Testimonials
Why our clients return to Pilates Plus Wellness Center week after week
Here at Pilates Plus Wellness Center, we are dedicated to helping our clients bring balance to their mind, body, or spirit. Every day, we work with people dealing with chronic pain, folks working through injury rehab, people who want to lose weight and add strength, athletes who need to cross-train, and a host of people who seek stress reduction and overall wellness.
We are honored to be able to share with you a few stories from our many satisfied Upper Marlboro, Brandywine, Bowie, unincorporated Prince George’s County, Lothian, and Dunkirk.
Karen A. says good-bye to yo-yo dieting forever
September a year ago, I decided to tackle my weight challenge for one last time (how many times have we said this?).
I have gained and lost weight many times over the past decade. It seems that when I lost 20 pounds, I’d gain back 30. I had had it with the yo-yo dieting. I was frustrated and saddened and was ready to accept the weight and size that I was, but not really. This time around, I’ve lost 48 pounds and down from a size 14 to an 8!
I’ve been an avid exerciser for many years. Exercising was nothing new to me. I enjoyed it, and still do. However, I needed to mix it up. The new things I’ve tried over the past 14 months have been Pilates, Yogilates, Power Yoga, Exercise DVD and continuing with Deep Water Aerobics. So in my exercise arsenal, I began to use all the above, and power walking, and jogging (on the treadmill). Yes, I work out 6 days a week, with Sundays off.
I added to a Pilates class once a week for 7 weeks, with a few private sessions. Then I tried Yogilates for 7 weeks. I can attest to Pilates changing my body like no other exercise had!”
~Karen A.
Millie A. gets a total body makeover without surgery
One late evening leaving my job, I was feeling a little bad. No real symptoms like a stomach or headache but I was not feeling quite myself. I had a few heart palpitations early in the day but thought nothing of it.
So, I thought that since I had a little time on my hands, I’d go by the local Health Clinic and get my blood pressure checked. That unscheduled visit saved my life!. The attending nurse took my blood pressure and it was 192/152. The nurse was shocked and asked, “How did you get here?” I told her that I drove myself and she said: “You should have had a heart attack or a stroke!”
I was immediately admitted to the hospital, and was given blood pressure medication to lower my pressure which took the next 3 hours.
Afterward, I saw my regular doctor and was given a complete physical and blood work-up. Two weeks later, my lab results showed that my cholesterol was 256 (normal less than 200); LDL bad cholesterol was 182 (normal less than 130); and I weighed 262 pounds.
I was in bad shape to say the least!
My physician strongly recommended that I lose 50 pounds or more; reduce my stress; and start eating healthy. If I did not heed to her recommendation, I was on a path of lifetime medication for high blood pressure and diabetes; heart disease or worse a heart attack or stroke. I had just celebrated my 50th birthday; I could not believe what I was hearing!
In November, 2008, I made a conscious decision to begin living a healthy lifestyle. I was put on a doctor-supervised weight loss plan to address my immediate weight loss of 50 pounds including developing better eating habits. To reduce my stress and begin an exercise program to help with maintaining my weight, my physician recommended basic walking, yoga, and massages.
In January, 2009, I heard about Pilates Plus Wellness Center which offered small class sizes; flexible class schedule; affordable rates; no long term contracts; group & private lessons in a friendly and personable environment — Perfect, this was the place for me.
The Center offered a variety of classes for the beginner, immediate, and the advanced student including services such as massage therapy; meditation and acupuncture. Remember, I was out of shape – no muscle, no energy and plenty of flab.
Susan Spangler, the owner, personally worked with me to develop a series of exercises that would help build the core muscle areas first.
I started with Pilates Mat. Gradually I was able to advance to Yogilates which is a combination of yoga and Pilates movement for stretching and more core muscle development. To give me cardio and weight training, I took the power packed Boot Camp. Boot Camp really helped me to burn a few more pounds and after 6 to 7 months working out with Susan and my friends, I saw my entire body transform—a total body makeover without any surgery! I have energy, I have muscle definition in my legs and arms; I have a waistline and I went from a size 20 to a 14. I look good and feel good. Thanks to Susan and to the Pilates Plus Wellness Center family.
Here are a few more testimonials from our students
FALL 2011
“My Studio is AWESOME…here I tone my body; relax my mind; and bring a sense of balance to my life. The moment I walk through the studio doors, I feel a sense of peace; the smell of calm. My soul opens up to be invited into a transformation of energy from my class of choice. I can purchase local fresh eggs, receive information on local garden bounty, schedule a massage or nutrition session. I enjoy acupuncture, aromatherapy, health seminars, personal one-on-one training, share information regarding health, recipes, and wellness related information. We even have a prayer list! This is one of the most rewarding experiences you can give yourself! Susan I thank you for having the gift and I thank God for empowering you with the vision.
