Mat Pilates in Swansea, Lake Macquarie
If you have been meaning to "start Pilates" for about three years now, this is your sign. The Kitchen Pilates + Movement is a women's movement and wellness studio at The Kitchen at Pacific HQ in Swansea, and Mat Pilates is the heart of our timetable. No reformer, no intimidating machinery, no experience needed. Just you, a mat and a room full of women who want to feel strong in their bodies.
Why Mat Pilates?
Mat Pilates uses your own body weight (plus the odd ball, band or small weight) to build strength and control from the inside out. Every class focuses on your core, your posture, your breath and the deep stabilising muscles that help you move well in everyday life, from carrying shopping to chasing kids around Caves Beach.
Because it is low impact, Mat Pilates suits almost every body and every season of life. You can work gently or turn the dial right up, and your instructor will give you options so the class meets you where you are.
Our studio was created by a health professional, Heather Foord (MMed (W), MSex, BHSc, BComms, DipPilates), so classes are built with real bodies in mind: pelvic floor awareness, smart progressions and plenty of cues to help you understand what you are actually working.
Our Mat Pilates classes
Every class at The Kitchen has a menu name, because that's how we roll.
Foundational Mat Pilates (The Entrée)
Your starting point. The Entrée teaches the core principles of Pilates: breath, alignment, control and connection. It is perfect if you are brand new, returning after a break (hello, post-baby bodies) or simply want to move with more intention. Seasoned movers love it too, because getting the foundations right makes everything else stronger.
Mat Pilates Burner (The Chef's Special)
Once you know your way around a hundred, the Chef's Special turns up the heat. Expect a faster pace, more repetitions, longer holds and that very specific shake that tells you your deep core has clocked in. It is still Pilates, still controlled, just spicier.
Weekly Mat Pilates times
Monday 7pm: Foundational Mat Pilates (The Entrée)
Wednesday 6:30am: Foundational Mat Pilates (The Entrée)
Wednesday 9:30am: Foundational Mat Pilates (The Entrée)
Thursday 6:30am: Mat Pilates Burner (The Chef's Special)
Times can change, so always check the live Class Schedule before you head in.
What to expect at your first class
New to it all? Read Mat Pilates for Beginners: 5 Things to Know Before Your First Class, then arrive about 10 minutes early so we can say hello, show you around and ask about any injuries or anything we should know. Wear comfy activewear you can move in; most women go barefoot or wear grip socks. Bring a water bottle. We have mats and props, so you don't need to bring anything else.
The Kitchen is at Pacific HQ, 29 Josephson St, Swansea, with on-site and street parking and an accessible location. We are a short drive from Caves Beach, Blacksmiths, Pelican, Belmont and the rest of Lake Macquarie.
Mat Pilates FAQ
Do I need Pilates experience?
Not at all. Foundational Mat Pilates (The Entrée) is designed for beginners, and every class includes options to make movements easier or harder. All women are welcome.
Is Mat Pilates as effective as reformer Pilates?
They are different tools for the same goal. Mat Pilates asks you to control your own body weight without springs to help or assist, which makes it a brilliant way to build deep core strength and body awareness. Many women find it more challenging than they expected.
How often should I come?
Two to three classes a week is a lovely rhythm for most women, which is exactly why our Founding Membership includes three classes a week. Intro Week lets you test how often feels right for you.
Ready to roll out your mat?
Start with our Intro Week: 7 days of unlimited classes plus a 40-minute sauna & ice bath session for $59 + GST. Try The Entrée, try The Chef's Special, try everything.
See you at The Kitchen at Pacific HQ, Swansea.