March MATness: Why Mat Pilates Matters & How to Build Your Practice
Why Mat Work is the Heart of Pilates
Mat Pilates is often overlooked in favor of equipment-based workouts, but Joseph Pilates actually created the mat work first! It’s the purest expression of his method—using nothing but your body, breath, and control. Practicing the mat exercises consistently can help you:
Build strength and endurance, especially in your center
Improve flexibility and mobility
Develop better body awareness and coordination
Create a sustainable, independent Pilates practice
Mat work challenges you in a unique way. Without springs or straps to assist you, it demands full control over your movement, making it an essential part of any Pilates practice. As one of our clients Jenna shared:
"Mat work challenges me to advance my practice using only my body—and I love knowing that I have everything I need to do it at home. One of the best changes I’ve noticed? My posture and overall strength have improved so much!"
How to Create an Easy Mat Practice at Home
One of the best things about mat Pilates is that you can do it anywhere—no fancy equipment required! Here’s how to make it a habit:
Keep it simple – You don’t need to do all 34 exercises at once. Start with just 10-15 minutes a day, focusing on a handful of exercises.
Follow the classical mat order – Each exercise builds on the last, preparing your body for what’s next and creating a natural flow.
Be consistent – Even 3-4 days a week can make a difference. The key is repetition and building a routine.
Find accountability – Practicing alone is great, but joining a class or challenge can help you stay motivated.
Join Us for March MATness at Nephesh Pilates!
If you’re ready to deepen your Pilates practice, we’d love for you to join us for March MATness! Our mat classes are a great way to refine your technique, build strength, and stay consistent with your practice. We offer mat classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 PM and Sundays at 9 AM—come move with us and experience the benefits of regular mat work firsthand!
📅 Tuesday/Thursday Evenings, Sunday mornings
📍 Nephesh Pilates, East Sacramento
➡️ Sign up here!