Topic Explanation:
The forum topic is about seeking feedback on doing Pilates, particularly for someone with a large peristomal hernia and a history of surgeries, including colon cancer, ileostomy, and permanent colostomy. The person is seeking advice and feedback from others who have experience with Pilates in a proper studio setting.

Advice and Insights:
- It's important to consult with a doctor before starting Pilates, especially with a hernia, as it can be a serious and difficult injury to overcome.
- Some individuals have received approval from their doctors to do Pilates, with the advice to take it gently and carefully, and not to do anything that hurts.
- Exercise caution when tensing lower abs, as it can lead to aggravating hernias.
- Start a reasonable training regime based on personal fitness history and consider supervision from a physiotherapist or exercise physiologist.
- Listen to your body and work up to intense physical training in an intelligent and informed manner.
- Pilates, yoga, and tai chi are non-invasive workouts that can improve fitness without over-stressing the body, especially when beginning.
- Dynamic tension exercises, such as tensing stomach muscles and holding for a count, can be beneficial for strengthening stomach muscles without injury.
- It's important to work on the whole body and mind to regain mobility and health, and to not be in a rush when starting a fitness routine.
- A proper Pilates studio with a qualified instructor can provide individualized attention and exercises to help with body alignment, breathing, and isometric exercises.
- It's crucial to have a coach who watches out for your health and pushes you a little more than you want, while being mindful of abdominal muscles.
- Having the mind and spirit along for the fitness journey is essential, and it's important to never give up and keep pushing forward.