When we say long + lean, we are referring to the length and strength within the body that is created by doing Pilates. Long + lean is not meant to be a description of what a body should look like in order to do Pilates. At Long + Lean Pilates, we do and teach Pilates because of how good it makes us feel, not because of how it makes us look. Pilates was designed as a system of exercise for everyone to do to improve their overall health and wellbeing. As it gained popularity, it became widely used among dancers, and began to be defined by the image of thin, white females. There is now an air of elitism and exclusivity associated with the Pilates industry that is being addressed and challenged in an important and necessary way right now. Pilates is for every body and we want to do our part in making sure that is universally understood.
We do however know that, by default, a name like Long + Lean Pilates may make people feel as though they do not belong in the studio unless they fit a certain mold. It has never been our intention to give off any vibe of exclusivity or elitism, but that doesn’t mean we haven’t done so. We truly believe Pilates is good for every body and we strive to address each person as their own individual body with their own needs and goals. When Long + Lean Pilates was started, the brand name was decided on for a few reasons:
· The design of the logo and need for two words that complimented each other
· To conjure the image of long, lean muscles facilitated by the Pilates workout
· And yes, because of the idea that Pilates can give you a long + lean physique
To be very honest, I have struggled with the name Long + Lean Pilates for years now. We are not a studio that focuses on weight loss or aesthetics. Our brand has always been about helping people move well, feel good in their bodies, and go about their lives pain and injury free. Nothing makes me cringe more than the “get your body summer ready” ads. Now, when I think about the words long + lean, I think about the length and strength that is created within the body: elongated muscles, the feeling of being long and lifted, and increased strength throughout the body. Apparently lean is also a name for the “Purple Drank” recreational drug beverage, so there’s that…
I have heard the sentiment “I feel like I need to workout for a few months before I start Pilates.” We want to make sure no one ever feels that way when they consider coming to our studio. Come as you are. We are here to help you achieve your goals. And truly, any goal is welcome. Maybe you do have the goal to lose weight, you’re welcome here. You’re also welcome if your goal is to alleviate back pain, take an hour to do something for yourself each week, increase flexibility, or meet new people. Those are all admirable goals that are more than welcome at Long + Lean. Please do not feel that you have to look a certain way in order to do Pilates. Every body is welcome at Long + Lean.
While we are not changing our name, you will notice us using L + L Pilates more often than Long + Lean Pilates. We will be heading in that direction because it is incredibly important to us to make sure we are not contributing to any sense of elitism in the Pilates industry or making anyone feel unwelcome at our studio, even if it is inadvertently. Additionally, we are always open to hearing feedback from you about how we can improve our inclusivity and be more welcoming to the entire community. Thank you for being part of L + L Pilates past, present, and future. We love you all!
