In the world of Pilates, an interesting paradox exists. While newcomers often approach the Reformer and Tower with trepidation, seasoned practitioners sometimes shy away from returning to the mat. Yet, according to FLEX Founder Heather Thomas Shalabi, this fundamental aspect of Pilates practice holds the key to unlocking your full potential—whether you’re a devoted Reformer enthusiast or a Wunda Chair aficionado.
When you strip away the springs, straps, and moving parts, something remarkable happens. Mat work demands a different kind of attention, one that forces you to tune in to your body’s subtle signals and engage more deeply with each movement. Without the machinery’s guidance, you’re challenged to maintain form and control purely through your own body awareness and strength.
“With a focus back on the mat, you’re breaking up your routine, as well as reminding yourself of the basics,” explains Heather. This departure from equipment-based work isn’t just about variety—it’s about reinforcing the fundamental principles that make Pilates so effective. The mat becomes your teacher, demanding complete engagement and precise control with every movement.
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of mat work. Modern mat classes incorporate versatile props like rings, balance balls, and thera-bands, adding layers of challenge and effectiveness to traditional exercises. These simple tools can be surprisingly powerful in building lean muscle, targeting core strength, and improving posture—often more intensely than machine-based work.
What makes mat work particularly valuable is its role in deepening the mind-body connection, the cornerstone of functional movement. When you’re working with just your body weight and a mat, there’s nowhere to hide. Every movement requires conscious engagement and control, helping you develop a more intuitive understanding of your body’s mechanics.
The benefits of mat work extend far beyond the mat itself. According to Heather, “When you’re next working on the Tower, you know you can access those muscles with or without it, giving you more access to nailing that equipment-based session.” This transfer of awareness and control enhances your overall Pilates practice, making equipment-based sessions more effective and meaningful.
Ultimately, the combination of mat and equipment work aligns perfectly with Classical Pilates teachings. By regularly returning to the mat, practitioners ensure their bodies move well under any circumstances, maintaining the essence of Joseph Pilates’ method whether working with or without apparatus.
Remember, the humble mat class isn’t just a starting point—it’s a continuous source of challenge and refinement for practitioners at every level. So next time you’re tempted to bypass the mat for the Reformer, consider giving this fundamental practice the attention it deserves. Your body (and your apparatus work) will thank you for it!
In March, we celebrate March MATness; an annual awareness campaign that highlight the traditional sequence of Pilates mat exercises. We also have some special deals in store for you!
FLEX Studio Hong Kong
Bring a friend to any of the Tower Mat or Classical Mat classes and get 3x referral points!
Further enquiries below.
Central : 3F Man Cheung Building 15-17 Wyndham Street, Central
T: 2813 2399 WA +852 5740 5103
Island South : Shops 2205 & 2209 One Island South 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang
T: 2813 2212 WA: +852 5740 9420
FLEX Studio Singapore
3 Tower Mat Trio Classes for SGD 200
*Applicable for new clients only
Orchard : 390 Orchard Road 05-02 Palais Renaissance S 238871
WA: +65 9016 3539
