Moving Mind, Body & Soul

My name is Vanessa Bishop, and I live in Austin, Texas. A few years ago, while working at the UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, I took up Pilates. The combination of sitting at a computer and standing for long periods of time had taken a toll on my posture. My regular exercise routine wasn't addressing my need for better body alignment, nor was it helping me to shed the last of my pre-wedding weight gain. After about three months of private training, I found Pilates not only improved my posture, but transformed my body shape while boosting my energy level. And, best of all, I dropped the last of my pre-wedding pounds!

In 2006, my husband, Mark, and I moved to Austin. I began my Pilates certification while working at a studio downtown. Today, I am a trained instructor in Classical Pilates, with more than 500 hours of teaching, observation, and workout. My training also includes instruction on the anatomy. And I am currently working towards certification in GYROKINESIS, a movement system that gently works the entire body.

I know that many people feel intimidated or afraid about working out in a gym. I am delighted to offer a fully-equipped home studio for one-on-one or duet instruction to people who want to get fit, lose weight, or just feel better about themselves. The most rewarding aspect for me is knowing that I helped my clients, who work so hard, achieve their physical milestones. My wish for all is to discover what Pilates can do for you!

Why do Pilates?
The Pilates method of exercise is designed to reshape your body, making it longer, leaner, and stronger. The various types of unique equipment designed for Pilates enable you to develop muscle strength and endurance through resistance training in supported positions, avoiding excessive strain to the muscles.

What is the difference between a Pilates session in your home and one in a studio or gym?
My home studio offers Pilates training in a comfortable, non-intimidating environment. My studio is equipped with the same specially designed Pilates equipment, such as the Reformer and Chair, that you would find in public studios or gyms. The main difference is that we can focus on a tailored program to meet your goals, strengths, and special needs, without the distraction of a noisy gym.

Will I be able to do Pilates if I haven't been exercising regularly?
As with any exercise program, you should consult a physician before beginning. However, the mat work is designed to accomodate any level of fitness. The auxillary equipment, such as the Reformer, is learned through stages. With the benefit of a trainer to correct your form, you will gain body awareness as you progress.

How many times a week should I do Pilates?
Joseph Pilates used to recommend committing to mat work four times a week for 15 to 30 minutes. This number changes over time, but I recommend twice a week to see quicker results. In the beginning, it may make sense for you to practice only once a week. The most important thing is to focus on the quality of your movements, not the quantity of them.

What's better, mat or equipment Pilates exercise?
It's not a matter of one being better than another. The fundamental Pilates workout can be performed on a mat alone with great results. However, the various equipment pieces such as the Reformer, Cadillac, and Chair incorporate light spring resistance that works to safely sculpt, tone, and stretch the muscles. Each session can offer variety so that no two workouts are the same.

I have a bad back (or other injury). Will I be able to do Pilates?
Pilates is gentle and controlled with no sudden jarring actions. What is more important is that you work with a qualified instructor to ensure that you are doing the movements correctly. I will modify exercises to accommodate your limitations and tailor an exercise program accordingly, as well as continually challenge you within your range and monitor your improvements.

Can I do Pilates if I’m pregnant?
Pilates can be a wonderful way to maintain tone, relieve tension and build stamina for the child-birthing process. Several modifications are made as pregnancy progresses to ensure that mother and baby are safe. Pregnant women who have never done Pilates before are not advised to start Pilates during pregnancy. However, Pilates is a phenomenal way to reconnect with and tone deep abdominals and pelvic floor muscles post-partum.

What should I wear?
Workout clothing (sweats, leggings, tank tops) is the most practical and will allow you to move comfortably. Shoes and socks are not necessary.

At Pilates by Vanessa, my goal is to help you discover what Pilates can do for you. It doesn't matter if you are young, older, pregnant, super-fit, or rehabilitating from injuries, Pilates can change your body shape and lifestyle by improving your strength, flexibility, alignment and posture.

I offer personal and duet Pilates training in a serene, non-intimidating environment at my fully-equipped home studio in Austin, Texas. At our first meeting, I will assess your physical abilities along with your goals. Armed with that information, I will create a program tailored specifically to you and your special needs. Then, together, we will get started on accomplishing your exercise objectives, moving you towards feeling more energized and revitalized.

Thank you for visiting my Website, and I look forward to beginning a Pilates partnership with you!