Pilates Is “Trending” Again: Here’s Why
It’s funny how trends come and go in the fitness industry. Pilates is trending right now. And yes, I do have a sassy smirk on my face. In a recent article I read, people are starting to understand that exercise is not about just looking better, but about feeling better and being healthier as we live longer lives. Ah, lightbulb moment--yes, people, please join us, whatever it takes to spark that awareness!
Although there was a reported dip in Pilates’ popularity in the 2010s (see New York Magazine’s Pilatespocalypse), Mind the Mat’s Pilates participation was through the roof, quite literally. We expanded to the second floor of our building and eventually up to the third floor where HAWT Pilates was born in our famous Hot Studio.
Why did our Pilates continue an upward “trend” while the method fell off elsewhere? Could it be that Alexandrians are more in-the-know? Instead of bragging about our expert team, here are three key benefits of our Pilates mat method, and how you can experience them for yourself:
Pilates improves overall mobility. Mobility is also a trending word these days (more on that in a later post). Generally, mobility is your ability to move through functional activities with ease. Pilates improves spinal mobility by tapping into the deep core muscles that help control individual segments of the spine. Movements also target the hip, shoulder, knee, ankle foot, elbow, wrist and just about everything in order to improve your everyday function.
Pilates recruits dynamic and static stabilizers. Those same muscles that foster mobility are also uniquely smarter than many other outer muscles in the trunk. Smarter? Yes, these core muscles are six times better at sensing the position of the spine. This capability helps prevent injury and improve your function whether you’re an athlete on the golf course or getting down on the floor to play with your grandchild.
Pilates is the perfect rehabilitation tool. Whether it is your primary workout or a supplement to your daily run, this method is proven to promote healing and facilitate a stronger return to your favorite routine.
Just yesterday, an elite runner reached out to me to share she had a stress fracture and said her orthopedist had recommended Pilates. She cannot participate in any weight-bearing exercise, so the mat workout is truly ideal for her recovery, and she will emerge running even more efficiently than before her injury.
Here’s how you, too, can integrate Pilates into your routine:
In-Studio Classes. In Pilates, it’s all about form in order to get results. Yes, there is the machine style of Pilates or “apparatus” Pilates. I am trained in that method as well, but I find that mat-based Pilates allows for more freedom of movement, costs less and is more accessible (all you need is you). Therefore, as our name implies, we focus on “mat” work in order for you to thrive. Join us for these special events:
Beginner Workshops in September
Join my brand new Ultra Beginner Pilates Bootcamp! Although this is a cardio/HIIT class, we spend the second half of the workshop breaking down classic Pilates mat moves. It’s truly the best workout in town, thousands of Alexandrians have attended! See what the fuss is all about. Sunday, September 10, 2023 at 4:30 p.m.
Pilates for Perfectionists is also a fantastic intro workshop to our Pilates mat program. Logan is brilliant and her cues will guide you through the precision of the movements. This workshop was a hit when we first offered it earlier this month. Sunday, September 17, 2023 at 2 p.m.
Virtual Options
We are a mat-based studio and have a hefty library of skilled virtual Pilates classes, including those for beginners. But, in-person is always best so we can coach and guide you on form.
Our virtual library is to keep up your practice once you have the basics down. Unlimited OnDemand streaming is included with our MTM Deluxe Unlimited membership.
Try our FitClinic app and online platform with a focus on specialty classes like hip mobility and breathwork. We also offer programs for expecting and new mothers.
Check out all of Mind the Mat’s specialized workshops this month and next. You can also try any of our Pilates Mat 1 weekly classes, our intro offer is the best in town: Three classes for $43! See full schedule.
Still curious about Pilates before you get started? Follow me on instagram @drmeganbrown and DM me your questions! Hope to see you on the mat soon.
