Local man credits Pilates with speedy recovery - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Dave Patania/Eyewitness News

Indianapolis - Pilates is a very popular form of exercise, and it's a great activity for shaping and toning the entire body. One local man used Pilates to make a recovery from a serious car accident.

A little over a year ago, a simple walk up the stairs would have been impossible for 49-year-old attorney Ronnie Katz.

Last November, Ronnie was involved in a serious head-on car accident, suffering debilitating hip and leg injuries.

"I was told I would likely have some kind of a problem in going forward," said Katz.

But Ronnie is a fighter.

"When Ron came in, he was on a walker and could only put a minimum amount of weight over the right lower extremities," said Katz's Pilates instructor. "We put him on the Pilates reformer and he was able to work on strengthening his core, his upper extremities and his left lower extremity."

A remarkable recovery, and Ronnie credits Pilates with his comeback.

"It's a holistic approach. It's mind, body, focus, discipline, flexibility, stretching, and Pilates brings it together," said Katz.

A second chance created out of his own hard work.

"I guess I'm thankful. You learn to smell the roses a little bit more after something like this happens."

Ronnie's positive attitude is now opening doors, actually stage doors.

"Obviously the biggest thrill is that he's performing in a musical. Not only is he singing, but he'll be dancing. And it's less than a year since his injuries," said Katz's Pilates instructor. "I think that's remarkable."

Ronnie's journey puts a spotlight on Pilates, but the star of the production of "Fiddler on the Roof" will tell you: "you know, health impacts everything else. I'm not going to have the energy level as a lawyer. I'm not going to be as good of a teacher. not going to be as theatrical as Tevye."

Rich man, counts his wealth. A richer man - his health.

See Ronnie in "Fiddler on the Roof" at Footlight Musicals