The Power of Support

Lately I have been thinking a lot about support and just how powerful it is. These past couple of months have been a whirlwind of planning, renovating, dreaming, reimagining, and plenty of second guessing myself. Through all of it, I have been surrounded by people who carried me, cheered for me, and showed up again and again in ways I will never take for granted.

My brother owns Advantage Home Improvements and our nephew Josh works alongside him. Honestly, where would I even be without them. Stuart and I have our own little sibling language. He is the kind of guy who can take a scrambled idea that has been swirling around in my head and somehow make it real. I do not know how he does it. They tackled every renovation with patience, even as I changed my mind a few times and added more than a few surprise projects. Instead of walking away, they kept showing up with tools in hand and smiles on their faces. Josh’s wife Jenna even helped with the first major clean up. We scrubbed floors on our hands and knees. Support like that is impossible to measure.

And then there is Steve. He stepped up at home without missing a beat. He has been steady and dependable, quietly keeping everything running behind the scenes. The dishwasher, the laundry, groceries. I think I have been to Fortino’s once in the last two months. Maybe.

And sweet little Tank. He may not swing a hammer, but it did not stop him from trying. He stole tools, dipped his ear in paint, and walked straight through dust piles. As our unofficial Director of Happiness, he has discovered that the happier he is, the more treats he gets. Let us just say he has been very happy lately. He loves greeting everyone at the spa. Cindy, our nail tech, even goes to the farm on her way to work to pick up fresh apples for him. We try to use healthy products in the spa, which is a good thing because we caught Tank eating a foot scrub made with oil and brown sugar.

I also cannot forget Shelley. She has been the heartbeat behind POP’s marketing. I get compliments on our Instagram page every single day. I would love to say thank you it has been a lot of work, but truly it has nothing to do with me. Shelley is incredibly talented and makes sure the world knows what we are building. POP would not be POP without her. And as if that were not enough, she created the most stunning painting for the studio. If you have not seen it yet, it is on Instagram and it is breathtaking.

And then there is Andrew, my kid. Our very first client. He also gave me one of the biggest surprises of all. A full ribbon cutting ceremony. He gathered friends and family, filled the studio with laughter, put out food and drinks, and gave me a night I will never forget. My heart grew a few sizes that Friday night.

When I think about support, this is what comes to mind. It is not just helping. It is love in action. It is family, friends, and even furry companions stepping in with their own kind of magic. I am forever grateful for mine.

I even received a message from Crystal, my Pilates mentor who now lives in Nicaragua. She sent her love and the three rules she lived by when she started Exhale Pilates. I have framed them and they now sit on the POP desk as a reminder to lead with love. Thank you Crystal.

A little nudge for you

Take a moment this week to think about the people who have shown up for you, in big ways or small ones. Send a thank you text, give them a hug, or simply tell them how much they mean to you.

Your heart will grow too.

OMG!!!! Finally…It’s Here! Pilates on Plains Officially Opens This Wednesday!

Pop the sparkling water… or honestly, grab the champagne. Roll out the reformers, because Pilates on Plains is officially open.

After months of dreaming, planning, renovating, and maybe obsessing just a tiny bit over the perfect shade of spa white, Pilates on Plains is finally here. We could not be more excited to welcome you into our boutique space.

The love and support leading up to this moment has been overwhelming. Thank you to everyone who has been popping in to say hello. The beautiful compliments, flowers, coffee drops, and warm wishes have meant the world. I am truly feeling the love.

Guests have already shared the sweetest reactions.

“It is so bright and airy in here.”

“I love the cozy vibe, it feels so welcoming.”

“The white drapes and soft pink touches are so beautiful.”

“This studio feels like a little wellness escape right in Aldershot.”

This space has been a labour of love, built from the heart with one intention. To create a place where you can move better, feel stronger, and reconnect with your wellness, mind, body, and soul. A place that feels bright, calm, and uplifting the moment you walk in.

What we believe in

• Moving with purpose

• Prioritizing self care

• Creating a community that lifts each other up, literally and figuratively

Whether you are curious about Pilates, looking for the perfect skin reset, or simply craving a calm, beautiful place to invest in yourself, we are here. And now is the perfect time to stop by.

Opening week perks

To celebrate our opening, we are offering special pricing for drop in classes and a free guest pass when you visit the studio this week. You can also enjoy a beautiful swag bag when you sign up for our unlimited monthly membership. It is filled with wellness inspired goodies including a pair of grip socks.

