For at least a decade I have been dealing with chronic back/si joint issues and have tried many solutions in an effort to reduce my pain, maintain my fitness, and just generally continue to do the things I want to do. I was constantly sore and found myself stepping back from activities which I normally would have enjoyed, such as hiking, biking and skiing. Horses are my passion and I was at the point of having two wonderful equine partners to train and compete with at a high level, but my own physical limitations were preventing me from doing so. I had set a goal of riding a Grand Prix Dressage test in competition and I knew I had to do something different in order to increase my strength and reduce the frequency of injury. My physiotherapist recommended Pilates and I reluctantly signed up. I had tried Pilates (at a different studio in Calgary) a few years ago and was not impressed because it was very hard for me and the instructor wasn’t willing to keep the exercises at an appropriate level where I could feel successful. My first lesson with Amy was life changing. It was hard but not impossible and Amy’s good humour made the hour fly by. Most importantly, I felt energized by the lesson – I felt far better walking out than I had felt on my way in. I have been taking lessons with Amy for about 9 months now and this has not changed. The lessons are always appropriate for my current state – sometimes we have to go back to the beginning and just work on basics, but I always feel successful and most importantly, always feel energized by the lesson. I have days with no pain whatsoever – this does a lot for my physical confidence and my general mood! I’ve been able to continue riding and training, and yes, I’ve ridden that Grand Prix test and achieved a great score! I would wholeheartedly recommend Pilates for anyone, but particularly for riders looking at increasing their flexibility and strength.