This is the Alpha and Omega of the Pilates Method. The fundamentals begin here with the introduction of the basic concepts of improved breath, stability and core control, without the added complexity of the equipment. Yet, mat is also where the most advanced work lies. Without the support of the equipment, this is where a person gains incredible strength, mobility, mental focus, and a mastery of the skills needed to maintain great health. SOOO… whether you want to feel like a super-hero who can balance on one arm and defy gravity, or you just want to be able to stand on one leg and put on a sock without making that sound, mat is the place to be!

Pilates equipment is one of the things that makes this Method truly unique. The Reformer, Low Chair, and Tower use springs rather than weights, providing a challenge for muscles and joints that applies in multiple directions, helping to build strong, flexible bodies. The equipment also serves as support by holding limbs in the air, providing points of contact to reach into, and by aiding in the return from end range. With this much support, Pilates apparatus is the Patrick Swayze to your Jennifer Grey.

Below are some tips and suggestions for setting up your online pilates space, as well as a list of props you may find useful. A good mat and solid wifi connection are the only requirements, but the following might make your practice more successful. There are many choices out there, and you may find better prices or products that you prefer, but I'm linking to items I like. Please choose the products you like best, or feel free to opt out altogether. As always, let me know if you have any questions.

• First, if possible, choose a space that allows you to move freely at least an arms length from the side of the mat.

• I find it’s best to use a laptop or tablet are. The screen size will allow you to see yourself or me. But if those aren't at your disposal, your phone will still work fine. It's best to set up from a side view and slightly above the floor. A stack of books or a low coffee table often work well. Some people like to attach their phone to a tripod stand that can be purchased at most tech stores (BestBuy). From my end, I just need to be able to see your entire body from the side. Plan to log on to Zoom a few minutes early to make sure you can see your space fully on the screen. 

• Good lighting helps as well, but please make sure you're not back lit. 

• Make sure your speaker works well. That's rarely an issue as long as the wifi is stable. If your space tends to be loud, please mute your mic.

Props:

• A good mat is a must, and that means either a Pilates mat that’s about 1” thick, or a yoga mat on top of a thick, smooth rug. A yoga mat alone won’t work for the rolling exercises. I really like the EcoWise Pilates mat sold by Balanced Body. https://www.pilates.com/products/ecowise-pilates-mat/

• A weighted bag is a great help for exercises like rollup. You just fill one with sand, rice, etc., and it’s a great substitute for a foot strap. https://www.theyogawarehouse.com/Kakaos-Sandbags?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD-wJ0czurmLJsVAmB9Vs7Dx6YB5_

• A weighted bar can be nice, but is not required. Many hardware stores sell smooth rebar that weighs maybe 3ish lbs. and is about 3/4”. I give these a good scrub and add end caps, and they make great bars. This is only used for a couple of exercises, so don't go out of your way unless you really found it useful at the studio.

• If sitting up straight while on the floor is challenging, a low step stool or thick stack of books is a must. Depending on the level of difficulty, giving yourself a good 12"-18" aid will pay off in the long run. Over time, you will be decreasing the height.

• While not required, various elastic bands, gerdy balls, and yoga blocks can come in handy.