A Conversation with Daniela Escobar

What do you love most about Pilates? What frustrates you most?

As someone who has been a dancer for over 20 years, I find Pilates to be a highly disciplined form of exercise that I enjoy tremendously. One of the things I love about it is that there is always room for improvement and learning, which keeps me from getting bored. I am not easily frustrated by difficult exercises; instead, I accept where I am and practice until I can do them somewhat successfully.

What are your biggest strengths and weaknesses as a Pilates student? How about as a Pilates instructor?

My biggest strength as a student is my persistence and my biggest weakness is not liking to do all the repetitions, especially when it comes to the mat work. Now you know my secret 🙂

Looking back on your Pilates career, what are you most proud of? What would you say is the best thing about being a Pilates instructor?

When I look back on my career, I'm very proud of every step I've taken to get here! Mainly because I never let myself settle down, I was always looking to learn more and invest fearlessly in my learning. The best thing about being a Pilates teacher is to get connected with amazing people along the way. I am grateful to have many individuals who have positively impacted my life and who I carry with me on my journey.

How did Pilates change your life?

Pilates has provided me with a fulfilling career that I am deeply passionate about. I believe it is the most comprehensive type of exercise that can enhance and benefit your physical performance in all areas of life.

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only have one piece of equipment with you, which would you pick?

My preferences in terms of equipment have evolved as I age. Currently, I am enjoying the ladder barrel for its ability to effectively stretch my body. However, I also need the wunda chair badly!

What’s your favorite inspirational quote?

“If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you,” I think you can apply this to all aspects of life. But my favorite Joseph Pilates’ quote is “Change happens through movement and movement heals.” I couldn’t agree more.

What’s your favorite thing about being a Pilates teacher?

My favorite thing is hearing people talk about how much Pilates has helped them relieve pain or just promoted an overall sense of well-being. It's great when our clients love it as much as we do and see how much it improves their quality of life. Seeing our 90-year-old clients who inspire me every day is amazing.

Do you have a Pilates joke you like to tell your clients, or saying you like to use to make them laugh or keep them upbeat?

Ken Krech would say my saying is GO GO GO!

Looking back on your Pilates career, what are you most proud of?

I take great pride in Westwood Pilates. It took me almost a decade to fully understand my vision for the studio, and I am thrilled with where it stands today. Our community, our team, and our clients are all dedicated to the method, and I am proud of what we have achieved.