Taylor Pilates Classes Expand to Serve Upland Community
Taylor University’s student-led Pilates classes are gaining popularity, extending their reach beyond the student body to include faculty and local residents. The classes, offered for free, provide a convenient and accessible fitness option focused on stability, balance, and flexibility.
A Growing Community Fitness Program
Initially a casual gathering of friends practicing Pilates, the program has evolved into a thriving community resource. Morgan Jensen, a junior human physiology major and instructor for the Monday class, explained the program’s origins. It began when senior Rylee Ruiz reserved space in the Kesler Student Activities Center (KSAC) for Pilates with a tiny group. Johanna Kraal, health and wellness coordinator for the Main Street Mile Initiative, then approached Ruiz to offer an official Pilates class to promote community health events in Upland.
Jensen and Ruiz now offer separate Pilates sessions, catering to a growing demand. Attendance has surged, with over 40 people once attending a class led by Ruiz, creating a line outside the classroom.
Pilates: A Focus on Core Strength and Flexibility
Pilates, as taught at Taylor University, emphasizes higher-repetition movements on a mat with minimal weight resistance. According to Jensen, this approach focuses on improving the body’s ability to sustain repeated contractions, rather than solely building muscle mass through heavy lifting. The exercise method centers on stability, balance, and flexibility.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
The classes are open to all – students, faculty, and Upland community members – and are held on Mondays at 5 p.m. And Fridays at 6:30 a.m. In the KSAC. Diana Verhagen, assistant director of Taylor’s master’s in leadership program and hall director, attends the Friday morning class and appreciates the inclusive atmosphere. “It’s hilarious, as sometimes it’s Sammy boys and a bunch of women,” Verhagen said.
Verhagen highlights the non-intimidating nature of the class, emphasizing its beginner-friendly approach and fun atmosphere. “It is not intimidating at all,” she said. “It’s a really fun atmosphere. It’s particularly beginner level, so there’s nothing to sense intimidated by. And people there are really just there to have fun while getting in exercise.”
Challenges and Future Growth
The increasing popularity of the classes has created a need for additional space and equipment. Currently, participants sometimes have to share self-defense mats when Pilates mats are unavailable. Jensen expressed enthusiasm for the program’s growth and hopes to secure additional resources to accommodate the demand. “Working out can be hard to kind of find what works best for you and what you enjoy doing consistently,” she said. “So it’s been fun to see like the same people coming back and enjoying the space.”