KUCHING: Local Pilates instructor, Shirley Poh, is looking to grow a stronger wellness community in Sarawak through Sunrise Pilates Flow, a community-based initiative that combines mindful movement, fitness and outdoor experiences.
Her latest effort saw around 25 participants gather at the Amphitheatre in Reservoir Park on Sunday (June 21) for the second edition of Sunrise Pilates Flow Kuching.
Led by the STOTT PILATES certified instructor, the session featured guided breathing exercises, mobility work, strength-focused movements, and Pilates-based routines suitable for participants of various fitness levels.
According to her, Sunrise Pilates Flow was created to make Pilates more accessible to the public while introducing a wider audience to the benefits of movement-based wellness.
“Many people still have misconceptions about Pilates. Some think it is only for women or only for rehabilitation. In reality, Pilates can benefit people of all ages and fitness levels by improving posture, core strength, flexibility, balance, body awareness, and overall movement quality,” she said.
While Pilates continues to gain popularity globally, Shirley believes awareness of the discipline remains relatively limited in Sarawak compared to more established fitness activities such as running, cycling, gym training, and yoga.
“Programmes such as Sunrise Pilates Flow provide an opportunity for people to experience Pilates in a welcoming community environment outside of a traditional studio setting.
“My goal is not just to conduct classes but want to build a community where people can discover movement, take care of their physical and mental wellbeing, and understand how important it is to invest in long-term health,” she said.
Originally from Bintulu and now based in Kuching, Shirley currently conducts Pilates sessions at Ace Studio in Saradise while also offering private home-based and online coaching.
Following successful sessions in Kuching and Bintulu, Shirley hopes to expand the Sunrise Pilates Flow concept to other parts of Sarawak, including Miri, Sibu and Mukah.
