AERO JOE’S (Est. 2012) as Birmingham’s Premiere Classical Pilates studio, runs an intensive weekly schedule of group classes and private lessons. Owner, Alison Page, a 14-year veteran teacher and graduate of Master Instructor Cara Reeser’s Heritage Training® enjoys the bustle of a busy studio as any business owner would, yet she and her team ensure that the studio is a sanctuary for mindful movement even in the context of a packed group class. Mindful concentration is integral to the Original Method as Joe Pilates, the visionary founder of the form, designed. (Classical or Original Method Pilates is backed by 40 years of proven research by Joe Pilates and his wife, Clara Pilates who taught for years at their now famous 8th Avenue studio in New York City.)
Joe Pilates himself is quoted as saying his method is the “Complete coordination of mind, body, and spirit.” At Aero Joe Pilates the teacher’s first priority is to create a challenging, full-body workout, but the full Pilates benefits come from focused mind-body learning.
Page says, “We are all sweating and at the same time focusing on precision. Our mindful classes provide benefits similar to meditation, boosting mood and lowering stress levels. This is how we impart real change for students from inside – out.“
Aero Joe Pilates’ friendly teaching staff wishes to take the intimidation factor out of your 1st Classical Pilates class. Here’s what you can expect in your first class:
Pilates is for All Bodies
Pilates’ wealth of exercise variations means the form can be adapted for anyone. With a dynamic client community ranging in age from 15 years to 95 years (truly!), Page feels the studio, and Joe Pilates’ method itself, helps people feel well in their bodies at any age. Highly vetted teachers provide the expertise necessary to teach all ages, levels and body types. Expert teaching addresses core strength, muscle imbalances and postural issues. (When choosing a Classical studio Page advises to be sure to choose a studio that posts instructor bios directly on their website.Check instructor bios for verifiable graduation from a reputable teacher-training program plus continuing education credentials in the direct lineage of Joe Pilates.)
Mindful
Combining breathing techniques with movement is a key component of Pilates. The breath focus relaxes the central nervous system allowing students to execute movement with less unnecessary tension. Expert Pilates teachers cue students into good postural alignment by using creative imagery alongside explanation of the exercise’s motor pattern.
Community
The group class community bonds over the process, building to more difficult skills over time. The goal isn’t Pilates perfection, but allowing students to tap their full potential for, both, inner and outer strength.
Total-Body Workout
Pilates works all parts of the body. Muscle differentiation is a learned skill with some muscles acting as stabilizers and some as initiators. The goal is movement intelligence: the ability to control the body’s every movement.
Dynamic Flow
Pilates moves the spine in all directions unless there is pathology present. Sessions use muscle resistance to gravity in as many planes in space possible within a class session to achieve results. Students flow dynamically through an ordered sequence of many exercises. Spring resistance provides benefits similar to weight training. A consistent practice will build lean muscle mass all while aligning the entire body.
Aero Joe Pilates in Pepper Place offers private training and small group classes. Innovative Aerial Yoga class options and licensed massage therapy are also available. Information and group class sign up available via www.aeroejoepilates.com
Tel 205.202.5758 | E-mail: info@aerojoepilates.com
