Whether twisting the body on a drive, squatting down to measure a putt or leaning over to pick up a ball, golfers constantly torquing their bodies. Golf also requires repeating the same essential movements. As a result some muscles become overused and others weaken, causing an imbalance.

For a golfer, muscle imbalances can affect the legs, hips, arms, shoulders, and the lower back. It can also affect your game, particularly for those over the age of 50. Your drives may be shorter and less accurate, your stamina may decrease, and the potential for debilitating strains, pulls and tears becomes much higher.

Many golfers - from weekend warriors to the game’s elite like Tiger Woods and Annika Sorenstam - are now turning to Pilates as an essential training tool that keeps the body in balance and actually improves performance.

Why Pilates?

Pilates is based on movement from the center of the body, as are most shots in golf. It strengthens the center of the body, also known as the core (the trunk, shoulder girdles and pelvis). Core strength can improve hip rotation, range of motion in the shoulders and back stability leading to more powerful and accurate golf shots. It is also a full body exercise that works all muscles and is easy on the joints. The end result is a flexible, symmetrically muscled body that is strengthened from the inside out.

Pilates helps you:

• Build up the back muscles evenly
• Elongate and align the spine for better stability
• Strengthen the abdominals
• Increase overall flexibility, strength, and balance
• Increase range of motion in hips and shoulders
• Enhance concentration through focused breathing

Performance Benefits

A stronger and more stable core helps golfers:

• Attain an optimal backswing and follow-through with increased range of motion in shoulders
• Get more distance and power because of added hip and torso flexibility
• Have a stronger and bigger hip turn for greater power through rotation
• Create a smoother and more powerful swing due to evenly conditioned back muscles
• Maximize balance and alignment while rotating
• Decrease fatigue because of less strain on the body
• Hold a body position long enough to play through a shot
• Play without pain!

Shannon
Shannon is a Classically trained Pilates instructor; a Certified Pilates Instructor through the Pilates Guild and trained under Romana Kryzanowska and Sari Santo. Romana was trained by and worked directly for Joseph Pilates and continued to work in his studio after his death. Shannon has over eight years of Pilates teaching experience and is also a Classically trained ballerina.

Carol
Carol is a Classically based Certified Pilates Instructor through Peak Pilates, Carol has been an instructor of many exercise disciplines in the area for several years, She holds several certifications in the fitness and Pilates areas including ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Arthritis Foundation Aquatics Instructor, and is trained in post-rehabilitation.

Sue
Certified Pilates Instructor through The Pilates Coach, Sue continues her Pilates education through BASI Pilates. She brings her past experience as a Licensed Nurse to work with clients of all abilities.  Sue has lost over 150 pounds and, as such, uses her weight loss success to motivate clients.

Bob
Certified Pilates Instructor through The Pilates Coach (Pilates equipment instructor) and PHI Pilates (mat Pilates instructor), Bob is Co-Owner and President of Suncoast Pilates.  Bob turned to Pilates several years ago as a marathon runner and triathlete, in order to improve his flexibility.  He has run over 25 marathons and has participated in several triathlons as well as numerous 5K and 10K events.  His experience in racing has led him to specialize in the stretching aspects of Pilates.  Bob has been featured in Men’s Health magazine.  His wife is Suncoast Pilates Head Trainer and Manager Patricia.

Registered Dietitian Lori, RD, LD/N
Registered and Licensed Dietitian Lori offers nutitional consulting designed to support clients in Pilates personal training with weight loss goals.  Her services are available to studio clients.  Lori has been practicing dietetics for over 20 years.  She graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a BS degree in Dietetics and completed an internship with the University of Arkansas.  Lori works part-time at Mease Countryside Hospital, both in-patient, out-patient and with the cardiac rehab program.  She also consults with Turning Point of Tampa, a residential eating disorder program.  Lori especially likes to work with women who are motivated to improve their health by losing weight and changing their lifestyle.  She offers one-on-one individualized attention and education.  Food plans are based on real food, not supplements, tailored to fit the client’s lifestyle.

