Mind Body Classes
Mind Body is a method of body conditioning designed to stretch and strengthen the body through a series of unique exercises. Our Mind Body Group Ex classes serve as the perfect complement to more cardio-based and strength-based classes. At the Monroe County Y, we offer a wide range of classes like yoga, Pilates, barre, and Core & Strength. There are endless ways to incorporate the mind-body connection into your fitness routine!
Philosophy of Yoga
The foundation of our yoga program lies in a mind/body practice called Hatha Yoga, which is an invigorating, non-competitive form of exercise for men and women of all ages. Every class works on developing strength, flexibility, balance, and concentration while also emphasizing body alignment, spinal extension, muscular balance, and the subtleties of the breath. The gentle and versatile nature of yoga promotes physical and mental relaxation, increased energy, and enhancement of one’s overall health.
Benefits of Yoga
Yoga addresses many needs of your body and mind. Stretching muscles can improve and ease movement, decreasing feelings of stiffness or fatigue. Paying attention to your breath can help you relax, release stress, and stay calm. Yoga has been found to lower blood pressure and slow the heart rate.
Many types of yoga can be quite physical, improving your muscle tone and strength. Yoga poses strengthen the core, leading to stronger abdominal muscles and a healthier back. A strengthened core and increased flexibility lead to better posture.
Philosophy of Pilates
Based on yoga and classical dance, this mind/body practice emphasizes lengthening and strengthening the whole body. Special attention is given to postural enhancement, core strength and stability, and breathwork. Pilates techniques are low impact and are accessible to all people, from beginners to those with injuries and athletes to dancers.
Benefits of Pilates
Pilates helps train your body to be more aware and healthy. From posture to coordination, the lessons learned in Pilates will carry with you throughout your day, so you are more aware of your body and how to keep it healthy. In our Pilates classes, you will build your core, strengthen muscles throughout your body, and focus on balance and posture for overall health.
Philosophy of Barre
This high-energy, low-impact class is a sequence of challenging exercises designed to create strength, flexibility, and total body conditioning. Based on the principles of Pilates, yoga, and athletic conditioning, barre is a system of movements that focuses on posture, stability, and strength.
Benefits of Barre
Barre is a toning, body-weight-lifting workout where you can improve your balance and strength. It engages muscles you wouldn’t normally target—ones deep inside your body that squats, lunges, and sit-ups don’t reach. With high-reps and low-impact movements, barre challenges anyone looking to fine-tune their muscles—no ballet experience required.
At the Monroe County Y, we offer Aquatic Group Ex classes that are Included in Membership and Specialty classes. Looking for a Group Ex class description? Please refer to our Group Ex schedule here or visit our app!
