Saadiq is a NYC-based Mat and Reformer Pilates instructor. He first discovered Pilates while working at the desk of a Pilates studio and quickly fell in love with the fitness form. He eventually decided to make a career out of it, starting off in management and eventually making the transition into teaching. Understanding that the fitness industry can be intimidating for most, it’s important to Saadiq to create a space for all clients to feel comfortable while also challenging themselves. In addition to Pilates, Saadiq is an actor, writer, and filmmaker. His purpose in life is to be of service to others through movement and entertainment while bringing joy into everything he does.
“In 10 sessions, you feel better, 20 sessions you look better, 30 sessions you have a completely new body.”
Q&A
What form of exercise do you teach?
I teach both Mat and Reformer Pilates.
What does exercise do for you? Outside and Inside?
Exercise was initially something that I started doing because of my physical goals. And it quickly became something that I needed for my own sanity. It was no longer about what I wanted to look like but about how I’m able to clear my mind in ways that I did not know to be possible. I started exercising at one of the lowest points in my life, and it has become such a saving grace.
What's your favorite Reggae song? What does it mean to you?
As cliche as it sounds, I’d say that one of my ultimate favorites is Bob Marley's “One Love”. It’s a classic that will always bring everyone to sing along. The energy the song brings into a space is unmatched. It’s a simple yet clear message and it incites joy.
What does nature mean to you? How does it inspire you?
Growing up in the suburbs, I was surrounded by trees, grass, and pathways that led to creeks, rivers, and more. We ventured out into the woods a lot, as a child so I’ve always been very comfortable exploring nature. It’s always been a part of my life in some way shape or form. I love to experience nature mostly through hiking. I’ve hiked all over the world and I love how disconnected we are when out in the woods. It always feels amazing to turn off my phone and just be.
How can exercise make us stronger human beings, better able to connect with others and embrace everyone's right to thrive?
One of my favorite quotes by Joseph Pilates is “In 10 sessions, you feel better, 20 sessions you look better, 30 sessions you have a completely new body.” I love this quote because it emphasizes the importance of connecting with your body. When you remove ego, body image and “goals” out of the equation you are simply moving your body in ways that feel good; in ways that benefit your mind and body. It always feels great to release those endorphins. Even if you’ve taken the toughest fitness class of your life, it always feels so good when you’ve made it through. There’s nothing that compares to that feeling. I like to say that I get “am extra pep in my step” after 60 minutes of Pilates. It’s the best way to get my day started. I feel clear and ready for whatever comes my way.
Why is it important for us to connect with other human beings?
Simply put, we’re all got. As a globe for the first time in history we’ve all endured this pandemic together as one. This has left others worse off than many, but we’ve all experienced the prolonged effects of a global pandemic. We all need to learn to listen to and to show compassion towards one another. There’s enough negativity out in the world, a little kindness goes a long way in this climate.
What does the phrase "One World, One Love" mean to you?
I love this phrase. It almost feels like a mantra to live by. It’s very simple in my opinion— We are one, the human race and we all want to give and receive love. That is our objective. As a society, we tend to get off course sometimes but I believe that we are all here to put love back into the world. I believe that we should all treat each other with kindness and spread the energy that we wish to receive from others. We may all have differences ranging from size to racial background to financial state but we all have the simplest of desires— to feel love. So why not spread that love?
In a universe of exercise platforms, what makes OneFirelight special?
I think that OneFirelight is all encompassing of so many different fitness forms that don’t usually exist in the same space. Therefore I feel that this platform will attract a wide scope of people. We have everything from yoga to boxing to hiit dance. The variety is endless and what’s great is how open the team at OneFirelight is to new and exciting ideas.
All Instructors
Join OneFirelight™ today!
There’s no better time than right now to discover your best self and embrace the world. Our community of instructors and members look forward to welcoming you.