Come say hello. Take a peek. Book a class. Or simply pop in to feel the vibe. We would love to meet you, show you around, and welcome you into the Pilates on Plains family.

Here is to strong cores, glowing skin, and all the feel good energy this space was created for.

xo

Marion

Why I Believe in Pilates: A Personal Story of Healing and Hope

This summer has been a challenging one. My back has been unsettled for months, and while I am not sure exactly what happened this spring, something shifted and I ended up dealing with a painful setback. Since then I have gone through scans, tried different treatments, leaned on my osteopath, showed up for physical therapy, and explored every option I could to find relief. Some helped, some did not, and the lingering ache has been frustrating.

I have not been doing Pilates, yoga, or any kind of workout. And to be honest, it has left me feeling discouraged, uncomfortable, and weaker than I would like. But here is what I also know. I have been here before. Getting back on track is never about waiting for the perfect moment. It is about taking one small step forward.

My lower back first started speaking to me years ago. I brushed it off, blaming it on a bad night’s sleep or simply getting older. The truth was that I ignored what my body was trying to tell me until it finally insisted that I pay attention.

I tried everything I could think of. Stretching, heating pads, quick fixes from the drugstore. Nothing stayed helpful for long. Then, almost like a quiet nudge, someone suggested Pilates. I pictured Pilates as something meant for graceful dancers with long limbs and perfect posture. That was not me at the time. But I tried a class anyway.

That one class changed everything.

Pilates did not magically erase my pain, but it helped me rebuild strength from the inside out. My core grew stronger. My posture improved. I became aware of how I moved, sat, stood, lifted, and breathed. It was not about pushing through discomfort. It was about learning how to support myself in a way that felt safe and sustainable.

It was slow, steady progress. And it was lasting progress. It taught me to move differently. It taught me to trust my body again. And most importantly, it taught me to show up for myself even when things felt uncertain.

This is why I am so passionate about Pilates today. I know what it feels like to live in discomfort. I know how discouraging it is when your body feels like it is working against you. And I also know the incredible freedom that comes when you begin moving with intention, strength, and awareness.

Pilates on Plains was born from that transformation. If my journey helps even one person feel stronger, more supported, or more connected to their body, then every challenge along the way has been worth it.

If you have a story like mine or you are ready to begin your own, I would love to hear it. I am starting my journey back to wellness, and I invite you to join me. To make it easier, we now offer a ten class pack that gives you the flexibility to build consistency and keep showing up.

We heal better together.

Message me anytime. I am always here to cheer you on.

xo

Marion

Watching Our Studio Come to Life

Every day I walk into our new space and see it taking shape a little more. It is exciting watching it transform into a true boutique Pilates studio. With the beautiful fall weather, we have had the front door propped open, and it has been wonderful having neighbours pop in to see what is happening at Bella Nails and Spa.

There has been some concern about Bella closing, but once I explain that we are opening a Pilates studio at the front while keeping the spa services in the back, the curiosity shifts. And then the same question comes up again and again.

Mat or reformer. Which Pilates class is right for you?

If you are new to Pilates, you might be wondering which class to start with. Should you begin with a mat class or hop right onto the reformer. It is a question we hear all the time at Pilates on Plains. The answer really depends on your goals, your body, and how you like to move.

Let us break it down so you can find the perfect fit.

Mat Pilates

Simple, accessible, and surprisingly challenging**

Mat Pilates is exactly what it sounds like. A workout on a mat using your own body weight for resistance. Sometimes we add small props like resistance bands, Pilates rings, or light hand weights.

Do not be fooled by the simplicity. Without the support of a machine, mat work can be incredibly challenging. You rely fully on your own strength, stability, and control, which makes the work deep and effective.

Why you might love mat classes

• Easy to start, no equipment needed

• Builds strength, mobility, and body awareness

• Fantastic for learning Pilates fundamentals

• You can practice anywhere: at home, on vacation, or even outside

Best for beginners, travellers, and anyone who loves a low equipment, high results workout.

**Reformer Pilates

Resistance, support, and endless variety**

The reformer is a spring loaded machine with pulleys, straps, and adjustable resistance. It can make an exercise easier or more challenging depending on how it is set up.

