When Pilates meets weights, you get Pilates Sculpt!

“The Pilates Sculpt class is basically like a Pilates mat class – just with weights and one circuit,” says Pilates sculpt class instructor Allison Anderson. “Your traditional Pilates mat class may include a circle and flex band, but mine adds weights to sculpt and tone your body.”

Pilates is a form of exercise developed in the early 20th century by gymnast Joseph Pilates. It focuses on postural alignment, strengthening and balancing muscles around the spine, as well as focusing on core muscles.

The class implements yoga as a warmup, and transitions into sculpting by using more weights and focusing on arms and legs. As the class progresses, focus moves into hip mobility, abs, belly, and core. The last part focuses on glutes and hamstrings, and the class ends with a restful Shavasana – Anderson’s personal touch as a moment to recuperate.

One of the most popular benefits from attending the class is a strengthened core. Furthermore, participants report decreased back pain, a greater center of balance, and enhanced coordination.

Additionally, Anderson notes that the class is designed to accommodate people of varying skill levels. “If anyone feels like a beginner, I will definitely come help and adjust them,” says Anderson. “That’s the great thing about Pilates – there are so many layers, so even if you’re super advanced, I will still give you a layer to feel challenged in. A lot of people think Pilates isn’t as hard because you’re not sweating all the time, but you’re going to feel it the next day – I guarantee you that.”

Pilates Sculpt classes take place on Monday night’s at 6:30 p.m. in the Farber Fitness Room located on the second floor of the SRWC. No RSVP is needed!

For more information, visit the SRWC front desk or visit ASIrecreation.org/fitness.