Pilates is the best class you can take at the Tarleton Rec Center

BY SARA FARMER / Contributing Student Writer

Out of all of the workout classes offered at the recreational facility at Tarleton, pilates is one of the most well-rounded and effective. 

The pilates classes are a combination of workouts that engage all of the muscles, but especially the core, glutes, hips, and back. Pilates works muscles that are not often used when lifting weights, such as the Erector Spinae, which is the opposing muscle to the abs.

Along with strength training, pilates also offers training in flexibility. Several stretches and balance sequences help participants develop more flexible limbs along with the ability to hold their balance longer. 

Instructor Sonia Bauer says that pilates is her favorite class to teach. 

“I love to teach pilates because you can make it as hard or as easy as you would like,” Bauer said. “I like to use different equipment when possible so you can make it more challenging.”

Pilates is the most popular class among the workout classes available. It has the highest number of regular attendees, averaging 20 attendees per class. 

“Pilates is by far my most popular class,” Bauer said. “We have had up to 60 people in pilates in this class. That has never happened before. I think it is because more students are beginning to know that we have more classes and more students are willing to come.”

Students have high approval rates for both the pilates class and for the pilates instructor. 

Freshman Therese Cox, a kinesiology major, expresses her love for the class. 

“Pilates is my favorite class because it’s relaxing and it relieves a lot of stress,” Cox said. “Sonia Bauer is a really great instructor. She knows what she's doing and makes it a really great time.” 

Students who are considering careers in kinesiology would benefit from attending the pilates class.

“Sonia knows the right breathing patterns and the right techniques and that is what kinesiology is about, the body's movement,” Cox said. “It is inspiring me to pursue a career in fitness instructing and maybe pilates one day.”

After attending classes twice a week for a semester, you will notice a significant increase in core and glute strength. If you are looking to get stronger and more flexible, pilates is for you.

Pilates classes are held upstairs in studio 225 from 5-6 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday.