Photo by Tom Murray

When you hear someone mention Pilates, what is the first thought that comes to your mind? Do you envision a well-to-do woman with a perfectly slender physique? When Pilates first emerged as a method of fitness, the equipment was very expensive to purchase. Therefore, only the wealthy possessed the funds to participate.

A recent article written by 843 Home & Lifestyle Magazine published by the Sun News, discusses a new trend in physical fitness along the Grand Strand. Judy McCracken, owner of It’s A Core Thing, has been working in the area of physical fitness for many years. She chose to complete her Pilates certification when she discovered there were no Pilates studios in the area. She aspired to provide Pilates classes to everyone, instead of only offering private sessions.

Pilates is a type of physical fitness that integrates both mind and body in order to enhance your “core,” or central abdominal muscles. The focus is not on the amount of repetitions as with common exercises; instead, the importance is placed on the type of movement focusing on breathing, accurate pelvic and spinal positioning, and total attention to physical movement. Joseph Pilates, the founder of this fitness sensation, laid the foundation for exercises that envelop (the art of Pilates today) or (modern day Pilates?).

At It’s A Core Thing, we (they) are the only local operating studio that focuses entirely on Pilates exercises. In addition to group and individual Pilates classes, boot camp classes, and bar classes, we (they) offer the TRX Suspension Training System. TRX is a major form of exercise all over the country, and it is having no difficulty becoming a huge success here in our area. Utilizing a system of suspension belts, this training enables the user to work in opposition to their own personal weight. Therefore, this type of exercise equipment can be enjoyed by everyone; regardless of age.

Due to the increased interest in Pilates, McCracken has found herself needing to relocate in order to expand her studio to fit the increased number of members. [The article discusses] Her (Our?) new studio, which is twice the size of her current, will be located at 3901 N. Kings Highway (Village Square Shopping Plaza). At her (our?) new studio, McCracken plans to provide more choices for exercising. For example, strength training, spinning classes, and step classes are among the choices McCracken hopes to make available to her (our?) clients.

Since the opening of It’s A Core Thing in 2008, McCracken takes pride in offering the most advanced and state-of-the-art equipment and training. Stott Pilates is a modern type of Pilates training that McCracken is very proud to offer her clients. In the article she discusses Stott Pilates and its similarities and differences to traditional Pilates.

“It’s a licensed brand. When I opened, I researched a wide variety of companies. This particular company brand is a contemporary approach to the original Pilates exercise method. They follow Pilates theory, except they teach holding the spine differently,” said McCracken. “Also, I chose Stott Pilates because of the training and continuing education that goes with it. Stott offers the highest education in certification in the Pilates world.” Furthermore, McCracken says, “Stott requires all its licensees to have continuing education classes to stay up to date on the latest innovations.” “Everyone I hire is trained through Stott,” McCracken said, regarding the staff employed at It’s A Core Thing.

So, what are you waiting for? Come see what everyone is talking about here at It’s A Core Thing. We promise you will not be disappointed. Stop by today and let us help you get into excellent shape and start living a healthier lifestyle.

Why does it feel like the Holidays get here sooner each year? Crazy, right? It’s easy to see how folks get wrapped up in the shopping, visiting relatives & eating (and overeating).

This year, It’s A Core Thing is offering you ways to fight holiday stress, lose those extra pounds AND give back to the community. Here’s how:

Bring in two canned goods and/or donate an old winter coat on your next visit. These much needed goods will go to the local Feed A Family organization. In return, you will receive a complimentary workout with a Certified Stott Pilates Instructor on our NEW Barrel Apparatus & Stability Chair. This alone is a $45 value, so everybody wins!

And just to show thanks to our clients, current & future, we’re offering another promotion.

Many of our clients who try Pilates come back soon & often. We know you’ll love working with our trainers, so we’re offering this incentive: complete three workouts in one week, and get 10% off your next purchased training package. This is not limited to one discount ~ for every week you complete three sessions, you are eligible for another 10% off! We’ll keep track of your sessions, notifying you each time you are eligible.

These great deals are offered thru December 31st, 2010, so act fast! What better way to help out your community, and get a jump start on that New Year’s resolution to get fit?

Too busy for an extended session? Try one of our “Express Workouts”. These 30min sessions will wipe stress & help you get your focus back! Great for busy executives, working moms or anyone else with a full schedule. Contact us today & get ready to better your body with Pilates!

This month, It’s A Core Thing is excited to bring you the scoop on TRX Suspension Training. This workout method makes a great companion to Pilates, and has a staggering amount of applications. We’ve begun offering TRX Suspension Training to our clients, and are thrilled with the results. Let’s take a look inside the method that’s gaining exposure as one of the most effective workouts available.

NECESSITY IS THE MOTHER OF INVENTION

We’ve all heard this phrase before. Some of humankind’s best advancements have been born of the frustrations of one individual, trying to solve a single problem. The story of TRX Suspension Training is no different.

Developed by a U.S. Navy Seal (they know a thing or two about fitness), this system was designed for maximum effect, in any environment, with little space or time requirements. Certainly, space & time are both at a premium in our busy 21st century lives. This is just one reason why the TRX Suspension Training system might be just right for you.

Weighing only 2lbs, the actual equipment relies on gravity & resistance (rather than a complex series of mechanisms & weights). The exercises can all be adapted to your body-type, and modified to suit your fitness needs. Are you an athlete looking for a workout that can give you a performance edge? A golfer looking to add power to your swing? A busy mom with an unforgiving schedule? TRX Suspension Training System is perfect for each of you.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

It’s A Core Thing has invested the time & money necessary to learn the techniques you need to succeed. We’re here to help you make the ‘body breakthrough’ you’ve been craving. Remember, effective workouts are not only about pushing yourself farther. It’s also crucial to develop mindful awareness of what your body is telling you before, during & after the workout.  A personalized session with our TRX Suspension Training System pros will help you gain this awareness.

Hopefully, we’ve piqued your interest. The TRX Suspension Training System is quickly gaining popularity & use throughout the fitness community (and beyond). However, we know you’ll have questions & concerns, and our team is ready to answer any & all of them. Contact us today to find out how we can help jump-start the new you!

Discover Your Strength by incorporating the principles of Classical Pilates in your life. It’s A Core Thing Pilates is a Stott Pilates Studio in the heart of Myrtle Beach.

We offer Pilates workouts for persons of all fitness levels – from the fitness client to the rehab client transitioning from an injury. There are numerous ways you can start your Pilates practice at our studio.

We want our clients to ALWAYS have fun, not only exploring the strength and stability in their bodies through their practice, but also feel refreshed, empowered and centered in their bodies after each session.

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about getting started.
Hope to see ya soon!

It’s A Core Thing Crew