Classical Mat Order
The original mat order from Joseph Pilates’ book Return to Life is a brilliant sequence to learn and carry with you—something you can return to wherever you are. Below is the order I use in my own practice and teaching. It’s based on Joseph’s original sequence and reflects the classical mat order taught by Jay Grimes and many other teachers who’ve stayed close to the source.
Each exercise has a link to a free tutorial from Lesley Logan.
THE ORDER
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THE ORDER *
1. 100
2. Roll Up
3. Roll Over
8. Single Straight Leg Stretch
9. Double Straight Leg Stretch
10. Criss Cross
12. Open Leg Rocker
13. Corkscrew
14. Saw
15. Swan
16. Single Leg Kick
17. Double Leg Kick
18. Thigh Stretch
19. Neck Pull
20. High Scissors
21. High Bicycle
22. Shoulder Bridge
23. Spine Twist
24. Jackknife
25. Side Leg Kicks
26. Teaser
27. Hip Circles
28. Swimming
29. Leg Pull
30. Leg Pull Front
32. Side Bend
33. Boomerang
34. Seal
35. Crab
36. Rocking
37. Control Balance
38. Push Ups