Part 3: Men & Pilates - Blake’s Story

We continue our segment about Men and Pilates with an interview with our instructor Blake Sigman. Before we jump into our questions, let’s talk a bit about Blake’s background to give you all some context regarding this journey with Pilates.

Blake grew up active, participating in youth and high school sports. In his thirties, he became an avid runner and cyclist for both the physical and mental benefits. Unfortunately, these activities often created injuries and nagging issues due to imbalances and tightness. This prompted a recommendation to incorporate Pilates into his fitness routine. After one session he noticed he was standing taller and was more aware of how he moved.  The workout felt good, which was a new concept for a marathon runner! It was clear that he needed the benefits that Pilates provides. 

In 2018, after one year of practicing Pilates, a congenital heart issue required Blake to undergo open-heart surgery. The strong powerhouse created through Pilates helped his recovery in so many ways. Additionally, he was back in the Pilates studio two weeks post-operation beginning to rebuild the upper powerhouse with small movements and keeping his lower body moving while protecting the areas that were still recovering.

In 2020, his life grew sedentary as a result of the pandemic. With no other explanation, he suffered a stroke that left him with a vision impairment and sensation issues throughout his right side. This motivated him to prioritize using and maintaining his physical abilities over all else. With an existing love for practicing Pilates, he decided to transition away from his desk job to the Pilates studio to deepen his own practice and to work with others to develop and further their own.      

Blake began teaching Pilates in 2023 and is completing his comprehensive apparatus certification through Power Pilates.

Now that you know a little more about Blake’s story, here’s what he has to say about Pilates!

Q: What brought you to Pilates?

While working with a personal trainer and as a runner I often had nagging injuries. Pilates was recommended to help strengthen my stabilizing muscles and improve flexibility.  

Q: What benefits have you seen with Pilates?

I definitely have improved flexibility and a stronger powerhouse which allows me to move with improved control. I feel like I can walk taller and sit with improved posture, especially since I have another job that keeps me at a desk most of the day.

Q: How do you use Pilates in your daily life?

I’m using Pilates in all of my movements. Getting in and out of my car when parked in a tight parking space. Reaching over furniture to open my heavy windows. Carrying the laundry basket. I also keep an engaged powerhouse while riding my bike and it provides a much more active cycling experience.  

A big thank you to Blake for sharing your story and thoughts with us! If you are interested in working with Blake, he can be found working evenings and weekends in the Providence location.

Interested in trying something new? Our Cumberland location is rolling out a new class format:

Pilates Circuit Class!!

When: Saturdays 10:30am

What: This class will be taught by 3 instructors and can have a maximum of 12 students. There will be 3 groups of 4 students and class will be 20 minutes on Reformer, 20 minutes on Tower, and 20 minutes Chair / Barrels. 3 Segments and 3 different teachers in the same hour!

Cost: Class will be the same price as our Reformer classes/packages for Reformer group can apply.

Class starts June 8th!!! Register now online!

Call Edwarda at 401-595-8462 or email if you need assistance!