Gretchen Bosselmann-May
Pilates.Solutions
Check out Gretchen's:
Classically trained second-generation Pilates instructor.
Comprehensive certification from Power Pilates since 2016 and Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher (formerly PMA) since 2017.
In July 2020, Gretchen completed Lolita San Miguel's Pilates Master and Mentorship Program becoming a second-generation Pilates instructor. Peak Pilates Level 2 and Functional Movement Screen 1 certification.
Gretchen trains with internationally recognized and Pilates Master Teachers Michael Fritzke and Ton Voogt. She has completed continuing education course with Bob Liekens, Kathy Ross-Nash and Chris Robinson and the Neuro Studio.
What purchase of $100 or less has most positively impacted your life in the last six months?
CRZ Yoga leggings --- great quality and for $100 you can get 3-4 pairs. Actually like them better than Lululemon.
How did you first get into pilates or yoga?
My husband and I joined a gym that offered 3 free 30 minute intro sessions. I was lucky enough to get a great instructor, Rebecca Sirkel, for those sessions and decided to continue. Rebecca became a teacher trainer for Power Pilates and I decided to do the mat training just to learn more about Pilates. After completing Core Mat 1 and 2 with Power Pilates I did not teach until the studio where I was then doing Pilates needed a mat instructor. I started to each one mat class a week. I loved seeing my clients progress and get stronger so after year decided to get comprehensively certified with Power Pilates.
In the last five years, what new belief, behavior, or habit has most improved your life?
Pilates! For the last almost 10 years I have done Pilates regularly but in the last year have really commited to doing Pilates every day. What else is there to do when everything is locked down! Now I find that my body craves the movement if I do not do it. Even if it is only for 30 minutes.
What is your proudest moment/accomplishment in pilates or yoga?
I work a regular corporate job, pretty much full-time, and also teach Pilates. In July of this year I completed Lolita San Miguel's Pilates Masters and Mentorship Program. In our second session Lolita asked me "your such a good teacher why do you still have this other job?" That really gave me alot of confidence that I was a great instructor even if I did not teach full-time.
What is one of the best or most worthwhile investments you’ve ever made?
All the continuing education that I do. It keeps me excited about teaching.
Do you like classical or contemporary pilates/yoga more? Why?
Classical Pilates but I know that you need to adapt and modify exercises to the client in front of you. All of the 1st generation Pilates instructors modified the exercises that they learned from Joe and as Classical instructors we need to remember this.
What advice would you give to people wanting to start pilates or yoga?
Find a comprehensively certified Pilates instructor. Also if you are interested in working on the equipment find a studio that requires at least 2-4 privates before allowing you to take a group class. While this is more expensive it will be a better experience for you and for other clients when you do start group classes.
What's your favourite colour?
Red
What's your favourite holiday destination?
San Juan, Puerto Rico. Was there for the first Caribbean Pilates Conference in June 2019 and loved it! Hope to return some day soon.
What's your star sign?
Capricorn
Most satisfying experience practicing yoga/pilates?
I work with a client who has MS and is in a wheelchair. Seeing her get stronger. When I started working with her we had to use a big wedge pillow for Roll Back on the Cadillac. Now she can do this exercise on her own and without the pillow. She has gotten so much stronger it is truly amazing and inspirational.
Most embarrassing experience practicing yoga/pilates?
Smasing my toe on the High Chair at Kathi Ross-Nashes Old School Training.
What are your biggest pet peeves about the culture/community of your chosen practice?
Division between Classical and Contemporary Pilates but also people who modify Pilates exercises without knowing why or having a purpose.
What is your favourite thing about the culture and community of your chosen practice?
Currently all the online virtual training that is available from great instructors around the world.
Do you tend to use a lot of different equipment when you practice?
For myself and for my clients I try to use all of the Pilates equiment. At home I have a Legacy Pilates 80" Reformer (loooove it!), a Peak Pilates Combo Chair, DIY Pedipole, Pilates Arc and a Legacy Pilates Folding Mat. I use all of them each week in myself practice. At the studio (SimplyPilatesAZ.com) we have reformers, tower/cadillac, chairs, barrels and pedipole. We makek sure clients regulary use all pieces of equipment.
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