Pilates FAQ's
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a true Mind-Body discipline. It requires systematic practice of specific sequences of exercises. Its emphasis on purity of form of each movement, demands total focus and concentration creating a bridge between mental acuity and physical execution!
Can men do Pilates?
Yes! We currently train 50% men and 50% women. Many professional football, basketball and baseball players as well as professional golfers rely on Pilates for strength training, flexibility and relief from back issues. When done properly, it’s the single most effective exercise system and fitness tool available today for both men and women. They also experience accompanying tightness in their leg musculature, which is usually caused by lower back weakness. After doing Pilates, their abdomen begins to reduce and their back pain diminishes.
How long will it take to notice changes in my body?
Joseph Pilates claimed that “in 10 sessions you’ll feel the difference, in 20 you’ll see the difference, and in 30 you’ll have a new body”. Your own awareness and dedication to regular pratice will affect how quickly you see your body change. Many people feel the difference within 3 sessions you will start to notice a difference in 10 sessions.
Will I be able to perform these exercises with existing injuries?
Most everyone can perform the basic Pilates exercises, as it is low impact and focused on decompression. However, if you have had a serious injury or recent surgery, we strongly recommend you consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise regimen. If you have been in the care of a physical therapist, we would be happy to consult with them about your program. Improving flexibility and strength is one of the principle benefits of a consistent Pilates regimen.
Can I continue to do weights and other exercise routines while I do Pilates?
Yes! The Pilates prinicples can be applied to, and will, enhance virtually all movement including any supplemental fitness program you may enjoy.
Will Pilates flatten my tummy?
Absolutely! Pilates focuses on strengthening the core muscles, inevitably flattening and firming tummies.
Can I lose weight with Pilates?
Yes! Building up muscle through weight training or various resistance techniques of Pilates is essential in weight loss since muscle revs up metabolism and burns more calories. With Pilates, muscles become lean, lengthened and toned, not bulky and tight.
Is all Pilates the same?
No! The most effective style of Pilates is the classical styles where the entire body is engaged with the emphasis on the core. Be wary of programs that are not deeply rooted in the methods of Joseph Pilates.
Is Pilates a strenuous workout?
In Pilates exercise, quantity isn’t as important as quality of movement. Each class is strenuous due to the challenge of doing it correctly. All the movements are taught in a flowing series where one exercise connects with the next. Every exercise works the abdominals first and then works other muscles as well.
Classes are an hour long and truly a full-body workout.
Is Pilates safe for pregnant women? How about young or mature adults?
Yes! Due to the non-impact nature of these exercises Pilates is suitable for mature adults (currently training an 85 year old) and pregnant women. Each program is designed to meet the individual needs of each particpant. As always before embarking on a new exercise program, consult your physician. We encourgage young adults to start Pilates as early as 10 years old.
How long is each session?
Sessions normally last 55 minutes, but for special circumstances we also offer 30 minute and 45 minute sessions as well.
Who can benefit from Pilates?
Whether you are getting into shape, rehabilitating from an injury or chronic pain, training for an athletic competition, improving your sports technique or just looking for an interesting non-impact physical challenge, then Pilates is for you. Doctors, Physical Therapists, Dancers and Athletes have long used the Pilates system as an amazing and powerful training system. Pilates is currently used in physical therapy for rehabilitation.
What are the principles in which Pilates Method is based?
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here are 6 principles that form the foundation of what Pilates is and sets it apart other exercise routines:
BREATHE – A full and continuous breath is encouraged which allows for effective oxygenation of the blood and deeper engagement of deep abdominals.
CENTER – All exercises initiate from a deep core connection and flow outwards to the limbs.
CONCENTRATION – Total focus on what you are doing, the whole body, all the time!
CONTROL – Be in control of your body in each moment, not at it’s mercy!
FLOW – Exercises are intended to flow into each other in order to build strength and stamina. No holding of positions, nor jerky or ballistic movements.
PRECISION – This is based on the idea of quality vs quantity. Using correct movements each time you execute them, with proper sequencing and muscular contractions. This creates quality and efficiency of movement.