Mind & Motion

Sometimes I start my workout like this: (Meghan on the reformer doing footwork)
Sometimes I start my workout like this: (Meghan on the wall doing WECK method stretches)

CAPTION: I came across a post recently where a well-known Pilates account criticized another teacher for starting class with side-bending and rotation. To be fair, that sequence might not be appropriate for everyone—but it also might be exactly what many people need.
It got me thinking: just because one movement method follows a particular sequence doesn’t mean a different approach is wrong. Different doesn’t automatically mean harmful.
In classical Pilates, we typically begin a reformer workout with footwork because that’s how Joe Pilates originally sequenced it (though he often preceded it with work on the Cadillac). Footwork is a global movement that helps connect your feet to your spine. The Weck Method, on the other hand, often begins with side-bending and rotation against a wall to emphasize coiling one side, then the other, before returning to center. Both approaches can feel fantastic.
My philosophy is simple: start with movements that help you settle your nervous system and connect with your body. That might be rolling on the floor, hanging from the footbar, side-bending, or gentle rotation. Explore movement in all directions before adding load so your joints experience freedom of movement before they’re asked to control it under resistance.
Movement isn’t one-size-fits-all. The best way to begin is the one that prepares your body to move well that day.
How do you like to start your workout? I’d love to hear in the comments.

After wat hing Romana so gracefully perform Rowing in the vintage clip we shared on Wednesday, I was reminded that this exercise really can look like the real thing. 🚣🏼‍♀️

When we’re first learning Pilates, we often break an exercise down into steps: Roll back. Bend the elbows. Open the arms... That’s an important part of the learning process, but those steps can sometimes become a little mechanical.

I was taught to sit tall between each repetition, but I find that pulling the handles back to the chest from the rounded, forward position creates a continuous rhythm that feels much more like rowing a boat.

Once you know the sequence, let one rep flow into the next. The movement becomes smoother, more dynamic, and the whole body starts working together.

We’re exploring the four classical Rowing exercises all month long at Mind & Motion.

Red, White, and Glutes. 🇺🇸🍑

May you enjoy your independence for many years to come—with strong glutes that carry you through backyard barbecues, beach days, neighborhood walks, and all the little summer memories. Happy Independence Day (weekend)! ❤️🤍💙

Last month we introduced a new series called: Move of the Month. Our first move: Teaser. Throughout the month of June we all practiced teaser or some variation of teaser in every class at Mind & Motion.

Because there are so many exercises in the pilates repertoire, it’s impossible to get to every one in each class. The Move of the Month gives us the opportunity to witness and feel progress with a specific classical exercise. We are all working together as a community to refine our practice.

Here is a clip of this morning’s class performing teaser. I’m so proud of them!!!!!!!!

Up next month - ROWING! 🚣