Group Pilates Reformer / Tower / Chair Session Schedule 

Registration and prepayment required. Participants should have no orthopedic concerns such as neck, back, knee, shoulder or other orthopedic issues or injuries.  For those with such orthopedic concerns, the studio highly recommends private sessions. Prior private sessions and instructor approval required prior to participation in groups.

MONDAYS - Limited to 3 - 4 participants
11:00am - 11:55am GROUP PILATES Reformer / Tower Session with Shannon - Level 1 - 2
5:30pm - 6:25pm GROUP PILATES Reformer / Tower Session with Carol - Level 2
 
TUESDAYS - Limited to 5 participants
12:45pm - 1:45pm GROUP PILATES Reformer / Tower Session with Pat - Level 3
5:00pm - 5:55pm  GROUP PILATES Reformer / Tower Session with Pat - Level 3
6:00pm - 6:55pm GROUP PILATES Reformer / Tower Session with Carol - Level 1

WEDNESDAYS - Limited to 3 - 4 participants
5:30pm - 6:25pm GROUP PILATES Reformer / Tower Session with Carol - Level 2
6:30pm - 7:25pm GROUP PILATES Reformer / Tower Session with Shannon - Level 1 - 2 

THURSDAYS  - Limited to 5 participants
11:00am - 11:55am GROUP PILATES Reformer / Tower Session with Shannon - Level 1 - 2
1:00pm - 1:55pm GROUP PILATES Reformer / Tower Session with Pat - Level 3
5:00pm - 5:55pm  GROUP PILATES  Reformer / Tower Session with Pat - Level 3
6:00pm - 6:55pm GROUP PILATES Reformer / Tower Session with Carol - Level 1

Additional group session times are NOW forming - call or email with interest. CALL NOW or register online to sign up!  See Pilates Programs and Fee Schedule link for group, duo & private session fees.

“Pat Massey Welter is one of the finest teachers I have ever worked with. Her expertise as a Pilates trainer is only surpassed by the sensitivity and empathy she had for my particular physical challenges through out the past nine months of my training program. My results have been dramatic and life changing.” (Continued testimonial below*)
-Sandy R.

“I have been training with Pat for the past year. And, not only do I think she is an incredible trainer, she is a wonderful person. She has shown me such commitment, understanding and concern throughout our relationship. Pat is so easy to be with and take direction from. Her life is an inspiration, and because of that she is a wonderful motivator. Having never been a true fan of exercise, I actually enjoy the time I spend with Pat. We have done various forms of training from Pilates to overall fitness. She is equally knowledgeable and exceptional at both. I don’t think you could find a better trainer out there. I feel fortunate to have found her and make exercise a regular part of my life now.”
-Annemarie

“What I have lost is inches. I have totally reshaped my body!”
-Joan

“I never exercised before in my life until I worked out at Suncoast Pilates with Pat. She has given me a body of which I am proud. No one can believe how good I look for my age. I do a combination of weight training and Pilates with Pat twice a week. Pat gave me the POWER!” Michele (right) is 64 as of 8/18/08.”
-Michele

“What a wonderful trainer and all around great person Pat Massey Welter is. I started training with Pat in an attempt to get back into shape after my Pacemaker implant at the age of 32. I’ve always been an athletic, fit, and motivated individual, but I needed some serious help to get back on course without getting too discouraged with my new situation. Pat’s unbelievable spirit & encouragement got me right back on track in no time. She is very innovative in her workouts and discovers new ways to challenge her clients while accounting for physical limitations and never letting an excuse get in the way of pushing us to our full potential. Her humor and great personality have also made her a wonderful friend and physical fitness mentor. Pat is supportive of her clients in every single aspect of their life, which only begins with the very intense workout sessions.”
-Jonica

