The Joy of Small Wins: Celebrating Progress Over Perfection in Pilates
As the founder of Exhale Pilates London, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative power of Pilates. Over the past 14 years since opening Exhale, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding numerous clients and apprentices on their journeys towards improved health and life changing careers. The most profound lesson I've learned, which I’ve always championed is the importance of celebrating the small wins, particularly in a world that often glorifies perfection, in unrealistic timeframes.
In Pilates, every win however small or big should be celebrated. Whether it’s holding a position for a few seconds longer, articulating the spine with greater control, engaging the core more effectively, or experiencing a new connection for the first time, these moments are invaluable, and wow do they feel good. So why not celebrate them!
We see so many clients, apprentices and teachers feel defeated by their self-imposed unachievable standards, anxious that they might not measure up. It’s so important we change this mindset and concentrate on our own journey and improvements which are unique to each individual.
We have clients in their 50’s, 60’s & 70’s that tell us that while their bodies may not be what they once were, they have never felt more confident, strong, and empowered since working with us.
That is the essence of Pilates; it truly empowers both body and mind, hence why our tagline; Empowering bodies and Educating minds sits proudly at the top of everything Exhale does.
At Exhale, we embrace this philosophy wholeheartedly creating an environment where clients feel empowered to celebrate their progress, however small. We’ve built a community that thrives on mutual encouragement. This positive approach fosters a sustainable Pilates practice, leading to lasting physical, mental, and emotional changes.
I always encourage clients to adopt a mindset that celebrates progress over perfection. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others or to the unrealistic ideals often portrayed on social media, something I’ve experienced myself. However, true growth occurs in the small, consistent efforts we make each day for our own individual victories.
Personally, I’m on my own journey of rediscovery, returning to Pilates after pregnancy. The past few months have involved rediscovering new ways to move, feel and view life through a new lens which I’m incredibly grateful for.
It’s a vulnerable space to be in so for me right now progress is all about small, foundational steps and embracing a whole new world of acceptance.
I have shifted my focus from taking strength and ways I use to move my body to appreciating incremental improvements and recognising what my body has achieved and gone through.
I have gained newfound respect for mums and the incredible resilience of women’s bodies during and after pregnancy. It’s incredible really and is another level of strength we don’t talk enough about; it certainly deserves more recognition.
I’ve also learnt is when we cultivate awareness of our incremental improvements in Pilates, we naturally begin to apply this mindset to other areas of our lives. It teaches us resilience and patience, qualities that are vital for new parents. I’ve certainly had to become more patient, which is a challenge for me. something I have never been before.
In conclusion, the joy of small wins in Pilates is not just about achieving perfect poses, it’s about recognising and celebrating our unique journeys.
By focusing on progress over perfection, we build resilience, awareness, and ultimately a deeper connection to ourselves.
Gaby Noble, founder of award-winning Exhale Pilates London, brings over two decades of experience in practicing and teaching Pilates. With a dedication to the method's truest form, Contrology, Gaby's expertise extends beyond her 3 London studios. As an industry authority and educator within the global Pilates community, she has established her own Teacher Training school, shaping the next generation of Pilates teachers.
IG: @exhalepilateslondon Web: www.exhalepilateslondon.com