About Pilates

LaBriece Ochsner on the Balanced Body Foam Roller · Photo by Ron Brewer Images

What is Pilates?

Is Pilates a Method of exercise done on a mat or on equipment? The answer is BOTH! Also it is not the same as Yoga. What can make Pilates seem similar to Yoga is that the Pilates Matwork is done on a floor or flat surface and uses one’s own body weight for resistance, however the principles and breathing are different than those of Yoga.

What is my Pilates story?

I did not come to Pilates injured, like so many have. I also did not come to Pilates from the dance world, like so many others. I found Pilates as a former athlete and a young mother, searching for a way to reconnect to my body. I wanted to feel strong again. Fit. Healthy. Energized. Happy. Motivated. I wanted something I could do that helped me achieve all that in a short amount of time as my days were focused on my son and his needs.

Who can do Pilates?

Everyone and anyone can do Pilates! Teaching Pilates to a multitude of body types, short, tall, wide, light, heavy, inflexible, bendy, old, young, injured, athletic… is a continuous learning journey that I take each time I step into the Pilates studio. Each client is important to me. Each body that is in front of me matters. Regardless who you are: a prominent athlete or an at-home mom or dad, I am here to help Pilates guide you achieve your goals. No matter how large or small!

How is Pilates ideal for athletes?

The Pilates Method is the ideal form of cross-training for all levels of athlete. The teenage-athlete, the weekend warrior, the advanced-age athlete and even or especially the Olympian. Pilates as a form of cross-training contributes to enhanced athletic performance, helps to prevent injury through balanced muscle development and speeds recovery after competitions or athletic pursuits. It can take any athletic endeavor to another level. Pilates can make your sport feel easier!

Thank you for allowing me to take this journey with you.

~LaBriece Ochsner, founder of LB Pilates

For more on my Pilates story, you can read this article Translating Pilates into A Language for Men: https://thecore.balancedbody.com/pilates-for-men/

  • Are you searching for a new form of exercise?
  • Would you like an effective cross-training for your sport?
  • Do you want your body to be pain-free?
  • Did you know Reformer & Mat Pilates can increase your stamina?
  • Do you wish you were more flexible?
  • Would you like better quality sleep?
  • Did you know Pilates is gentle on your joints?

If you answered YES to any of these questions then Pilates could be the best choice for you!


The Pilates Principles

  • Center
  • Control
  • Concentration
  • Breath
  • Flow
  • Precision
  • Whole Body Movement

Pilates Unfiltered Podcast: The Many Languages of Pilates

I was so honored to be be interviewed by Jenna Zaffino on the most popular Pilates podcast! It’s very direct and honest and you can hear about how I really got into Pilates… you’ll be surprised!

Alexander & Patrick on the Balanced Body Ladder Barrels with LaBriece Ochsner teaching · Photo by Marion Bernet Photography