Mat Pilates

To many folks’ surprise, mat Pilates classes are often more challenging than the equipment classes. Using body weight and working against gravity without the support of the equipment, means you really have to focus on what your body is doing during the movement. If you usually use the Pilates equipment, you might think the mat classes are boring! Not to worry - I add in some small props to the class to keep it fun!

Ability requirements

Only, a desire to focus on how you feel throughout the class, rather than how you look! My group classes are low-impact and do require that you are able to get up and down from the floor. I do not teach any exercises like Rollover on Headstand that may lead to putting extra strain or compression on the neck.

Levels - Beginner and Intermediate

Beginner simply means you are completely new to Pilates or haven’t done any group movement classes in a while. Intermediate bodies have done some Pilates and have a fairly consistent movement practice. That’s it! Class sizes are limited to 6.

I do recommend doing a free consult with me before you start so that you can get the most of each class!

Variation in the classes

To be honest, I would get bored teaching the exact same exercises every class! Therefore I offer a range of classes and each week the class will be slightly different. I call them Pilates-esque as they are based on the mat Pilates exercises but with additional functional exercises like lunges and balance challenges.

I often use hand weights to mimic exercises on the Reformer or Cadillac, or use a kitchen chair to mimic exercises on the Pilates Chair.

Live classes

‘Live’ classes mean that I am instructing and demonstrating the movements the whole time. I will have the screen close enough that I can offer feedback on your movement (only if you want that!).

Video on or off?

You are welcome to keep your own video on or off as you prefer. For more tech tips for online classes, check out this blog post.

Small equipment

As we don’t use the large equipment during mat classes, we instead add smaller props that serve the same function of support and/or challenge (and fun!). Here are some that I frequently use and can be found in most homes without extra purchases.

• Light hand weights, 1-3lbs. If you don’t have any, canned goods (14oz) work great.

• A large bath towel

• A kitchen chair – no wheels please!

• A pillow

Types of Classes

Looking at the description of the various classes, you’ll see that they focus on difference aspects of movement or things going on in the body.

Pilates Flow classes are a mixture of classical Pilates mat exercises, Reformer (a Pilates equipment) movements using weights and functional standing exercises. Lots of variety, and great for learners and experts alike!

For a class with more balance challenges and standing exercises, check out the Better Balance class.

Interested in more lunges and stretching? Pilates/Yoga Fusion classes will give you that and more.

Have a read through the descriptions and see what tickles your fancy! If you’re not sure which on would be best for you, call me or sign up for a free online consult and we’ll figure it out.

Look forward to seeing you on the mat.

Move with joy!

Nicole