WHAT IS PILATES?
Pilates is a whole-body movement system that utilizes a series of machines (that we call apparatus) and exercises to work your whole body simultaneously. The focus is primarily on what Joseph Pilates referred to as the “powerhouse” or the 4-inch band of muscles that wraps completely around your belly and back, similar to a corset. Also included in your powerhouse are your bum and inner thighs. In Pilates we often say that every exercise is a powerhouse exercise.
WHAT MAKES PILATES DIFFERENT FROM OTHER FORMS OF EXERCISE?
Pilates is unique because it’s non-impact and safe, and it really works the body as a whole. The exercises are designed to challenge your body in many different positions, whether you’re lying on your back, on your side, kneeling or standing. The goal is to develop strength and flexibility, while also correcting faulty movement patterns and postural alignment. Pilates is about healthy minds and bodies!
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN YOGA AND PILATES?
While both practices focus on the mind-body connection, flexibility and the importance of breath, one difference is the a whole line of specially-designed equipment used in Pilates that doesn’t exist in yoga. This equipment, or apparatus as we call them, enables your body to work differently and connect deeper. Exercises may be performed with the assistance or resistance created by springs and pulleys. The springs are there to assist you or to make an exercise more challenging.
I’VE NEVER DONE PILATES. HOW DO I START?
If you are brand new to using Pilates equipment, we require that you start your Pilates practice with a few private sessions. This will introduce you to the Pilates Method and equipment. It will also help you transition smoothly into group class, meaning you can keep up with the group and everyone can enjoy the benefits of the class together. Even if you are familiar with working on the mat, it’s still best to take a few private classes to ensure that everyone is on the same page and can enjoy a challenging class without too much interruption to the flow of the workout. If you have a chronic or medical condition, group classes may not be the appropriate choice for you. Be sure to bring this to your teacher’s attention at your first private session in order to determine what’s best for you.
SHOULD I DO ANYTHING SPECIAL FOR MY FIRST CLASS?
You should show up at least 10 – 15 minutes early to fill out a form and take a little tour of the studio. And be prepared to have fun!
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
We recommend comfortable workout clothes that allow you to move, you feel ok sweating in, and that your teacher is able to observe your body in (i.e. fitted). You’ll be laying down some of the time with your hands or legs in the air so please be sure your clothes move with you. If you choose to wear loose fitting shorts, we ask that you wear something fitted, like compression shorts, underneath. No shoes, please. Our classes are done either in bare feet or in socks, preferably something like Toesox where we can see your individual toes, and there’s the added benefit of a little grip on the soles to avoid any slipping.
CAN GUYS DO PILATES?
YES! Real men do Pilates! In fact, Pilates was created by a man – Joseph Pilates – and we have several male clients who practice with us regularly.
WHAT TYPE OF TRAINING OR CERTIFICATIONS DO YOUR INSTRUCTORS HAVE?
All of our instructors have received their comprehensive training from Peak Pilates. They describe their comprehensive education program here:
“At Peak Pilates we are dedicated to providing the very best Pilates instructor education system in the world. Rooted in classical Pilates, our comprehensive instructor certification covers the full breadth of traditional Pilates, while also leaving room for more contemporary exercises, flows and teaching styles. We focus not only on teaching instructors what to teach, but truly teaching instructors how to teach. Our emphasis on coaching allows us to meet each instructor wherever they are on their journey while helping them grow into the best teacher they can be.”
WHAT TYPE OF EQUIPMENT DO YOU USE?
We use Pilates equipment by Peak Pilates, Balanced Body, and Gratz. We are happy to give you a tour if you’d like to stop in and see for yourself!
WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL A CLASS?
We ask for 24 hours notice if you are unable to attend a class you’ve signed up for. We do also understand that sometimes life happens. In the event that life happens, please contact the studio to let us know as far in advance as you can so that we can make an attempt to fill your spot.
WHAT IF CLASSES ARE FULL?
We keep our equipment classes small, with just 4 reformers, so we generally prefer to know in advance who is planning to attend. Our teachers are prepared to mix things up, however, if and when we do wind up with a few extras. There are plenty of mats, chairs, spine correctors and magic circles to challenge whatever size group we have to work with!
WHAT IF I’M COMPLETELY OUT OF SHAPE?
Pilates is for every body, so even if it’s been a while, we offer modifications to many exercises and encourage you to work at your own pace. Our bodies are different from person to person AND from day to day. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request modifications when you need them during class. We are all learning and working together to improve ourselves.
WILL I GET INDIVIDUAL ATTENTION?
Yes, with smaller classes the instructors can suggest modifications specifically tailored to you. But if you have special needs or injuries, we do suggest you take individual privates sessions until you are comfortable enough with the exercises to safely modify them on your own.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I DO PILATES?
Pilates is safe enough to do every day. It’s also a wonderful complement to many other forms of exercise, such as biking, dancing, etc. Joseph Pilates used to recommend you do it three times a week. He also famously said “In 10 sessions, you will feel the difference. In 20, you will see the difference. And in 30, you’ll be on your way to having a whole new body.”
IS PILATES SAFE IF I HAVE BACK ISSUES?
Strengthening your core can definitely help improve back issues, and a lot of people find Pilates to be helpful for preventing or managing back issues. We recommend a few private sessions before joining our group classes if you have back problems. If you have any serious injuries private sessions are highly encouraged, as well as your doctor’s approval to exercise.
CAN I DO PILATES IF I AM PREGNANT?
Pilates is a fantastic way to stay connected to your changing body, keep you fit and help prepare you for delivery. From time to time we offer group pregnancy classes if there are enough interested mommies. If you’d like to join a pregnancy class and your doctor has given you the ok, then please contact us here at the studio. If you don’t see one on our current class schedule, just ask and perhaps we can set one up.
CAN I BRING MY KIDS TO THE STUDIO?
Unfortunately, we don’t have the space or the staff for child care. We love meeting your little ones but we ask that children do not stay at the studio. This is for their safety and to ensure safe, fun workouts for everyone by minimizing distraction for teachers and clients alike.
CAN I BRING MY PET TO THE STUDIO?
Sorry, no pets allowed except for service animals.