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Pilates instructor strives for fitness
At the Dec. 29 Blue Life Fresh Start 5K Run in Northbrook: Rachel Heitman of Winnetka is a pilates instructor in Wilmette, pink certified to train women undergoing breast cancer treatments such as radiation. | Karie Angell Luc~for Sun-Times Media
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Updated: February 4, 2013 9:54AM
We caught up with Rachel Heitman at the Dec. 29 Blue Life Coaching Northbrook Fresh Start 5K run amid snow flurries. A 12-year Winnetka resident after living in California for seven years, Heitman and her husband Brad have four children, Gracie, 18 a Pepperdine University student, Kiley, 16, a Montana Academy student, Maisie, 15, New Trier High School student, and Luke, 12, a Skokie School student. Her husband works for Wells Fargo Bank. She an be found at Pilates Central at 222 Washington Court in Wilmette.
Q. What was it like to run on a cold winter’s morn?
A. The Fresh Start was less about running for me, it was more about having fun with my family and people that I care about. Our whole family did it together. We even brought our dog. The Fresh Start 5K to me is the picture of the CLE (Christian Life Enrichment) community. You can do more and go farther with supportive people around you. I have known Lynn Cole Skokie (former Winnetka resident of 25 years), Nancy Rollins (of Evanston) and Rich and Sue Blue (of Northbrook) for almost 15 years. They are inspiring to me. It was great to come out and spend a morning with them. Plus I can always use a reminder that everyday I get a fresh start.
Q. Can you describe Pilates Central?
A. I am certified in all the equipment but I am also pink ribbon-certified, which means I can teach woman undergoing mastectomies and or going through radiation. I love working with woman in all phases of their life, athletes to women getting comfortable in their bodies again.
Q. What are your fitness goals?
A. My fitness goals have really changed over the years. I used to pound my body. Now I am all about being kinder and nicer to myself. Mostly I walk my large dog for at least an hour a day, and I do Pilates several times a week. I feel like that keeps me happy. I might not be as tough as I once was but walking in nature with my friends is great for my body and mind.
Q. Where were you raised?
A. I have been a bit of a gypsy. I lived in New York, California, Colorado, Virginia and Ohio growing up. I went to high school in Ohio.
Q. Why is Winnetka a great place to raise a family?
A. The people. Some of the most dedicated, caring, supportive, smart and passionate people I know are right here.
Q. Volunteerism. Why is this important?
A. Luke 12:48 “To whom much has been given much will be expected.” I believe everyone has something to offer, and the world will be better if we all show up. Our family supports Rise International and Breakthrough Urban Ministries. At Breakthrough, your family can sign up and be responsible for preparing and serving a special meal at the shelter. That’s probably our family’s favorite.
Q. Do you have any hobbies?
A. Sadly none, but to keep my mouth shut on the soccer sidelines. I knit long scarves.
Q. What’s on your iPod?
A. Everything. I like how it’s turning around. Now my kids are introducing me to music, Regina Spektor, Kings of Leon and Zac Brown Band to name a few.
Q. Are you a summer or winter person?
A. Summer!
Q. Tell us about your kids?
A. Gracie is a lifeguard down at the Winnetka beaches, she has hysterical stories. Kiley dances and is running her first half marathon this month. Maisie plays soccer and runs cross country, and Luke plays everything – soccer, basketball, baseball.
Q. What’s your hope for 2013?
A. I lost a very good friend my age to cancer this year right at Christmas time. I want to live 2013 with faith and hope. Life is short and I want to be fully awake to take it all in.
