By Omar Frazier / The Jambar
For 21-year-old Tahnee Gilchrist, fitness isn’t about building strength, it’s about finding peace. Over the summer, Gilchrist started Pilates in the Park — a free, outdoor workout experience designed to promote wellness, community and a connection with nature.
Gilchrist’s workouts vary on specific dates but she posts the location and time on social media. Oftentimes, the workouts are hosted at venues in Mill Creek MetroParks.
Gilchrist discovered Pilates three years ago while scrolling on TikTok, during what she called a period of burnout. She realized she had devoted her energy to everyone but herself.
“I was in and out of relationships that weren’t serving me, and I wasn’t giving myself any attention,” Gilchrist said. “Once I hit that burnout, I had to take a look within and ask, ‘What is something I can do that will benefit me in the long run?’”
The answer to her question turned out to be Pilates. With just a yoga mat and online videos, Gilchrist not only found exercise, but a way to heal mentally and emotionally.
“It’s deeper than just getting your glutes together,” Gilchrist said. “Working out isn’t just physical … it’s about putting in the work in your heart and soul too. At that point, it feels so good. It’s a release.”
Wanting to share that experience with others, Gilchrist said she decided to set her workouts outdoors, where she believes nature grounds participants with the world around them.
“A lot of people forget that what we’re really connected to is the earth,” Gilchrist said. “The whole point of me bringing it to the park is so people can be grounded with the world around them.”
For Gilchrist, the workouts are also about strengthening the community in a city she feels is overshadowed by negative news.
“When something positive is going on and somebody is trying to bring some type of peace and harmony to the community, it’s crickets,” Gilchrist said.
Even so, she remains determined to make a difference with Pilates. “I’m not charging anything but your time, your respect, your energy … and it’s just an exchange,” Gilchrist said. “What this city needs is real, genuine love.”
Those interested in upcoming sessions can connect with Gilchrist on Instagram @_tahno_
