FAQ’S
WHAT IS PILATES?
By definition, Pilates is a system of repetitive exercises performed on a mat or other equipment to promote strength, stability, flexibility and body awareness through controlled movements with an emphasis on core strength.
It is mind - body exercises, using a variety of equipment. It brings awareness and focus to the use of breath to enhance the body’s ability to achieve the movements.
WHAT ARE THE CORE PRINCIPLES OF PILATES?
Concentration
Pilates demands intense focus: “You have to concentrate on what you’re doing all the time”. “Contrology” was Joseph Pilates’ preferred name for his method, and it was based on the idea of muscle control.
Centering
For practitioners to control their bodies, they must have a starting place: the center. The center is the focal point of the Pilates Method.
Flow or Efficiency of Movement
Pilates aims for elegant sufficiency of movement, creating flow through the use of appropriate transitions. Pilates is flowing movement outward from a strong core.
Precision
Precision is essential to correct Pilates: The goal is for this precision to eventually become second nature and carry over into everyday life as grace and economy of movement.
Breathing
Breathing is important in the Pilates method. Joseph Pilates advised people to squeeze out the lungs as they would wring a wet towel dry. Pilates attempts to properly coordinate this breathing practice with movement.
WHAT CAN PILATES DO FOR ME?
A resistance based movement technique, has many benefits. It brings the whole body into union by addressing the respiratory system, nervous system and musculoskeletal system. It activates the deep muscles of the torso and the postural muscles of the spine, which help to stabilize the trunk as the body moves. Such conditioning alleviates back pain and prevents injury.
Pilates will also relieve symptoms, like excess muscle tension, due to a variety of common causes, including: stress, trauma, accident, injury, overuse and back issues.
Pilates has been shown to successfully improve strength and endurance for a variety of individuals, including:
Dancers
Athletes
Equestrians
Fitness enthusiasts
Those seeking greater freedom in their everyday movement
Those seeking freedom from pain
Office and sedentary workers seeking exercise to counter occupational strain
I’M NEW TO PILATES. WHERE SHOULD I START?
You must do a one hour private assessment prior to joining any classes. This will determine if you are a candidate for group reformer classes or private instruction.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PILATESS MAT-WORK AND PILATES WITH EQUIPMENT?
First of all it’s important to realize that Pilates is a method of exercise. When we talk about Mat Pilates, we are talking about using the Pilates method to do exercises using only your own body as resistance. The equipment was designed to support and advance the body while practicing the Pilates method of exercising. They help teach the body how to move properly.
I’M PREGNANT. WHAT CLASSES CAN I TAKE?
We recommend private lessons during your pregnancy. This ensures we can customize each workout specifically for your pregnancy issues.
I’VE JUST HAD A BABY. WHAT CLASS SHOULD I START WITH?
After your assessment your instructor will recommend classes and modifications for a healthy and strong recovery. Restorative and/or fundamental classes would be your best option!
I’M INJURED. CAN YOUR CLASSES HELP ME?
Absolutely. Much of Joseph Pilates early work was a direct result of injury rehabilitation and this work continues to this day. After your assessment your teacher will recommend either private instruction or restorative classes. We will work closely with your medical professionals to ensure a safe and effective rehabilitation.
IS PILATES THE SAME AS YOGA?
No! Yoga holds poses while Pilates flows through a series of movements.
WHAT DO I WEAR?
We recommend you wear comfortable stretchy clothing that is not too loose so that the instructor can see the movement of your body. Pilates is done barefoot or in Toe Sox with non‐slip grips. Please remove jewelry and refrain from scented products.
CAN I LOSE WEIGHT WITH PILATES?
Yes, and besides the health benefits of Pilates, you will begin to see changes in your body shape and begin losing inches by toning and strengthening your body.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I DO PILATES?
We recommend 2-3 times per week in order to get results — consistency is key.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN WHEN THEY SAY PILATES IS FOR BOTH THE MIND AND THE BODY?
The physical benefits of Pilates are well documented. The mental side of the equation is multi-faceted. Your results are achieved with an integrated combination of intelligence, intuition, memory, imagination, and willpower. There are no televisions in the corner or soundtracks to your workout. Your concentration on each exercise and your partnership with your instructor will keep you firmly in the moment, far from work problems or home pressures. Much like meditation, you will find yourself in a better place after your workout. Imagine… a physical and mental bounce in your step with each session!