If President Gloria Arroyo has good posture, it's probably because of Pilates

March 16, 2008
ST.com News: Stretching his pilates skills - from the Philippines to S'pore

By Tan Dawn Wei

"IF PHILIPPINE President Gloria Arroyo has good posture, it's probably because of Ole Eugenio.

The pilates instructor used to give Mrs Arroyo lessons in the presidential palace, although he'll have you know it's not exactly the most enviable job in all of the Philippines.

Pilates is a system of mind-body exercises which many professionals like dancers use.

'It's hard teaching Mrs Arroyo because there's so much protocol. You can't touch her and correct her - her bodyguards will jump,' said Mr Eugenio, 35, a soft-spoken Manila native.

Since moving to Singapore two years ago to teach at a pilates studio, he has not had to deal with the likes of those macho minders. His clients are largely 'tai-tais and yuppies'

'People here are health-conscious. Lots of people are stressed out, so I think Singapore needs me,' he said with a laugh."