06 May Everything you Need to Know About Pilates Trios
Want to know before you go?
At Flex, we understand the Classical Pilates equipment and system may at first appear a little daunting to the uninitiated.
So here, we have compiled a full run down of what to expect when you’re taking part in our popular and effective Trio sessions. Whether you’re a beginner, an immediate or ready to advance, there is a Trio to suit you.
For a quick visual insight, too, take a look at this video! (https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=731096151382437)
Our Trainers:
Firstly, all Flex instructors are highly qualified with intensive experience. They are aligned with the Classical Pilates philosophy. Flex is a community-minded family-style studio, so each trainer instils a cohesive style into each and every Trio. In other words, you won’t find one trainer who teaches a vastly different session from another. Plus, they are all focused on ensuring safe, efficient, and personalised Trios that helps you get the most from your class. Their focus is on YOU!
The Process:
Equipment used is the Reformer, the Tower, the Wunda Chair, and the collection of Barrels: Small Barrels, Spine Corrector and the Ladder Barrel. We also throw in Mat work and small props (hand weights and Magic Circle) for good measure.
You’ll be guided on how to utilize the equipment, how to grip, move, and get the most from the flow of the movement.
You may hear the word ‘flow’ regularly. Flex Studio founder Heather Thomas says that a key benefit of Pilates is mind-body control, an awakening of the brain through unbroken focused concentration during the workout.
“Most clients experience a flow state of being “in the zone” when practicing Pilates; time and distractions melt away as full attention is given to every aspect of the body’s performance,” says Heather.
This flow state was first identified by Hungarian-American psychologist Mihály Csíkszentmihályi in 1975 as being fully immersed in a feeling of energized focus, full involvement, and enjoyment in the process of the activity. In essence, flow is characterized by the complete absorption in what one does, and a resulting transformation in one’s sense of time.
As clients memorize each sequence, they can fully absorb the nuances of each movement, rather than being consumed with choreography, which can be distracting.
Each exercise is meant to flow at the pace of a heartbeat, with transitions keeping the mind and body fully immersed for a full 55-minute session.
“Jumping on the Reformer and moving through a complete sequence is like playing a piece of music non-stop… one note flows into the next.”
Our Trios are structured to teach clients sequences by level, so they “feel the flow,” and leave practice refreshed and mentally alert after the session.
Words you will Hear:
Pretty quickly, all these following terms will become familiar. Beginners will be given variations as an introduction. Over time, you will advance your practice. Your trainer can assist you to make the appropriate changes when you or they see that you’re ready.
For example, this is the Beginner sequence of exercises on The Reformer:
Mount |
Footwork I, II, III, V |
The Hundred |
Frogs/Circles |
Stomach Massage |
Round |
Hands Back |
Reach |
Twist* |
Short Box Series: |
Round |
Flat |
Side to Side |
Twist Reach* |
Tree* |
Elephant |
Knee Stretches: |
Round |
Arched |
Off* |
Running |
Pelvic Lift *add for Beginner once Basic is mastered |
Why Trios?:
As long-time Classical Pilates professionals, we at Flex have often found that small group classes are a great example of the Goldilocks Rule in action, increasingly seen as the perfect balance between a group/social dynamic, financial output, and personalized support.
“There is nothing better during any exercise class than a trainer who is well versed in any current or previous injuries, physical limitations and personal goals,” says Flex Founder Heather Thomas.
“Some people may put up their hand and explain briefly in a large group class what they have going on, but for many, this can also feel like we’re taking up other’s precious class time, over or understating an issue, or not want to speak in a large group setting.
“Not speaking out, though, can lead to injury because the trainer can’t give a personalized effort to every member of a large group.
“This is where smaller group classes can tick a lot of boxes for both trainer and trainee.”
Have You Tried a Class Yet?
Get 25% off Classical Pilates Trio Trial!
Flex Studio Hong Kong
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
Orchard: 390 Orchard Road 05-02 Palais Renaissance S 238871
WA: +65 9111 6855