Virtual Open Level Mat Pilates
Virtual Open Level Mat is a 30 minute Pilates mat class for those who are somewhat familiar with Pilates mat work. This class is recommended for anyone looking to personally challenge themselves on the mat. It's easy to do in the comfort of your home. All you need is a mat, and depending on the class, a few easy to find props around your home. The teacher will provide modifications and variations to suite the appropriate needs of the class.
Virtual Open Level Mat Pilates
Pilates mat work is the basis for the entire Pilates system of exercises. In general, a traditional Pilates mat class will work your legs, stomach, lower and upper back muscles. On the mat, your body weight provides resistance against gravity, making the workout more challenging in many cases. You must be in full control of your body, rather than relying on the assistance or support of the springs and cables of an apparatus. Mat work is a great option for beginners because of its emphasis on learning how to control your muscles during exercises.
But don’t be fooled, advanced classes with the mat are the hardest because you’re using your body all the time, the reformer isn’t there assisting or supporting you. While doing Pilates on a mat instead of a Reformer may not seem as exciting or challenging, many clients see results (improved strength, posture, agility, flexibility, toned muscles) within just a few mat sessions.
Benefits:
Both the reformer and the mat are beneficial to building up your core strength and toning your muscles. Both methods train you to initiate the movements from your body’s powerhouse (your core/centering) and accordingly will quickly translate into benefits across your day-to-day activities. While you can perform the same series of exercises on the reformer that you can on the mat, the workouts are notably different. Mat classes utilize body weight for exercises, while the Reformer adds resistance to the Pilates exercises via the use of the springs that form part of the machine.
Fast results:
Still can’t decide between Mat or Reformer Pilates? There is no need to agonize over the decision; most people will reap similar benefits from both methods. Both will teach you how to effectively use your powerhouse, building strength in your body’s core, which will quickly translate to benefits in your day-to-day activities or sports. While targeting specific muscle groups is possible on the mat, the combinations of exercises aren’t as varied as the reformer. The reformer is also more ideal than the mat for those with injuries or chronic imbalances. The biggest misconception is that Reformer Pilates is harder than Mat Pilates, when in fact it can be the opposite in an advanced class (which will lead to faster results). What is critical is that regular practice is maintained and that the principles of Pilates (breath, centering, concentration, control, precision and flow) are adhered to throughout a class to maximize the results you will see.
Check Out ChaiseFitness Today
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 Upper East Side in Manhattan. For more information, you can contact us at (973)996-2063, or visit our website.
