Find the answers to commonly asked questions about Pilates.

What are the benefits of Pilates?

• Longer, leaner muscles (less bulk, more freedom of movement)
• Improves postural problems
• Increases core strength/stability
• Helps prevent injury
• Enhances functional fitness, ease of movement
• Balances strength & flexibility
• Heightens body awareness
• No impact, easy on the joints
• May be customized for everyone from rehab patients to elite athletes
• Complements other methods of exercise
• Improves performance in sports (golf, skiing, skating, dance, etc.)
• Improves balance, coordination & circulation

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Is Pilates like yoga?

In some respects Pilates conditioning is like yoga. Both are considered mind-body type methods of movement; both emphasize deep breathing and smooth, long movements that encourage your muscles to relax and lengthen. The difference is that while yoga requires moving from one static posture to the next without repetitions, Pilates flows through a series of movements that are more dynamic, systematic and anatomically based. The goal with Pilates exercises is to achieve optimal functional fitness.

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How is PILATES different than weight training or other resistance exercise?

• Pilates is three-dimensional (i.e. Exercises can be performed using all movement planes)
• Emphasis on concentric/eccentric contraction for injury prevention
• Pilates can be customized for special needs
• Emphasis is placed on rebalancing muscles around the joints
• Pilates corrects over-training and muscle imbalance that leads to injury
• Pilates emphasizes balancing strength with flexibility
• Pilates leads to an improvement in posture and body awareness

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What kind of results can I expect to see from doing Pilates?

You can expect an increase in flexibility, mobility, balance, and body awareness, as well as a decrease in back pain and other general pains.

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How long before I see results?

The average active person, doing 2-3 sessions per week, should see some results within the first month. This will vary depending on each individual and things such as the amount of weekly sessions, overall level of fitness prior to beginning Pilates, and any existing injuries.

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I have a bad back. Will I be able to do Pilates?

Although you should always consult your physician before starting any fitness routine, a Pilates workout is gentle and controlled with no sudden jarring actions. It is important to learn the variation of the exercise that will be of the most benefit to you.

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If I'm doing Pilates, should I still do my regular workout?

Pilates is a musculo-skeletal conditioning program. In combination with some kind of cardiovascular exercise (walking, running, aerobics, aqua fitness, etc.), it's all you need. For people who reach advanced levels, they can actually elevate their heart rate with Pilates workouts.

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Is it safe to do Pilates during pregnancy?

The available information on pregnancy and exercise can be very confusing - even conflicting. No two women's bodies are the same, and this is especially true during pregnancy. There are workouts that are quite appropriate for some people during pregnancy and not for others. During a normal, healthy pregnancy, moderate exercise is safe for the fetus. Exercise is also said to prevent varicose veins, hemorrhoids and low back pain - not to mention boosting self-esteem. The guidelines stated by the American Council on Exercise are not as hard-and-fast as they used to be. However, research suggests that no new exercise routine should be started during your first trimester. As well, you should be careful of over-exerting the abdominal muscles.

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What is the basis of this Method?

The Principles of Pilates are:

• CONTROL and CONCENTRATION - Through C&C, you integrate mind and body. Joseph Pilates called his method "Contrology."
• Working from the CORE - Throughout practice, you utilize abdominal muscles to attain and maintain a 'neutral' and stable spine (supporting all natural curves).
• PRECISION OF MOVEMENT - for alignment and efficiency.
• FLOWING MOVEMENT or SEQUENCING - Integrate more muscles to eliminate overuse, stress and fatigue.
• BREATH - Breathing with intention relieves stress, energizes the mind and body, and strengthens the abdominal muscles.

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What should I wear for the workout?

You should wear clothes that are comfortable and allow us to see your body alignment. Tank tops, t-shirts, Capri pants, or any type of sweat pants/work-out attire are recommended for both men and women.

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