Looking for a full-body workout that will help with injury prevention, core stability and mobility? Look no further than Pilates. You’ve probably heard of Pilates, and there’s never been a better time to give it a try for yourself. At first glance, it may seem intimidating, so we’re giving you the basics on pilates at MINT.
Timea Presley, Pilates Teacher Trainer and Master Instructor with more than 20 years of experience in various forms of pilates, has an impressive resume in Pilates, yoga and dance. She has more than 30,000 hours of experience teaching and has managed pilates programs and studios across Europe and the U.S.
Since Timea is an expert in all things Pilates, we asked her to break down the main benefits, misconceptions and types of pilates you can try at MINT.
There’s a long list of the benefits of a regular Pilates practice. Pilates can help improve posture and increase core strength and overall stability. All exercises are created to prevent injury, so a pilates class is perfect cross-training. Pilates can also enhance your functional fitness and promote balance and flexibility, as well as heightened body awareness. Because of these benefits, Pilates can be an excellent addition to your routine and help you achieve your fitness goals.
For those who haven’t taken a Pilates class, Timea busted a few myths:
- Pilates works the core only. Wrong! Pilates is a whole-body exercise and you’ll get a great workout for your entire body every time.
- Pilates is hard. Nope! Pilates is a great way to work on your mind and body and is great for beginners. You may even find a new passion. If you’re interested in elevating your pilates practice, Timea recommends a private session to get you started on your journey and begin to build strength.
- Pilates is fast-paced and with loud music. Definitely not! The inventor of pilates, Joseph Pilates, described the practice as “corrective exercise.” It requires focus and concentration to perform the Pilates moves, so classes are often in a quiet setting. Pilates is an excellent way to work out while enjoying some peace and quiet in your day.
Now that we’ve busted a few myths, are you ready to take your first pilates class? MINT offers two different formats — Apparatus, or equipment based private sessions that include the Reformer, Tower, Stability Chair, Ladder Barrel, and many props and mat-based group Pilates classes. On the group side, Mat Pilates and Power Pilates is appropriate for all fitness levels and done in a group setting, oftentimes with props, that will give you an invigorating, full-body workout that’ll leave you feeling strong and relaxed. If you’re new to pilates, a private session is a great place to start.
Timea teaches Mat Pilates and MINTBarre throughout the week at MINT Dupont. If you’re interested in Private Apparatus Pilates sessions please contact Timea directly: timeamintdc@gmail.com.
Meet January Member of the Month Mark Johnson. Before joining MINT, Mark was a runner for many years. He always loved outdoor exercise and was concerned that he would not find a gym that would adequately substitute his fitness passion once he began feeling pain in his feet from running. Fortunately for us and the rest of the MINT family he gave MINT a try!
Get to know Ariele Foster, doctor of physical therapy, physical therapy practice owner, and a yoga teacher at MINT! You can catch Ariele’s yoga classes at