Pilates focuses on principles of utilizing core strength, precision, body control, and functional movement with sequenced breathing. By developing strength in the muscles of the abdomen, back, and hips, Pilates helps build better alignment and posture. Pilates can help create long, lean, and defined muscles through intelligent sequencing and multi-joint movements that require full range of motion. Pilates also creates a fundamental connection between the mind and the body, which helps reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
Supermodels, athletes, office professionals, CEOs, stay-at-home moms, and retirees looking to improve their golf game or tennis swing – all choose Pilates. The versatility and effectiveness of Pilates makes it a fundamental tool for keeping the body healthy and strong for men and women of all ages. Pilates is also beneficial for those with special needs, including women who are in their pre- or post-natal stages, those who want to gain an edge in their athletic pursuits, and individuals with injuries or rehabilitation needs.
Yoga vs. Pilates?
Both Pilates and Yoga are methods of body conditioning that focus on strength and flexibility. Joseph Pilates was interested in Yoga and based many of his exercises on Yoga postures and principles. Pilates uses apparatus in addition to exercises done on a mat. When Pilates mat work is done properly, your muscles are working with resistance. However, this can be hard to feel, and the apparatus helps you to do that.
Mat or Equipment Classes?
Mat classes really focus on core work and require you to support your body and are very challenging. Pilates equipment gives you a frame to work within that is often more helpful than mat but can be more challenging when springs are added or taken away. Working on the equipment can also target and tone specific areas of your body very efficiently.
Is Pilates For Beginners?
It's a common misconception that Pilates is only for serious athletes or professional dancers. While these groups first adopted Pilates, they aren't the only ones who can benefit from this approach to strength training. Another common misperception is that Pilates requires specialized equipment. Indeed, when you think of Pilates you probably picture the reformer, an apparatus that resembles a bed frame with a sliding carriage and adjustable springs, or the cadillac, a type of trapeze table. The reality is that many Pilates exercises can be done on the floor with just a mat.
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What if I have an injury?
One reason that Pilates has become so popular is because it is safe to do with almost any injury or limitation. We have worked with clients: after knee and hip replacements, after back, shoulder, wrist or foot surgery, after a stroke, with MS, vertigo, scoliosis, whiplash, herniated discs, compression fractures, Osteoporosis/Osteopenia, during radiation treatments, after a Mastectomy, after broken bones and more. Pilates Instructors are not physical therapists. In fact, our training is to give you a good workout while taking care to avoid the injured area. No amount of pain is considered OK. Our motto at the studio is, “No pain, No pain!” (Never: “No pain, No gain.”) Once you have been released from Physical Therapy, Pilates is a great way to continue rehabilitating your body. Pilates will help to correct any muscle imbalances that may have caused the injury by strengthening weak muscles and stretching tight muscles around an injured joint. Pilates is a great “tune-up” for your body, and making it a part of your lifestyle will help you maintain your strength and flexibility.
Will I lose weight?
Pilates is famous for creating long, lean, fit bodies, that's why lots of models and dancers love it. There are many ways that doing Pilates supports weight loss and a trimmer appearance. Exercise burns calories. How many calories you burn depends on your body type and your level of exertion. Creating lean muscle mass, as Pilates does, is one of the best ways to increase your calorie-burning potential. One of the best ways to look and feel thinner is to have beautiful posture. Pilates creates a leaner look by emphasizing both length and good alignment. Pilates is an enlivening workout that can help sustain energy levels throughout your day. However, it is not usually done as aerobic exercise. Therefore, some people enjoy combining Pilates with aerobic exercise in order to maximize their weight loss.
Frequency of training?
The ideal practice of Pilates is 3 times per week. However, you need to take into consideration – time, finances, stress level and burning out. We suggest starting with one session (100% more than you are doing now!) and adding more sessions when you can. You can also try a Mat or Group Reformer class, providing you are approved to do so. You will see results quickly if you do more sessions each week.
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