It’s a common misconception: “Wow. Man, you must have killer 6-pack abs!” It’s what most might expect in a PIlates teacher. But no, I don’t. And I don’t want them. Here’s why:
At Marymount University and in our teacher trainings, I start my Core Anatomy lecture with this photo. When people think of Pilates they think of this physique. My first question to the audience is always…”Does this person have a strong core?”
I love to explain biomechanics and talk about anatomy in my classes. I think it’s what sets Mind the Mat apart from many other programs. That “6-pack” everyone refers to is called the Rectus Abdominis. It is the outermost layer of the abdominal wall which has a total of 4 layers. Therefore very far from acting as a “core” muscle and can actually work to lessen the stability in your spine, which is the main function of your core. So essentially, the 6-pack is not your core.
Here are the true core muscles that work more efficiently to stabilize your spine and prevent injury:
Don’t like anatomy? Don’t worry. That’s our job. It’s up to us to cue these muscles correctly, and to ensure you’re performing the moves correctly, which is why it’s important to come to class instead of streaming or watching on of my IG videos (oh, but please follow me for tips and glimpses in that MtM life, @drmeganbrown).
Recently I changed the format and pricing of my classes at Mind the Mat. What can you expect in my newly named Master Classes?
Click here to see my schedule and sign up (*see pricing structure below).
Many of you tell me, “I am intimidated to come to your class.” Don’t be. Much of that fear comes from worrying about keeping up with others, or people “looking at you.” I will be the only person looking at you, and I encourage people to work to fatigue, so you’ll see a lot of people dropping like flies all around you! Yes, you will work hard, but it will be based on science and target the particular imbalances in your body, unique to you. I would start with some Pilates experience, which is why MtM has so many amazing beginner offerings…our classes are designed for every level, so please reach out to us (info@mindthemat.com) if you have questions on where to start! I have listed some suggestions here:
Want to learn more? If you’re a movement professional–a coach, trainer, Pilates or yoga teacher–I’m offering my Core Lecture for Movement Pros on Saturday, January 25th, 2pm – 6pm at Mind the Mat in Del Ray. Find out more info here.
*New pricing for Dr. Megan Brown Master Classes
You’ll find those classes under the new name “Master Class”.
Master Class Non-Member Pricing:
Single drop-in $25 | 5-Class Package $99 (3 month exp.) | 10-Class Package $198 (6 month exp.)
Member Pricing:
Single drop-in $10 | 5-Class Package $49 (3 month exp.) | 10-Class Package $98 (6 month exp.)
Mind the Mat Pilates & Yoga was founded in 2008 by Megan Brown, Doctor of Physical Therapy and Polestar Certified Practitioner of Pilates for Rehabilitation and Sara VanderGoot, Nationally Certified Massage Therapist and Registered Yoga Teacher (e-RYT 200, RYT 500). In their private practices as physical therapist and massage therapist respectively Megan and Sara observed that many of their clients were coming in with similar needs: relief for neck and shoulder tension and low back pain as well as a desire for more flexibility in hips and legs, stability in joints, and core strength.
Together Megan and Sara carefully crafted a curriculum of Pilates and yoga classes to address needs for clients who are pregnant, postpartum, have injuries or limitations, who are new to Pilates and yoga, and for those who are advanced students and are looking for an extra challenge.
2214 Mount Vernon Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22301
703.683.2228