We asked what you wanted to know most about, and a lot of you responded with “how can we continue our progress at home or when traveling.” We’re glad you asked!
We love recommending an at-home, personal practice for many reasons. Practicing Pilates at home in between your classes or private sessions can be a cost-effective way to deepen your skills, reinforce what you've learned, and continue to make progress toward your wellness goals. However, it's important to note that practicing at home shouldn't replace the need for learning proper form, technique, and exercises from a certified instructor in a studio setting when building your foundation.
When you attend classes or private sessions at the studio, you have the benefit of an experienced instructor who can guide you through the movements, correct your form, and provide modifications as needed. This is especially important if you're new to Pilates or have any injuries or limitations.
By learning the proper form, technique, and exercises in a studio with a certified instructor, you can gain a deeper understanding of the practice and ensure that you're practicing safely and effectively. Once you have a solid base, we recommend the following tools:
Subscribe to a vetted online resource. We love moving our bodies as often as possible in and outside of the studio. When we’re away we recommend the following on-demand programs for at-home practice or continuing education: Pilatesology | Online Pilates with the Best Teachers in the World, Pilates Anytime | Online Pilates Videos, ON DEMAND — Paradigm Studio (paradigmstudionyc.com), Home page - Kathryn Ross-Nash (kathirossnash.com), Kira Lamb – Move, Unwind, Express
Learn the Classical Mat System to practice at home. The Classical Mat System is a series of 34 exercises created by Joseph Pilates, and it's the perfect place to start when building your home practice. The system includes the seven basic mat exercises: The Hundred, The Roll-Up, Single Leg Circle, Rolling Back (Roll like a ball), Single Leg Stretch, Double Leg Stretch, and Spine Stretch Forward. You can learn to master these movements in the studio with your instructor and then practice them whenever you need to get your spine moving and your blood flowing. Once mastered, you can add the rest of the exercises to suit your needs and goals best. When we are short on time, the 7 Basic Exercises always do the trick! To start, tell your instructor you’re interested to learn the Mat System so you can take it with you wherever you go!
Invest in Pilates props at home and create a dedicated space for your practice. Pilates props like resistance bands, magic circles, foam rollers, ankle weights, or even small barrels can add variety and challenge to your at-home practice. By setting up and investing in yourself, you’re more likely to practice regularly. Even if it's just a small corner with a mat, having a designated space and special tools can make a big difference in your motivation and consistency.
Last, carve out consistent time for personal practice. Creating a routine and carving out time for personal practice are crucial for making progress and seeing results. Find a time that works best for you and make it a non-negotiable part of your day or week. Consistency is key, whether 10 minutes during your lunch break, 30 minutes before bed, or every Sunday morning. Set a timer and commit to showing up for yourself each day. Not only will this help you make progress toward your goals, but it can also provide a sense of structure and routine in your life. Remember, even a short practice can make a big difference in how you feel physically and mentally.
So, are you ready to take your Pilates practice to the next level? Whether you're on-the-go or cozy at home, you can continue your Pilates practice and feel amazing physically and mentally. Don't forget to share your progress with us and tag us in your Pilates journey. #PilatesProgress #HealthyLiving #StrongBodyStrongMind