“I have known Patricia Massey Welter for 11 years now, and can’t say enough great things about her. Pat has helped me to stick with an exercise program, and not give up on losing weight, even through some pretty tough times.
As an attorney, my schedule didn’t leave much time for healthy eating or exercise, and I have been overweight for many years. While image isn’t everything, being overweight was taking its toll on my health, and my work efforts.
With her Pilates instruction and personal support, Pat helped me shed 80 pounds and I know that I will reach my weight loss goal. Pat cares so deeply about her clients, and tailors her workout to what the client can physically do, slowly leading them to the realization that they are capable of much more than originally thought. I, for one, never thought I’d be capable of doing some of the exercises on the Pilates Reformer that I now do without even thinking about it. The resulting feeling of empowerment has transferred over to all aspects of my life - I feel better, have more energy and stamina, and my golf swing has improved significantly!
Through it all, Pat never gave up on me, and that is the difference between Pat and so many other trainers. Pat honestly cares about my progress, and in helping me achieve my goal of being fit and in shape.
All I can say is that Pat is amazing, and anyone who is fortunate enough to work with her will reap the benefits for their lifetime.”
-Barbara

“I have been to gyms off and on in the different states I have lived. I have never really followed through long term, having gotten bored after four to six weeks, until I had a major back injury. My personal training on the Pilates Reformer machine changed my life. Pilates is what saved me from back surgery. It is the only therapy/ exercise that has worked for me and is easy to do and non-impact, making it extremely easy to stay in a routine.”
-Judy

“I’ve been training with Pat for several months now on the Pilates Reformer. The Reformer is new to me but I’m no stranger to Pilates. I have osteo-arthritis myself as well as weaknesses in my cervical and lumbar spine due to previous injuries and herniations. Pat has taken me to a new level as far as Pilates is concerned. She is different from other fitness trainers because she is so in-tune to the human body. There are three other people in my Reformer class. Many of us have special needs due to previous injuries or medical conditions. Pat adjusts the routine to suit all of our needs, yet somehow manages to keep us all in sync. It’s amazing!

Pat is not only an excellent trainer, she’s also a great teacher. She shares her ability to tune into the human body with each and every one of us so we know just how far to push ourselves and exactly when to back down.

Pat is a motivator and a mentor. She strives for perfection not only for herself but also for each and every one of her students. When Pat pushes she pushes hard, yet somehow manages to push with such a gentle spirit.”
-Cheryl

“I HAVE ATTENDED PILATES SESSIONS WITH PAT FOR THE PAST YEAR AND HAVE FOUND HER TO BE VERY MOTIVATING, ABLE TO WORK AROUND MY INJURIES BUT STILL GIVE ME A GREAT WORKOUT. SHE IS GENUINELY NICE AND CARING PERSON.”
-Sandy P.

“I DID A LOT OF RESEARCH BEFORE I CAME TO SUNCOAST PILATES. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND ANYONE TO THIS FACILITY!”
-Michael

(*continued from Sandy R. from above)

“I was an athlete and a dancer most of my young life, instructed by many trainers throughout the years. I was a teacher most of my adult life and hold a Master’s Degree in Education. For those two reasons, I feel qualified to say without reservation that Patricia Massey Welter is one of the finest teachers I have ever worked with. Her expertise as a Pilates trainer is only surpassed by the sensitivity and empathy she had for my particular physical challenges through out the past nine months of my training program. My results have been dramatic and life changing.
As of October, I no longer get cortisone shots from my doctor because I no longer need them for pain. The knee replacement surgery my doctor and I thought was imminent can now be put off for many years. But the proof of the pudding, as they say, is that during the month of November, my husband and I hiked in Bryce Canyon, Utah and around the upper trails of the south rim of the Grand Canyon. At Bryce, I was able to hike down a 500’ vertical trail, cross the base of the canyon and then hike back up - a hike that was about three miles long. I never faltered and felt no discomfort during or after the hike. My upper & lower body strength had so greatly improved, I was able to take on every physical challenge I chose and, more importantly, I was able to keep myself safe at the same time. (You can definitely fall and die in the canyons if you aren’t careful, and many folks do every year.) What a joy and thrill it was to be able to experience the beauty of Bryce Canyon from the bottom of it and not merely from one of the scenic overlooks because of my improved strength and agility.

The Bryce Canyon hike was not only a high point in my physical life and a culmination of the work I had done with Pat, but a true, living testament to her talent and abilities as a trainer. At this point, I cannot imagine a life without Pilates or Pat.”
Sandy R.