Why you might love reformer classes

• Targeted resistance for deeper muscle engagement

• The moving carriage challenges stability and core strength

• Every class feels fresh and different

• Often more supportive for people with injuries since we can adjust tension and range of motion

Best for anyone wanting strength, coordination, flexibility, and a dynamic workout experience.

So… which should you start with?

If you are brand new to Pilates, we recommend beginning with one private reformer session. This allows your instructor to work with you one on one, get you comfortable with the machine, and make sure your form is safe and supported.

After that, your instructor will guide you toward the right mix of mat and reformer based on your goals. There is no guessing. We make sure you are in the right level so you feel confident and challenged in the best way for your body.

Clients love alternating:

• Mat for core strength, control, and mobility

• Reformer for resistance, variety, and that wonderful post class “I feel taller” sensation

It is real. You will feel it.

The bottom line

Both mat and reformer Pilates offer incredible benefits. The secret is finding the balance that keeps you motivated, challenged, and feeling your best.

If you are unsure where to start, pop into the studio and chat with one of our instructors. We will help you choose the perfect starting point and cheer you on every step of the way.

Get excited. It is all coming together.

Your Fall Wellness Reset: Movement, Mindfulness, and Skin that Glows!

As much as I love the long, lazy days of summer (and a little ice cream for dinner more than once - that’s what happens when Pilates on Plain’s neighbour is Tasty Scoop) and they serve up Kawartha icecream), there’s something magical about the shift into fall. September feels like a New Year to me. I think it comes from being a mom and kids going back to school. A time to reset, refocus, and refresh every part of our lives.

It’s the season of cozy routines, crisp air, and a perfect excuse to get back to what makes you feel your best. And at Pilates on Plains, we’re all about helping you reset with grace, not guilt.

Here’s your invitation to pause and ask yourself:

What does wellness look like for me this fall?

What routines do I want to bring back—or try for the first time?

Where can I carve out time just for me?

Let’s keep it simple and satisfying. Here’s your 3-part fall wellness plan:

1. Movement That Feels Good

Let’s swap “back to the grind” for “back to the mat/reformer.” Fall is the perfect time to ease back into (or start fresh with) Pilates. It builds strength, improves posture, and calms the mind, all while giving your body the love it deserves. Whether you’re new or returning, our small-group classes and reformer sessions are designed to meet you right where you’re at.

2. Mindfulness in Motion

Fall often brings busy schedules, school routines, and a million to-dos. Our solution? Find moments of mindfulness through movement. In Pilates, we breathe deeply, move intentionally, and leave class feeling more grounded and energized than when we walked in. It’s more than a workout, it’s a full-body reset.

 3. Skin That Glows

All that summer sun and sunscreen can leave your skin feeling a little… tired. Fall is the ideal time to reset your skincare too. Our spa facials are designed to nourish, hydrate, and bring your glow back, because wellness includes the face looking back at you in the mirror.

So as the leaves change, let your habits do the same. Choose gentle structure, supportive movement, and self-care that feels luxurious and doable.

Check out our class schedule- we just posted it on our website, your fall refresh is just a click away. We’re here to help you feel strong, centred, and beautiful from head to toe.

Exciting News!

In case you haven’t seen it on our Instagram or Facebook, we’re kicking things off with our first official offer - a Pre-Opening All-You-Can-Play Membership Sale! 

This is your chance to lock in unlimited classes before we open our doors. Spaces are limited, so don’t wait.

Simply send us an email at info@pilatesonplains.com with your name, email, and cell number. Add a quick note that says “I don’t want to miss this opportunity, please put me on the list!”

Trust us, you’ll want to be part of this one.

Yours, in great health,

 Marion

Starting a New Career in My 60s: Am I Too Old, or Just Crazy?

f you had told me a few years ago that I would be starting a whole new career in my sixties, running a Pilates studio no less, I would have thought you were out of your mind. Me? Owning a studio? After not working for twenty years. Yet here I am, diving into something completely new.

Trying something new at any age is a leap. Trying something new in your sixties feels like signing up for an adventure and quietly wondering if the parachute will open. But sometimes you have to make the jump. Which leads to the question that has been on my mind more than once.

Am I too old for this

This was the very first thing I asked myself. The fitness and wellness world is full of energy, enthusiasm, and hustle. I have done all of that in different seasons of my life, but does it apply here. Could I keep up. Would age work against me. Or maybe, just maybe, it could be an advantage.

