I was inspired to develop Rhythm Pilates after presenting at the Asian Fitness Education Expo, Hong Kong in 2008. The presenters that incorporated music to their classes were more fun and wildly popular.
There is an undeniable excitement and energy when uplifting music is incorporated to a Pilates class. I decided to start Rhythm Pilates because I wanted to share in that with others. My challenge was that I had to create something that didn’t reduce the principles of Pilates or minimize the profound results of the method, and I think that I have accomplished that.
What is it? The Rhythm Pilates method is an exciting new form of mat Pilates that expands on the traditional method by incorporating fluid transitions into whole body integrated movement art workout sequences that are choreographed to music. Pilates is the technique, Yoga is incorporated to free the spirit, and Dance infuses beauty into the movements.
It is truly an evolutionary approach that takes static positions and transforms them into a series of invigorating movement based Pilates workouts. There are several people that are looking for something less rigid and more dynamic in their workout regimen, and they have tapped into a creative spirit that has resulted in several variations of the classical work. Rhythm Pilates is one of those variations. It is based on a solid foundation of movement modalities: Pilates, yoga and dance. It is a series of movements that are choreographed to a 30-minute set of music. It enhances the flow with fluid transitions and stimulates the body, mind and engages in the positive spirit.
These workouts vary in levels and complexity, from the beginning level, to the intermediate, and developing to the advanced level work. The sequencing is thoughtfully created to target the whole body, coordinating the original six principles of the Pilates method, and highlighting the elements of rhythm and flow.
I grew up dancing and this is such a fun and fresh way to incorporate music into my Pilates routine. Rhythm Pilates has certainly become one of my all time favorite Pilates workouts. – Tianna D.
The Rhythm Pilates Teacher Training course is for Pilates instructors, dancers and fitness professionals with at least one year experience prior to the start of the course. While the Rhythm Pilates program is intended for those already working in the fields of fitness or movement, the classes offer a heightened and challenging experience for even the most seasoned individual, from enthusiast to instructor.
Additionally, both dancers and non-dancers alike can enjoy the Rhythm Pilates workouts. There is something available for everyone, at every level. Currently, there are three classes in the Rhythm Pilates curriculum: Harmony, Beats & Tempo and On the Rise.
Absolutely loved it! I didn’t grow up dancing and it’s so great to be able to move to music and feel graceful, competent and sexy (those little hip-rocks!) A huge thanks from all us non-dancers. – Estee Roode
Most recently in Pilates Style Magazine (November/December edition), Rhythm Pilates was up for an honorable mention for the “Best of Pilates-Inspired” workouts for my workout “On the Rise”. Joan Breibart, president of the PhysicalMind Institute states: “Pilates today needs music even though this is not part of the tradition. It is so hard to choreograph Pilates exercises to music and that is why this workout is a joy, especially given the perfect body of the demonstrator.” Wow, thank you Joan. This gave me goose bumps! I am also very honored to say that Rhythm Pilates classes have been in the top 10 of the ‘Most Popular’ category on Pilates Anytime for over 4 years now, and that’s pretty good feedback!
It is scientifically proven that one increases their metabolic rate by incorporating motivating and uplifting music while working out. The music selected for the Rhythm Pilates workouts enhances the work and encourages a more stimulating physical and mental experience.
What’s next for Rhythm Pilates? I am excited to announce that we have been invited to launch our first international course in Tokyo! I will kick it off by presenting at Japan’s largest fitness conventions this December. We are elated and very excited about the opportunity to work with such a professional team. In the near future, we plan to create new content and repertoire with the possibility of adding in some Pilates equipment and props. So stay tuned!
About Lisa
Lisa Hubbard is the Creator and Founder of Rhythm Pilates® and is a Senior Faculty Member for world renowned BASI Pilates®. She is an internationally recognized Pilates figure in the industry and has been featured in many award winning Pilates projects, including DVDs, textbooks and is a second-time cover girl for Pilates Style Magazine®. She has dedicated over seventeen years to training in the method and has been teaching for nearly fifteen years. In addition to
her dance background, she holds certifications in GYROTONIC®, Yoga and owns a successful private Pilates studio in Southern California. Lisa is an inspiration to many movement practitioners whom have found her wealth of knowledge and creativity to only be surpassed by her fantastic energy. She is continuously recognized by her peers and by industry specialists as an outstanding representative of the Pilates method. Lisa has been featured presenter at the prestigious Asian Academy for Sports and Fitness Professionals in China and Hong Kong at the Asian Fitness Education Expo.
Lisa teaches Pilates, GYROTONIC® and Yoga in her private studio to a diverse clientele including both professional and young aspiring dancers, ice skaters, athletes, martial artists, Pilates instructors, as well as the beginning student. She also works with the geriatric population providing specialized instruction to meet their unique needs. Lisa’s classes focus on anatomy, alignment, proper technique, and well-being.
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