Reviving Pilates: The Rise of Functional Fitness Classes Explained

What’s old always becomes new again — even with workout routines.

The hot workout class of the moment isn’t brand-new. It’s Pilates, a core-focused routine first popularized almost a century ago.

But lower-impact doesn’t necessarily mean “easy.”

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone – free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.

Three guests joined MPR News host Angela Davis to talk about the benefits of these low-impact classes, sometimes called “functional fitness,” and how they can fit into your routine.

Guests:

  • Ayanna Rakhu, Ph.D., is a graduate of the University of Minnesota School of Kinesiology with a background in sport and exercise psychology. Rakhu is a physical activity expert who focuses on swimming.

  • Libby Grundhoefer is a Pilates instructor and personal trainer with the Minnesota Jewish Community Center.

  • Gretchen Bierbaum is the owner of Straightline Dance Fitness, a fitness studio in northeast Minneapolis.

Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.   

Related posts

Local Yoga Instructors Consider Legal Action Against City of San Diego for Crackdown on Beachside Classes

Historic Curtain Raiser for International Day of Yoga at Mahatma Gandhi’s Johannesburg Commune

Malaika Arora Shines in Pink Gown at Chandigarh Event: Fitness Enthusiast and Reality Show Judge Announced as Brand Ambassador for FashionTV and GlenWorld Realtors