Finding Strength, Confidence and Community at Core Pilates

When Elaine first walked into Core Pilates, she wasn’t sure what to expect.

She wanted to get healthier, lose some weight and become stronger, but she also knew she needed to be careful. After three back surgeries, finding an exercise program that felt safe and appropriate for her was important.

Core Pilates felt like the right place to start. Elaine was already familiar with the Kauffman family through John Kauffman, who had previously been her physical therapist, so she felt comfortable putting her trust in the team.

Still, starting something new was intimidating.

That’s where private sessions became an important part of Elaine’s journey. Krysty Kauffman paired her with instructor Lauren, who helped Elaine become comfortable with the equipment and the movements while making modifications when necessary.

“She was so patient with me,” Elaine says. “She helped me with modifications and taught me how to use the XFormer and feel comfortable with the movements.”

The changes weren’t limited to what happened inside the studio. Lauren also encouraged Elaine to make small, realistic changes to her nutrition, such as replacing less healthy foods with quick, healthier snacks.

“Those little changes helped me feel like I was working on my overall health, not just exercising,” Elaine says.

Over time, something else began to change: Elaine started looking forward to exercising.

But it wasn’t an overnight transformation.

“A few months in, I started realizing that I was getting stronger,” she says. “I’ve always liked to walk, but I didn’t really like exercising. Now I actually look forward to going to class!”

For Elaine, that change in mindset has been just as meaningful as the physical changes.

But perhaps one of the biggest surprises has been the sense of community she has found at Core Pilates.

After more than a year of attending classes, Elaine has gotten to know many of the women she sees regularly, particularly in her 101 classes.

“We’re a group of women who really support each other. We want to see each other do well.”

That sense of connection has also extended to her family. Elaine has taken classes with her daughter, turning Pilates into something they can enjoy together. Mother-daughter pairs are common at the studio, something that reflects the welcoming environment Core Pilates has created.

Elaine also enjoys experiencing the different instructors and their individual teaching styles.

“They’re all wonderful, and I’ve learned something from each of them,” she said. “Most recently, I began taking classes with Shayla, Krysty and John’s daughter. She’s only 17, but she is so mature and confident when she teaches. She gives very clear directions, offers modifications when needed, and is incredibly supportive. I’m always impressed by how well she handles the class.”

Elaine’s experience is a reminder that beginning an exercise program doesn’t have to mean being the strongest, most experienced or most confident person in the room. Sometimes, all it takes is that first step—and the right people beside you to help you keep moving forward.