Why add mat classes to your Pilates routine?
As someone who discovered Pilates in a studio environment, I was initially dismissive of mat classes. The feeling of the springs was so wonderful that I always associated Pilates with the studio experience. Once I understood the simplicity behind the mat work, I realised that the two are actually a match made in heaven.
I must admit, my first experience was an eye-opener. The reason I attended was that I had been invited to TEACH some mat classes at a new local gym. I figured I should check out what goes on! I headed off to a BIIIIIGGG local gym… there were about 40 people in attendance and no personalised attention. I knew what I wanted my classes to be like and it wasn’t that!
The more I taught mat classes, the more I loved them. I have always kept my classes small and focused on delivering the same attention to detail that I pride myself on in the studio. We are so happy to now have the opportunity to offer mat classes to our clients at Pilates On George.
The thing is, Mr Pilates started the method on the mat. The apparatus was originally developed to help his students access the movements required to do the exercises unassisted (eventually the work on the apparatus developed in a whole other way). Done well, mat classes challenge the body in a very different way to a studio session. In a mat class, we experience what it is like to support our own body weight against gravity without the support of the springs and a moving carriage.
I love to do a mat class to augment my studio sessions. For me the studio sessions cover one area that I need help with; in my case I use them as rehab for a torn rotator cuff. The mat sessions give a full body workout, core, legs, abs, everything. It is such a great way to start the day.
Julian
Without the equipment set up, a mat class also lends itself to endurance. A well-crafted class focused on smooth transitions means that we keep moving for the whole hour. No need to change the spring tension, move a foot bar or relocate to another apparatus.
The shared experience is another aspect of mat classes that many people underestimate. There is something special about moving in unison with a group of people. It encourages us to keep going when we might often stop. It helps us realise that we are capable of more than we might have ordinarily expected.
When we combine studio sessions and mat classes we can appreciate the Pilates method as a system. Studio sessions enable us to refine our body mechanics and tune in to the apparatus to become more efficient. Mat classes allow us to apply this work with flow and endurance.
Why not give a mat class a try? We cap our classes at Pilates On George to eight participants. Our instructors are comprehensively trained (that means they understand Pilates as an entire system). If you’re not sure if a mat class is right for you, ask your regular instructor. We offer an introductory pass that allows you to attend any class for two weeks for only $50. Click here to book a class today.
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