Member Highlight: Terri Battenburg ~ Fair Oaks, California, USA

Terri Battenburg
Fair Oaks, California, USA
BASI Certificate and PMA Certified
Pilates Studio Owner and Instructor, PilatesFit with Terri

What originally motivated you to try Pilates?
I began working with a Pilates instructor in 2002. I just finished a graduate degree in education and was working long hours needing to find something for my mind and body. I drove by a studio each day and finally decided to stop in and purchase an introductory package. It was an expense and a commitment as I scheduled sessions 2-3 times a week, but I immediately connected with the method. I also connected with an instructor, Norma Jean, and enjoyed years of practice with her.

The last thing you bought and loved?
Adele tickets!!! We go to the concert in July and I am very excited about this purchase.

In one word, describe your first Pilates experience?
Focus.

Your favorite Pilates exercise?
Just one??? I love so many, but when I focus on Mat work I really feel it - Pelvic Curl, Roll Up, Neck Pull, Jack Knife - and the list goes on.

Your favorite website (other than Pilates Anytime)?
My most visited apps are: Amazon, Flixster, Google Maps, Instagram, and Facebook. I love the Save Family Photos site which highlights vintage family photos.

Your favorite workout clothes?
Athleta in general. They have the best instructor discount, and their clothes take me from the studio to the pool to hikes to river rafting and to lunch! Also, can't beat the quality of Lucy pants as I have pairs from many years ago that look like new, and TJ Maxx has the best prices on workout pants!!

How did you hear about Pilates Anytime?
During my BASI training a fellow student recommended PA. Pilates Anytime had just started and it was an invaluable tool during my certificate study period!!

The last song you purchased?
I tend to purchase albums and I recently downloaded Adele's 19 and 25. We also listen to a lot of Pandora's classic rock stations.

Do you practice a particular style of Pilates?
I guess it is contemporary since I was trained through BASI, but I love visiting studios as I travel to experience different approaches and styles.

How do you use Pilates Anytime?
Study ~ I learn more through classes designed for different contraindications. I recently watched Leah Stewart's Prenatal Workshop and found it very informative.

Practice ~ There are great workouts just for me.

Ideas ~ I gain ideas for sessions with my clients.

Do you have a motto?
Not really but, when I taught elementary school I borrowed a class motto from another teacher. It is a good one for life in general: "Do your best and help the rest."

The living person you most admire?
My parents!! My mom and dad worked hard and created a great foundation for their daughters. My sister and I were the first in our family to graduate college. My dad served his community as a patrol officer and my mom worked different jobs to help make ends meet. Their work ethic, support, sacrifice, and love are gifts to me.

What do you appreciate most about your body?
I appreciate that at 44, I physically feel stronger and more capable than ever. With each passing year Pilates helps me progress instead of regress, and aging becomes a positive process.

An indulgence you would never forgo?
Travel, facials, and celebration treats (for example, cupcakes on a birthday, and an occasional root beer float in the summer).

The book on your bedside table?
I just finished reading Heart of Glass, by Wendy Lawless. I also am making my way through Sally Mann's Hold Still, which was a gift from a friend. Finally, my five year journal is at my bedside to jot down daily thoughts, observations, and experiences.

What was your most memorable journey?
I thoroughly enjoyed and I was challenged by the BASI certificate process. I recently passed the PMA test which is a nice way to continue my Pilates journey.

Also, traveling with my husband is one of my greatest joys. We are nearing our 25th anniversary so I'd also have to say that our marriage journey has been most memorable!

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