Instructor Spotlight: Fiona
“Be in control of your body and not at its mercy” – Joseph Pilates. This has been the guiding philosophy ever since Fiona was diagnosed with degenerative discs and spondylolisthesis in her early 20s which her doctor ascribed to her mountain climbing days. Frustrated at the lack of results from rounds of physiotherapy sessions, Fiona was introduced to Pilates and soon mastered control over her own body.
Fiona has a keen interest in clients requiring rehabilitation, especially back-related issues. And being a mum herself, both pre/post-partum programs, which have kept her supple yet strong throughout and after her pregnancy.
Tell us a little bit about yourself, what were you doing before Pilates and how did your journey of Pilates begin?
My journey began in 2009 when I had a back injury due to my mountain climbing days. I was diagnosed with degenerative discs and spondylolisthesis. One of the hardest things to hear was when I was told by my doctor that I have a 40-year-old spine and there was no reversal of my injury. Being in my early 20s, I was devastated. I felt it was the end of my life and that my world had crumbled.
I began my rounds of physiotherapy sessions and saw the lack of results. I realized this was not a long time solution. I was recommended to try Pilates and became dedicated to it for 10 years. I mastered control of my body and gained knowledge of the benefits of the exercises.
I then left the corporate world to pursue my love for Pilates. As frightening as it was to quit my job, I have never looked back since. I am also a mother to my five-month-old baby boy.
What are three words that would best describe you?
My three words are calming, adventurous, and a people person. I’ve been told that I have a very calming nature. Back when I was working in the Human Resource department, I was given a ton of service-based work and it gave me the experience to handle difficult situations. However, behind my calming demeanor, I am quite the adventurer. I took Outward Bound for three years under my CCA and climbed a few mountains. I’ve also lived in Cambodia for a few months teaching Pilates. Lastly, I love connecting with people. During the circuit breaker, it was extremely difficult for me. As much as I love my husband and kids, I craved having social interaction with others. I think that’s what I love about Pilates, I get to meet new people from different walks of life and hear about their life journey.
What is your go-to guilty pleasure?
I love eating potato chips! I have them at any hour of the day and I can eat the entire big bag of my favorite Ruffle chips or the Calbee hot and spicy all on my own.
How do you relax?
I love my facial massage and pedicure. As a new mother, those are the times I look forward to some “me time”.
What is the best thing about being a mum?
Besides keeping me busy, it’s nice to see my son grow and develop. He is currently learning to turn around on his own!
What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve done?
It would be quitting my corporate job and going into the Pilates world. I took that risk and I would not have done so without the guidance from my Pilates mentors. They journeyed, encouraged, motivated, and inspired me to follow in their footsteps. I started training in 2014 and pursued more training in the UK. I dedicated a year and a half solely on training and learned 200 over different exercises throughout my time there.
What is your favourite Pilates exercise?
The Mermaid exercise because it’s such a great stretch that relieves the tension and tightness from the side body.
As an experienced Pilates instructor, how has Breathe training program been like for you?
I’ve been with other studios and I appreciate that Breathe takes the time to invest in their instructors. The training program offered has given me the opportunity to add value to my teachings and gained more understanding. Training with other instructors has helped us learn from one another and how to effectively communicate with our students. I know I will be more than equipped for group classes.
What have you learned about our training program so far?
The importance of including biomechanics as we teach as it helps clients to build body awareness and understand how each movement can benefit their daily lives.
What are three things you love about Breathe Pilates?
Lovely spaces that are well equipped. Friendly & supportive environment for learning.
What are you most looking forward to after completing your training program?
Looking forward to having the flexibility to teach both private and group classes and to meet more people through the doors of Breathe.
