When faced with the challenge of suspending classes earlier this year due to COVID-19, Intermountain Pilates caregivers combined their passion and creativity to reimagine how their program could continue offering Pilates classes that would create a positive experience for their clients.
Sarah Poulsen teaching Intermountain Pilates at home via YouTube
After planning and brainstorming, Betsy Johnson, Pilates program coordinator, and her team decided to help their clients stay active and healthy while indoors by offering online classes via Webex—something the program had never done since it began in 2015. The team also decided to create an ongoing series of free YouTube videos to guide viewers—both newcomers and Pilates gurus—through refreshing exercises that teach the basic principles of Pilates.
Sarah Poulson, one of the program’s instructors, knew Intermountain’s Pilates program was special since joining the program in 2018—and during COVID-19 the program has reached new horizons.
“Since starting with the Pilates Program, I’ve seen a real drive to help our clients improve their daily lives and wellbeing,” says Sarah. “And that didn’t change once COVID-19 hit Utah.”
Once their online classes began, the Pilates team worked diligently to give their clients the best experience possible. Even with the challenges of reworking their in-studio exercises to fit an online format, the team found their clients felt connected and supported because of their classes.
“The adjustment took a little extra time and attention to each client outside of class times,” says Sarah. “We answered calls, texts, and emails to figure out what each person needed to feel successful and supported. While connecting with my clients, I learned more about them and their experience with the pandemic. I felt a deeper connection to them.”
While hosting her online classes from her living room, aspects of Sarah’s personal life often snuck into the frame. These glimpses into her life helped Sarah connect with her clients on the other end of the online meeting.
“My dog regularly would sit on me in the middle of an exercise, you could hear my husband on meetings in the background, and my baby would make cameo appearances,” Sarah says. “It created a personal setting for us, and I truly feel we grew closer because of that environment.”
Hillary Brown teaching Pilates in the studio
After months of instructing successful online classes and holding smaller-sized classes in their studio at TOSH - The Orthopedic Specialty Hospital, the Pilates program was recently recognized by Merrithew, a Canada-based leader in the Pilates community.
Pilates has been helpful for many clients who are learning to navigate life during a global pandemic, both in Utah and beyond.
“The Pilates program has been a lifesaver during this pandemic,” says Lori Donehoo, an in-studio and online client. “The whole program that’s been put together with YouTube videos and classes has been amazing.”
Brad Hokanson, another in-studio and online client, credited his triweekly online classes for maintaining his flexibility and strength while doing Pilates from home.
Sandy Sleeper—who began Pilates after a car crash left her struggling with balance—joined Sarah’s classes just as the pandemic hit. She found support through online classes.
“The selection of online classes offered is impressive,” says Sandy. “They’ve helped me feel connected to the fun group I’ve met in class, even though we’re separated by the virus.”
Hillary Brown, another Pilates instructor, says she’s come to love teaching online and is grateful for the opportunity to teach people around the nation through online classes.
“I had a friend from California, one from Texas, and a former client who’s stationed in North Virginia come together for these classes,” says Hillary. “I’ve heard how grateful people are for these classes, as it may be their only connection to the outside world right now. Nothing can replace live classes, yet online classes keep them moving and connected to other humans.”
Mary Garvin teaching in the studio
Renee Tanner, a Pilates participant since 2017, says Pilates has been her one constant during the pandemic.
“I felt supported and connected during those times when I couldn’t be in the studio,” says Renee. “I start my day online with Mary and Hilary’s smiles and encouragement, and it feels good to see familiar faces on my iPad. I feel so much stronger physically and mentally.”
Once the Pilates studio opened its doors again to smaller class sizes, Renee returned knowing she was exercising in a safe environment.
“Each participant in the class follows the guidelines by cleaning the equipment, wearing a mask, and keeping a safe distance from each other,” says Renee. “Even while wearing a mask, Pilates is still the highlight of my day. I leave feeling energized, confident, and strong.”
Betsy says Pilates can help strengthen your core, balance, flexibility, and overall health. Check the Pilates webpage for registration information and monthly class schedules.
Only online classes will be offered in December. Register by calling 801-314-2210. A $60 registration gives you unlimited access to all online classes held now through December 22. The schedule:
- Mon/Wed/Fri – 6 a.m. with Rachel
- Mon/Wed/Fri – 7 a.m. with Rachel
- Mon/Wed – 10 a.m. with Hillary
- Mon/Wed – 11 a.m. with Hillary
- Mon/Wed – 4:30 p.m. with Sarah
- Mon/Wed – 6:30 p.m. with Sarah
- Tue/Thurs – 8 a.m. with Sarah
- Tue/Thurs – 5:30 p.m. with Sarah