Pilates @ Cityoga (yes....I know it's not yoga!)

So I tried out the Pilates class at Cityoga today. I know, I know, it's not yoga. However, I've noticed most yoga studios I've been to often offer a pilates class, and the two are often paired together, so I feel it is relevant. I've also noticed that pilates borrows from yoga, and I've been to many yoga classes which borrow from pilates as well.

Let me just say, this was by far the hardest pilates class I have ever taken. I've only taken a couple, but I always left those classes feeling like I didn't even work out. Well my whole body is telling me right now that I have definitely worked out. This was mat pilates class meant for all levels.

The class: There were only 3 of us, plus the instructor, so we certainly got some individual attention. We started off using 3 lb weights right away doing some arm exercises. We were in the hot yoga studio, so it was kind of dark and warm, so that was a little uncomfortable. We did some really difficult plank work which I definitely struggled with. Later we did a lot of work with the ring (is that what you call it?) between the knees, the ankles, etc working different areas, which was also very challenging. Serious leg-shaking stuff. I will tell you what though, I definitely feel like I got my workout. Serious muscle fatigue right now. I think what made it challenging was the amount of reps, and variations on each area (for example, we'd work out the left side for what seemed like forever, doing tiny variations, then move to the right). I think the other part is that I do virtually no weight training, so adding the weights made a huge difference.

I think I've been going to too many classes/gyms frequented by an older demographic and so the classes are lower impact. With Cityoga, that is NOT the case, which I love. It certainly has made me re-evaluate my fitness level! I'm definitely open to more pilates, but now I know it can kick my ass!! I just wish there were a way to distinguish the levels of difficulty. This class was considered all levels, but it felt advanced to me. Another studio I took pilates at for all levels felt like a light stretch session.

Vinyasa Flow at Cityoga (not the core one, this is new) tomorrow. I have a feeling I may be hurting still from pilates. No pain no gain?

Update: Skipping Vinyasa flow. I am SO SORE. I don't want to injure myself :(