Name: Luan Mendel
Age: 56
Profession: Writer

I began Pilates five years ago in an effort to improve my core strength, balance, and flexibility. I have a lifelong history of low-back problems, and I'd heard Pilates could help my back by building core strength. Because of my profession, I spend countless hours in front of my computer, so neck pain and poor posture were pretty much a permanent part of my world as well.

Today, my back issues are largely a thing of the past, and my posture has improved dramatically. I am also more physically active than I have been in 25 years. Stronger core muscles and better balance have improved my downhill skiing, and I recently began cross-country skiing too. Three years ago, my two grown sons badgered me into entering a sprint triathlon in June Lake. My husband, sons, and I have participated in the event each year since then, and in 2009, I placed third in my age group. Most importantly, I have been able to run, ride, swim, and ski injury free, which I attribute to the overall fitness fostered by the extensive range of Pilates exercises.

My first novel, Yard Sale, a mid-life coming of age story set in a fictional ski town, was published in March.