If you enjoy pilates workouts and want to step it up, consider Kristi Cooper’s Pilates Energy & Strength Class. The workout focuses on improving your core and muscular endurance through a full-body workout. Those who are intermediates and above will benefit most from this class, as it deals with higher-level movements than those who are just beginning. Learn more about the class and its benefits below.
1. Gentle Warm-Up for Focused Practice
The Pilates Energy & Strength class starts at a gentle pace, allowing participants to take stock of their current physical state and create goals for the class. Taking a second to collect yourself helps foster a focused mindset throughout the workout, connecting your mind and body before the real work even begins. It’s also a great way to avoid unnecessary injury by pushing too hard.
2. Foundational Exercises for Enhanced Mobility
While completing the Pilates Energy & Strength class, you will have a series of foundational exercises:
- Pelvic Curls: This exercise helps warm up the spine and release any built-up tension.
- Upper Body Curls: Focuses on the core muscles while also prioritizing core stability.
- Rotational Movements: Keeping and improving your flexibility, along with spinal mobility.
Each of these exercises helps prepare participants for harder, more dynamic movements. It also contributes to body awareness, similar to the warm-up portion of the workout.
3. Core-Focused Movements for Strength and Stability
Once participants are loose and warmed up, it’s time to get into the concentrated section of the workout with core-focused movements:
- Double Leg Stretch: This stretch targets core strength and endurance.
- Rollbacks: This workout targets balance and coordination within your core.
- Side Planks and Side Bends: While difficult, these two exercises help with muscular engagement and stability.
Cooper’s Pilates Energy & Strength class modifies these workouts to make them challenging yet accessible to different skill levels. This way, instead of getting frustrated, participants can hone their techniques and connect with their bodies.
4. Targeted Stretches for Suppleness
Since many of these exercises focus on stretching and mobility, you can reap the benefits of flexibility in several muscle groups. This is particularly true for the hamstrings, hip flexors, and upper body. Plus, for those who struggle with maintaining a healthy posture, these movements will help build strength and proper alignment for fewer back problems.
5. Relaxing Cooldown for Grounding
The workout concludes with easy balancing exercises and a cooldown, leaving participants centered and energized for the rest of the day or week until their next workout. The equal parts of challenge and relaxation are the key to Cooper’s teaching philosophy, and show why the Pilates Energy & Strength class works so well.
Final Thoughts
For those who want a well-rounded workout that challenges their bodies, Kristi Cooper’s Pilates Energy & Strength class is a great option. That doesn’t even count the mind and body connection. Upgrade your Pilates workout plan with Cooper’s class, and improve your core focus, spinal mobility, and breath awareness. Your body and mind will be grateful.