Written by Elisa Withers, APPI founder, Physiotherapist (hons.) and Pilates instructor.
What is it exactly?
A Pilates circuit class is a small group class for up to 5 people who ‘circuit’ through 5 different stations. Each station is based on a different piece of Pilates equipment, including the reformer, tower or cadillac, chair, barrel and mat. A series of key movements are practiced on each of these specialised Pilates machines.
Are Pilates circuit classes new?
It is not! Originally, Jospeh Pilates based his Pilates session on this format. While it was not a group class, his clients would attend his studio and ‘circuit’ semi independently through a programme of exercises using all of the large Pilates equipment that we use today.
Joseph Pilates and Eve Gentry
How is a Pilates Circuit class different from a mat or reformer class?
A Pilates circuit class offers the opportunity to experience Pilates on several of the most well known large pieces of Pilates equipment. As a result, you get to know and practice a much wider and diverse range of movements. Furthermore, you will experience movement and exercise in a greater range of positions compared to the mat or reformer. All of this is highly beneficial for our bodies which demand multi-directional movement across all planes, in a range of different positions and with a focus on upright and functional movements.
If we’re looking to progress our functional strength and endurance, variety is key, and this is where a Pilates circuit class offers enormous opportunity. It’s also a great way to keep pour minds interested and adapting to change.
The Pilates reformer, Tower, chair, barrel and mat.
What are the benefits of a Pilates circuit class?
Where to start?
A circuit class will challenge you to learn the movements at a quicker pace that will challenge your strength, stamina and ability to understand the movements, listen to and learn about your body.
You will work more independently and learn to become autonomous in the movements while learning how your body is responding.
The diversity of movements in functional upright postures will transfer more readily to your daily movements and across other forms of exercise such as running or gym work.
And exercising as a group has endless benefits for making new friends and connections!
Pilates circuit classes at APPI clinics
You will find several Pilates circuit classes on our schedule for you to inject variation into your practice and inspire you to try this different type of practice. Reach new height in your own body awareness and functional strength with a Pilates circuit class.