Client Question: As the weather gets colder, I find it harder to stay motivated and energized. What are your tips to combat this and help me stay on track with my workouts?

A: Make sure you are getting enough rest and staying properly hydrated. Often when it gets cooler we forget to drink as much as we need and consequently feel fatigued more quickly.  If you work out in the morning, lay out your clothes and pack your bag the night before so you’re ready to go.  If you work out in the evening, make sure you have your things so you can go straight to the studio from work.  Home is like the Thunderdrome- many enter, none emerge!

How did you discover Pilates?

I discovered pilates in a mat class at the gym.  I liked the specificity and precision of the workout, and while I definitely felt the intensity of the work, my body felt really good afterwards.  I then joined a group reformer class and was hooked!

What is your favorite Pilates exercise?

So many good ones, but my absolute favorite is Short Spine on the reformer; challenging in terms of both strength and flexibility, and feels great.  I also love round back from the short box series on the ladder barrel.

Julie joined the Harmony staff in August 2012, and describes her teaching style as “precise, dynamic and vigorous”. Julie is a certified Stott Pilates®, TRX®, and (soon to be) Xtend Barre® instructor. Click here to read her full bio!