What Is Pilates?


The Pilates (pronounced "Pih-LAH-tees) technique was developed in the early 1900’s by Joseph Pilates, a German boxer and gymnast.  Originally intended to help injured soldiers with their rehabilitation, Pilates has found popularity with people of all walks of life because of its attention to posture, strength, and flexibility.  By focusing on the abdominal muscles while keeping harmful pressure off the joints, Pilates provides a gentle, total workout.  And there is more to Pilates than the time you spend in the studio.  Once you have grasped the fundamentals of Pilates you will see the benefits in all facets of your life—from higher energy to improved posture and balance.  And looking trim doesn’t hurt either.


Don't be fooled by the notion of a "gentle" workout.  In this case less is more.  While weight training leads to short, bulky muscles while decreasing flexibility, Pilates lengthens and tones your muscles while increasing flexibility.  Straining and groaning in the weight room until you can no longer move might help you build mass (while making you feel exhausted), but the price you pay in flexibility and joint health is steep.  Pilates holds those elements of your physical health in equally high esteem.

FAQs

Q:  How often should I do Pilates?

A:  We recommend one to three sessions per week.  Like anything else, repetition leads to results.  However, some people are happy taking one session per week, which they complement with other activities.

Q:  Should I take private sessions for a while before I switch to semi-private? 

A:  Yes.  If you are interested in working with a semi-private partner, we do recommend that you take at least 5 private sessions first in order to acquaint yourself with Pilates, and so that we may familiarize ourselves with you.  It is also fair to anyone we may partner you with.  Of course, you are welcome to come in with your own partner.

Q: Will Pilates help me lose weight?

A:  If done regularly and with perseverance, and if combined with a sensible diet, Pilates will give you a slimmer, more toned body.  Pilates may even change the shape of your body without altering your weight at all.  If you are looking to lose fifteen to twenty pounds or more, Pilates should be part of a wider regimen of diet and cardiovascular activity.

Q: When will I see results?

A:  After your first lesson, you will have gained some valuable fundamental knowledge pertaining to your everyday physical behavior. Standing up straight will make a waistline look trimmer. More dramatic results will come with time and diligence. Pilates requires your focus and energy. The more of each you provide, the faster your goals will be reached.

Q: May I work without an instructor in the studio?
A:  Pilates sessions are always taken with an instructor.  An instructor will help you maintain proper technique.  Even instructors work out with other instructors!


Q: Can I take Pilates if I am overweight?  If I have bad knees?  If I have a bad back?  If I am "too old"?

A:  Pilates is for everyone. There are over 600 different exercises in the Pilates technique, all of them subject to modification.  It is not necessary to be “in shape” to start Pilates!

Q: What are the differences between Pilates and Yoga?
A:  There are a few primary distinctions.  1. Pilates does not incorporate the spiritual element that Yoga involves.  2. While in Yoga you may hold positions for extended periods of time.  Pilates moves forward at all times.  Once you have learned the technique, you may do thirty or more exercises in your one-hour session.  (Unlike circuit training, there is no repetition of sets.  After an exercise is done, you move on to a new one.  There is a logical progression.)  3. Yoga instructors will often encourage a soft belly.  A Pilates instructor will always insist that your abdomen is flat and engaged.