Pilates Isn’t Just for the Elite Anymore

There are a lot of misconceptions about Pilates. Many people think it is only for those who are super fit, have big budgets, or already have an established workout routine. Locally owned Club Pilates is helping change that perception. Pilates is not just for the elite anymore. Club Pilates offers affordable and inclusive Reformer based Pilates classes for all levels. 

A Community for Everyone 

At one of five locations across the Memphis area, from Midtown to Mississippi, you will be warmly welcomed and encouraged. Whether you are a first timer or an experienced Pilates enthusiast, the goal is to support you and help you achieve your goals. Club Pilates believes Pilates is for everyone and meets you where you are on your journey. 

Our members represent all genders, ages, backgrounds, and professions. They are truck drivers, surgeons, physical therapists, warehouse workers, teachers, and entrepreneurs. Pilates is what brings this diverse Memphis community together around a common goal of creating strength, flexibility, and confidence through a proven exercise method. 

A Schedule That Works for You 

Finding time to exercise can be a challenge, especially with a busy or unpredictable schedule. Club Pilates makes it easier to find a class time that works, with classes scheduled throughout the day, seven days a week. 

Penny is a member who works in a demanding job for the city. She put off getting started with Pilates because she is always on call. She did not think she could make the class times work. She gave it a try and joined to see if she could find some much needed time for herself. She has attended over 250 classes in two years. 

She says, “Pilates is the thing that keeps me going with my busy schedule. As a bonus, it helps me avoid migraines!”

Building Your Foundation 

First timers should start at the beginning to create a solid foundation. We offer class levels so you can learn the basics and build your skills as you move toward more advanced classes. This also helps you know what to expect from each class. You learn to work the method of Pilates and not just the equipment. 

There are varied class styles that support different fitness goals, with higher intensity options like Cardio Sculpt, where participants jump lying down, or Circuit, with Pilates exercises in progressive rounds for an extra challenge. 

There are also classes that focus on flexibility and recovery, such as Center + Balance or Restore, which offers myofascial release. You can always count on Reformer Flow classes to provide a balanced and varied workout. 

Maria, a graduate student, has been attending for two years during her program and comes to classes daily. She has loved the positive changes Pilates has brought to her life. She says, “My posture has improved significantly, and my lower back pain has reduced. I look forward to it, and it is the highlight of my day.” 

What Surprised Cassandra Most 

You might think you cannot do Pilates, or maybe you think you have aged out of this as a fitness option. That is just a myth. Intro class participants are often surprised by what they can do and how quickly they can become comfortable using the equipment. 

As a new member, you will receive support as you develop an exercise routine, even if you are completely new to Pilates. Member Cassandra had almost given up on finding a fitness routine that would work for her. 

She says, “Pilates helped me take control of my body after losing my mobility and strength post COVID. I tried stretching and physical therapy for 90 days and had given up on myself and recovery. Club Pilates changed my thought process and my life forever! The community and family you gain from Club Pilates help motivate you when you want to give up on yourself!”

An Investment in Your Health 

Pilates can be a long term investment in your health, but you do not have to have a big budget to participate. Club Pilates offers options designed to make Pilates accessible to different budgets, including free community mat classes, group class memberships, and private session packages. 

For many people, consistent, quality Pilates with qualified instructors can become a meaningful part of a long term health and wellness routine. As Joseph Pilates said, “Movement heals.” Pilates is a low impact workout that works your whole body in a sustainable way. 

More Than Just the Reformer 

Club Pilates offers the full suite of Pilates equipment in group classes, making equipment that was once primarily available through private sessions more accessible. These classes go beyond the Reformer, so you can learn how the Pilates method works as a whole across different equipment. 

The EXO Chair takes what you are doing on the Reformer and adds a layer of challenge with the moving pedal. The Springboard gives you a stable surface to move while working with springs from a fixed position on the wall. Working with different pieces of equipment can add both support and challenge. 

Cindy, a nurse, says, “I have less back and knee pain, which has helped me with my running. I feel so much stronger to do my physical job as a nurse. The class schedules fit perfectly with my busy schedule.” 

Try a Complimentary Class to See How It Can Work for You 

Maybe you thought Pilates was not accessible to your budget, schedule, or abilities. Whatever has held you back, there is only one way to find out how Pilates could fit into your life: try it. 

Who knows? That first class could turn into your first month, and before you know it, your own 100 class milestone.

Club Pilates has five locations across the Memphis area in East Memphis, Collierville, Lakeland, Midtown, and Snowden Grove. If you have been curious about Pilates, a complimentary introductory class is a great place to start.

This blog was written by Heather Holloway

Heather is the General Manager and a Pilates Instructor at Club Pilates Midtown Memphis. She’s lived in Memphis for three years. She enjoys walking her dog at Overton Park and exploring the vegan food scene.

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