What is Infrared Mat Pilates? A Warm Welcome to a Deeper Practice
What is Infrared Mat Pilates? A Warm Welcome to a Deeper Practice
You may have heard the buzz about Infrared Mat Pilates, the latest wellness wave sweeping through London. But what exactly is it, and what makes it so special? Let's explore this warm and wonderful practice that combines the precision of Pilates with therapeutic infrared heat.
Understanding Infrared Heat
Infrared heat is a gentle, radiant heat that warms your body directly, rather than the air around you. Think of the feeling of the sun on your skin – that's infrared. In our studio, we use state-of-the-art infrared panels to create a comfortably warm environment for our Mat Pilates classes.
This isn't the intense, humid heat of a hot yoga class. It's a dry, therapeutic warmth that feels incredibly natural and soothing.
The Benefits of Infrared Mat Pilates
So, why add heat to Pilates? The benefits are both immediate and long-lasting:
1. Deeper Stretches and Greater Flexibility
The infrared heat gently warms your muscles, allowing you to sink deeper into stretches and improve your flexibility more effectively than in a regular class. Warm muscles are more pliable and less prone to injury.
2. Enhanced Detoxification
The warmth increases your circulation and encourages your body to sweat, which is a natural way to detoxify and cleanse your system. You'll leave class with a healthy glow.
3. Accelerated Muscle Recovery
The deep-penetrating heat helps to soothe sore muscles and reduce inflammation, making it a perfect complement to your other fitness activities. Athletes often use infrared Pilates as active recovery.
4. A More Mindful Experience
The enveloping warmth helps to quiet the mind and deepen your focus, allowing you to connect more profoundly with your body and your breath. In our fast-paced London lives, this offers a sanctuary of calm.
Is Infrared Mat Pilates for Me?
If you love the precision of Pilates but are looking for a little something extra, then Infrared Mat Pilates is for you. It's suitable for all levels, from complete beginners to seasoned practitioners.
It's particularly beneficial if you:
- Want to improve your flexibility
- Are looking for a low-impact way to detox
- Suffer from muscle tightness or soreness
- Enjoy the meditative aspects of heated practices
- Are an athlete seeking active recovery
- Simply want to add a new dimension to your Pilates practice
Who should approach with caution?
While infrared Mat Pilates is safe for most people, we recommend consulting your doctor first if you are pregnant, have cardiovascular conditions, or are heat-sensitive.
What to Expect in Your First Class
Before Class:
- Hydrate well – begin drinking water several hours before
- Arrive early to acclimatise to the warmth
- Wear light, breathable clothing
- Bring a water bottle
During Class:
- The room will feel pleasantly warm, not oppressively hot
- You'll move through mat-based Pilates exercises, engaging your core with controlled, precise movements
- Your instructor will guide you through breathing techniques
- You may sweat more than usual – this is natural and beneficial
After Class:
- Continue hydrating to replenish fluids
- Many clients feel energised yet deeply relaxed
- Your muscles may feel more supple and less tense
Frequently Asked Questions
How hot is an infrared Mat Pilates class?
Our classes maintain a comfortable temperature of approximately 25-28°C (77-82°F) – warm enough for therapeutic benefits without the intense heat of hot yoga.
Can beginners do infrared Mat Pilates?
Absolutely. The heat makes muscles more pliable, which can actually make it easier for beginners to achieve proper form. Our instructors provide modifications for every exercise.
How does it compare to hot yoga?
Infrared Mat Pilates is less intense temperature-wise and focuses on controlled, precise movements rather than flowing sequences. Learn more about the differences between Pilates and yoga.
How often should I practice?
For optimal results, we recommend 2-3 times per week. Many clients combine infrared mat classes with our reformer Pilates sessions.
Experience the Warmth at Aligné
At our central London studio, we invite you to experience the unique benefits of Infrared Mat Pilates for yourself. Our classes are small and intimate, ensuring you receive personal attention and guidance from our expert instructors.
Ready to feel the glow? Book your Infrared Mat Pilates class today and discover a new level of practice.
Related Reading:
- Reformer Pilates for Beginners – New to Pilates? Start here
- What is Reformer Pilates? – Understanding the reformer
- Why Core Strength Matters – The foundation of Pilates
- Pilates vs Yoga – Which is right for you?