Pilates is a total body workout that focuses on core strength, flexibility, and overall body awareness. Once a little-known exercise developed and taught by a single man, pilates has since evolved into a popular workout for people of all ages and abilities.
One of the things that makes pilates so popular is that it can be adapted to fit a person’s fitness levels and abilities. Much like yoga, there are different types of pilates styles and classes that help students achieve different goals.
Sun Rock Yoga has expanded our pilates offerings this year with the opening of our brand-new pilates and yoga studio space. We’re excited to welcome students at every stage in their wellness journey. If you’re thinking about giving pilates a try, keep reading. We’re breaking down the best beginner pilates classes, and what to know ahead of your first class.
The Best Beginner Pilates Classes
Pilates can be intimidating for beginners. Just like yoga, each movement and position tends to look more complicated than it is and has its own name that may be foreign to beginners. Add in pilates equipment like reformers or towers, and you might think that you would need years of practice before you can truly get through a pilates class. Luckily, this isn’t the case at all.
Before we dive into the best beginner pilates classes, it’s important to understand the core principles of pilates. This style of exercise was created by a man named Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. His exercise system was designed to help students strengthen what he called the body’s “powerhouse” — your core muscles. Pilates uses targeted, controlled movements alongside mindful breathing to not only enhance body awareness but also to increase core strength and overall flexibility.
These movements may look complicated. And learning them while also focusing on your breathing can be a little challenging. But with the right beginner pilates classes, you can start enjoying the benefits of pilates right from the first class.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the best beginner pilates classes.
Mat Pilates
One of the best beginner classes at our pilates St George Utah studio is Mat Pilates. As the name suggests, this class takes pilates to the yoga mat. Using your own body weight, you’ll perform a number of exercises designed to help you build strength and balance.
Because you’re only focusing on moving your body rather than using reformers or other equipment, this class is a great introduction to pilates. If you’re already enjoying yoga classes at our Sunrock studio, this class is also an easy transition into pilates, as it builds on many of the existing moves and muscles that you have from your yoga classes.
Yoga Pilates Fusion
Mat Pilates shares some similarities with yoga. But Yoga Pilates Fusion takes this one step further.
If you know anything about either, you’ll know that yoga and pilates complement one another. Both put an emphasis on building both physical and mental strength. Not only do they help you build muscles and improve your flexibility, but they also focus on deep breathing and calming your mind. Yoga Pilates Fusion combines the best of both workouts. With little equipment use and a foundation of yoga that you might already be familiar with, this is one of the best beginner pilates classes.
Barre Pilates Fusion
Barre is another great workout that shares some similarities with pilates and yoga. Inspired by the graceful, targeted movements of ballet, barre combines cardio, flexibility, strength training, balance, and core conditioning.
You don’t have to be a former ballerina to enjoy a barre workout. Anyone can enjoy this great exercise, regardless of experience. This makes a Barre Pilates Fusion class a great choice for beginners. This class combines those targeted movements of barre with the strength-building benefits of mat pilates.
Getting Started With Pilates
Any of these classes is a great choice for a beginner looking to give pilates a try. And all three are available at our Sunrock yoga studio!
If you’re ready to start your own journey at the best studio for pilates St George Utah has to offer, there are a few things you need to know. First up is that pilates, just like yoga, requires the right type of clothing.
You could wear just about any outfit to a mat pilates class. But the right pilates clothing can help you stay safe and comfortable during your workout. Opt for clothing that is close-fitting but not too tight or restrictive. Choose a fabric that is lightweight, not hot, and that will wick away moisture when you sweat. Avoid wearing clothing with buttons, strings, or zippers that might get in the way or be uncomfortable.
If you have long hair, make sure to tie it back before starting beginner pilates classes. During your class, it’s important to listen to your body. While these classes are great for beginners, you could find yourself getting tired or struggling to reach a specific pose. If this happens, allow yourself to take a break and breathe. Don’t worry about being perfect; instead, your first few classes should be about getting your toes wet and learning what pilates is all about.
Finding the Best Yoga and Studio Near Me
Beginner pilates classes are a great way to get introduced to this unique and rewarding exercise. Much like yoga, pilates can help you build strength, improve flexibility, and boost your overall wellness.
Finding the best yoga and pilates studio near me is an important first step in your pilates journey. With the right studio, you’ll feel supported and equipped to safely enjoy your first pilates workout, and every workout after that! At Sun Rock Yoga studio, we welcome yogis and barre and pilates enthusiasts at every stage in their journey.
If you’re ready to give these beginner pilates classes a try, stop by our studio today! If you’re new to our pilates St George Utah studio, you can take advantage of our 30 for $30 pass. For just $30, you can enjoy 30 days of classes, including mat pilates, Barre Pilates Fusion, and more. This pass is a great way to try out some new classes at our Sun Rock Yoga studio. Sign up today and start your own yoga or pilates journey!