Beginning Pilates
Pilates is a mind, body, and spirit practice that incorporates stability and mobility work primarily focused on using core (abdominal, back, and glute) muscles. Those new to Pilates can begin with home practice and Mat Pilates videos and books are widely available. Home practice is safe for anyone generally free of injury or chronic back pain. While beginners can also benefit from taking in-person Mat or Reformer Pilates classes with a trained teacher, many teachers encourage homework between classes.
Beginning Pilates
If you have room for a mat, you have room for Pilates. Practicing Pilates at home requires no more than a flat surface and a Mat or even just a rug. Small props including the Magic Circle, Overball, Theraband, and head supports may be added to the mix, but they are not necessary to begin practicing Pilates. If you have the space and would like to explore Reformer Pilates, it is possible to purchase Pilates equipment. The AeroPilates Reformer is a popular option given it is less expensive than traditional studio Reformers. While practicing on an AeroPilates Reformer at home is safe and effective, we recommend first working with a Pilates teacher before beginning your home Reformer practice. Reformer Pilates is a nice addition to a Mat work, but it is not necessary to begin your Pilates journey.
Resources
There are many great resources such as books and videos to assist you in your home Pilates practice. Choose teachers and visuals that are easy to follow and comprehend. Online streaming services like Chaise Fitness are also a great way to find a variety of classes with well-trained teachers at all levels. In fact, many well-known Pilates teachers are Chaise Fitness members, who practice with our classes and learn new teaching skills. One great trick is to watch a class at least once before taking it, allowing you to get a handle on the pace, the exercises, and language. You can also try individual exercises separately to improve your form before taking the entire class. One of the great things about Chaise Fitness is that with a low monthly fee, you have unlimited views of any class you choose. The classes are always there for you, anytime!
Practice makes perfect
Practicing Pilates from home offers some huge benefits including cost, availability, and time management. You can practice Pilates on your schedule and free yourself of traveling to and from a studio. Feel free to move at your own pace, repeat exercises that you want to improve, or try sequences that simply feel good. We recommend practicing at least twice a week and making it a point to keep those appointments. Don't get distracted by other noise in the room. If you can close the door to the rest of your household, do it, and allow yourself to focus on your practice. You may also want to take a private session from a Pilates teacher to get started or periodically check your form and advance your practice. Stream videos, take notes, and create your own Pilates routine. Enjoy the time and notice every bit of progress.
Start Your Pilates Journey at ChaiseFitness
At ChaiseFitness, we believe that anyone can be fit—no matter what skill level or body type. This belief inspired the creation of our patented Reinvention Method, which is for everyone—the athlete, the dancer, the beginner, the advanced, the rebuilder. We blend Pilates, ballet, and strength training and equip you with a chair and overhead bungees so that you work out all your muscles every time. We are located in the Upper East Side in Manhattan. For more information, you can contact us at (973)996-2063, or visit our website.
