Harmony of Movement and Nourishment: A Pilates Instructor’s Guide to Wellness (and ice cream) with Jamie Friedlander

Welcome to a holistic journey where the principles of mindful movement and some plant-based ice cream converge seamlessly. In this exclusive collaboration, we’ve teamed up with a seasoned Pilates instructor Jamie Friedlander to explore the synergies between Pilates and a vibrant lifestyle. Join us as we delve into insightful conversations about the intersection of fitness, well-being, nutrition, and ice cream. And of course, we couldn’t resist asking our expert guest, Jamie, the sweetest question of all – their favorite flavor from our delectable range of plant-based ice creams. Discover the perfect blend of balance, strength, and indulgence in this exploration of well-rounded well-being.

We were super excited about this post because not only is Jamie amazing but she has been a customer of Frozen Fruit Co since we began.

Jamie, tell everyone a little bit about you…

Hi, my name is Jamie, and I am a born & raised LA girl! I have a huge passion for all things health and wellness. I believe in living a life of balance, and prioritizing happiness! My favorite part about the wellness world is meeting and connecting with people who share the same love for a healthy lifestyle. I am a part-time Pilates instructor and full-time Pilates lover! It is truly the most amazing, effective workout and has changed my life in so many ways.

What is Pilates? 

Pilates is a full-body, core-based workout that is done on a pilates ‘reformer’ that uses different resistance springs. There is also a version of Pilates done on a yoga mat. It has the same fundamentals as the reformer but doesn’t use springs. It is a mix of strength training and small muscle movements which together create the most effective, low-impact workout for the body. 

How did you first discover the benefits of Pilates, and what inspired you to become an instructor?

I have been taking Pilates classes for as long as I can remember (literally since before college!) and it has always made me feel so good and strong. I’ve known I wanted to teach after being a client myself for so many years, and feeling & seeing truly how incredible the results are. It was the best decision I have ever made!

What are 5 things people don’t know about Pilates?

1. Anything (and I mean anything) you do at the gym can be done on the reformer- trust me on this one! 

2. The slower you go, the more effective the workout is.

3. It incorporates cardio safely and functionally.

4. It promotes lean, long muscles by working the muscle and stretching it at the same time – cool right?!

5. It is not just for the gals, men love it too!

Can you share some insights into how a regular Pilates practice can lead to overall well-being?

Since pilates is so low impact, it is gentle on the body while still providing a productive (and very challenging workout). It works those little muscle groups that can be hard to target otherwise.  It’s also proven to improve mental health.

Pilates is known for its adaptability to various fitness levels. How can beginners integrate Pilates into their fitness journey effectively?

There are plenty of options for beginners when it comes to a Pilates class. Something as simple as changing the spring load can really help and offer support to someone who is new to the workout. Over time, newbies will feel comfortable and ready to start doing Pilates on all of the challenging spring loads, and it’s SO rewarding!! You will feel so strong!

How do you stay energized and fueled throughout your day, especially when teaching Pilates classes, and do you have any favorite plant-based snacks or meals?

I make sure to fuel myself properly before a pilates class and prioritize protein at every meal. I also drink a tonnnn of water throughout the day, but especially before & after my workout. I am a HUGE ingredient person (another reason why I am obsessed with FFC 😉 ) and I fuel my body with foods that feel good to consume. I avoid seed oils and processed foods- eat what the earth provides!

A few of my favorite snacks are plant-based protein shakes, protein chia-pudding with superfoods, veggies and hummus, and “protein frosting”- my version of decadent frosting that I will either eat with a spoon or dip fruit into! It’s literally just protein powder, cinnamon, and water or plant-based milk. I’ve been really into pistachio milk!

I have protein at every meal- a non-negotiable for me!

What are five Pilates movements people can start to practice every day?

A few easy Pilates movements people can implement into their daily practice are:  leg extensions while lying on your back, table-top crunches, planks, bridges, and bicycle crunches- just make sure to move slowly!

We’d love to know – what’s your favorite flavor of plant-based ice cream from Frozen Fruit Co?

This question is so hard to answer… but I guess if I had to choose-  Anything with peanut butter and chocolate, the Salted Chocolate Cookie Dough – it’s made with Sweet Laurel cookies and it’s my fav! Also, the seasonal pumpkin spice is one I look forward to every year!! I recently tried the Neapolitan… it was unreal!

Clearly, I cannot just choose one because they are all so amazing.

If I could create my own dream flavor collab at FFC it would be a healthy “cake batter” with swirls of paleo cookies or cookie dough, naturally dyed rainbow sprinkles, and a healthy coconut cream based buttercream swirled throughout! It would be like eating a birthday cake but in ice cream form.

I know… I’m getting a little crazy over here.

Finally, where can people find you online?

People can find me on IG at @jamlovesyams which is my health and wellness/nutrition/pilates page, or my personal page @jamiefriedlander 🙂

Big Love and thank you Jamie.