–Theresa R”
SUMMER 2011
“Amazing wellness center from the core. Pilates Plus is the place to be, the people to be around, and a true blessing to my life. Each time I visit I discover more options they offer to help me be well, through and through. They offer everything from Yoga to Pilates, private and group classes, accupuncture, nutrion counseling (holistic) , theraputic massage, and so much more. Pilates Plus is amazing at finding what best works for you, versus making you fit in a box. HIGHLY Recommended. A review we receieved on YELP, by Amy E.”
SPRING 2010
” Susan, First and most importantly, I want to thank you for an awesome class ~ it far exceeded all of my expectations. The classes were challenging and I always walked away learning something new and feeling better about myself. You are a superb instructor with a unique ability to truly connect with your students through your gift of being able to motivate and inspire. I also appreciate your gentle nudges to improve and advance. Thanks again for everything. Kathleen A.”
WINTER 2010
“It is amazing how I feel today. I was having the worse pelvic
discomfort yesterday and had been for a few days now. After yoga
last night my pain was virtually gone and when I woke this morning
I had no pelvic pain at all!!! I LOVE YOGA!! ”
–Denise Y.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
FALL 2009
“Feedback on Yoga; my teacher is really great. I like the fact
that she keeps the class moving and does not hesitate to challenge
us. I also like the fact that she is very willing to offer modifications
to make the pose both easier and more difficult. I come away from
the class feeling as if I have truly gotten a workout. Her personality
is absolutely beautiful. ”
______________________________________________________________________________________________
SUMMER 2009
“Your classes have been a blessing more than I can express.
My body has regained strength, and I am able to do so many more
things. I appreciate your ministry of health you have developed
through your studio.” — Beverly
______________________________________________________________________________________________
WINTER 2008
This is a very lovely studio with a very welcoming staff. I’m
glad I found Pilates Plus, or maybe it found me! Susan, you have
a lovely studio and it resonates warmth and I know you truly care
about your clients!
What I like best is that the program keeps growing and adding
additional options.
The classes are taught by a professional and knowledgeable staff.
Susan is good at keeping her eyes on everyone.
I am very satisfied with the instructor and with you scheduling
make up classes for me. I hope to sign up again!
______________________________________________________________________________________________
SUMMER 2008
My teacher is always ready to start the class on time and gives us
a full workout each and every week. She’s perfect and a sweet heart. How blessed you are to have such sweet
people to work with:)
I have also taken ten private yoga lessons..it was/is
a big help. And, the reiki was calming, and I believe of curative
value… I’m going to sign up for another session.
The studio continues to bring diverse classes and it is maintained
beautifully.
All is great.
Susan is great!
All teachers are great.
Your studio is looking beautiful and it is a pleasure to come.
Really enjoy Susan’s Express Pilates class!
Took Susan’s Stretch/Props class…how do you fix perfection?
I think you are doing a great job and you always keep in touch
by email letting us know about openings for make up classes.
Tina is very sweet and helpful–no improvement needed.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
SPRING 2008
It is good that you are offering a new class and letting people
try it first in the summer line-up.
Here are some of our client references
3/09
Susan is very open to providing new offerings and accomodating
schedules of interest.
Karen A.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
3/09
I find the studio very welcoming and comfortable.
Pam W.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
3/09
The studio is absolutely wonderful! The music and atmosphere is
very welcoming, and the staff are all very friendly, competent and
welcoming.
Susan H.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
3/06
I wanted to tell you that I can feel a difference in my body already from the Pilates. I’m rather amazed. I can feel how it is strengthening my spine area from top to bottom in a way that no other exercise I’ve done has. I’m very grateful for the classes and only wished I’d started taking Pilates years ago when I was first introduced to it.
Tereaz S.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
1/06
You can used the tapes, but if you are not trained to breathe properly you are wasting your time and your money. I used the tapes for years and even though I felt good, my core muscles were not reacting to the workout as they should. Once I started with the private lessons I really learned the basics – breathing, rolling up versus crunches, stacking the spine etc. I find the Pilates Method is more than exercise ..it is a way of life.
I have taken both private lessons and the Mat classes. I love the instructors–they will allow you to visit other classes before making a commitment; that’s a nice option. Making a commitment to Pilates was my first step. It led to other organizational commitments in my life. I will tell others that it takes commitment, but it is well worth it. Money and time well spent. It’s not often that you can say that your exercise class or instruction was DELICIOUS!!!! You cannot explain it you must experience it!
Susan M.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
6/05
“Like most people, I have a hectic schedule. Because I am not a big fan of “traditional” exercise programs, I think what I love most about Pilates is that it appeals to me in ways that those programs typically don’t. It’s restorative. It’s calming…yet, it’s also challenging.
This is truly one of the first times I can say I look forward to an exercise session!! I really see the mind, body connection with the Pilates Method…a connection that helps to de-stress and relax me, as well as to realize physical results.