I am not bouncing around like a twenty five year old. My knees would laugh at the idea. But what I do bring is years of life experience. I know how to connect with people. I know how to stay calm when things feel messy. I have learned how to think on my feet. And after spending so much time as a client in Pilates and fitness classes, I understand exactly what it feels like to be on the other side.

So no. I am not too old for this. If anything, age gives me a different kind of strength. I know how to make things work. I know how to lead with heart. And I know how to bend the rules when I need to.

Is this really what I want to do

Starting something new is not always about chasing a dream you have had since childhood. Sometimes it is about recognizing an opportunity and letting yourself be brave enough to say yes.

At first I wondered if this was truly what I wanted. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized how much I love the idea of helping people reach their goals. Watching someone walk into Pilates on Plains, set an intention, and then achieve it… that lights me up. Being part of someone’s journey toward strength, health, and confidence feels meaningful. And I know I will grow stronger, healthier, and more confident right alongside them. That feels like the healthiest way to approach aging.

What are people saying about me

The reactions have been a mix of admiration and confusion. Some people say I am brave. Some say good for you, but I could never do that. A few have asked if I am crazy. Honestly, I have asked myself the same thing.

The truth is, I did not start this because I was fearless. I started because the opportunity felt right. It was a chance to challenge myself in a new way. A chance to stretch. A chance to grow. And yes, a little craziness often means you are shaking things up in the best possible way.

The perks of trying something new later in life

Believe it or not, there are real advantages to starting fresh at this stage of life.

1. Perspective

After decades of figuring out what truly matters, it is easier to build something meaningful and focused.

2. Network

Years of connections mean I have a strong support system. I am not starting at zero. That matters more than I ever realized.

3. Time

The kids are grown. Steve can run the washer and dryer like a champ. I have room to pour my energy into something new.

4. Confidence

Life has thrown plenty our way, and we have survived all of it. That kind of lived experience makes failure feel less scary. I know we can handle whatever comes next.

Am I crazy to do this

Maybe a little. But the best opportunities often feel that way.

I did not jump into this new chapter because it was safe. I jumped because it felt right. Because it pushed me. Because it reminded me that growth does not have an age limit. This is not about finding a dream job. It is about embracing a fresh challenge that feels exciting in this season of life.

If you are thinking about trying something new, no matter your age, my advice is simple. Go for it. The worst that can happen is that you learn something. The best that can happen is that you surprise yourself.

Here is to new beginnings, even when they do not look the way you imagined.

xo

Marion

Exciting News: Bella Spa & Pilates on Plains Are Coming Together!

Big things are happening on Plains Road and I am so excited to finally share them with you.

We are bringing together two beautiful spaces — Bella Spa and Pilates on Plains — to create one welcoming home for movement, recovery, and self care. Think of it as the best of both worlds. A place where you can strengthen your body through Pilates and then step directly into the spa for rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation.

Why we are joining the spa and studio

Wellness is so much more than what happens on the mat or reformer. It is also how you take care of your body and mind outside of class. By bringing the spa and studio together under one roof, we are creating a seamless experience where movement, healing, and self care support each other.

Pilates on Plains offers mindful movement designed to strengthen your core, improve flexibility, and help you move with ease.

Bella Spa offers facials, massages, and treatments that nourish your skin, soothe your body, and help you feel your best.

Together, they create the perfect balance of work and rest.

Renovations are underway

We are transforming the space into a warm, modern, and restorative environment. You can expect a bright studio filled with natural light, refreshed design elements, cozy corners, and upgraded treatment rooms designed to make you feel cared for the moment you walk in.

Every detail is being created with you in mind. This is not just a spa or a Pilates studio. It is a community space built for health, connection, and meaningful self care.

Membership and early opportunities

As we bring everything together, we will be offering special opportunities for those who want to be part of this new chapter. One of them is our all you can play membership, which gives you full access to Pilates classes so you can build strength, mobility, and confidence as often as you would like.

Members will also receive early access to spa perks and event invitations as we open the new space.

Stay connected

We will be sharing behind the scenes updates, sneak peeks, and a few fun surprises along the way. You can follow along here on the blog and on our social pages so you never miss an update.

Bella Spa and Pilates on Plains are coming together to offer more than classes and treatments. We are building a destination for balance, joy, community, and connection.

