will affect how you age and your health. Your body is going to break down, your organs breakdown, it is all just a matter of time. Make the investment in yourself and your health and you will have the greatest wealth!

Pilates is for Life

Pilates as an exercise method was meant to enhance the quality of one’s life. Joseph Pilates created the exercises to change his own life by achieving physical fitness. He was a pioneer and realized as we do today that the key to great health is through top physical conditioning.

The finest aspect of Pilates is that it can be done for life and essentially started at any age and any level of physical condition. I have actually practiced Pilates for more than 20 years. I initially started doing Pilates just as another fad workout to stay in shape and maybe lose a few inches here and there. But then it became so much more in my life. i started to experience physical pain that was slowly ruining my hobby of training for triathlons. i was stumped. I was still young, and in my thirties, how could I have sustained an injury that would stop my passion in its tracks? I had been doing triathlons for only a few years and had not even gotten to Ironman level yet, only a half ironman triathlon. My goal was to do the Florida Ironman in Panama. A good Ironman to start with as I was told since Florida was flat. But I was not getting better. I had pain in my lower back that was to be diagnosed as SI joint dysfunction. My SI joint was hypermobile, and I somehow needed to stabilize it.

The pain was a symptom of a greater problem which was a greater issue in itself. I had to learn how to make my spine and joints stable. The constant pounding of cardio vascular training without strengthening was working against me. I can remember being on a run and feeling my muscles almost swinging with each stride.

Now as an endurance athlete, too much muscle mass gets in the way of your running, biking, and swimming. However, i was not a professional athlete getting paid to do this kind of heavy training, and how could exercise now suddenly be bad for me? I had to seriously rethink my training and go back to the drawing board as the saying goes, and the answer for me was Pilates.

I went back to doing Pilates, became an apprentice and started to learn as much as I could about how I could heal myself. I had a lot to learn in this arena having studied business and been in sales and marketing for 15 years prior to this. This would be a total career change and life change for me.

And now almost 15 years later, I still practice, study and learn from doing Pilates. I even have my own apprentice now.

Pilates really is for life, and a way of life. I have transformed and healed my own body, and seen my clients transform. I do Pilates every day, and ideally it is done for 45-55 minutes 3 times a week to really benefit from the method. I still practice a yoga, cycling and power walking. But my love and loyalty are to Pilates and namely STOTT Pilates! The exercises and equipment are the best in the business.

So, as I wrap up this blog, I will be power walking to my studio to practice Pilates with tremendous gratitude for this wonderful method!!

New Client Special! 3 Private lessons for $270. Contact us to book your lesson!

New clients only.

Happy Couples do Pilates!

Want to strengthen the bond in your relationship? Do Pilates! Yes, Pilates will improve your posture, elongate muscles and make your relationships better. Studies prove that exercise increases the overall feeling of wellbeing. Why not do that with a friend, relative, or spouse? The endorphins that are created from exercise will be associated with that person you train with therefore, enhancing your relationship. It is a form of bonding and connecting. Who wouldn’t benefit from better relationships? We all would!

Another added benefit is sharing the cost of the session and accountability. Pilates can be costly for some so having the option of splitting the cost is ideal for those who want to do Pilates but cannot always work the expense into their budget. And, once you have made the financial commitment and secured a time, your partner is less likely to let you back out! Yes, the added benefit of accountability. Take responsibility for your actions and show up and do Pilates!

In our studio we can accommodate 2-3 people per lesson. You can work on the Reformers together, Stability Chairs, Mat work or do a circuit training type of lesson where you are moving around on multiple pieces of equipment together.

As a summer special now through August 31st, mention this blog and get 10 semi-privates lessons for a group up to 3 people for $999. Call or text Nina at 941-387-5343 to book your lesson today!!

Level Up Your Fitness Experience with Pilates

Pilates is the ultimate leveling up experience in fitness. What other workout develops long lean muscles, strength, agility and grace? Really nothing because I have tried it all and Pilates is it my friends.

Pilates is having a resurgence in popularity and I along with that surge feel a renewed sense of appreciation for this incredible repertoire of precise movements that truly transform your whole body.

