Name:
Elizabeth Falkowski
Company:
Water Mill Pilates
Contact info:
email : wmpilates@aol.com, ph: (631) 835 2281, website : www.watermillpilates.net
How many years have you been in business in NYC?
I’ve had my studio in Water Mill for 9 years
How did you get your start and what was your initial inspiration?
My initial inspiration to become a teacher of movement started as a kid, in ballet class. I always had the desire and drive to help people and learn as much as I could about the body and how it moves. As I started to become injured through dance, I was introduced to Pilates and was hooked. Pilates really changed my body and gave me the core strength and joint stability I was missing. Pilates also gave me a sense of confidence and feeling that I can do anything! At 26, after successfully teaching Yoga, Ballet and Pilates, I opened up my own studio. I had confidence that I was a great instructor and could connect well with people and the rest I knew I would learn along the way. 9 years later, I am still learning and I can honestly say that I love working with each and every client.
What do you feel differentiates you from others in your field?
I am a classically trained pilates instructor, which enables me to give clients the best results. The Classical Method, as created by Joseph Pilates is intelligent and safely progresses the client. It is important to maintain the integrity of this very special, Classical system of body conditioning. This is the method that has been proven through the decades to work!
What do you feel gives you longevity in this big city with so many options?
Reliability, understanding and the constant pursuit of knowledge. I Have trained with some of the best Classical Pilates teacher trainers in NYC, and continue to learn and grow from them.
How do you positively impact your clientele?
I feel that I provide a safe and positive learning environment. Almost every client is dealing with some sort of injury or physical issue. I try to find a way to get the client moving through the exercises (which can be frustrating at times for them) and still have fun. I’ve learned through the years… If its not fun, we don’t want to do it or even come back again.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of everyday is the moment the client walks into the studio and expresses to me how they are feeling and what is going on in their life. I love the challenge of tweaking their program that I have prepared for them. That’s when I get to be creative and and help their body to move better, feel better and perform better. I have a chance to impact their day, positively.
What is your favorite secret Hamptons spot?
I dance at The Hampton Ballet Theater School off Butter Lane in Bridgehampton. They offer ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop and more to children and adults of all ages. Sara Jo Strickland is the Director and has a wonderful way with the children. They offer summer camps and performance opportunities at Guild Hall throughout the year.
How do you benefit mamas?
Busy moms need their “me time” and I feel honored that I can provide a calm and peaceful environment for them to take care of themselves. Its important that moms have a strong, flexible body with a clear mind so that they can better care for their families. I try to help them feel rejuvenated after each session.
What is the most memorable feedback a client has given you?
At the end of every session, one of my beloved clients says, “Thank you, I feel alive again!”
Pay it forward and name your top colleagues in the same field or related field:
I love Antonia Mennis. She is a gifted massage therapist that works at Core Dynamics in Water Mill. She also does infant massage and teaches it to moms.
What is the best advice anyone has ever given you? Or what is your "mantra" / words to live by?
I love the quote, “ Pilates is a practice, not a performance.” These are words that relate to our life. Everyday we must practice our skills… whether it is in the Pilates studio or running around with our daily tasks. We are not trying to become perfect, just do a little bit each day to be a better person, inside and out.
As moms, the day can escape us, what is your best time-saving trick?
A quick ab series, planks and clams.