We had the good fortune of connecting with Erica Young and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Erica, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
Pilates is for everyone! Many people think it is just for women, dancers or professional athletes, but in fact, Pilates is designed for people of all ages, sizes and abilities to build strength, flexibility, balance and endurance. It is a full body system which uses specialized apparatus and is SUPER fun.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
A ski injury heaped lead me down the Pilates path as a means of rehabilitating my knee. I innately understand how injury can lead to compensatory movement patterns or hold us back from the activities we want to enjoy. Pilates rebuilt my stregnth and confidence on the mountain and beyond.
I taught elementary school for a decade before before embarking on the rigorous journey to become Pilates teacher, so educating and empowering my students is at the core of my philosophy. In the studio, I strive to create a learning laboratory for movement. Anyone who walksthrough the door isn’t there just to work out. They are active in the process of inquiry and experimentation of how their body moves. It is a deeply personal process which requires consistent practice, concentration and curiosity. We work hard in the studio so that we play hard outside!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Eat and Drink Provisions at the Barber Shop in Ridgway Soak – Ouray Hot Springs
Hike and Gawk – Telluride
Music – Sherbino Theater in Ridgway
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, Aaron Sanders. He deeply understands how Pilates synthesized my love of movement and teaching and encouraged me to open my first studio in 2017.
Website: https://www.ridgwaypilates.com/
Instagram: @ridgwaypilates
Facebook: @ridgwaypilates