The Ron Fletcher Work

Ron Fletcher, a man who I never had the pleasure of meeting but remains someone who I would high five, has changed my life. As most of you know I am a sophomore at the University of Arizona. I have met great people, grown as an individual, appreciate a sunset, a hike and have been introduced to the Ron Fletcher work at the Bodyworks Pilates Central Studio in Tucson. Ron past away nearly a month ago but his work continues to breathe within many of us in the pilates world today.

Pilates made its mark in my life when I was a freshman in high school. I was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis when I was 18-months old and Kyphosis, a curving of the spine when I was 13. By no means is this an invitation to a pity party. I couldn't be more grateful towards the plastic, screwed, metal back brace I sported in middle school. My orthopedic referred me to pilates as my physical therapy. A back brace I was prescribed to wear for 2 years, 20 hours a day ended up in my closet under some old sweatshirts after a year.

Here I am, almost 20 years old, learning the good stuff from a few of the most inspiring and talented teachers in the pilates world. I can only hope to continue my education and work with them in years to come. But for now, I am simply enjoying the benefits and knowledge gained from the beautiful gift Ron Fletcher has given us.

For me and for most of us: "It takes courage to move." Thank you Ron for motivating me to move with intent and breathe to move.

One of my favorite movement pieces from Ron you can work at home is the Towelwork.

DVD's are available through Fletcher Pilates: Fletcher Towelwork

"Movement should be approached like life-

with enthusiasm, joy and gratitude- for movement is life, and life is movement,

and we get out of it what we put into it."

Ron Fletcher