Pilates beginnings and the Apparatus machines & Mat Classes
As a Classical boutique Studio Owner, i get asked by many people what the benefits of Pilates are and how best to get started. Joseph H Pilates built machines to help rehab people back to health. Research has told us that a 50 minute class reduces cortisol by 27%. Regular practice decreases anxiety symptoms by nearly 50% and measurably improves sleep and emotional resilience.
The springs that we work against activate deep stabilizing muscles 40% more effectively than free weights.The muscles that protect your spine, like transverse abs, multifidus, Erector Spinae and pelvic floor are systematically trained in every session.
The controlled breathing patterns improve lung capacity, circulation and overall heart strength.Bone density is increased because this is a load bearing exercise. Classical Pilates follows Joe’s science which is taking the exercises from Horizontal to vertical and the progression of exercises follow this science. These positions removes gravitational compression from the bones of the spine (vertebrea) decompressing discs and restoring the natural curves of the spine.
But for many people they do not realize the foundation of the work is Mat exercises. There are about 40 mat exercises designed by Joseph Pilates that are performed lying on your back, side or front. Some of the exercises are done seated or on all fours. The mat exercises target the deep abdominal and spine muscles in order to provide core strength. Though mat classes were traditionally done with just your body and a mat, many classes today incorporate props such as rings, balls and foam rollers. It is the foundation of the work and as such recognize it’s importance. Pilates Mat Classes are a wonderful thing and we are bringing them back!
Studio Updates:
It’s been another exciting week, and our LCPP team is continuing to grow! This expansion gives us the advantage of having coverage for days off and preparing for upcoming vacation schedules. Im happy to share that we’ve added three new team members! Lila Kaplan, Sobia Nathani and Whitney Haas.
We are excited to be launching a new Mat Class Beginning on May 16, 2026 at 11am! Our new instructor Whitney Haas will be leading this initiative for LCPP. Some instructors use images to convey the specifics of Pilates movements- ie: “As you inhale, expand your lungs wide like an accordion.” Others use verbal cues such as “draw your navel toward your spine” or scoop in and up just above your pubic bone. Many instructors use words or phrases that they align with. Like “zip the legs together cues.” The fun part about discovering a Mat Class is in the instructor themselves, and their energy, voice and enthusiasm for the work. We welcome you to join us on this new endeavor! Please use our new online booking platform bookyourmat.com/login to secure your spot.
In Health,
Joyce Ganzermiller and LCPP team.
#PilatesMtPleasant #FunctionalCoreStrength #MtPleasantPilatesStudios #SpineCorrector #Core Strength #Alignment #PilatesStrong #InspirationIsContagious