How Elva first started doing Pilates?
I was first introduced to Pilates by my Physiotherapist in 2009 due to a muscle tear injury. I also fractured my leg in a ski accident in 2012 and Pilates not only helped with my recovery from these 2 serious injuries, but it also improved my body awareness for injury prevention and balance control.
After doing a few sessions of Pilates, I became more aware of how I move and realised that my posture naturally improved and thus my chronic lower back pain was improved, from then on, I just fell in love with Pilates, and it has become an important activity in my life.
What do you like about Pilates?
Apart from helping with my injury recovery, I also enjoy Pilates as it helps me to gain more strength and flexibility. I like that it is safe for everyone because it’s rehabilitative.
What inspires you to become a Pilates Instructor?
Like many other Pilates instructors, I benefit so much from Pilates, and I want to share the benefit and joy of Pilates with others.
The truth is in the beginning I had no intention to be an instructor, I just wanted to enhance my knowledge of Pilates, however, upon taking the course and starting teaching, I enjoyed it even more when I saw my clients experience the benefits of Pilates.
What’s your favourite Pilates move?
There are so many of them. I like Bridging, Mermaid, feet in straps, Swan, and even hundred. If I am going to just name one, I guess it will be feet in straps. When I first started Pilates, feet in straps are one of the exercises that I always do as it trains my core and strengthens and stretches my leg muscles. Apart from these exercises on the reformer, I also enjoy doing challenging mat work exercises!
What are some challenges you faced while training to become an instructor and a mentor? Any advice / tips to trainees?
I have been practicing Pilates for several years before training to become an instructor. I have more experience with the exercises; however, I had no anatomy background beforehand, which was my main challenge. I am glad I took up the course as I get to learn more about movement anatomy so that this can help me understand clients’ issues better and be able to assist with their problems better.
To all trainees, practice is the key. You need to practice enough to understand the exercises well and be open-minded to any feedback that comes in.
What’s your goal/life motto?
Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be wonderful. Simply embrace what we have in life and live a wonderful life.
What can we expect in your group classes?
You can expect full body strength training and joint mobilization, especially spine articulations. I hope clients will enjoy the workout and feel taller and lighter after the class.
Any other hobby you enjoy doing during your free time?
I enjoy cooking, recently started learning baking which it’s challenging for me but fun. I also love gardening, traveling, skiing, and scuba diving.
Want to try a session with Elva? Check the appointment schedule and book a session here
