Clients of the Month Valerie and Rebecca

Client Spotlight: Rebecca & Valerie: Stronger Runners Through Reformer Pilates

At All Active Pilates and Physio, we love celebrating the incredible achievements of our clients and this month, we’re shining the spotlight on two inspiring women from our Tuesday 6pm Reformer class in Dromore: Rebecca and Valerie.

Not only have both recently completed marathons, but they also both work just along the street from our studio at Dromore Dental, making their Tuesday evening Reformer sessions the perfect midweek reset from busy working lives.

Their stories are a brilliant reminder of how movement, strength, and community all work hand in hand.

Rebecca’s Journey: From Couch to Marathon

Rebecca has been attending our Tuesday evening Reformer class for nearly four years after discovering All Active Pilates when she began working full-time in Dromore.

Like many runners, her journey started unexpectedly during the Covid lockdown.

“I started running during the Covid-19 lockdown, completing the Couch to 5k programme. I found the process so horrific I never wanted to repeat it! So I just kept running and gradually built up to longer distances.”

Fast forward a few years, and Rebecca completed her very first marathon in Belfast this year - something she once never imagined possible.

Alongside her running training, Reformer Pilates became a key part of her weekly routine.

“I genuinely believe reformer pilates is the biggest contributor to injury prevention in my training. I managed to train right through from 5k to full marathon distance without picking up any injuries, or even a niggle.”

Just 48 hours after completing the Belfast Marathon, Rebecca was back in class - although with “slightly lighter springs!”

For Rebecca, the benefits go far beyond running performance.

“I just feel better, more flexible and can work and move more comfortably when I am consistent with attending my classes.”

She also loves the variety of exercises and the welcoming atmosphere in class.

“Nearly four years on I’m still discovering new exercises. It’s impossible to be bored at reformer classes thanks to the fantastic instructors who make every class different.”

(And for the record… her least favourite piece of equipment is definitely the magic circle!)

Valerie’s Story: Marathon Goals at 50

Valerie has been running a busy dental practice in Dromore with her husband for the past 25 years at Dromore Dental, balancing work, family life, three dogs, and now marathon training too.

Turning 50 inspired Valerie to set herself a brand new challenge.

“This year, when I turned 50, I decided to take up running again after a break for my health. I set a goal to run a marathon for my 50th year.”

Encouraged by her daughter, Valerie chose the Paris Marathon and absolutely loved the experience.

“Paris was a beautiful city to run through. I loved every minute of it.”

Valerie has been practising Reformer Pilates in Dromore for around 18 months and credits it with helping her stay strong and injury-free throughout training.

“The weekly sessions improve my strength and flexibility, areas where I need more work.”

She also highlights the atmosphere and encouragement within the class community.

“I love the class; the time is great, the location is convenient, and of course, we always share lots of laughter!”

Why Runners Love Reformer Pilates

Rebecca and Valerie’s stories perfectly highlight why so many runners benefit from adding Reformer Pilates into their training routine.

Reformer Pilates can help to:

• Improve core strength and stability

• Increase flexibility and mobility

• Support recovery after long runs

• Reduce injury risk

• Improve posture and movement efficiency

• Build balanced strength throughout the body

Most importantly, it helps people feel stronger, move better, and enjoy their training more.

Thinking About Starting Pilates or Running?

Both Rebecca and Valerie shared the same advice for anyone thinking about starting:

“Go at your own pace and enjoy the process.”

Pilates truly is for everyone, whether you’re training for a marathon, returning to exercise, recovering from injury, or simply looking to move and feel better.

We’re incredibly proud of both Rebecca and Valerie for their dedication, consistency, and amazing marathon achievements and we’re delighted to have them as part of our All Active Pilates community in Dromore. 💜