Choosing the Right Type of Pilates Class for you
Pilates is well-known for its ability to strengthen and tone muscles with its low-impact exercises.
And there are plenty of classes to choose from in Glasgow.
But, if you’re at the start of your Pilates journey, finding the right type of class for you can be overwhelming. If you’re a beginner, or a seasoned practitioner, this step-by-step guide will help you navigate choosing the right type of Pilates class for you.
First, let’s look at the different types of Pilates class we’ll be examining:
Mat Pilates
Classical Mat Pilates
Reformer Pilates
Equipment Pilates
Online Pilates
All of these types of Pilates classes are available in Glasgow, so choosing the right class will depend on your needs. Check out the good for section below each class description to see if the class will suit your needs.
1. Mat Pilates
The name gives it away; this type of Pilates class is based on a mat. Mat Pilates is the fundamental of the whole Pilates Method and is the best place to start for anyone looking to try Pilates for the first time. It is the building blocks of all other Pilates classes and techniques!
Mat Pilates can also be hugely challenging & stays effective & exciting for those who have been doing it for years. Contemporary Mat Pilates builds on Joseph Pilates’ 34 exercises, providing a bigger variety of repertoire that have evolved from the classical series.
Contemporary Mat Pilates can encompass small equipment like balls, magic circles, bands, foam rollers - and lots more! In our fully equipped studio, we have lots of equipment that help make exercises as effective as they can be!
At Yellow Pilates, we offer a mix of Classical and Contemporary Mat classes. Engaging, creative, and ever changing!
Good for: strengthening muscles, building stability, improving joint mobility, easing aches and pains, recovering from injury, low-impact workout.
2. Classical Mat
Joseph Pilates created a sequence of 34 exercises that form the foundation of Mat Pilates classes, that you can download here.
‘Classical Mat’ classes will only use the 34 exercises, often in fast-paced sequence. Movements such as the Hundred, the Roll Up, the Single Leg Stretch and the Swan-Dive are all staples of a classical mat class. They are all designed to strengthen, stretch and align the body using body weight as resistance.
Good for: intermediate or advanced practice, strengthening core muscles, building stability, low-impact workout.
3. Reformer Pilates
The term Reformer Pilates has become very popular over the last few years and has become associated with a sweaty workout, dark rooms, flashing lights & loud music.
Reformer Pilates is based around a piece of equipment called the Reformer. Despite Reformer Pilates being a popular trend in Pilates today, the Reformer was originally intended to be used in conjunction with other studio equipment in slow controlled movements, known more as Equipment Pilates.
There are Equipment classes that utilise the Reformer equipment, but use them in a slow, controlled and precise way. This is when the equipment is most effective and just as challenging.
Good for: increasing heart-rate, fast-paced exercise, sweat-based workout.
4. Equipment Pilates
Equipment Pilates refers to classes that use the Pilates studio equipment, made up of The Cadillac, Reformer, Wunda Chair, Ladder Barrel & the Tower.
You may have heard of these referred to as the Pilates machines.
Individually all of these piece of equipment can provide full body workouts, and together they form a powerhouse of never ending variety, ideas and effective ways to improve your strength, mobility & help with aches, pain and tension.
Equipment classes are often small, focused groups or 1-2-1 with an instructor. The instructor creates bespoke plans for each individual to utilise the equipment to enhance the benefits to the body.
Good for: strength training, targeted programmes, personalised rehab programme, post injury, post surgery, if you have mobility issues or if you have a medical condition.
Equipment Pilates is an excellent choice for specialised classes tailored to suit your needs, including pre and post natal Pilates, rehabilitation focused sessions or advanced programmes for athletes.
5. Online Pilates
Plenty of studios now offer virtual classes, so that you can practice at home. You can join in a class in real-time, by attending using virtual software like Zoom. Though this offers a brilliant, accessible way to join Pilates, especially if you are based outside of Glasgow, it does limit the instructor’s ability to feedback on your whole practice and technique.
You can also practice in your own time with Pilates workouts on Youtube. Why not try your first Pilates class below with us?
Good for: remote access, virtual attendance, strength training, increasing mobility.
How do I choose which type?
If you’re still not sure on which type of Pilates would suit you best, then why not have a go? Do some research of classes in Glasgow, or near you, and test out a few different classes to see what works for you.
How do I choose a studio?
A lot of Pilates studios have trial passes, intro offers or short beginner courses that you can take advantage of! Including Yellow Pilates.
Find out when our next beginner’s course starts.
Pay attention to how the instructor and studio make you feel. Did you enjoy the class? Do your body and mind feel better after the class? Choosing a setting that exudes positivity, support and inclusivity is vital for fostering a comfortable space for learning and growth.
But ultimately, trust your instincts. Choose a Pilates class and studio that resonates with you on a personal level: where you feel motivated, supported and excited to begin your Pilates journey.
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