Over the years, well for the last 30 because I just turned 53, I have tried everything and have ALWAYS come back to Pilates. I feel lighter, stronger, and far more agile than in any point in my life and I have been an athlete my whole life playing competitive tennis and doing sprint to half iron man triathlons..

Pilates is a series of small precise movements performed on a mat or specialized equipment that uses spring tension for resistance. What you see in this picture is a Ladder Barrel. This particular exercise is called Tree. It works the whole entire spine and especially the core to strengthen the back and abdominals, hip flexors and extensors.

I recently took advanced level training on the Ladder Barrel in Tampa, Florida at the STOTT Pilates training center and it was absolutely thrilling. The sense of confidence I felt from doing these moves that increase strength and agility yet are so graceful and serene is almost hard to put into words. It essentially is the feeling that athletes get from being in “the zone” of total awareness of their bodies in action but in slow precise movements. And you don’t need to be an athlete to have that feeling.

If you want to take your exercise routine to the next level, Pilates is it. Or if you are already doing Pilates, please try our studio. Pilates Works is an exclusive private studio that provides a peaceful and intimate experience to ensure focus and connection to mind and body.

The studio is equipped with top of the line STOTT Pilates equipment to achieve maximum functionality and innovative exercises. Our attention to detail, form and technique are unparalleled. Pilates Works strives to provide a leveled up experience to private training to transform the body and prove how Pilates Works for Every Body.

Try Something New Now!

Don’t wait, take action. The time is now to change your life. Have you always been curious about Pilates? Now is your time to try.

Pilates has been around a long time, and I have been practicing it for over 20 years. It is not a fad it is here to stay. There are many variations of Pilates these days. The key is to take action and make the call, email or message today to start the vast change that will occur by starting a Pilates routine. It has dramatically changed my life numerous times.

First time I tried Pilates was 20 years ago and I was living in Atlanta. It was a Pilates and Yoga studio combined with high ceilings and a light open airy feeling. I loved the openness of the space and the clean lines of the equipment. My instructor was a former professional dancer. I having an athletic background was intimidated by almost archaic yet sleek look of the equipment. I had never seen anything like it. But my instructor was informative and patient as she taught me what was to change my life and be the foundation for the rest of my life, Pilates.

Pilates does not require a tremendous amount of flexibility as some would think. It is a combination of strength and fluid movements that increase flexibility. My clientele ranges from 10 years of age to 78. I teach beginners, advanced Pilates enthusiasts, amateur and professional athletes and everything in between.

In my opinion the number one requirement for beginning a Pilates routine is an openness to learning and letting go. The people who enjoy Pilates the most are those who come to the studio with a positive attitude. You may not feel comfortable in your body yet, but you will. And that is the essence of Pilates. You will learn to move with confidence and ease.

So, what are you waiting for? Your transformation can begin today. I look forward to hearing from you.

Spotlight on Pilates Works Client Joe Columbo

Joe before

Joe after.

Allow me to introduce my client Joe Columbo. Joe has completely transformed his body through the proper nutrition and doing Pilates 2 times a week and golf 2-3 times a week. Prior to this transformation, Joe was unable to play golf, a sport he has loved since his teenage years, due to chronic back pain.

Joe started doing Pilates with Pilates Works of Sarasota in 2017. Over this time period he has lost over 60 pounds! This weight loss with the combined core strength he has achieved from doing Pilates, has allowed Joe to not only resume his love of golf playing but to also play at an advanced level by participating in local golf tournaments. As Joe will confirm, Pilates works and has truly worked for him.

The joy of teaching Pilates for me as a studio owner is seeing my clients transform themselves through exercise. Pilates has the power to transform your body and your mind.

The benefits of doing Pilates are numerous, such as improved posture, reduced stress and muscular tension, toned and elongated muscles, improved balance, stability and agility, improved athletic performance, heightened mind body awareness, and enhanced concentration and focus.

With Joe, we focus on core stability and athletic performance exercises with some key specific Pilates for Golf exercises. I even created for Joe special warm up exercise routine that he does before getting on the green.

As you can see, Pilates Works for Every Body!

Well done Joe Columbo!!

