Why you need to check out Club Pilates' new Mizner location
It’s no secret that I’m obsessed with Pilates, and that I went from hardly ever working out to taking a class (or two) six days a week. I attribute this drastic change to a few factors… First, I decided that it was time to take better care of myself. Second, I put my classes in my iCal and treat them as I would a conference call or meeting—and that time is blocked out (with the exception of urgent work matters or important family obligations). But perhaps the biggest motivator is Club Pilates itself, because I actually want to go there every day. I get to see familiar faces, tune everything else out for 50 minutes and do something that makes my body feel (and look) its best!
When I found out Club Pilates was opening their second Boca location near Mizner Park, I was more than happy to help spread the word. If you’re Pilates-curious and want to see what it’s all about, mark your calendar for June 20-23, because you won’t want to miss the opening festivities!
COMPLIMENTARY INTRO CLASSES: Click here to schedule!
A weekend-long raffle that includes products and services from our opening weekend partners! Attend an intro class to be automatically entered, and you can get extra entries by bringing a friend or purchasing a Club Pilates membership.
Pop-up tastings with 3Natives, Raw Juce, The Poke Company and Barrel of Monks
Complimentary services courtesy of Dr. Lisa Huffman of Yamato Chiropractic, Fabletics, Dirty Blonde Salon, Eden Day Spa and Body20
Special offers like $0 enrollment along with 20% off unlimited memberships and 8-class packs
For more info, call 561.826.4284 or email miznerblvd@clubpilates.com.
I understand that some of you might be wondering if Pilates is right for you, or as one of my friends asked, “Will I die?” (The answer is definitely, “No, you will not die.”) So, I sat down (and did a one-on-one mini workout) with comprehensive certified Pilates instructor Lisa Berger—who happens to be one of my favorite people in the whole world and has seen my physical and mental transformation over the past 18 months. (But more on that later.)
Me: What are the main principles of Pilates?
LB: Pilates is all about controlled movement initiated from the core. By using stabilization techniques, isolating specific muscles and engaging multiple muscle groups, Pilates builds strength and flexibility safely and effectively. Pilates promotes long, lean muscles, and because the movements are more about ‘flow’ than momentum-based bursts, regular practice yields muscle definition without unwanted ‘bulk.”
“Hug a Tree.”
Me: Who is Pilates ideal for?
LB: Pilates is ideal for everybody! It’s great for young people who want to increase their strength, as well as older people who are experiencing degenerative issues because it’s a safe, controlled way of moving. Its emphasis on stability and balance can also help enhance your performance while doing other sports and activities. If you’re a golfer or tennis player, Pilates can help protect your lower back while twisting at the waist. If you’re a runner, Pilates helps strengthen your supporting leg muscles while improving your stamina and flexibility.
The chair is my favorite! (And I think it’s time to schedule a color appointment.)
Me: What if you have injuries?
LB: Pilates is safe for anyone with neck, back, shoulder, knee or any other injuries or issues because every exercise can be modified. In fact, many physical therapy clinics offer or recommend Pilates for their patients because of how safe and controlled the movements are.
Nothing feels better than a good “Bridge.” And can we discuss Lisa’s arms?
Me: What’s the biggest misconception about Pilates?
LB: One of the main misconceptions about Pilates is that it’s just for women. When I train men, they quickly realize how challenging it can be to move with control—and without the momentum associated with lifting heavy weights. Another big assumption about Pilates is that it’s not challenging. It only looks easy because the movements are slow and controlled. I equate Pilates to dance (and there are actually many parallels). Dancers make it look so graceful and beautiful, but it takes more strength than you can imagine to make it look that easy.
Every damn day!
Me: What do you say to people who may be intimidated by the Reformer?
LB: Starting any new form of exercise or stepping onto any new piece of equipment comes along with a little fear. The more you work on the Reformer, the more you understand how the different levels of tension on the springs affect your workout. Once you see the changes in your body and begin to feel more balanced, you realize there’s nothing to be afraid of.
Me: What makes Club Pilates different from other studios?
LB: Club Pilates is committed to creating a supportive environment. We’re more than friends, we’re family. We focus on encouragement—there’s no place for competition here. It’s also unique that we incorporate several types of equipment beyond the traditional Reformer while staying true to the principles of stabilization and core control. We also use the springboard, Pilates chair, TRX exercises, the Bosu ball, stretch bands, hand weights and mat work—often all in one class. As you progress through the levels, more equipment is incorporated so clients can challenge themselves in different ways.
Me: How do you recommend getting started?
LB: Just take the leap with one class and see if it’s something that you enjoy! Every exercise isn’t for everyone, but you won’t know if Pilates is for you unless you try.
Me: What changes have you seen in me since I joined Club Pilates 18 months ago?
LB: Beyond drastic improvement in your form, range of motion, core strength and stamina, I see you pushing yourself further and further. You’re fearless and believe you can accomplish anything I throw at you!
