That’s exactly what many Pilates style studios are doing now. We take classic techniques and add a strength training twist (or a few). Whether it’s replacing an airy, sunny studio with moody rooms and lighting, replacing spa-like songs with Top 40 hits, or replacing cues with high reps and dumbbells instead of stretches and light resistance. This means replacing it with exercise.
So is a more traditional Pilates class better? (Classic) teeth Or is a new hybrid workout that combines Pilates and cardio the most efficient and perhaps even fun way to break a good sweat?
In fact, “it can get very confusing very quickly,” says Joy Puleo, director of education, instructor and teacher trainer at Balanced Body. With the growing interest in Pilates (Pilates has been tipped as one of the biggest wellness trends of 2024), it offers “this kind of combination that uses reformers and tries to maintain some of your health.” has led to a proliferation of new or expanding studios. It’s the value of the Pilates methodology,” Puleo says.
Here, experts share why there are benefits to both methods and how to get the most out of your Pilates training, no matter what vibe you’re looking for.
traditional pilates principles
Joseph Pilates created and introduced this method in the 1920s as a rehabilitation and corrective exercise practice, alongside variations on the equipment that would become what we know today as Reformer. According to Puleo, the core principles are:
- quality of movement
- Control
- accuracy
- whole body coordination
- focus on breathing
“It’s an internal experience,” she says. “It’s slow and controlled. The whole experience is meant to focus on the mind and body.”
You’ll find that many of these core values are maintained in more modern classes. For example, you’ll find that in Solidcore classes, there’s an emphasis on the core, the body’s core power source, and an emphasis on precision and control, says the global brand’s training development director. said Taylor Bogenschuetz. Country.In addition, “Pilates and [Solidcore] We emphasize the connection between body and mind,” adds Bogenschutz.
What’s different about the latest hybrid Pilates classes?
Although each hybrid Pilates studio and class format is different, there are some common elements.
they tend to be fast-paced
“The biggest difference between the classic Pilates style and the Pilates style is that [our] Style is pace,” says Cheryl Estrellas, studio manager and instructor at VAURA, a new “athletic style” reinvention studio in New York City that takes inspiration from Australia’s club-like Vive Active. “We tend to move at a much faster pace, trying to get the heart rate up and add an aerobic element to the class.”
usually involves weight
Solidcore “features alternative exercises, intensity, and pacing that provide even more of the benefits you get with traditional weight training,” Bogenschutz says. And weight training is one of the big factors that separates these hybrid classes from classic classes. Both studios offer workouts that incorporate dumbbells ranging from 3 pounds to 8 or 10 pounds.
Dumbbells not only “maximize time under tension,” meaning uninterrupted muscle work, but they also “amplify” the movement with additional load, rather than relying solely on resistance from the reformer’s springs. ” explains Bogenschutz.
“Additional loading with dumbbells is built in to increase the load on multiple muscle groups, strengthen joints, and increase bone density,” says Estrellas of the VAURA class.
As a hybrid format, there’s a lot going on
Proponents say the secret sauce of this hybrid class is a mental two-for-one, combining low-impact, core-focused Pilates with high-energy, high-impact exercises.
Conversely, enthusiasts of more traditional styles of Pilates, whether mat or reformer, wonder if these combined classes bring efficiency or take away the mindful origin of the practice. You may be wondering.
So should you combine Pilates with strength training and cardio, or should they be done separately?
Simply put, it depends on your goals, preferences, mood, and other workouts, Puleo says. If you like loud music and crowds, these high-energy classes may be just the motivation you need. If you prefer a calmer, quieter environment that helps you focus on your workout and tune into your body, a more traditional, small-group class setting may be right for you.
In any case, “it’s not an outside experience,” Puleo says. “It’s really more internal and a lot depends on how the instructor creates that space.”
This mind-body connection and inner awareness is part of what keeps Pilates clients hooked for life, Puleo says.
“The essence of Pilates is building movement skills and sustaining movement over time.” [to] Help us do everything better,” she says. “[It’s] It’s not just an exercise routine, it’s a practice of movement and awareness. So I’m concerned that if we have a class that just caters to the need to feel like we’re on fire, if that’s all we’re doing, our clients will just pass by. Or? ”
I also want to be careful about overtraining. Balance high-intensity, taxing full-body classes with adequate rest, Puleo says, or replace some of these hybrid classes with more restorative yet challenging traditional Pilates reforms. Consider switching to classes.
If you are completely new to Pilates but love strength training, or vice versa, you should apply the same balanced approach. For example, if you already weight train three times a week, consider replacing one of those days with a Pilates session, Puleo says.
“Weekly proper strength training [workout] it must exist somewhere [in your routine]. “Some strength training becomes invaluable, especially as you get older,” she says. “Should it be one class?” I don’t think so have To become one in the class. Once the difference between what Pilates offers and what strength training offers becomes a little clearer, it becomes much easier to understand their integration. ”
If you’re still not sure what kind of Pilates class is right for you, choose one that you enjoy. If you move your body in a way that works for you and prioritize rest, you’ll be on the right track.