Pat, who has been a trainer in the area for over sixteen years, and has owned an area studio for over thirteen years, brings a wealth of training and experience in Pilates, Personal Fitness Training as well as other exercise disciplines and holds numerous certifications in Pilates, personal training, fitness, post-rehab fitness and aquatics. Her many certifications, qualifications and trainings are listed below. When looking for the right trainer, remember to consider experience, certifications, qualifications and expertise.

Patricia Massey Welter, BS, AFP, CPI
Head Certified Pilates Trainer

Patricia has been AWARDED Master Personal Trainer designation by IDEA

Patricia’s Primary PILATES TRAINING Certification
Polestar Education Certified Instructor

Lolita San Miguel Pilates Master Mentor Program (Pat is currently working with Ms. San Miguel toward receiving her Pilates Master Mentor Certification with Ms. San Miguel.  Ms. San Miguel is one of the few living Pilates elders to work directly with and for Joseph Pilates and is one of only two people actually Certified to teach Pilates by Joseph Pilates himself.)

Patricia’s Additional PILATES TRAINING
Stott Pilates (has trained with Moira Merrithew, PJ O’Clair, John Garey, Stefania Della Pia)

Polestar Pilates continuing education (has trained with Polestar founder President Brent Anderson PhD, PT, OCS and co-founder Elizabeth Larkam)

PHI Pilates (has trained with founder Christine Romani-Ruby)

Peak Pilates MVE Chair

The Pilates Coach (trained with owner and founder Leslee Bender)

Pat has worked personally with Siri Dharma Galliano, trainer to stars Uma Thurman, Carrie Ann Moss (for Matrix 2 and 3), Sting and Madonna. She has also completed several workshops with Siri.

Pat has over ten years of Pilates continuing education credits, including workshops with renown Pilates Master Trainers listed above as well as Mari Windsor, Alan Herdman, Julian Littleford and Kathy Corey.

AFAA CERTIFICATIONS
Fitness Practitioner and Personal Trainer
Group Exercise Instructor
Weight Training Certified
Aqua Instructor, Senior Fitness, Pre / Post Natal

AAHFP CERTIFICATION
Post Rehab Fitness Trainer

OTHER CERTIFICATIONS
Arthritis Foundation Certified Aquatics & P.A.C.E. Instructor
Resist-A-Ball C.O.R.E. Instructor Trainer
White Belt NIA Instructor (hosted and completed NIA teacher Intensive at her studio in 2000 with NIA creators Debbie and Carlos Rosas)

MEMBER OF:
IDEA ( Master Trainer designation )
PMA ( Pilates Method Alliance)
AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America)

FORMER WELLNESS & FITNESS DIRECTOR
Total Wellness & Rehab

FORMER FITNESS DIRECTOR
Palm Harbor Medical Associates

FORMER
Arthritis Foundation Board Member
Arthritis Foundation Regional Program Director
Member of American College of Sports Medicine

FEATURED IN NATIONAL FITNESS PUBLICATIONS

Quoted in the March 2009 IDEA Fitness Journal on “Tricks of the Trade”.

Quoted in the March 2008 IDEA Fitness Journal on “Tricks of the Trade”.

Quoted in the November 2007 IDEA Fitness Journal on “Tricks of the Trade”.

Quoted in the October 2007 IDEA Fitness Journal on “Partners and Small Groups in Mind-Body Training”.

Quoted in the July / August 2007 IDEA Fitness Journal on “Conquering a Negative Mood”.

Quoted in “Your Body” online article on working with a partner in January 2006.

Interviewed and was featured Personal Trainer in March 2005 IDEA Fitness Journal in the article “Empathizing with Client Limitations”.

Featured in the November 2005 IDEA Fitness Journal under the personal trainers who “Inspire the World to Fitness” section.

Interviewed for “Your Body” June 2005 online article - “Watch Your Thigh’s Fives”.

TELEVISION SEGMENTS: Featured in Channel 8 exercise & fitness segments with Irene Maher and Yolanda Fernandez as well on past Channel 8 Health & Fitness Fest television segments.

