If you aren’t doing Mat work, you’re missing out. Dare we say, if you’re not doing Mat work…are you even practicing the Pilates method at all? With the popularity of the Reformer, Mat work has taken a back seat. However, the Mat work is what came first in the method. It is the foundation, the starting point, the teacher of the method, the heart and soul if you will. The Mat work gives you so much, and we can't wait to share with you how, and hopefully convince you to take a few minutes to yourself and get curious.

The Mat work teaches and encourages autonomy. Autonomy is defined as the act of being independent, free, self governing without outside interference. Who wouldn’t want that?

When you learn the Mat order, you are learning how to connect your mind to your body. Yes you could watch a video, crane your neck and try to follow along. However, learning your order and practicing with just yourself and your Mat is much more powerful. You are learning to use an order to measure your growth and feel the differences each time you practice. The more you practice the more you will strengthen your body awareness and notice when something is off, improving or when a new connection is made. It’s like giving yourself a roadmap to your body and finding all the different routes that can lead you back home.

The Mat work is portable and FREE! You can do the Mat work anywhere! Traveling? Do your Mat work. Inclement weather? Mat work. Stressed? Mat work. Financial constraint? Mat work. Feeling lost? Mat work. Daily morning/evening routine? Mat work. Clearly we can do this all day, however we will spare you a million examples. Instead, next time you need to get movement in but can’t make it to the studio? Do your Mat work and trust that it's going to support you till then next time you’re in.

The Mat work mirrors the Reformer. There are so many sister exercises between the apparatuses. If you’re only doing one and not the other, you’re holding yourself back. Want to master Snake and Twist on the Reformer? Well how does your Spine Twist, Leg Pull Front and Side Bend look on the Mat? All the other Pilates apparatuses like the Barrels, Chairs, Cadillac and small accessories? They help build and refine both your Mat and Reformer. You don’t just do more advanced movements because you’ve practiced for x many years, you progress because you are ready and capable. The Pilates method should be practiced regularly for you to reap the full benefits, although we’d love to have you in the studio everyday we know that isn’t always a possibility. Practicing your Mat work on your own though? You can do that in addition to work on the apparatus at any time.

Want to learn more about the Mat order, the Pilates method or just nerd out with us? Make sure to follow sign up for our monthly newsletter and stay tuned for specialty pop ups.

Cheers!

-Jennifer