We cannot wait to welcome you into the new space. Until then, stay tuned and get ready for a whole new way to put yourself first.

Behind the Scenes at Pilates on Plains: The Road to Opening Day

If you have ever walked into a brand new Pilates studio and thought, “Wow, this looks so effortless,” let me assure you… it is anything but effortless. Opening Pilates on Plains has been a whirlwind of planning, paperwork, creativity, teamwork, and a few personal adventures tucked in between.

**The City Hall shuffle

(with a little help from Tank)**

We are almost through the approval process at City Hall, with just a few more steps before everything is official. I will say this much. Tank, our unofficial mascot, has been the star of the show. He joined me on one of my visits and charmed absolutely everyone. He left with a belly full of treats and enough attention to last him a week. I am convinced he is our secret weapon in charm based negotiations.

Building the dream team

One of the most exciting parts of this journey has been finding the right people to bring Pilates on Plains to life. I did not just want instructors. I wanted warm, engaged, uplifting people who make clients feel instantly at home. And that is exactly who we have.

• A precision guru who knows anatomy inside out and will have you feeling muscles you did not know existed

• A creative flow artist who brings energy and fun into every class

• A gentle encourager who supports beginners and post rehab clients with patience and confidence

• And our soon to be mama, Jade, who will be back in the studio with her trademark positivity after her little Pilates prodigy arrives

Beyond our instructor team, we have two amazing spa technicians who work nonstop, smile nonstop, and bring so much joy into the space.

And then there is Shelley. I would not be close to where I am without her. She is the creative mind behind everything you see. She designed our website, creates our Instagram posts, makes us all look polished on camera, and somehow turned my scattered ideas into a logo I absolutely love. Stay tuned. The swag is coming.

Picture perfect moments

Our photo shoot with the ever talented Shelley was a highlight. No wardrobe changes. No fuss. Just us as we are, putting our best bare feet forward. We laughed, we posed, and we captured the heart of what Pilates on Plains will be. Connection, energy, and a warm welcome for every person who walks through the door.

A little recharge before the big push

I managed to sneak away for a short visit to one of my favourite places, Saratoga, during race season. Sunshine, horses, and a little bit of quiet before heading into the final stretch of studio prep. It was exactly what I needed.

It takes a village

They say it takes a village, and I could not agree more. Friends, family, and our soon to be Pilates community have shown up with encouragement, support, and love at every turn. This studio is being built with all of us in it.

As we count down to opening day, know that behind every reformer, every class, and every smile is a whole lot of heart and a whole lot of behind the scenes hustle. I cannot wait to welcome you in and share it all with you.

xo

Marion.

Why I built Pilates on Plains (and Why It’s For You Too)

If you had told me twenty years ago that I would one day open a Pilates studio, I would have laughed… and then probably reached for my lower back. Because that is where it all began, with persistent, nagging discomfort that no amount of stretching or quick fixes seemed to improve.

I stumbled into Pilates before Pilates was even cool. Before curated playlists, eucalyptus towels, and boutique studios, it was just me, a reformer, and my instructor Crystal, who showed me how to move with intention. It was not easy, but it worked. It helped me in ways nothing else ever had, and I was hooked.

Ever since then, I have been committed to living well from the inside out. Health has never meant perfection to me. It means feeling strong in my body, calm in my mind, and energized for the life I want to live. I want to garden without wincing when I stand up. I want to keep up with my granddaughters. And I want to help you feel that way too.

Pilates on Plains is more than a studio. It is a space built on connection, encouragement, and the belief that you can feel better at any age and in any season of life. Whether you are here to move without discomfort, to challenge yourself, or to finally carve out time that is just for you, you belong here.

It does not matter if you are in high school or retired. We all want to feel our best and look our best. That desire does not have an age limit.

And on that note, we also have a spa. Yes, really. Glowing skin, relaxed muscles, and quiet moments of self care are part of the wellness equation too. They help you show up feeling refreshed, restored, and ready for whatever life calls you to do next.

So welcome to our beautiful new space. Take a breath. Take a class. Take a moment to check in with yourself. We are here when you are ready.

Peace, planks, and pedicures,

Marion

P.S. We are just getting started. Keep an eye on our Instagram and check back here every Monday for a little dose of health, happiness, and helpful tips to live well, on and off the reformer.