N.L. is one of the post-rehab clients who joined Amrita about a year ago here on the Big Island. After experiencing chronic knee pain since young age, and consequential recent replacement surgery, her initial goal was “to be able to trust my right knee.” She has made quite impressive progress – from footwork on Reformer in supine position to full weight bearing knee exercise with Chair (photo). Her gait pattern has improved tremendously. Hope her experience will inspire others!

Why did you start Pilates training?
I had a total knee replacement in June 2022 and I believed that after my physical therapy was done, I’d need something else to help me strengthen my entire body. A friend had bad knee problems for many years, and strongly recommended Pilates. I trusted her, and went through the instructors available here in Kona and found Junko.

What exercise regimes were you doing prior to Pilates?
I am a scuba diver and a cyclist, and I walk occasionally. Biking was the thing that was the most exercise and the least painful for my knee. I love being outside and on the bike, so it’s an easy thing for me to want to do.

What physical goals or challenges have you overcome/achieved since starting training?
Prior to my total knee replacement surgery, I had knee problems for many, many years, so part of my rehab included learning to trust my right knee and leg again. I have slowly developed trust with my right knee and leg and just recently I was able to do a bend and stretch on the box without thinking about it. Junko got very excited on my behalf! Pilates has helped me to remember to do a full heel to toe movement, instead of only one part of the foot or completely babying my foot/knee. This has been instrumental to me navigating stairs or hills.

Any advice to give to others starting a Pilates program or on the fence?
Pilates is important in that it makes you understand that our bodies are a kinetic chain and if we do one thing, it impacts another. So… just jump in! Do it and learn how different parts work together. A piece of advice I’d give to others (and that I need to listen to and act upon) is to do your homework!
And by homework, I mean do your exercises when Junko isn’t watching.