Background and Motivation What first motivated you to start Reformer Pilates? Lower back pain. My GP recommended Pilates. ​ Had you tried any other forms of exercise before starting Pilates? I played hockey prior to my Breast Cancer and have continued running since. ​ What were your initial goals when you began Reformer Pilates? Reduce Pain ​ Initial Condition / Injuries Did you have any existing injuries or health conditions when you started? Had a lumpectomy in Right Breast and all Lymph Nodes were removed from Right armpit. Also received Chemo and Radiotherapy. How did it affect your movement, daily life, or training? Very Stiff down right side of upper body and always tired. Were there any movements or activities you struggled with at the beginning? I struggled with moving my right arm upwards, stretching and lifting objects. I also had no strength in my abs and struggled to get back up off the floor without pain having performed floor-based exercises. ​ The Pilates Journey What kind of sessions or exercises did you focus on in the early stages? Reformer generally stretching and trying to improve my flexibility and balance. How did your body and confidence change over the first few weeks or months? My abs became stronger, my upper body strength improved, and my body became more toned in general. Did you notice any improvements in your posture, strength, flexibility, or pain levels? Yes. My shoulders tend to hunch and now I am more aware of this I correct them not only in the classes but in everyday life. I now have more neck movement. My posture has improved. My calves and ankles do not feel so stiff. Getting out of bed and having a good night’s sleep was a problem due to my lower back pain, now this is no longer the case and I am able to sleep in other positions comfortably. ​Were there any “breakthrough moments” in your Pilates journey (something you suddenly could do, or a big change you felt)? The breakthrough moment for me was when I learnt to voluntarily isolate and engage my core muscles. Changes Were there any “breakthrough moments” in your Pilates journey (something you suddenly could do, or a big change you felt)? The breakthrough moment for me was when I learnt to voluntarily isolate and engage my core muscles. ​​ Current Progress and Maintenance​ What are you able to do now that you couldn’t do before starting Pilates? I can sleep with no pain in lower back. I do not have problems getting out of bed. I am more mobile and more flexible in general. How do you feel physically and mentally now compared to when you began? I feel physically younger and mentally stronger. Are you continuing Reformer Pilates as part of your routine? Absolutely If yes, what keeps you motivated? The Pilates teachers and the way the positive feeling I get after each class both mentally and physically. I am aware of the improvements to my body after each session and they make me feel ready to tackle any challenges that come my way. Bonus is catching up with the girls in the class they are all lovely. ​ Reflection and Feedback What has been the most valuable part of doing Reformer Pilates for you? Pilates has made me more aware of my body generally ie muscle groups posture and mobility. I carry some of the posture tips into my everyday life. How would you describe your overall experience in a few sentences? Extremely positive, I look forward to each session and feel revitalised after. I like the level of discipline each session instils in me. I love the social element too.