HSM | CORE #SweatDate

HSM | Core introduces a great way to work your muscles to their edge and get a full body, low impact workout without jumping into a pool. Pilates is an excellent way to supplement your workouts for those cardio animals out there, as well as get you back on the road to recovery for the rehabilitating athletes. It should go without saying, if HSM | Core is your primary studio and exercise method, you are going to be looking and feeling amazing.

The entrance to this studio is in the back, so while you can find parking in the front of this mini-mall you will walk up the stairs and through the hallway to the backside of the building. For those of you that don’t appreciate an extra set of stairs pre-workout there is parking in the back, just enter off south Torrence Street. The studio is small and intimate with classes maxed out at 12 people. The modern look of the studio and the bright lobby keep you motivated just by walking in. Apparel and merchandise are also available in the lobby so you can fill your shopping urge after class. The 12 Megaformer Pilates machines (M3S) are nestled close together and the walls are endless mirrors to give you a very modern vibe while giving you instant feedback on your technique. The studio is kept on the cool side but you won’t notice after the first two minutes of class. Or if you are like me, your blood is already going to be pumping just by anticipating the workout.

Upon walking into the studio and seeing the M3S you might think about turning right back around and leaving or hiding in the bathroom. At first glance, the megaformer might appear to be a torture machine that you are about to strap yourself into. Even the name, “MEGAFORMER” sounds pretty scary if you ask me. It is intimidating to any first-timer. The cues being called out sound like code with words like spoon, elevator lunge that transitions to a french twist followed by a wheelbarrow. You don’t know if you are doing Pilates, yoga, or ordering a Starbucks drink. After a few classes, you’ll be spooning, elevator lunging and french twisting like a pro. And while you get stronger every class, HSM | Core does a great job ensuring that the work doesn’t get any easier.

This class will have your muscles burning in ways you didn’t know they could - with movements you would expect to do literally nothing. There is an added mental challenge within this workout due to all of the movements being as slow and controlled that your brain and body are in constant battle. The fact that your brain tells you “this is going to be easy” while your body tells you “NOPE!” is truly a strange feeling. This is not deep stretch yoga. Get out quick if that is what you are looking for. You will be doing some serious working while the instructors keep you motivated and the music keeps you going.

The classes do not exactly breeze by because you are getting your sweat on. At a shorter 40 minutes, your body will thank you for the brevity. You get to move through those poses just a little bit quicker. Dancing bear to cobra to mermaid twist the terminology will keep you giggling as you try to channel your inner animal. If you are new to the method or new to Pilates in general, HSM | Core offers “Megaformer Essentials” which will get you tuned in to the lingo, the form/positions and get you acquainted with your newest challenge.

Tantrums are allowed, especially if this is your first time, although maybe not so much encouraged. This class is Pilates-upgraded so BE PATIENT and trust me, your limbs will be shaking before you hit the first ten minutes of class. Men, it will be just as hard, if not harder for you.

This class is tough, but it won’t break you. Between one class to the next you will immediately feel how much stronger you have become. That fact in itself makes the shake a little more bearable and five more seconds seem possible. This class will push you to your limits, mentally and physically. It will change you and help you improve across the board no matter what level you’re starting from or what your goals are. The core-centric workout engages all four layers of your abs for the full duration of class resulting in a cinched waist, better stability and improved posture. It also focuses on lean muscle. A strong core is key to any athletic endeavor and the core muscle group that allows us to sit, walk and stand as humans. Strong core, strong body.

Give it a try. I promise you have nothing to be scared of.

Love,

Grace

Classes Offered

HSM Core Megaformer & Megaformer Essentials

Skill Level

Beginner to advanced; All Levels

Class Size

Up to 12 people per class

Duration

40 Minutes

Equipment Needed / Attire