Find Your Strong: How Pilates Is Changing Bodies—and Lives—in Southwest Louisiana

by Kerry Andersen

If you’ve been telling yourself you’ll “get back into shape” since, oh, somewhere around 2020, you’re not alone. 

What if the missing ingredient wasn’t more willpower but the right kind of movement? That’s the philosophy behind EPIC Pilates, the reformer Pilates studio that’s been steadily transforming bodies across Southwest Louisiana. 

“Pilates is one of the most beautiful forms of movement because it truly incorporates your mind, body and breath,” says Kellee Powell, founder of EPIC Pilates. Don’t let the word beautiful fool you. Powell’s take on Pilates isn’t your grandmother’s stretch class. At EPIC, she fuses traditional reformer Pilates with contemporary strength training, giving clients what she calls an “EPIC twist” on the practice. 

The result? A workout that builds real, functional strength while also correcting the postural damage most of us accumulate from long hours at a desk or hunched over a screen. “Pilates teaches us how to use muscles that are mostly ignored in traditional exercises, muscles that haven’t been activated in some time,” Powell explains. “In turn, clients become stronger, more flexible, and able to support their posture and everyday movements.” 

Core strength is at the heart of it all. And no, there are no crunches involved. “Every movement in Pilates incorporates your core,” Powell says. “If we have great core stability, your posture will be better, you’ll have less back pain, and picking up heavy objects, or your kids, will be easier.” It’s the kind of strength that carries over functionally into every corner of your life. 

The benefits don’t stop at the physical. Powell is also passionate about the mental wellness component of the practice. “We focus on silencing your mind and listening to your body,” she says. Using slow, controlled breathing techniques keeps cortisol levels low, which means clients leave class feeling calmer, not just stronger. She adds, “Think of it as therapy that also tones your glutes!” 

Pilates is not only for the already fit, but it’s adaptable for everyone. Most studios offer beginner classes, and highly trained instructors guide clients through modifications so every body can participate safely, regardless of age, fitness level or experience. Powell’s one golden rule for first timers? Do not compare yourself to others. You truly never know how long the person next to you has been practicing Pilates; it could be their second class or their third year. 

After weeks or months of consistent practice, Powell says the transformation she loves most isn’t always visible in the mirror. “My favorite improvement to see in my clients is overall confidence in themselves, in their bodies and in Pilates. The physical changes follow: better posture, more strength and a mastery of movements that once felt impossible.” 

Whether you’re a total beginner nervous to step foot on a reformer, or an athlete looking to add a new dimension to your training, Pilates meets you right where you are. Studios typically offer a range of class formats targeting different muscle groups and fitness goals, making it easy to find a rhythm that fits your life and your body. 

EPIC Pilates offers reformer Pilates classes fused with strength training in Lake Charles, Moss Bluff and Sulphur. Classes are by appointment. 

Call 337-746-7513 or visit epicreformerpilates.com for more information.