Pilates is once again raising in popularity and we’re thrilled to offer both Mat and Private Reformer Pilates at MINT.

For those that aren’t as familiar with what Pilates is, it’s a workout that is often performed on a mat or machine that includes many strength and flexibility exercises. Pilates encourages participants to focus on breathing and a mind-body connection with particular attention to how movements stem from the core. Often times Pilates workouts incorporate equipment including spring-based resistance machines. The workout can be tailored to a variety of goals, ages, and abilities.

MINT Mat Pilates is led by our knowledgeable trainer/instructor Meg DiRuggiero. If you’re new to her classes this is what you can expect! 

1. Each class includes a thoughtful mixture of classic Stott Pilates moves and newer, varied Pilates sequences. No two classes are exactly the same.
2. Remember that Pilates is all about strengthening the core through movement and isometric holds. This practice goes beyond the mat and allows you to strengthen and use your core to support you when doing a variety of other movements both inside and outside the gym!
3. We will go behind the core! Other focuses include spine stability and mobility, glute strength, shoulder support, and overall muscle lengthening.
4. Don’t be intimidated if you’ve never tried Pilates before or are new to MINT Pilates. Any new moves are very approachable with constant cues from the instructor to ensure you’re able to follow along.
5. If something doesn’t make sense or if you have any questions your instructor is always available before or after class to offer support. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when or if needed!

Sign up for a Mat Pilates class this week by visiting our class schedule.

Naturally, humans are creatures of habit and routine. Usually, when we find an exercise or fitness routine that we like, and maybe even see results from (if that’s your goal) then we like to stick to that routine. Now, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with heading to the same class, the same elliptical, or even picking up the same weights. However you choose to move your body and prioritize your health, both physical and mental, we’re fans of it! But there are some benefits that do come with varying your fitness routine. Your body and your brain both reap the benefits of trying new activities, stimulating different muscle groups, and preventing boredom. 

Switching up your fitness routine can… 

• Help prevent overuse injuries 
  • By mixing up your workouts you can give any overused muscles and joints a chance to rest and recover. Performing a different activity that doesn’t strain the same part of the body is always great! It’s all about balance. 
• Build new muscles
  • When it comes to recreational exercises we recommend doing a little bit of everything! Doing this will allow you to build a strong heart and powerful body. By adding variety to your workouts you not only prevent overuse injuries but it gives you the opportunity to give some TLC to different muscle groups you may be inadvertently ignoring with your typical routine. The more you work all of your muscles the stronger your entire body becomes. 
• Beat boredom and keep your brain healthy
  • Adding variety helps keep your workouts from getting stale. By taking new classes or trying different equipment your brain is also learning new skills that help keep your brain sharp. The key to beating boredom and keeping your brain healthy is to choose exercises that keep you engaged. 
• Help you meet new workout partners 
  • As you probably know, we’re advocates for workout buddies! Having a partner to work out with is a great way to stay engaged and committed. Trying a new class is a great way to meet new people who likely have similar interests, at the very least, similar fitness interests! 
• Help you break through plateaus
  • When you do the same activity all the time your body gets used to it. So, regardless if your goal is weight loss, strength training, flexibility, or anything in between, it’s important to continuously challenge yourself. Whenever you introduce a new exercise or activity your body will have to work harder allowing you to push through and continue to grow to achieve your goals. Always remember that success is never linear. Periods of plateau, growth, and regression are all natural and necessary in reaching your goals. 

Now… what do you do next to add more variety to your fitness routine? We recommend checking out our class schedule linked here or connecting with a personal trainer. Our class offerings include MINT Ride Cycle, Signature Power Playground/HIIT, Power Row, FLEX Strength Training, MINT Barre, MINT Box, Dance, Yoga, TRX, Mat Pilates, and Meditation. 

Interested in some one-on-one attention? We recommend connecting with one of our talented and knowledgeable personal trainers. Learn more about our personal training here.