By: Mackenize Stephenson
As a Pilates skeptic who believed Pilates was all about having the latest Lululemon gear and stretching on a mat, I set out to speak with Sonya Simpson, the Owner of Rainbow Pilates. “People do have the misconception they’ll just be stretching, but it’s really a work out. Start with a beginner class and go from there,” she advised. Turns out, unlike the now deceased Ab Master 12 workout fad, Pilates actually works. And here are 3 reasons why:
1. Body Awareness
Pilates focuses on users developing a stronger core while building strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, balance and good posture- which additionally leads to a safer workout and helps “prevent future injures.” Some of the primary concerns beginners have when starting Pilates is that they will injure themselves. Simpson originally began her career as a physical therapist in a women’s gym where she was certified as a rehab instructor who used Pilates during her therapy sessions. A lot of people come here because “they’re hurt and they want to make sure this is safe for them. It’s safe. It’s for anyone; doesn’t matter your size or age,” she said.
As an added bonus, a strong core attributes to better posture, making you look longer and leaner.
2. It’s Challenging
Pilates is an extremely flexible exercise system ranging from beginner to advanced levels, and Rainbow Pilates offers six different types of classes to cover the entire spectrum. From Cardiolates to HuBolates, which offers an intense workout combining hula hooping, boxing, Pilates and dance, Rainbow Pilates ensures they cater to a wide variety of options for novices and experts.
3. It’s Fun & Personal
“We have fun here, that what it’s all about us with,” said Simpson. And, with classes such as Barre, Shh I do Pilates and Cardioblast which engages the class by using rainbow colored car tires, it is not hard to see why. Rainbow Pilates is much different than a regular gym; they only offer classes and private lessons. “All of us know everyone’s name. I know what they’re doing, if they’re cheating on their workout, and can personally help people attain their goals. I wanted to create a place where people could live a healthy lifestyle but also create lasting friendships and I really feel like I’ve reached that goal.”
Recently Simpson has begun offering classes online so people can participate at their convenience. The excuses of “too tired, too hungry, no time” can no longer apply when Sonya is taking the step of bringing her exercise classes directly to you with the goal of simply encouraging you to be “healthy at the end of the day.”
One thing is evident, she is clearly seeing success with this model. Having opened Rainbow Pilates four years ago, she recently expanded in May, almost doubling in size to accommodate her businesses growth. Eventually Sonya hopes to franchise her business. Additionally, she admits things have been a little hectic at the studio as they are in the process of filming a reality show called “Mat Girls” which follows her life and the lives of some of her instructors. “It’s sure to be a fun and interesting show!”
To learn more about Rainbow Pilates, visit them online at: rainbowpilates.com.
