07/09/2026
✨ Client Highlight | Meet Barbara ✨
When Barbara first walked through our doors, she wasn’t sure Pilates was for her.
After moving to Franklin, she had tried several forms of exercise but never found the right fit. When she saw our Pilates 101 Series, she decided to give it a try—even though she admitted she was intimidated.
“I thought I wouldn’t be able to do Pilates. I’m uncoordinated, have inner ear issues, and very little flexibility.”
What she discovered was something completely different.
She found a welcoming community of classmates who encouraged her, instructors who met her exactly where she was, and a movement practice that gave her the confidence to keep showing up.
Today, Barbara shares that she has:
💚 Less body pain
💚 A stronger, flatter core
💚 Better balance and stability
💚 Greater confidence
💚 More independence
One of the most meaningful moments in her journey happened recently.
Because of an early head injury and inner ear damage, Barbara has lived with significant balance and spatial awareness challenges. She has always avoided climbing ladders and working at heights whenever possible.
Recently, she climbed onto her roof using a ladder—and, just as importantly, climbed back down confidently.
“Using my increased core strength and stability, I was able to do something I would have had to leave to someone else before. Pilates has added to my independence and confidence to overcome my fears.”
Perhaps the biggest transformation has been something many of us never have to think about—simply knowing where our body is in space.
Barbara explained that because of her injury, “my ears, eyes, and the proprioceptors in my feet don’t work well together. It’s like I have a broken gyroscope.”
She shared that following movement in a group setting has always been difficult. Looking down at her feet and back up to an instructor often caused dizziness and nausea, and she struggled to know where her feet were without watching them.
After just six months of weekly Mat and Reformer classes, she’s experiencing something remarkable.
“I’m starting to know where my feet are underneath me and on the Reformer footbar. I’m becoming more aware of how different parts of my body are positioned and can make small adjustments to better engage my core and improve my stability.”
She beautifully sums it up by saying:
“For most people this probably happens unconsciously. For me, it is a major change to finally relate to my own body.”
When asked what stood out most about the guidance she has received, Barbara shared:
“The vast knowledge of the physical body and how the instructors individualize guidance to each person’s ability and way of learning with kindness and true caring for their students.”
One response especially touched us when she shared what keeps her coming back.
“I honestly thought I would just try it, likely not be able to do the movements, and politely bow out. But I was inspired by how my fellow students—some with several decades on me—move with such confidence. The instructors always provide alternatives for new students and those with physical limitations, giving me the confidence to keep going.”
She also loves that no two classes are the same.
“Every class is different and often customized to the needs of the students that day. It’s never the same old routine.”
When asked to finish the sentence, “Since starting, I feel…”
Her answer was simple, yet powerful:
“Stronger and better connected to my new community.”
To anyone thinking about beginning their own movement journey, Barbara offers this encouragement:
“Start with the Pilates 101 Series or a private session, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. You can do this, and your body will thank you.”
💚 A Personal Note from Patti
Barbara has been such a joy to watch over these past several months.
From the very beginning, she showed up with curiosity, determination, and a willingness to trust the process—even while navigating challenges that many people never see. Watching her confidence grow has been incredibly rewarding.
One of the things I admire most about Barbara is that she never lets fear have the final word. She asks thoughtful questions, embraces new challenges, and celebrates every victory along the way. Seeing her body awareness improve and hearing stories like confidently climbing onto her roof reminds me why I love what I do.
I also love how beautifully she has become part of our Abel Wellness family. The encouragement she receives from her classmates has become encouragement she now gives to others. That is what community is all about.
Barbara, thank you for trusting us with your journey. Your perseverance, kindness, and willingness to keep learning inspire all of us. We are so proud of everything you’ve accomplished and honored to be part of your story.
