You might think Pilates is just for gym buffs or the naturally flexible. Think again. Pilates is for everyone. Thoughtful tweaks, supportive props, and the right guidance can turn anybody into a powerhouse for strength, balance, and confidence. Pilates is not about fitting a mold; it’s about discovering what your body can do.
Meet Xieyiba, yoga teacher, model, and STOTT PILATES® instructor-in-training. Born without her left hand, she shares that Pilates is about discovering what’s possible, pushing boundaries, and finding freedom in movement through creativity.
Discovering Pilates & Building Self-Awareness
Xieyiba was born without her left hand. She never made it an excuse; it was just a starting point for how she moved through the world.
She stumbled into Pilates while teaching yoga as she was curious about the mechanics of the body, the way muscles and joints talk to each other.
“I was drawn to STOTT PILATES because of its incredibly strong foundation in both human anatomy and exercise science. With so many options out there, I knew I wanted to learn from the best,” Xieyiba says.
Pilates quickly became more than exercise, but a space to test limits and feel her own balance and control in real-time. “Even though there were definitely moments of self-doubt, Pilates taught me that every attempt, successful or not, is a step toward deeper self-trust,” she continues.
And then there was the surprise: strength and vulnerability could coexist. That push-pull dynamic, she realized, was exactly where growth happens.
Finding Balance, Control, & Creativity
After completing her Intensive Reformer (IR) and Intensive Cadillac, Chair & Barrel (ICCB) courses, Xieyiba noticed a profound shift in her practice.
“I’ve relied on my right side my entire life. Now I’m consciously training my left side to create symmetry. The ICCB course gave me so many tools to focus on that integration.”
Pilates equipment became a playground for creativity.
“Since my left hand can’t grip, I’ve become a bit of an explorer on the Reformer and Cadillac. I get creative with straps, bars, and springs to make it work. This approach forces me to have a deeper, more playful conversation with the equipment and with my body.”
That sense of experimentation strengthened her balance, confidence, and control, both in the studio and in daily life.
Modifications for Accessible Movement
One of Pilates’ greatest strengths is its adaptability. For instructors, that means small modifications can make exercises more accessible without losing their effectiveness. For clients, it means feeling supported.
“Most exercises have variations. Some make movement more accessible; others add difficulty. It depends on what my body needs that day. Modifications aren’t compromises; they lead to smarter, more intentional practice,” Xieyiba explains.
The Future of Pilates Is Inclusive
Xieyiba hopes to see inclusivity and accessibility take a bigger role in Pilates as everyone deserves the gift of movement.
“It’s not about making things easier, it’s about making them smarter and available to everybody. When instructors are empowered with that mindset, they can create a space where everybody, regardless of ability, feels celebrated.”
Supported by Community
Xieyiba credits the STOTT PILATES community with helping her grow into a more confident mover and instructor-in-training.
“They helped me go from ‘I’m not sure I can’ to ‘Look what I can do!’ I always felt supported, never limited,” she states.
Her advice for anyone hesitating?
“Just try. It’s okay to fail, but it’s a shame not to try at all. Give yourself the chance to experience something that’s so good for your body and mind.”
Benefits of Pilates for People with Disabilities
With thoughtful instruction and support, Pilates offers countless benefits:
- Adaptability: Exercises can be modified for anybody and ability level.
- Strength & Stability: Builds core and muscle control, improving daily function.
- Flexibility & Range of Motion: Controlled, active movements, enhancing everyday mobility.
- Posture & Balance: Helps with coordination and alignment.
- Pain Management: It can help manage or reduce chronic pain.
FAQs
- What is STOTT PILATES?
STOTT PILATES is a contemporary approach to the original Pilates method. Developed by Moira Merrithew and a team of physical therapists, it combines the principles of biomechanics, rehabilitation, and athletic conditioning. This makes it highly adaptable, whether someone is an elite athlete, new to fitness, or an enthusiast.
- Is Pilates inclusive?
Yes, Pilates meets people where they are. Exercises can be modified or progressed to suit every age, ability, and fitness level. Instructors can adapt workouts with props, equipment, and variations so clients feel safe, supported, and challenged in ways that are right for their bodies. Whether you’re new to movement, managing an injury, or looking to advance your athletic performance, Pilates offers accessible pathways for everyone.
- What are Pilates modifications and why are they important?
Modifications can make a movement more accessible or challenging, depending on what’s appropriate. For example, props like Foam Cushions, Flex-Band®, Fitness Circle® Pro can be used to adapt movements. These Pilates modifications ensure clients can experience the same benefits such as strength, stability, and flexibility, while honoring their own body and goals.