I absolutely adore my Reformer, Cadillac, and Chair equipment along with all the props and springs. I can’t choose a favourite; it depends on my mood and body on a given day. There’s something special about Pilates equipment that makes me feel strong, mobile, supple, and relieves my pains.
The mat is the original and first piece of equipment Joseph Pilates created. He created the original mat order of 34 exercises and refined it over time. This sequence is so clever as it moves you through all five spine shapes and builds your connections as you go. It provides feedback on where your body is each day and where you need to build strength or ease. Trust the order, and over time your body will make those connections. I love the classical flow for this very reason. If you listen, it tells you about your body. It’s a full-body workout.
Matwork Pilates provides amazing results for your body, easing back, neck, and shoulder pain while strengthening your entire body. Here are 15 reasons why you should consider incorporating Matwork Pilates into your routine. I only wanted to write 10 but honestly couldn’t stop.
1. Simplicity and Effectiveness
Just you and your mat can create wonderful results. Matwork Pilates is simple yet delivers a full-body workout, helping you stay strong, mobile, and supple.
2. Pilates was created for YOUR life today
The mat is the original piece of equipment Joseph Pilates created when he developed Contrology, now known as Pilates. He designed an order of 34 exercises that move through all five spine shapes, offering feedback on your body’s condition each day. He knew we were moving into a more sedentary life with more sitting, this balance that out.
3. Powerful Results
Matwork Pilates provides visible changes and progress in your body, helping you see and feel the benefits of your practice.
4. Balance and Pain Relief
It balances your imbalances and eases your aches and pains. You can work around any health or pain challenges with sensitivity, knowing that not every move is suitable for every body.
5. Goal-Oriented
You can work towards your own goals. If there’s a particular move you want to master, you can progress towards it gradually through other exercises by feeling when you are ready to add on.
6. Consistency
Regular practice is key to seeing and feeling results. With Matwork Pilates, you can practise consistently at home, without needing a lot of space. You can even do it standing or seated if space is limited or at the office or on a train.
7. Portability
Matwork Pilates can be done anywhere. It’s ideal for travellers, as you can use a beach towel or any other surface as your mat, ideal for hotel rooms, you have your own private gym with you at all times.
8. Pain Management
You have the power to ease your own pain. You can listen to your body and move in ways that alleviate discomfort or build strength, making Pilates a personal and adaptable practice.
9. Suitable for All Levels
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner, Matwork Pilates offers challenges that match your level of experience. It continually challenges both body and mind.
10. Flexible Pace
You can choose your own pace, whether you want an intense workout or a gentle, connected practice. It’s adaptable to your energy levels and needs each day.
11. Cost-Effective
Practising Matwork Pilates costs nothing beyond your time and a mat, allowing for daily practice.
12. Solo or Group Practice
You can practise alone or enjoy the energy of a small group in a class.
13. Instructor Feedback
Attending classes with a skilled teacher provides valuable feedback, helping you to improve your form to get the best out of your session and stay motivated.
14. Inclusive
People of any age and body type can benefit from a Pilates practice of their own tailored just for them.
15. Mood Enhancement
Practising Pilates can lift your mood and leave you feeling more positive, whether you spend five minutes or fifty-five minutes on the mat.
Lastly, it’s fun! You get to move, get fitter, smile and laugh. My intention is that everyone leaves smiling and feeling better, lighter and stronger, than when they arrived knowing that they took from the session what they needed to.