“I can’t imagine my life without exercise.”
Name: Jacky Croad
Born: 1974
Place of birth: London, England
Do: Pilates Teacher (see more at: ibizapilatesuk.com)
I often see Pilates vs Yoga articles. Are they really adversaries?
Pilates and Yoga are very different yet similar. It’s a bit confusing and people get them muddled a lot. It’s said that Pilates is for your body and yoga is for your mind. They are similar in movement, but different in their exercises. Yoga aids flexibility and Pilates is more for strengthening muscles. My Pilates classes are very upbeat with a sports-twist to them whereas some Pilates classes are slower and more relaxing. Pilates is all about the safely of the spine, which can be life-changing for people. I think of Pilates as a modern version of Yoga.
Why did you start a Pilates studio in Ibiza?
I had a busy Pilates studio in London and when I moved here I wanted to carry on teaching. My home studio in Santa Gertrudis is for my own practice as well, which is very important to me. I left the UK because I found the environment very grim. Ibiza is the perfect place to continue my teaching.
What’s the one thing about Pilates you wish people understood?
I wish people understood how disciplined Pilates is! There is a lot to think about whilst moving and you need a huge amount of strength to do some of the exercises. Some narrow-minded men think Pilates is only for girls, but thankfully, with more male celebrities and athletes practicing Pilates it’s getting a better reputation.
Is it true your husband doesn’t go anywhere outside of a 15 minute radius from your home in Santa Gertrudis?
Haha, yes I am happy to say that my husband never leaves Santa Gertrudis! Unfortunately I have to as I am always on the move, but if I had a choice I wouldn’t leave either! We love everything about our little village and we are very happy living in our little bubble of paradise.
Would you say you’re a straight talker?
Yes I am a straight-talker. I cannot stand fake people-pleasers. Just say it like it is and move on. Life is so much easier that way.
When you’re not working with Pilates clients or going to the gym, how do you spend your time?
I don’t get a lot of spare time as I am always busy with the kids and house, but when I do, I love to walk my dog. I walk nearly everyday and love finding new places on the island. It’s my medication. I love paddle-boarding too and I made a promise to myself that next year I will go more often.
What is the first thing you do in the morning?
Moan how I don’t want to leave my bed. Then I make a hot lemon water.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
I have a few! If I get a free Sunday I like to sit on the sofa and binge-watch Netflix…with big bowls of crisps and vodka & tonics.
You have two teenage children who have grown up on Ibiza. How do you think it differs growing up here instead of the UK?
Ibiza is magical, but it’s hard to explain the differences to those who don’t understand the island. My kids have been at the same small International school for 8 years where it’s safe, relaxed and they can truly be carefree. They are also not contaminated with advertising here, which is a blessing.
How have you changed since moving to Ibiza?
Ibiza has made a huge difference to my life. I was such a London-head. I thought lemons grew in Waitrose and concrete was just like grass! Now I live organically, I hardly eat meat and I’m so much happier and relaxed. My stress levels are pretty low here; there’s not much to get irate about, apart from when it’s windy and raining, as I’m so used to the sunshine.
When & where was the last time you went for a swim?
My last swim was near San Miguel, in a small bay a short drive away from my house. I love going there with my paddle board and just floating around. I’m a bit pathetic with swimming; it has to be really warm, or I won’t get in!
What would you do with your time if you were told you couldn’t exercise any more?
This scares me to think about. I study and research a lot, so I’d probably spend even more time doing so. I can’t imagine my life without exercise.
What’s your biggest fear?
Being sick.
If you could invent a holiday, what would it be?
A destination where there are no children under 10 years old; exercise in the morning; relax in afternoon; organic food and sunshine. Wow that sounds a bit like Ibiza! I have my perfect holiday daily, so it’s difficult to invent a better one.
