Mat Pilates is a strengthening and lengthening form of exercise that focuses on your core (trunk) muscles while also training your arms and legs. 

 

Mat Pilates is based on the original exercises Joseph Pilates developed to strengthen his own body as a very young man and then began teaching others. The Mat work came before any of the Pilates Apparatus (equipment) he developed. It includes over 500 exercises and can be practiced anywhere. Mat Pilates can be modified for any age, body, or fitness level. It is even possible to practice the modifications of the Mat work in a chair.

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Pilates is a mind, body, and spirit practice with benefits that include improved posture, better coordination and balance, increased lung capacity, improved concentration and focus, increased body awareness, stress management, and injury prevention. Mat work is a great choice for everyone from Pilates beginners to advanced students because the exercises not only can build in difficulty, but every exercise can be modified to decrease or increase the level of challenge. Practicing Mat Pilates helps build a strong, balanced body and increases flexibility. As you progress in your practice you will notice improvements in breathing, focus, stress management, and body awareness. Mat Pilates is perfect for beginners because you only need your own body, a mat, and some floor space to start.

 

Credit to: https://www.pilatesanytime.com/cx/pilates-beginners-mat-cust