Margo Gruen, 56, has been a yogi at Hot Yoga Plus for years, but initially found their Hot Sculpt Pilates class intimidating. However, once she gave it a try, she never looked back!
Hot Sculpt Pilates at Hot Yoga Plus is a dynamic and effective workout that combines elements of mat Pilates, weighted and bodyweight-based strength training, and yoga in a lighted, heated room. ”It’s truly a full-body workout, and each class is always different, which keeps it exciting.” Margo says. Margo’s favorite part of Hot Sculpt Pilates is the incorporation of high-intensity bursts of cardio and utilizing bands, weights, and other props like yoga blocks to creatively add resistance and challenge. Despite the challenge of Hot Sculpt Pilates, Margo has found the practice helpful in recovering from injury and preventing future strain and discomfort. “After dealing with a few injuries, I’ve noticed that some of the movements resemble the exercises I do in physical therapy, which has been beneficial,” Margo says.
Margo loves the Hot Yoga Plus community of yogis and Pilates students ranging from beginners to aficionados, and she feels there is a place for everyone there. She is especially drawn to the friendly and encouraging nature of the instructors and appreciates that modifications are offered for each move to cater to beginners or anyone experiencing discomfort. Margo’s favorite class is Sculpt & Yin on Sunday mornings with Whitney Jayne, which is similar to a standard Hot Sculpt Pilates class but ends with a relaxing yin yoga deep stretching series. Margo feels the combination of challenging HIIT Sculpt with prolonged deep stretching has improved her flexibility, strength, and range of motion. “The yin part of the class is also a bit meditative. I leave the class feeling relaxed and refreshed,” Margo says.
The fitness and relaxation found at Hot Yoga Plus are welcome additions to Margo’s very active and busy life. Outside the studio, Margo can often be found playing tennis or pickleball, taking her dogs on long walks, connecting with her kids over their shared love of yoga, playing Mahjong with friends, or enjoying a cocktail with her husband, Todd. She also recently launched a local chapter of a national non-profit organization dedicated to fostering connections within the Memphis community. Margo plans to continue her journey as a yogi and a Hot Sculpt Pilates student. She looks forward to taking on new challenges with the encouraging and relaxing Hot Yoga Plus community!
By Zoe Harrison
Photo by Tindall Stephens
