The idea of being a “Pilates Princess” has never been so appealing. Under the stress of unending midterms (which should be called infinite-terms), it seems like taking care of one’s health is an impossible task. So imagine our excitement when we found out that Hopkins offers free Pilates classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays for all affiliates at the Rec.
Stanley water bottle and Lululemon jacket in hand, we approached the room in utter anticipation. We were immediately greeted by the soft glow of studio lights and the calming hum of low music, which instantly set the tone for the next 50 minutes. Our class was taught by Kat Dolan, who welcomed everyone with a warm smile and an encouraging reminder that Pilates is all about meeting your body where it is.
For people with long-term workout experience but admittedly not acute experience, the class comfortably challenged us. The class focused mostly on practicing core strength and breath control with each exercise demanding precision and focus.
We started off by stretching our arms, necks and lower body, and we absolutely loved the focus on slow intention for every movement. Kat even encouraged us to bring positivity into our deep breathing exercises, which further boosted our spirits. For me (Kaylee), the intentional breathing felt especially grounding. With every breath, I felt some of the academic stress I’d been carrying all week melt away.
Later, we moved into workouts that focused on core and leg strength, mostly using the mat and a light set of dumbbells. We tried exercises like pigeon stretches and rolling down and up like a ball (the latter of which is a lot more challenging than it looks). I (Myra) personally found the exercises difficult, given my relatively poor flexibility and weak core control. However, the class got easier as time went on and my body began to warm up to the movements. Kat frequently reminded us to listen to our bodies and adjust movements accordingly, assuring us that her Pilates instruction intends to work with us rather than force us.
We loved the experience tremendously, especially the ending – NO, not because we wanted it to end – but because our minds were void of thinking about the usual Hopkins-related worries of the day. After our bodies rested for 40 minutes of tension, it almost felt like a cathartic release, leaving behind our raw, true form. As we were stretching as a cool down, our minds stayed completely blank, soaking in the moment and indulging ourselves with long, deep, cool breaths.
The occasional hard-hitting workout was delightful, the kind that pumps adrenaline and enlivens you with vigor and passion (after finishing the challenging part of resistance, of course). However, Pilates presents such a unique way to reap the benefits of movement. Pilates movements emphasize mind-body connection, pushing individuals to choose intentionality over passivity, releasing over holding. As Hopkins students pushing through days riddled with stimulation and busy work, Pilates courses can offer a healthy reset to feel more alive in a draining routine.
While the class we attended did not make us sweat tremendously, the class on Thursday presents a “Mat Pilates – Sweat” version that focuses more on cardio and high-intensity interval training.
For those who would like to participate, registration for classes is available on the Johns Hopkins Rec mobile app as well as online through the Member Portal – no experience is required! The Rec will host these classes for the rest of the fall and the upcoming spring semester as well.
