The New England Patriots may not have made it to the Super Bowl this year, but their quarterback’s athletic ability is leaving a new legacy in Northern Virginia.
Sculp’d, a Pilates studio located in Old Town Alexandria, launched a new workout class in mid-January called Pilates Power’d. The idea for the class was sparked by Tom Brady’s fitness regimen and incorporates plyometrics, strength training and Pilates core moves in a total of 50 minutes.
We spoke with Sculp’d founder and owner Betsy Weissman to find out more about the class and why she looked to the NFL star for inspiration. Find highlights from our conversation below.
How is Pilates Power’d different from other Pilates classes?
Our clients expect hardcore, but safe and sustainable, workouts. Our No. 1 focus is on good form and safe movement, while at the same time seeing those huge gains with the intense strength conditioning and intense hyper-movements. We took those principles into this new class and, instead of being on the machines, participants are squarely on the floor. The class has three areas of focus: plyometrics for cardio, intense core work on the floor and strength training using TRX straps. The Pilates core block is inspired by classic mat Pilates.
How did Tom Brady become the inspiration behind the workout?
While my husband and son follow his athletic career, I have been following his training principles and how he manages to achieve and maintain his health and physical prowess longer than anyone in football. How can you not be inspired by him? He has taken all his experiences and knowledge from the best of the business, to then become the G.O.A.T. I live by the guiding principle of, “When you know better, you do better.” I learned from him, was inspired by him and wanted to bring this to my clients who have become like family to me. I want what’s best for me and I want what’s best for them.
How does this workout complement other Pilates classes your studio offers?
All fitness experts agree that changing up your routine gets you serious gains. If you do one thing for too long, there is a risk of getting bored or, even worse, injury. We encourage our clients to proactively change it up every week with our different classes and variety of instructors. The variety of classes allow our clients to focus on strength in our Pilates reformer classes, flexibility with our yoga classes and cardio with this new Pilates Power’d class. Mix it all together and it stays interesting, fun and challenging to your body.
What should newbies expect?
Come in with an open mind, be prepared to work, sweat and listen! Sculp’d instructors are super focused on form and the right muscles to engage, and will direct your hyper-movements so you feel the burn and see the difference.
How often are Pilates Power’d offered at Sculp’d?
To start, every Saturday at 8:30 a.m., but we are adding Sundays and weekday evenings soon.
What have the reactions to Pilates Power’d been like so far from your clients?
It’s a mutual love fest. They love it and are insatiable for more. All you need is one class and you will be hooked; I promise you that. // Sculp’d: 1103 Queen St., Alexandria; $32 drop-in classes, $40 for two classes for new studio clients, membership rates vary
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