FAQs

Pilates is a form of exercise developed by a man named Joseph Pilates. He named the method Contrology; A practice focused on developing the mind-body connection. It is a mindful movement system utilizing specialized machines to provide feedback, support and challenge to the body as needed. It’s purpose is to develop an understanding of the body and how it works most efficiently. Pilates purpose is to strengthen all movements by connecting to a powerful core.

Pilates is not solely based on movement, but based on a desired outcome. So, we judge the movement as positive or negative based on somatic experience (how it feels… what is working and what isn’t). Pilates also lengthens muscles, rather than shortens them, to create strength. This enables more fluid movement and much more support for joints which is why it is so beneficial for rehabilitating and preventing injury. It utilizes all ranges of motion available in the body so that what was once awkward or disconnected, becomes available and strong!

There's definitely a mind-body connection and a very similar fluidity in both YOGA and PILATES. But one difference is that there's a whole line of equipment in Pilates that doesn't exist in yoga, so it provides a different angle: You're doing exercises with the assistance and resistance of springs and pulleys. The springs may assist you or they may make an exercise more difficult, depending on the exercise.

Initially the workout is slow moving because everything is being explained to you. Eventually, once you learn the workout and you're going through the motions, it becomes aerobic. You can get a cardiovascular workout when you're on the equipment and working on an advanced level because it's more physical. And some classes and Pilates DVDs alternate classic Pilates moves with sequences of heart-rate boosting exercises for a double-duty effect. You have to work towards it, but Pilates can be cardiovascular!

Pilates was actually formed as a method of physical therapy so it is easy to modify the movements for the most athletic or also those that are injured. Anyone of any age can practice pilates!

Most importantly, Pilates allows you to get to know your body on a deeper and better level. It will develop your core strength through exercises designed to begin all movements from your center. It is perfect for pain relief, and also the satisfaction of a challenging, mindful, functional, varied and fun workout!

Three or more times weekly if it is your only form of movement or exercise. For a cross-training addition to your regular workout routine, one or two times per week is amazing for the body! It generally takes one or two sessions for your body to feel the difference of the movements, and usually after ten or so sessions, you can begin to see those differences. Pilates will aid in flexibility and corrects imbalances that come from other forms of exercise. For example:

• It helps to connect a flexible Yogi or Dancer in order to not strain the joints.

• It helps to open the Crossfitter, football player, triathlete, or even those who are tight from walking regularly.

• It helps to create higher performance and mitigate negative side effects of all other forms of movement.