Because I'm a success coach and career expert, I am always on the lookout for great ways to improve my own quality of life as well as that of my clients.
I am pleased to welcome a guest to our site: Ana Caban, certified Pilates instructor. I first became aware of Ms. Caban when I was looking for an exercise program that would be fun and effective.
I believe in staying in shape in order to be at my best and to help me achieve my career and personal goals. Ms. Caban's tapes have proven to be both helpful and enjoyable! (You can purchase her instructional tapes through gaiam.com.)
Let's chat with her now to find out what tips she has for us.
Hi Ana, thanks for visiting with us. I have to tell you, you're a great Pilates teacher - and you make it fun! What prompted you to learn about, and then teach, Pilates?
ANA: I was first introduced to Pilates by my chiropractor, (about 10 years ago), due to a recurring dance injury that had me in severe pain. I began Pilates as physical therapy and it really worked for me. (To this day I suffer little back discomfort at all). It wasn't until several years later, when looking for a career change that I realized that Pilates, now as exercise, was something that had brought me so much joy and freedom of movement that I wanted to share this revolutionary method with others.
Could you give our readers some tips on what you do to keep in shape - your routine and basic diet?
ANA: I like to vary my workout routine, to keep it interesting. I usually do Pilates 2-3x per week. That might be mat work or a combination of mat work and working out on Pilates equipment. I also do cardio workouts (treadmill, elliptical machine and stationary bicycle) 4-5x per week for 45minutes - 1 hour each time. I enjoy many of the group fitness classes offered at my gym, so I like to try those sometimes. I also do light weight training and lunges 3x a week. Basically, I do something 6 days a week. I always take a day off to rest my body (usually Sundays). Regarding my diet, I eat smaller portions than most, more frequently than most. My meals are lower in fat and carbohydrates.
In your opinion, how has practicing Pilates helped you personally?
ANA: Practicing Pilates has helped my back (and overall body) immensely. Pilates also quiets my mind, since so much focus and concentration is needed to perform the movements properly.
What's the most important fitness tip you could give our readers?
ANA: Exercise, exercise, exercise! Choose some physical activity that you enjoy and do it! If you like hiking, hike. If you like swimming, swim. If you like Pilates, by all means, do Pilates! Do something for yourself, for your body. No one else can do it for you. Your body is your temple. Treat it accordingly!
Tell us about your new studio in Los Angeles. How can interested students contact you?
ANA: My studio, Absolutely Pilates, is located in the heart of the Miracle Mile District of Los Angeles, near the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Historical Farmer's Market . We specialize in certified private, semi-private and group mat class Pilates instruction. We also offer a teacher certification program in conjunction with PEAK Pilates, (a Pilates equipment company and education source). Visit my studio website at www.abspilates.com. You can email me at mail@anacaban.com or call 323-964-9814.
Anything else you'd like to add?
ANA: I'm so glad that you and your readers are enjoying my workouts. I am about to shoot two more programs that you should see in an infomercial featuring me and my products airing in January. Stay tuned!
Ana, thank you. We'll be watching for your next appearance!
© 2003 Kathy Sanborn
