I grew up dancing most of my youth. Becoming a dance teacher was one of my first dream jobs.
My mother is one of my role models-- she always worked out and stays in shape, and that inspires me to do the same. We went to aerobics classes at our local gym together when I was a teenager, where our teacher was always amazed at my talent to keep up even with my deafness. While I was attending Gallaudet University, Mom suggested I become an instructor to help inclusivity for the deaf community! She was working with a Pilates instructor at the time after having my baby brother at 39. Pilates gave her a “6 pack” again, and healed her back problems entirely.
I should have taken her advice back then.
I’ve tried many kinds of fitness programs, from yoga, to running, to CrossFit, and gym strength training. But when I found Pilates again through social media, I knew I found my niche! My goal is to become an instructor for EVERYONE-- including the deaf/blind. I’ve been frustrated not being able to find what I need as a deaf person due to the lack of closed captioning on social media.
During my research, I found Club Pilates.
I have been taking teacher training classes with an interpreter for the past few weeks. They have been amazing and so accommodating, doing whatever they can to help me succeed. It has been a two-year process to this point, but I’m well on my way to making this happen. The biggest challenge for me now are the 6 hours in-studio classes with the interpreters. My eyes get tired watching the interpreter for so long! They have also included a note taker for the in-studio lessons which have been so imperative-- I’m very grateful for her.
My passion for the deaf community is to teach them about the advantages of Pilates.
There are so many details-- such as your breath and engaging your core-- that a deaf individual would miss out on without closed captions or ASL (American Sign Language). I plan to break those barriers by using ASL within my classes to give them all the advantages of this great exercise program.
I love Pilates because it is a full-body workout that heals your mind, body, and soul!
It tones and builds strength without the bulk, plus increases flexibility. Pilates can also be done with a variety of equipment on the floor, so it is something you can do anywhere and anytime. I also love doing Pilates on my stand-up paddle board-- it is the most challenging!
I’m excited about what’s to come, and I want to thank everyone involved in helping me get here. Thank you Club Pilates for your continued support. I can’t wait to see what’s next!
This is a video of my first time teaching a class with all hearing students and interpreters. It was a very interesting experience! I focused on breath techniques and arms circles for extended periods of time - it really is a challenge!
Kristin Granitz, Teacher Trainee
