Pilates for the New Student

So you are interested in adding Pilates to your repertoire? Here are the most common questions and concerns that are asked by new students:

What is the difference between mat Pilates and working on the machines?

Joseph Pilates first created a series of exercises performed on the floor or mat before inventing the Pilates machines. The mat work uses your own body weight without added resistance. Some say that mat work is harder than using the machines, but some prefer the machine work over the mat. The machines use spring resistance and pulleys for additional strengthening exercises that cannot be achieved on the floor. It is recommended that you incorporate both floor and equipment based Pilates for maximum results. I like to incorporate a bit of mat work into the machines to give clients a taste of both worlds.

What’s the difference between Pilates and Yoga?

I believe Pilates and yoga are the perfect complement to one another and encourage my students to do both whenever possible. While yoga and Pilates both connect the mind with the body I believe that Pilates provides you with what yoga does not and vice versa. There are many types of yoga practices, some very strenuous while others very opening to achieve maximum flexibility. Pilates focuses on strengthening your abdominals, back and hips with dynamic movements that keep you moving. Yoga goes through a series of poses that can be held for a specific amount of time. Pilates and yoga are like yin and yang and when done in conjunction with one another will create an even-toned, symmetrical and harmonious body..

Do I have to be in shape and flexible to do Pilates?

No, silly! Pilates is perfect for people of all fitness levels, ages, genders, shapes and sizes, and I have worked with them all. We have to start somewhere, right? The Pilates program is filled with hundreds of exercises ranging from beginners to super advanced.

Is Pilates only for women and dancers?

This is another misconception about Pilates. Joseph Pilates was a man and a whiskey drinking, cigar smoking man at that. He originally designed his work for a man. It was only until he came to the U.S. that he worked with dancers, who later went on to become teachers of the Pilates method. I find that it is my male clients that are in the most need of Pilates. There's absolutely no dancing in Pilates and if Joseph Pilates was alive today he would say the exact same thing.

Why should I take a private session?

Pilates is about precision of movement and alignment. Taking a private session assures that you will be performing the exercises in proper form thus eliminating risks of injury. Pilates is different from any type of exercise out there. Even the fittest clients are often surprised at how demanding a Pilates workout can be. And it is very important for the beginning student to get into the habit of correct movement patterns before jumping in to a group class. A private session will ensure that you get 100% of my attention for your body's specific needs.

Will Pilates help with my low back pain?

Back pain can be caused by many things, such as tight and weak muscles, and the fact that you might sit at a desk for the better part of the day with hardly any movement of the spine. Pilates focuses on strengthening of the abdominals, back, hips and glutes while creating greater range of movement, flexibility and improved posture. It is the perfect cocktail to reduce and eliminate back pain and discomfort.

When will I see results?

Most people will feel an immediate difference right after their first session. Many clients say they feel taller, longer and more aware of their body. After the first session most clients tend to be sore in places they’ve never been sore before. Every body works differently and at its own pace. Your fitness level and dietary habits combined will how many times per week will determine how fast your body will respond. Most clients will see and feel a difference after the first month.

How many times a week should I be doing Pilates?

That all depends on your availability and financial situation. For maximum results I prefer my clients to train 2-3 per week and be consistent with your workouts. Consistency is most important, even if you can only afford to come once per week.

What should I wear?

Comfortable, form fitting clothes are best so I can see your form and muscles at work. Yoga pants, tank tops, tight shorts and t-shirts are perfect. You can be barefoot and socks are optional. No shoes required.