Where do I begin?
We suggest you start with a few private sessions. We want you to be familiar with your body’s strengths and needs and work correctly from the beginning. We will be introducing you to the philosophy of Pilates, the terminology, and the different apparatuses. There’s a lot of information that needs focus in the beginning to help set up your platform for your future training.

How many times a week should I do Pilates?
For best results, two to three times a week is what we suggest to our new clients. Pilates is like a language, consistency is the key.

What should I wear?
Clothing that’s comfortable and not too loose. Socks are required but you don’t need shoes.

How do I know if Pilates is right for me?
Making an accurate appraisal should take several sessions to know if Pilates is right for you. Pilates is not only a physical discipline but one that incorporates an attendant philosophy; an awareness of both is the most effective way to make a decision.

Why choose Suncoast Pilates?
Suncoast has some of the most highly trained, most highly certified  and most experienced Pilates instructors in the Tampa Bay area, and has been in business twelve years.  It is important to know how your instructor was trained and certified and with whom your instructor has studied as well the length of time an instructor has been training.  An instructor who has studied with one of the few Pilates Elders brings the highest level of training to the client.  Suncoast instructors conduct safe, effective workouts, each session tailored to the individual.  All Pilates training is NOT alike!

• 10 sessions you feel a difference,
• 20 sessions you see a difference,
• 30 sessions you will have a new body.
  J.H. Pilates

Pilates is a unique method of body conditioning named after German-born Joseph H. Pilates. The Pilates method is a physical movement program designed to stretch, strengthen and balance the body without adding bulk. Pilates exercises focuses on postural symmetry, breath control, abdominal strength, spine, pelvic and shoulder stabilization, muscular flexibility, joint mobility and strengthening through the complete range of motion of all joints. Instead of isolating muscles groups, the whole body is trained. Pilates can help dramatically change your body.  And, yes, Pilates is for men too.  Pilates was originally created by a man for men!

Pilates Reformer / Tower Personal Training Fees

Introductory Pilates Reformer / Tower Session:

$30 - Payment due at time of booking. First time clients only.

Private Pilates Reformer / Tower Sessions (55 minute sessions):

Single (1) One-on-One Session - $65 per session
Five (5) One-on-One Session Package - $295 (cost = $59 per session)
Ten (10) One-on-One Session Package - $550 (cost = $55 per session)
Twenty (20) One-on-One Session Package - $1050 (cost = $52.50 per session)

Duo (Two participants) Pilates Reformer (55 minute sessions):

Bring in a friend, partner, spouse or co-worker to work out.  One instructor per two participants. Duo participants prepay, register and attend same training dates.  Studio not responsible for finding duo partners.
Single duo session @ $50.00 per participant
Five (5) session package @ $225.00 per participant (cost = $45.00 per person per session)
Ten (10) session package @ $400.00 per participant (cost = $40.00 per person per session)

Group Pilates Reformer / Tower Classes (55 minute sessions):

View Schedule. (Offered select days and times only; limited number of spots in each group class; must be available for same time and day for month to participate. Private training required prior to group participation for Level 2 and above group sessions. Beginners welcome in Level 1 groups.  Must be injury free.  Each participant has own equipment for entire session.)  Prepayment and pre-registration required.
One (1) session Reformer class @ $35.00
Five (5) session Reformer class package @ $160.00 per person (cost = $32 per class)
Ten (10) session Reformer class package @ $300.00 per person (cost = $30 per class)

Pilates Mat and Balletone Classes - Starting in April - to be posted soon - call to inquire!

To book online simply click the link to schedule your Pilates session now!

Please note: All sessions require prepayment at time of scheduling. Session packages must be paid for in full to receive package discount rate. Single and five session package rates are slightly higher. All private and duo sessions are scheduled by appointment only. 24-hour advance notice is required to prevent being fully charged for your appointment.

Private sessions are recommended for individuals with back, neck, knee, elbow, shoulder ankle or other injuries or orthopedic concerns.

The studio accepts cash, check, Visa, MasterCard. All packages have a three month expiration date. Please be sure of your commitment, as there are no refunds.

Email: pilates@suncoastpilates.com

Call 727-772-6772 or email pilates@suncoastpilates.com for additional questions.