The Studio is Open!

Hi Pilates Works family. The studio is open and has never been cleaner! Enjoy private lessons in a 1200 square foot space that is open, bright and clean! I recently cleared out some old equipment to make space for everything new, clean and a totally private setting as you can see in the pictures above.

No crowding in this open spacious studio. Only private lessons, and duets. Each piece of equipment is sterilized after each client. Whole studio is wiped down with disinfectant each day including waiting area.

Private parking lot for Pilates Works clients only and the studio is on the ground floor, no stairs or elevator. Direct access to accommodate your special needs.

There has never been a better time to do Pilates! Please call or email today to book your private lesson. I look forward to hearing from you and training you in a private, safe and tranquil environment.

Nina Desloge Day, BS., STOTT Certified Pilates Instuctor

Instructor and Owner of Pilates Works, LLC.

941-387-5343

“Pilates Works for Every Body!”

8 Things You Can Do Now To Stay Calm and Manage Stress

In times of heightened stress, everyone needs a way to manage that extra energy or lack there of with a go to plan. Having something to do actually alleviates a lot of stress and gives you hope while also taking care of yourself. I have found my own personal go to list of things I do during periods of extreme stress to manage my moods and health. These 8 things work! I know, I have done these things for years and do so even more now as the world seem to be more crazy at times.

1. Exercise. Yes as a fitness professional I would say to exercise but even before I got in this business, I would turn to exercise to alleviate all sorts of stress, anxiety, boredom, frustration, downtime and illness. Exercise will take care of your mind and body by strengthening your immune system and producing feel good hormones. You have heard it all before, nothing that has not been said by experts all over the globe. And you do not need a gym or any equipment really, just just get out and walk in your neighborhood or do an exercise video.

2. Be grateful. Things could always be worse. You may even want to start a gratitude journal listing all the things you are grateful for that day. The one thing that you can do now that is always an antidote to stress and hard times, as hard as it is, is to be grateful. Yes, all the spiritual gurus have said the same thing, that no real adversity can hold up to an attitude of gratitude. Or even as simple as when you make your to do list, write down one thing you are grateful for each day.

3. Get outdoors. Go sit in the sun, walk barefoot in the grass, take your dog for a walk. Go outside and get your mail. Anything you can to get outside. As of this writing, I have a 4 month old puppy so we go out a lot for potty breaks. It helps a lot the fresh air and sunshine.

4. Take supplements. I love supplements! Anyone who has been to my house knows that i have a cabinet full of supplements. In times of high stress I always up my supplements. I love to take extra B-vitamins, vitamin C and the herb Ashwagandha. The B-vitamins help your mood and energy, the Vitamin C for your immune system so you do not get sick. The ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that helps your body adapt to stress. An adaptogenic herb is a class of herbs that are essentially healing plants. They help balance, restore and protect the body.

5. Sleep more. Sleep cures a lot of stress. Sometimes a good nights sleep is all it takes to restore your body. And in times of high stress, try and get as much sleep as you can. Set a sleep schedule to make sure you can get enough good quality sleep in by going to bed at the same time each night and waking and the same time each day.

6. Eat healthy. Eat as many fresh whole foods as you can. Eat extra servings of fruits, vegetables, and drink extra water too. I like to eat lean proteins such as fish, chicken and plant based. Stay away from from overly processed foods like deli meats and anything fried. Limit sugar, alcohol and caffeine too.

7. Read something positive. My go to authors have always been Dr. Wayne Dyer and Pema Chodron for uplifting and spiritual reads. But if you want more of a motivational read, lately I have been reading “High Performance Habits” by Brendon Burchard and “Willpower Does Not Work” by Benjamin Hardy. Reading takes you out of the present moment stress and transports you into what you can do and the world of possibilities.

8. Get creative. Write, draw, sing, play an instrument or even doodle. Again these types of activities take you out of present moment stress and into the other part of your brain that is creative and fluid. In times of stress your brain needs to be protected from the onslaught of that stress by taking a break from it. You can do this by participating in an activity that takes you out of that reactive mode into a relaxed calm mode, thus protecting your brain and making you feel better.