A Complete Guide to Mat Pilates
The worldwide phenomena that is Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates back in the 1930s. Before he created his now famous Pilates apparatus equipment, Joseph developed more than 500 mat based exercises. Today we know these as Mat Pilates in order to distinguish them from the equipment based version.
Who is Mat Pilates For?
As a young man, Joseph Pilates developed his exercises as a way to strengthen and build his own body. However, the exercises can be used by anyone at any age including the elderly and those who are suffering from such conditions as arthritis and osteoporosis. Mat Pilates is able to be customised to suit all experience and fitness levels. In fact, the ability to modify the exercises to suit the user is quite remarkable, you can even do some of the exercises while sitting in a chair.
Why Do Mat Pilates?
All forms of Pilates provide a holistic form of exercise that improves the body and the mind. Mat Pilates, because it does not require expensive equipment, is the most accessible form that there is. The benefits of performing this type of exercise include:
· Improved cardiovascular efficiency
· Enhanced posture
· Improved proprioception and coordination
· Strengthened muscles and bones
· Prevention of injury
· Boosted confidence
· Better focus
· Enhanced lung capacity
· Stress reduction
· Improved flexibility
What Do You Need to Get Started?
To begin Mat Pilates all you require is an area of floor space around 6 x 3 feet, a mat to lie on and a water bottle to keep you hydrated. Because it is so accessible, it is a good idea for any person who is considering joining a Exhale Reformer Pilates class or doing any other advanced type of Pilates to begin with Mat Pilates. This will allow you to dip your feet in the water and see whether this type of exercise is for you.
Tips for Mat Pilates Beginners
Mat Pilates is similar to yoga in that it depends on a strong connection between mind and body. As a result, you need to approach your first class prepared to soak in the experience rather than viewing it as an ordeal to be gotten over with. Many people have a ‘ticking off sets and reps’ attitude that is the complete opposite to what you need when doing Pilates.
You will probably need to slow down when you begin doing Mat Pilates. You will find yourself using muscles that you are not used to using. In contrast to most resistance exercises, Mat Pilates frequently involves performing short ranges of movement. This takes time to get right. So you will need to be patient with yourself.
Mat Pilates is unlike any other type of exercise you will have done. It will take practice concentration and commitment to be able to do it properly. You should have Mat Pilates sessions a minimum of two times a week to get full benefit from it.
What Not to Do
During your first few Mat Pilates sessions, it is important to have a sense of humour. This will help you to avoid getting frustrated with yourself as you go through the inevitable learning curve.
Avoid moving through the exercises too quickly. You need to stay in tune with what you are doing so make sure that your mind is in the game. If your mind is thinking about what you are going to have for dinner, you will get very little out of your Mat Pilates sessions.
Think about how you are breathing while you are exercising. Learn to practice deep diaphragmatic breathing. This will allow you more fully stabilise and engage the muscles you are working while also helping to focus your mind.
Summary
Mat Pilates is an excellent introduction to the world of Pilates movement. It will help you to strengthen, lengthen, regenerate, build and maintain your healthy body regardless of where you are at right now. Join one of our studio class by booking online or via the app, or try it out at home via our On-Demand FITLIFE sessions.
