My version of a marathon

A bit more than a year ago, I drove with my sister to her pilates class. I just wanted to observe, to see what the hype was all about, but her instructor made me join them. I did my first class in a dress. A week later, I joined officially.

For those of you who do not know, pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on core strengthening (the stomach muscles closest to your bladder). My first official class went very well (I surprised myself at how well I kept up with the rest, being a newbie and all). The week after, however, my NAZi instructor asks us to do side planks.

So, I ask for a demonstration. This is what you need to do…

Step by step instructions for abs: With your weight supported on the elbow and side of the foot, lower your hips to the floor. (A) Lie on your side. Position yourself on your bottom elbow and the side of your foot. Lift your hips in the air, forming a straight line between your ankles, hips, and shoulders. Brace your abs and squeeze your glutes. Pause, and then return to the starting position. (B)

Now, the movement looks simple enough, right? WRONG. The first time you attempt it, your hips and ass literally feel like they’re made of lead. The following five months were filled with innumerable core exercises, embarrassing attempts and periods of despair over my weight (because whenever she asked us to do this, I felt like I weight 400 pounds)..

And then, one day, my core decides to cooperate and lifts my hips into the air. It was the first time in a very long time that I worked for a specific physical goal, and I can honestly say, I’ve never been prouder of anything in my life.