Mr Anthony Kwan

I used to own and manage a few companies in Singapore and Malaysia. However, such a stressful job strained my health, and ultimately caused me to have a stroke in July 2001. The entire left side of my body was affected and blood could not flow properly through my body. I could not move like a normal person, as the left side of my body was numb. I had also lost control of my nerves. My daily activities were greatly affected and my family commitments added to my stress.

But all that has changed after I started Pilates. I am very thankful to my friend who introduced me to Pilates Bodyworks.

Pilates is better than any of the other rehabilitation methods I tried. It has rectified my ailment faster than the rehabilitation I took in the hospital. The breathing techniques taught in Pilates Bodyworks especially, have benefited me most. Such breathing techniques have helped open up my blood vessels using “qi” (sic), thus allowing blood to flow properly and smoothly through my whole body. Within the first 3 months at Pilates Bodyworks, I had progressively recovered my sense and feel in the left side of my body. I could move better than before, and I am very happy!

I used to have a lot of body pains due to my stressful working life. I frequently suffered pain in my upper and lower back. My neck would easily feel tight. Today, I am living a happier life without these pains. The breathing techniques have helped to ease my neck tightness and I can breathe better now. I now talk and sing with more strength and power.

Pilates has also helped to rectify my muscles imbalance. It works on my overall body system and teaches me how to push and adjust my internal “qi” (sic) to specific areas of my body. And by using the correct muscles and working on the lazy and weak muscles, it has given me a balance body and posture with stronger muscles. These days, I can walk up and down my 12-storey flat without relying on the elevator. Pilates has thus enhanced both my alertness and energy level.

I have been practicing Pilates for the past 6 months. If I am asked to choose only one form of exercise or rehabilitation, it will definitely be Pilates. It is the only exercise that I would want to continue for the rest of my life.