MAT PILATES
Back to basics. But never boring.
Where strength starts, and keeps showing up.
Mat Pilates is the foundation of it all. No machines, no fuss - just your body, your breath, and seriously focused movement. Whether you’re brand new to Pilates or looking to refine your form and feel everything more deeply, this is where you build real, lasting strength from the inside out.
At Rise, we take mat work seriously - with small-group classes, expert cueing, and enough challenge to keep even seasoned movers humble (and shaking).
WHAT IS MAT PILATES?
Mat Pilates is a low-impact, floor-based practice designed to improve core strength, stability, flexibility, and postural alignment.
It’s rooted in the original method developed by Joseph Pilates - but with a Rise twist: modern flows, fresh playlists, and instructors who actually explain what your pelvis is doing.
You’ll move through precise, controlled sequences using just your own bodyweight (and maybe a few props like balls, bands, or magic circles). The movements may look small - but trust us, they pack a punch.
THE BENEFITS OF MAT PILATES
Mat Pilates is your low-impact secret weapon - powerful, accessible, and endlessly adaptable. Some of the benefits include:
- Builds deep core and pelvic floor strength
- Improves posture, spinal mobility, and body awareness
- Increases flexibility, balance, and joint support
- Reduces pain, stiffness, and injury risk
- Enhances breath connection and mental focus
- Supports recovery from injury, stress, and burnout
- Helps you feel grounded, energised, and back in your body
WHAT TO EXPECT IN A MAT PILATES CLASS
You’ll join a small group (12 people max) in our calm, beautiful mat studio. Your instructor will guide you through breath-led sequences that focus on strength, control, and that delicious slow burn.
Some classes flow, others pulse - some are slow and stretchy, others will sneak up on your abs and politely ruin them for the next 48 hours. We always offer options, explain everything clearly, and keep the vibe friendly and ego-free.
Mat Pilates is perfect for early mornings, Sunday resets, post-reformer recovery, and anyone wanting to feel like a more connected, powerful version of themselves.
MAT PILATES LINGO: DECODED
Neutral Spine: Your natural spinal curve - not tucked, not arched. We’ll help you find it.
Imprint: A slight tilt of the pelvis that flattens your lower back into the mat. Great for core engagement.
Tabletop: Legs up at 90 degrees - your thighs vertical, your shins parallel to the floor. It’ll show up a lot.
C-curve: A rounded spine, usually in seated ab work. Think “scoop and hollow,” not “slouch.”
Articulation: The slow, segment-by-segment movement of the spine - e.g. rolling down one vertebra at a time.
Don’t worry if it all sounds like a new language. We’ll translate every step of the way.
IS MAT PILATES RIGHT FOR ME?
Mat Pilates is for every body. You don’t need to be flexible or fit. You don’t need fancy clothes or prior experience. You just need to show up, and breathe.
Whether you're:
- Rebuilding after burnout, injury or birth
- Looking for a low-impact strength workout
- Wanting to move more mindfully
- Or just need something kind, but powerful...
Mat Pilates will meet you exactly where you are.
Rhi
“Mat Pilates at Rise is sneaky in the best way. I feel stronger, more flexible, and way more connected to my body."
Laura
"It looks gentle… but my core is still shaking.”
Louise
"I’d never done Pilates before, but the instructors made everything feel so doable. It’s become the best part of my week.”
READY TO TRY IT?
Book your first class and see why so many people fall in love with mat Pilates. You can start with one of our beginner-friendly options or chat to us about a 1:1 intro session for more personal support.
Come see what your body can do. Feel strong. Feel seen. Feel proud.
Let’s Rise.