The studio is very professional, yet warm. Instructors — both in one on one and group sessions — are motivating, without being over the top, or too perky. Classmates are always offering advice and hints to others that have been helpful to them. It’s really a place to learn more about taking better care of yourself.
I’ve benefited tremendously by taking Pilates. My friends and family notice a difference in my size and tone. I’m wearing clothes that I wore when I was actually 25 lbs lighter because my body is firmer and tighter. What’s also been a great benefit for me is that after two car-and-one motorcycle accident, Pilates has been healing for the pain I sometimes experience in my neck, back, and ankle. In fact, with the Pilates Method, and great instruction by Susan, I have strengthened my ankle in ways that orthopedic doctors had previously been unable to and experiencing much less pain.
The Pilates Method truly has made me feel that I am taking control of my health and my body again. I’m hooked!!”
– C. Prater
______________________________________________________________________________________________
3/05
I began taking the Pilates mat class with Susan Spangler in January 2005. Over the years, I have tried many different strength building and toning exercises. There is no doubt in my mind that the training with Susan is by far the best!!! After only a short period of time, I felt stronger and was more toned. I was even stronger and more sustained during my cardio training. The Personal Pilates experience is one that I would suggest for anybody and EVERYBODY. If you want to not only look better, but also truly feel better, please try Susan’s class.
–G Turner
______________________________________________________________________________________________
12/04
I don’t want to sound like one of those commercials where people explain how a certain exercise or diet plan has changed their lives. All methods profess to conquer some obtainable goal, however Pilates has changed more than my physical body tone.
Not only does Pilates strengthen and tone key elements of your body, its also conditions your mind. When you have a strong powerhouse, your mind is also stronger. When I first came to Susan, I brought along the stress of my job and the onset of menopause. After a couple weeks of one on one personal sessions on the reformer and the mat class, I was able to focus with a calmer spirit. You begin to feel stronger and can physically see the toning. Pilates helped me gain the confidence to quit my job and start my own consulting business. I am truly blessed to have Susan and Pilates in my weekly routine. Change your body and mind with Pilates.
–Theresa R.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
10/04
During my lifetime, I have played many sports which resulted in several knee surgeries. I also suffer from back problems. Over the years, I have been involved in numerous exercise programs, trying to keep my body in shape. But, none addressed the mind. Pilates works both the mind and body. Knowing my interest in fitness, as well as my physical limitations, a friend introduced me to Pilates and Susan. I have completed one 10-week Reformer training, taken a mat class, and have begun a second 10-week Reformer training session. Susan is very knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging. She learns each individual’s limitations and makes adjustments as necessary. Susan demonstrates each exercise and constantly observes for proper breathing and technique. The exercises are challenging, yet don’t place undo stress on the body. I feel more alert and alive, especially after training. I’ve begun hitting the golf ball farther, become very aware of my posture, and have even grown ½ inch!!! This experience has been wonderful.
–Roxanne S.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
9/04
I am a mother of three, and I have tried every exercise imaginable in order to maintain proper body weight and muscle tone, and have found my experience with Pilates to be overwhelmingly successful and positive. Pilates has helped to tone my body and to improve my general health and well being. It has also improved my overall posture and stability. What I enjoy most about Pilates is that I needn’t do as many repetitious movements as I am accustom to with traditional exercises. Once you learn how to properly complete certain movements in Pilates it takes fewer repetitions to achieve desired results.
–Angela P.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
8/04
I started Pilates floor exercise with Susan about 9 months ago when she was instructing a class at the gym where I work. When Susan started the reformer training in her studio, I decided to try it because I felt the pilates was helping improve my posture, increase my core strength and help with the arthritis in my back.
Susan is very experienced in working with individuals with special needs, such as back problems, arthritis and more. Susan inspires and encourages her clients helping them to achieve their goals. I had to stopped the reformer training for several months and realized at that time how much the training was helping with my back pain. Susan takes a personal interest in each of her clients and it is because of her positive attitude and enthusiasm to help you that I feel I benefit from each session.
–Paula K.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
7/04
I felt better, stronger, more confident and even taller after my first two sessions of Pilates, One on One, with Susan Spangler. I learned the importance of proper breathing, good posture, and balance.
The exercises made the core of my body so strong after the first 10 weeks that I found myself scoring better in bowling and golf. That strength and new found energy is what gave me increased self-confidence.
I have fibromyalgia so I approached this new exercise with some trepidation. Often, after joining a gym, I would find myself in a flare-up, not certain what I had done to cause it. You see, exercise is important for those of us suffering with fibromyalgia, but too much or the wrong type of activity can start the achy-fatigue cycle. Susan worked with me one-on-one and together we learned what worked and didn’t work. She is a terrific teacher and a terrific person.
My only regret is that I didn’t do my “homework” because the results come more quickly if you stick to the program and the routine exercises.
I highly recommend this whole body treatment. If you want to do something good for yourself I can’t think of anything better.
--Carolyn F.
