IN THE PRESS

"Physical fitness is the first requisite to happiness," Joseph Pilates

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"Originally called Contrology, meaning "the art of control," the Pilates method is a total body practice. It was designed to balance the body by working the deepest abdominal muscles first and in turn, creating muscular and skeletal balance. Pilates focuses on creating strength, stretch, stamina, control, and balance. It gives your body the tools to support a long-term active lifestyle. The use of breath and imagination are also major aspects of this practice."

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Melissa Giudice, owner/operator, continues, "Centerwork Pilates was developed and designed to deliver classical Pilates instruction tailored to each individual. All instructors at Centerwork are classically certified and are carefully chosen based on their extensive education and experience. They aim to educate each person with the tools needed to perform the original exercises created by Joseph Pilates. The studio is equipped with authentic classical apparatus, hand-made by Basil of Pilates Designs Inc. These exercises have been passed down by our teachers, who were first-generation teachers of Joseph Pilates. We take pride in honoring the way the Pilates method was designed to be taught."

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Melissa was a teacher in Manhattan prior to discovering Pilates. In 2004, she was classically trained and certified in Pilates. "I learned from the best. I was fortunate to have had many great teachers. Bob Liekens was my most influential mentor. I am grateful for the time spent with him." Now, with over 20 years of teaching experience and having had their son, she wanted to be closer to family and home. "It was also hard to find a classical studio to train in that was within walking distance. This is when I knew I wanted to open a studio in Bronxville." Centerwork Pilates opened its Bronxville location in 2023. So far, it has been established mainly on referrals. "We have a wonderful community of people who are dedicated to their health and committed to their Pilates education. They are all a pleasure to work with and make me proud, too!"

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"Pilates, for me, was a natural extension of the dance world," Melissa continues. "Many of my dancer friends were transitioning into this career after their performance time was over. Our dance teachers introduced many of us to Pilates mat work when we were in class. We became familiar with the therapeutic benefits of the classical method. We also understood how having this training made us stronger, more flexible, balanced, and in control. Most importantly, it helped to prevent and repair injuries."

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The classical Pilates method is similar to dance training; doing an exercise or movement over and over with proper form until it is in one's body creates technique. Once you have technique, it can never be lost. It is always in your body and mind, even when you take time away and return. According to Joseph Pilates, "When your muscles are properly developed, you will as a matter of course, perform your work with minimum effort and maximum pleasure."

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"I also wanted to "age gracefully" says Melissa. "I wanted to be able to move without pain or difficulty. I wanted to maintain beautiful posture. Staying active as long as possible through every chapter of my life is super important. I saw my grandmother struggle with arthritic joints and postural imbalances. I know it's hereditary. Moving and educating yourself and training one's body properly can eliminate some of these obstacles drastically. My grandmother was so young at heart and had the will to do many activities. I feel that if she had been introduced to the classical Pilates method, it would have made a huge impact on her overall health, posture, strength, balance, and mobility."

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"My passion is to share my knowledge of Pilates with people. By doing so it will help them to overcome their physical obstacles so that they are less fearful of moving and are able to conquer everyday activities. I have to stress I am not what makes the change happen. It's the person showing up and the Pilates method that need to take the credit. I'm here to relay the information and carry on what my teachers have taught me."

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Melissa has many thoughts about Pilates for our readers. "The classical Pilates method is for everyone. My students range from ages 15 – 82. You will get the most out of your Pilates practice when the exercises are properly executed in order, in a mindful manner and under a watchful eye. It is like learning a second language; it takes time. Be patient and choose an instructor that is right for you. We tailor each session individually. It is not always one size fits all.

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The right instructor will know how to guide you through each exercise, depending on what your body needs. Be prepared to make the commitment to practice twice a week with consistency. You will quickly feel the difference after 10 sessions. I promise everyone that after three months of training and performing the sequence of exercises that, it will become like second nature. No matter what you are doing, these techniques will carry into your everyday life, enabling your body to move with energy, confidence and ease," she concludes. According to Joseph Pilates, "A few well-designed movements, properly performed in a balanced sequence, are worth more than hours of doing sloppy calisthenics or forced contortions."

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Melissa and her family, including her husband and eight-year-old son, live in Bronxville. She grew up in Yonkers, NY. Her hobbies include family time, the outdoors, painting and drawing. She recently took up snow skiing. She is enjoying her time on the mountain with her family during the ski season.