Have you been thinking about starting pilates but not really sure it’s for you?
If you’re like many of us and your fitness routine has felt stale after surviving multiple lockdowns, it may be time to try something new. Taking a Pilates class, whether that be on a mat or on a reformer machine, is a great way to refresh your routine and try some new moves. One of the many things we love about Pilates is that all fitness levels can take a Pilates class. Our instructors are passionate about providing individual attention to each of our members to ensure you are comfortable, confident and calm - especially for our new beginners.
Interested to find out more? Here are 5 things to know before you take a Pilates class.
1. There are two different types of Pilates classes
There are two types of Pilates that we offer at BodyEthos: mat and reformer Pilates. A mat Pilates class will take place on a Pilates mat (a little thicker than your average Yoga mat) to ensure all your pressure points are cushioned and are a great starting point for someone who is new to the exercise.
You may have seen reformer machines in your time and yes, we agree the machine can look intimidating but we assure you that it’s one of the most fun workouts you will ever do. The reformer machine features a stationary foot bar, springs and pulleys that provide resistance. Some of our members describe being on the reformer machine as “gliding” or “flying”!
If you’re trying to work out which method is best for you the Pilates mat classes rely heavily on your body weight and Pilates reformer classes rely more on balance as you are supported by a spring system on the machine. There’s really no rule when it comes to choosing one class over another - if you have recently recovered from an injury the reformer can be an excellent choice as you don’t need to rely solely on your body weight to hold you up. Our advice: take a beginner class in both and see which you like more.
2. Pilates is all about repetition and consistency
You may think that you have to be coordinated to do a Pilates class and we are here to assure you this isn’t the case. Pilates really focuses on strengthening and lengthening individual muscle groups rather than smashing as many reps as possible in a short amount of time. There are established groups of exercises that all Pilates classes are based on which means you will get to know what to expect when you walk into a class. Over time you will get familiar with them and be able to challenge yourself when the time is right for you.
3. You will feel the burn in class and you might be sore the next day
Ah, the infamous pilates “burn” - it really does happen! Take the Pilates Hundred which seems like a simple exercise - you sit down, with your feet 90 degrees to the ground and have your arms out straight and you pulse your arms up and down 100 times. Seems relatively easy but it’s the aforementioned repetition that will make your abs burn! The great news is that means you’re working and becoming stronger. But never fear, all of our instructors will provide you with modifications to ensure the exercise is enjoyable and achievable for you!
4. Pilates is more than just a physical workout
BodyEthos feels more like a community than a gym. We’ve been in business for 20 years and some of the most rewarding moments include the lifelong friendships and connections that have been made through our classes.
It can be especially important for those of us who work from home isolated from our team or lead busy lives and have little time for ourselves. It’s the smile from an instructor whose class is your favourite or hello to the other member who is always in the same class as you that can make all the difference in our mental health and wellbeing
5. It’s all about having fun, smiling and moving your body
At the end of the day, Pilates is all about celebrating what your body can do! It’s about finding the joy in movement, smiling through the burn and taking some for yourself each week to dedicate to your wellbeing. We’ve heard from our members that it only took one class for them to get completely hooked! But at the end of the day, if you are having a good time and leave BodyEthos with a smile on your face then our job is done.
If you are keen to give it a go, our friendly front desk team are more than happy to answer any questions you may have, show you around our studio and work out which class and membership is right for you.