Classes

Pilates

Pilates is a system of exercise and physical conditioning that was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. It is named after its creator and is often simply referred to as "Pilates." This method of exercise is designed to improve flexibility, strength, and overall body awareness, with a particular focus on core strength, posture, and balanced muscle development.

Key features and principles of Pilates include:

  • Core Strength: Pilates emphasizes the development of a strong and stable core, which includes the muscles of the abdomen, lower back, and pelvic region. These muscles are often referred to as the "powerhouse."

  • Concentration: Practitioners of Pilates are encouraged to focus on the quality of their movements and to be mindful of their body throughout the exercises. Concentration and mental awareness are key elements of the practice.

  • Control: Pilates exercises are performed with precision and control. Movements are deliberate and slow, emphasizing form and alignment over speed.

  • Breath: Proper breathing is an essential component of Pilates. The breath is coordinated with movement to improve oxygenation and facilitate relaxation.

  • Centering: Pilates places an emphasis on the center of the body, the core, as the foundation for all movements. Core strength and stability are integral to every exercise.

  • Fluidity: Pilates exercises are often performed in a flowing, continuous manner. Smooth transitions between movements help promote grace and fluidity.

  • Balanced Muscle Development: Pilates aims to develop long, lean muscles without bulk. It seeks to balance strength and flexibility throughout the body.

  • Posture: Pilates exercises can help improve posture and alignment. They target the muscles that support the spine and promote a natural, upright posture.

Pilates exercises can be performed on various types of equipment, such as the reformer, cadillac, and chair, or simply using a mat. Mat-based Pilates is the most common and accessible form of Pilates and can be done with minimal equipment.

Pilates is practiced by people of all fitness levels and ages and can be adapted to individual needs and goals. It is often used for general fitness, rehabilitation, and injury prevention. Many fitness studios and wellness centers offer Pilates classes and private sessions led by certified Pilates instructors. If you're interested in starting a Pilates practice, consider taking classes or working with an experienced instructor to ensure you learn the exercises with proper form and technique.

Active Release Techniques

Functional Range Release

Active Release Technique (ART) is a manual therapy and movement-based treatment method commonly used by chiropractors, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to address soft tissue injuries, muscle imbalances, and related musculoskeletal conditions. ART was developed by Dr. P. Michael Leahy in the late 1980s and has since gained popularity as an effective approach to treating various conditions.

The primary goal of ART is to identify and treat adhesions, scar tissue, and areas of muscle or soft tissue dysfunction that may be causing pain, reduced range of motion, or other musculoskeletal problems. Adhesions can develop in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia as a result of overuse, trauma, or improper healing. These adhesions can restrict normal movement and cause pain and discomfort.

ART practitioners use their hands to evaluate the texture, tightness, and movement of soft tissues in the affected area. They apply precise tension and use specific movements to break down adhesions and release tension in the soft tissues. This process is often performed in a series of sessions, and patients are typically actively involved in the treatment by moving their muscles through specific ranges of motion while the practitioner applies tension.

ART can be used to address various conditions, including repetitive strain injuries, sports-related injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, and many other musculoskeletal problems. It aims to improve tissue flexibility, restore normal range of motion, and reduce pain and discomfort.

Breath Work and meditation

Welcome to your perfect lunch break workout. During this short class, we do a series of intense cross-training moves with bursts of aerobic exercise, weight lifting, and stretch breaks

Functional Range Systems

Functional Range Systems (FRS) is a system of assessment, treatment, and training in the field of musculoskeletal health and mobility developed by Dr. Andreo Spina, a chiropractor and movement specialist. FRS is designed to improve joint health, increase mobility, and enhance overall function by addressing the full range of human motion.

The FRS approach is based on the following key principles:

  • Joint Health: FRS emphasizes the importance of maintaining and improving joint health. Healthy joints are vital for optimal movement and function, and the system seeks to identify and address limitations or dysfunctions in the joints.

  • Progressive Adaptation: FRS incorporates a systematic approach to progressively improve joint mobility and control. It focuses on adapting the body to handle increasing levels of force, range of motion, and movement complexity safely.

  • Scientific Foundation: The FRS system is rooted in scientific principles and research on human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics. It combines knowledge from various disciplines to create a comprehensive approach to musculoskeletal health.

  • Assess, Treat, Train: FRS involves a three-step process: assessment, treatment, and training. Practitioners first assess the individual's joint and movement capabilities, then provide treatment to address any limitations, and finally design training programs to help the individual progressively improve their mobility and control.

  • Individualization: FRS is tailored to the individual's specific needs and goals. The assessment and treatment protocols are personalized to address each person's unique limitations and requirements.

FRS has gained popularity among healthcare professionals, athletes, and individuals seeking to enhance their mobility and performance. It is often used by chiropractors, physical therapists, fitness trainers, and other movement specialists to help individuals overcome movement restrictions, improve joint health, and prevent injuries.

CoreAlign

CoreAlign is a specialized exercise and rehabilitation system designed to improve posture, balance, core strength, and functional movement. It was created by physical therapist and Pilates instructor Jonathan Hoffman and is often used in fitness studios, physical therapy clinics, and wellness centers. CoreAlign combines elements of physical therapy, Pilates, and functional fitness to help individuals enhance their physical performance, flexibility, and overall well-being.

Key features and principles of CoreAlign include:

  • Mind-Body Connection: CoreAlign places a strong emphasis on the mind-body connection, similar to Pilates. It encourages participants to focus on their movements and alignment, promoting body awareness and mindfulness.

  • Resistance and Movement: The CoreAlign system consists of a specially designed frame with two independent carts that move along rails. Participants use their own body weight and the resistance provided by the carts to perform a variety of exercises and movements. These exercises are designed to challenge stability, strength, and coordination.

  • Whole-Body Integration: CoreAlign exercises are designed to engage the entire body, with a particular focus on core strength, balance, and postural alignment. Many exercises involve dynamic, flowing movements that mimic real-life activities.

  • Customization: CoreAlign can be adapted to individuals of various fitness levels and physical abilities. The intensity of exercises can be adjusted to meet the specific needs and goals of each participant.

  • Rehabilitation and Injury Prevention: CoreAlign is often used as a rehabilitation tool in physical therapy settings to help patients recover from injuries, improve balance, and regain functional movement. It is also used to prevent injuries and enhance athletic performance.

  • Postural Improvement: CoreAlign can help improve posture and address postural imbalances that may lead to discomfort or pain.

CoreAlign classes and sessions are typically guided by certified instructors who are trained in the CoreAlign method. These professionals provide personalized guidance and feedback to ensure that participants perform exercises with proper form and alignment.

Whether you're looking to rehabilitate an injury, enhance your athletic performance, or simply improve your overall physical well-being, CoreAlign can be a valuable addition to your fitness and wellness routine. It's important to consult with a trained CoreAlign instructor or physical therapist to determine the most appropriate exercises and intensity for your individual needs and goals.


Food Foundations

Work off that Sunday brunch or train for an obstacle course race! We recommend this class for those who have completed at least two level I courses within the last month.