Pilates is an exercise system designed to lengthen the muscles and strenthen the core.  It emphasizes proper breathing, precision and concentration.  Dynabands, The “Magic Circle” and Foam rollers may be used to challenge participants who are already familiar with the basics.  The INTRO class is strongly suggested for new participants and a good review of the basic principles and exercises. Taught By Liisa Vaska (Stott Pilates)

Mat Pilates PLUS Cardio: Monday nights at 7pm.
A full warm-up for the entire body followed by basic mat exercises to help increase awareness of proper breathing technique, and abdominal/core strength and control plus 30 minutes of cardiovascular (aerobic) exercise on the rebounder (mini-trampoline).  Good for all fitness levels and lots of fun!

Mat Pilates- Open Level: Wednesday nights at 7pm.
This is a multi-level class where modifications will be given for those just starting out and more challenging exercises will be given for those who are ready to move to a more advanced level.  The basic principles will be reviewed briefly at the start of class.  This class will help you strengthen your core muscles, improve breathing and posture and create a longer, leaner musculature.

What to expect out of your Pilates session

Like anything in life, you get out of your Pilates session what YOU put into it! Approach each session ready to do what it takes to get the most of your hour, and you will leave with that wonderful energized feeling that comes from a great workout. Don’t allow your mind to wander off to work or life issues. Keep your focus ON the exercises, and you WILL achieve your desired results.

If you’re new to Pilates, keep in mind that Pilates is a different form of exercise: you won’t feel the same “burn” you are accustomed to experiencing at the gym lifting weights. In fact, our clients report that they feel the third or fifth lesson MORE than the first. Pilates tends to become more difficult as you progress because YOU learn to work harder and get the most benefit from each exercise.

Finally, Don’t be fooled by exercises that seem simple initially. Pilates works smaller muscle groups that may have been neglected all your life. Thus, doing the exercises properly with great attention to alignment and form is of the utmost importance. Combining your deliberate, precise movements with specific breath patterns helps focus the mind on the body, and you will get more out of each exercise.

Ten tips to get more out of your Pilates session

1. Be Here In Mind And Body! Try to use this as an escape from whatever may be on your mind.
2. Listen to your instructor and follow her cues.
3. Breathe deeply and focus on the breath as per the cues
4. Energize and control every motion. Pilates is never about range or speed!! Think about the quality and finesse of each movement rather than the “power”.
5. Appreciate when an instructor makes a minor adjustment that may seem like “knit picking” to you, for these subtle changes can make a significant difference in your workout.
6. Visualize the changes you want to occur in your body and bring that desire to your session.
7. Complete each movement with precision, finesse and a feeling of Length.
8. Focus more on detail instead of the muscle…the muscle will work better because you have focused on detail.
9. Don’t Do Anything Half-Heartedly. Extraneous conversation can thwart your progress.
10. Incorporate what you learn here into your daily routine, whether it is walking down the street, typing at your computer or working out at the gym.