Columbia Association: The Mind-Body Benefits Of Pilates

Press release from Columbia Association:

February 16, 2022

You’ve likely heard of the core-strengthening, posture-enhancing powers of Pilates. Is it really all it’s cracked up to be? The short answer is — YES! This full-body workout can change the way you move and build strength at the same time. 

At Columbia Gym, we offer both Mat and Reformer classes so you can experience the magic of Pilates in various formats. Read on to learn more about what you should know before your first class!

Mat Pilates 

You may be wondering about the difference between Pilates and yoga. They do have some crossover, like a shared emphasis on breathwork and stress relief, but there’s also some major differences. While there’s tons of different styles of yoga, Pilates has fewer variations and uses specific targeted movements to build strength and flexibility. 

As a low-impact workout, it primarily targets your core and surrounding muscles, and you’ll work on your range of motion, flexibility and overall strength throughout a class.

While the movements might seem small, they definitely get your heart pumping — and you’ll feel muscle groups you never knew you had the next day! Pilates essentially helps you engage your entire body from the moment you start moving. There’s also a focus on connecting your movements to your breath, which is why it’s excellent for stress relief. 

Reformer Pilates

As you might have guessed, Reformer Pilates is practiced on the Reformer machine instead of the mat. The Reformer is a bed-like frame that moves back and forth on a track (and admittedly looks a bit medieval). We promise it’s not as intimidating as it looks!

The Reformer has springs, which can be adjusted for varying levels of resistance. The frame has shoulder blocks on it that keep you from sliding off the end, and the other end has an adjustable bar called the footbar.

The Reformer is extremely versatile: Exercises can be done in a prone position, sitting or standing. You can pull the straps, push the footbar, or rest on the ​footbar or shoulder blocks. In short, you’ll never get bored! There’s so much potential to enjoy both beginner and advanced moves on the Reformer. 

Get Pilates strong at CA

Both Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates deepen your mind-body connection, improve postural alignment and build strength in your core, which translates to more graceful and efficient movements in your day to day.

Our fully-equipped studio at Columbia Gym is ready for you! Classes are open to CA members and non-members.

Our fully-equipped studio at Columbia Gym is ready for you! Classes are open to CA members and non-members.

Here’s a few tips for your first class:

Learn more about the class packages and programs offered at CA here.

This press release was produced by Columbia Association. The views expressed here are the author’s own.