March MATness & Women’s History Month at BASI Pilates Newport Beach
March is a meaningful time in the Pilates world, bringing together two important celebrations: March MATness and Women’s History Month. At BASI Pilates Newport Beach, we celebrate both by honoring the foundation of the Pilates method and recognizing the women who have helped shape and preserve this powerful system of movement.
Pilates has long been a method that empowers people—especially women—to build strength, confidence, and resilience through mindful, intelligent movement.
Whether you are new to Pilates or a seasoned practitioner, our studio offers private Pilates sessions, group equipment classes, and professional teacher training programs designed to support your journey.
What is March MATness?
March MATness is a global Pilates celebration dedicated to the classical Pilates mat exercises created by Joseph Pilates. Throughout the month of March, instructors and students around the world revisit the original mat sequence, sharing exercises, insights, and education within the Pilates community.
At BASI Pilates Newport Beach, March MATness is an opportunity to reconnect with the roots of Pilates and deepen our understanding of the mat work—the foundation of the entire Pilates method.
If you’re interested in building a strong Pilates foundation, our Pilates private sessions and introductory packages are a great place to begin.
Why the Pilates Mat Work Matters
The Pilates mat exercises form the core of the method developed by Joseph Pilates. Before the development of Pilates apparatus such as the Reformer, Cadillac, or Wunda Chair, Joseph Pilates created a powerful sequence of mat exercises designed to strengthen the body, improve flexibility, and cultivate control.
Practicing Pilates mat work develops:
- Core strength and stability
- Flexibility and mobility
- Postural alignment
- Coordination and control
- Mind–body awareness
Unlike equipment-based Pilates, mat work relies solely on body weight and precise movement, making it both accessible and deeply challenging.
Many of these principles are also explored in our group equipment classes, where students experience how mat work connects to the full Pilates system.
The Crown Jewel of Pilates
Within the BASI Pilates philosophy, the mat holds a particularly special place.
As BASI founder Rael Isacowitz often says:
“The mat work is the crown jewel of Pilates. It is where the essence of the method lives.” — Rael Isacowitz
Without springs or straps to assist movement, the mat requires true control, strength, and focus. It reveals how the body moves and challenges practitioners to build balanced strength from the inside out.
This philosophy is deeply embedded in the BASI Pilates teacher training programs, which are taught at our Newport Beach headquarters and around the world.
The Crown Jewel of Pilates
Within the BASI Pilates philosophy, the mat holds a particularly special place.
As BASI founder Rael Isacowitz often says:
“The mat work is the crown jewel of Pilates. It is where the essence of the method lives.” — Rael Isacowitz
Without springs or straps to assist movement, the mat requires true control, strength, and focus. It reveals how the body moves and challenges practitioners to build balanced strength from the inside out.
This philosophy is deeply embedded in the BASI Pilates teacher training programs, which are taught at our Newport Beach headquarters and around the world.
Women Pioneers Who Shaped the Pilates Method
While Joseph Pilates created the method, it was a remarkable group of women who preserved and expanded Pilates for future generations. Many of these women studied directly with Joseph and Clara Pilates and later became leaders and educators who helped bring Pilates to the world.
These influential women are often referred to as the Pilates Elders.
Romana Kryzanowska
A direct protégé of Joseph Pilates who played a key role in preserving the classical Pilates method.
Kathy Grant
One of the two teachers personally certified by Joseph Pilates to teach the method, Kathy Grant was known for her extraordinary understanding of movement and innovative teaching approach.
Lolita San Miguel
Also one of the only teachers officially certified by Joseph Pilates, Lolita San Miguel has dedicated decades to teaching and preserving the integrity of the method.
Mary Bowen
A long-time student of Joseph Pilates who continued teaching the philosophy and movement system well into her later years.
Carola Trier
One of the first women to open a Pilates studio in New York City, helping expand the reach of Pilates beyond Joseph Pilates’ original studio.
Eve Gentry
A pioneer in therapeutic Pilates and movement rehabilitation who helped integrate Pilates into health and wellness communities.
Their leadership, knowledge, and dedication continue to influence the global Pilates community today.
Pilates at BASI Pilates Newport Beach
At BASI Pilates Newport Beach, the mat exercises remain an essential part of both client sessions and teacher training programs. Through the BASI Block System, the mat work is taught with careful sequencing, precision, and attention to movement quality.
Our studio offers:
- Private Pilates sessions
- Semi-private sessions
- Group equipment classes
- Pilates teacher training programs
Each option allows clients and students to experience the power of Pilates in a supportive and professional environment.
Celebrating Pilates and Women’s History Month
Throughout March, BASI Pilates Newport Beach celebrates both March MATness and Women’s History Month by highlighting the beauty and power of the Pilates mat work while honoring the women who have shaped the method.
Our community celebrates through:
- Daily Pilates mat exercise highlights
- Technique tips and educational insights
- Opportunities for students to deepen their Pilates practice
- Recognition of the women who have influenced Pilates history
Are You Mat Fit?
The Pilates mat sequence is elegant, challenging, and deeply rewarding. Each exercise builds strength, control, flexibility, and awareness throughout the entire body.
So we leave you with a question this March:
Are you Mat Fit?
Follow BASI Pilates Newport Beach on Instagram for daily Pilates mat exercises, tips, and insights throughout March MATness, and join our community as we celebrate the legacy and power of Pilates.
You can also book a Pilates session or class at our Newport Beach studio and experience the strength and precision of the Pilates method for yourself.
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