FAQs

What is Pilates?
Pilates is a nearly century old system of exercises that utilizes floor mat work and specialized equipment to tone your abdominals, improve your posture, and increase your flexibility.

How does Pilates compare to yoga?
Pilates and yoga are great complements to one another. They both focus on similar goals such as general flexibility, strength, and posture yet differ in their technique of achieving these goals. Yoga achieves hamstring flexibility by hip hinging while Pilates combines hip and spine flexion. Neither approach is superior to the other, but the “right” exercises for you depend on your flexibility and in what ways you habitually move your body. Yoga has a wider variety of movements that incorporate spinal rotation and also those that stretch the inner thigh muscles. Pilates focuses directly and specifically on abdominal and gluteal awareness and contraction. Yoga tends to work in a position and then perfect and tweak that position while Pilates is more dynamic; the student is always moving as they focus on the integrity of their positions. These are some of the general differences that we have noted over years of teaching and being students of both Pilates and yoga. It is important to note again that we feel that these two disciplines greatly enhance and compliment each other.

Why should I take a private session?
Pilates is unlike any other form of exercise, especially in its demands on the abdominals. Even those who are fit are often surprised at the initial effort it takes to correctly perform Pilates moves. Results are dependent on the individual's ability to efficiently recruit certain muscle groups with precise alignment. While the instructor in a group format will make every effort to provide individual attention to each class participant, privates or duets afford our instructors the chance to focus specifically on the student's unique strengths and weaknesses to better maximize their potential.

What is the difference between mat class and equipment?
Mat work is just one component of the whole system of exercises that Pilates offers. The equipment can simplify concepts for beginners as well as provide unique challenges as the student advances by allowing for a greater array of movements and positions. Further, the equipment also provides resistance to the movements via specially designed springs.

Do I need to be fit to start Pilates?
Pilates offers something for people at any fitness level. The exercises are organized into beginner, intermediate, advanced, and super advanced workouts that our expert instructors can tailor to any individual.

When will I see results?
Pilates delivers all that it promises, but the catch is that the student must make a conscious effort to perform each exercise to the best of their ability. Our specially trained staff will guide and encourage you to maximize your abilities. Most students feel a difference in their awareness and use of their abdominals after only a few sessions.

I have back pain, will Pilates help?
Pilates' focus on abdominal strength, flexibility, and posture lends itself well to those with back pain. However, these principles can be difficult to learn in a group setting, especially for those who may require specific modifications to avoid re-injury or aggravation of symptoms. We recommend that all clients with a history of back pain, especially if it is ongoing, take a private session before participating in the mat class. This allows us to evaluate your abilities and make recommendations to improve the safety of each exercise.

What should I wear?
Participants should wear comfortable, easy to move in clothes.

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