P is for Pilates of Kansas City

Sweat Summary
Website: http://pilatesofkansascity.com/
Address: 7656 State Line Road, Prairie Village, KS 66208
Avg. length of class: 45min – 1hr
Drop in rate: $15-$25
ClassPass: Yes (Pilates mat only)
Wtfartlek Sweat Scale: 4 out of 10
Best for: Muscle toning + core

Pilates of Kansas City is a new studio located in Prairie Village. They are a fully equipped Classical Pilates Studio offering Apparatus classes, Mat classes + private sessions at home or in the studio. Sure, I’ve done a few Pilates classes here and there but I still consider myself a total Pilates newbie. Every studio has their own vibe and style of teaching. Pilates of Kansas City honors the true legacy of Joseph Pilates (a boxer and gymnast who also studied yoga and martial arts.) I learned a ton and my core appreciates it!

The owner Elisabeth is a true gem. Since the age of three, she competitively showed horses. She competed with the top riders in the country and by age sixteen, she knew she needed to add something to her weekly routine to get her to the next level. After some research, she realized Pilates was commonly used by equestrians to improve their sport. After a few sessions, she found that it not only kept her strong and lean but also helped with her timing and form. This helped her reach the Grand Prix level and she went on to represent Florida in the Junior Olympics for Show Jumping. Pilates has been part of her life ever since. She now has two certifications: Power Pilates (New York, NY) & Classical Pilates Education (Boca Raton, FL). Additionally, she is a Teacher Trainer for Classical Pilates Education.

What I love about the studio is that only 4-5 people are allowed per class, which means you get lots of 1:1 time with your instructor. The studio offers an array of classes but I found that mostly each class is tailored to its clientele. Class usually begins with requests and then the instructor incorporates those throughout. This also goes for difficulty. Classes can be more advanced depending on who is in attendance. No two classes are the same.

I did a handful of reformer classes but I actually enjoyed the Mat classes best. There are SO many props and possibilities on the Mat. One day we did core on a foam roller for 30 minutes, which blew my mind. Balance wise, this is super challenging! (Class Pass peeps can do Mat classes here, FYI.)

I recommend this workout for people who need a break form hardcore cardio. Pilates is a great way to tone your muscles and is easy on your joints. I’ve found that core can often be an afterthought and the last ten minutes of class focus on your gut. Pilates is great because it highly incorporates techniques that define your core overall. It also promotes leaner, longer muscles. (After watching the VS Fashion Show, who doesn’t want that?)

Want to try this workout for yourself? You’re in luck! Elisabeth is giving one lucky winner a Pilates of Kansas City t-shirt and 5 Pilates Mat classes. All you have to do is comment on this blog post in the comment section below for a chance to win. Winner must live in the Kansas City area + prize is not redeemable for cash. Winner will be announced on or before 12/23.