A Decade of Pain, A New Life with Pilates – Rae Harvey’s Story
What would you do if a surgeon told you: “Without urgent surgery, you could be paralysed”?
That was the reality for Rae Harvey, who had lived with relentless back pain for more than a decade. After undergoing major spinal fusion surgery, Rae faced a future of limited movement and dependence.
But instead of decline, we were very happy at Pilates Can to give Rae a new beginning. With consistency and care, Rae rebuilt her strength, regained her independence, and discovered a new lease on life at 81 years old.
This is Rae’s story and why it matters for every Pilates studio and instructor.
Key Takeaways:
This dynamic workshop focused on more than just hip movements. We delved into the interconnectedness of our entire body, understanding that nothing operates in isolation. Our Pilates Can Hip Health philosophy revolves around addressing the full body, a principle deeply ingrained in the Clinical Pilates approach.
Pilates is a journey of self-discovery, and our workshop reflected this. From the pelvis and sacrum to the feet and ankles, every part plays a crucial role in hip health. We emphasized the role of the diaphragm in breathing, underscoring the holistic nature of our exploration.
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A Decade of Pain
Rae was once an active, fit woman who loved walking and going to the gym. But in her 70s, she developed severe lower back pain that no treatment could fix. She saw countless professionals, but nothing helped.
Rae’s turning point came when a surgeon delivered the ultimatum: without urgent spinal fusion surgery, Rae risked paralysis. Rae agreed to the operation, which fused her pelvis to just below her shoulder blades.
“I didn’t even realise I wouldn’t be able to bend afterwards,” Rae recalls. “I can’t put on socks or do up shoes—but Pilates gave me a way forward.”
Rae Harvey’s Back X-ray
Pilates as Recovery
Six weeks later post-surgery, Rae returned to the studio. The first session with us at Pilates Can left Rae so exhausted she needed to sleep afterwards. But Rae is tenacious & kept showing up. Over time, with the personalised Pilates instruction and support from myself and our wonderful team of instructors at Pilates Can, Rae rebuilt her strength, mobility, and confidence.
Rae especially valued our individualised approach:
“When you look around, everyone’s doing something different, tailored for their body. That made it possible for me to keep improving.”
Rae’s Beautiful Kimono Sewing
Independence Restored
Pilates didn’t just rebuild Rae’s body. It gave her back her independence.
Today, Rae can travel to see her children and grandchildren and fully participate in family life.
“That could have been me in a wheelchair,” Rae reflects. But Pilates helped her keep her mobility and stay close with her family.
The ripple effect is clear: Rae’s story is about movement, but it’s also about relationships, creativity, and with a good dose of tenacity, Rae’s freedom to live life on her own terms.
Lessons for Pilates Studios
For me as a Pilates studio owner and our instructors at Pilates Can, Rae’s journey is more than inspiring, it’s a call to action. The work we do goes beyond exercises and class schedules. It’s about creating the environment where clients can thrive, even against life’s biggest challenges.
1. Invest in personalised relationships that meet clients where they are at in their lives.
2. Encourage consistency, because lasting change comes from showing up.
3. Remember the emotional impact of Pilates, as there are not just physical gains.
As David Gunther reflects in Rae’s podcast episode: “You’re not just teaching exercises—you’re changing lives.”
Listen to the Full Episode
Want to hear Rae’s story in her own words?
Listen now on The Pilates Business Podcast: Spinal Fusion to Strength: Rae Harvey’s Pilates Journey
We didn't stop at the studio, as our clients need to be equipped with practical exercises to strengthen their hips at home. These exercises go beyond the routine, ensuring that the benefits of the workshop extend into daily life. Stay tuned as we guide you through these empowering at-home practices.
Unlocking hip health is more than physical exercises; it's about fostering a mind-body connection. Our workshops offer insights into how this holistic approach positively impacts mental and emotional well-being, and physical vitality.
Ready to take the next step in your Pilates journey? Join us for the upcoming Get Back in the Groove with Pilates for Hips workshop on Saturday 16th December 2023. It's an opportunity to dive deeper into the principles explored in our previous hip workshop, learn new techniques, and connect with other like minded Pilates instructors and clients regarding your holistic well-being.
