PILATES FAQ's

What is Pilates?
Pilates (Pu-lah-tees) is a full body exercise program that uses a series of machines and exercises. It was developed by German born Joseph H. Pilates over 70 years ago. Pilates is a unique and disciplined method of body conditioning where non-impact exercises can be performed on apparatus, mats on the floor, and even while seated in chairs. It combines 500 precisely designed movements that strengthen and condition the entire body. Pilates is principled in awareness and development of the deep core musculature of the abdominals, pelvis, and low back.

Pilates History and Principles

What are the principles of Pilates?
There are six basic principles of Pilates. The most important principle of Pilates is concentration. You must be very focused and conscious of your movement during each exercise. The second is that every movement is done with control. The third is centering, meaning that you are working all sides of your body evenly (front to back, and right to left). The fluidity of the exercise is the fourth, wherein the movement is like a dance, with every movement flowing into the next. Precision during each exercise is fifth. Finally, breath is focused to assist all of the above principles, particularly concentration of the mind. Thus, concentration, control, centering, fluidity, precision and breath are the six basic principles of Pilates.

How is Pilates different from other forms of exercise?
Pilates is different from most exercises because it is low impact, safe, and focuses on using the body as a whole. It’s non-impact in that you’re often lying on your back or side and the equipment helps to decrease the forces of gravity when needed. With each exercise, you are initiating the movement from your core abdominal region and protecting your lower back. You’re also working the body symmetrically without any compensation. Thus, one side always works just as hard as the other.

What is the difference between yoga and Pilates?
The equipment used in Pilates doesn’t exist in yoga. In Pilates, 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. Yoga and Pilates complement each other and there’s a similar fluidity and mind-body connection across both disciplines.

What is the Gyrotonic Expansion System^®?
Developed by Julio Horvath, the Gyrotonic Expansion System^® emphasizes three dimensional joint full body movements. The motion is performed in circular and diagonal patterns, simulating the body’s natural movement and synchronizing breath and rhythm.

What does my fitness level need to be before I start Pilates?
The programs offered at Bodyscape are adaptable to any fitness level.

Who can benefit from Pilates?
Both men and women from teenagers to seniors can benefit from the training and classes that Bodyscape has to offer.

How do the classes and training at Bodyscape differ from those offered by larger health clubs and gyms?
There is nothing wrong with attending a Pilates class at a gym. However, it should be noted that in those types of classes there are typically a wide range of multi-level students. In addition, there is rarely enough supervision and individualized feedback for each participant. Classes at gyms may then result in injury, frustration, or disappointing results. It is important to know your body and be familiar with the basics of Pilates before trying the higher level exercises that these classes may try to incorporate. Therefore, these classes may not be the ideal choice if you want to develop full-body awareness and a deeper understanding of the Pilates method. Most importantly, training at Bodyscape is tailored to fit your individual needs and goals.

Can I do Pilates with an existing injury?
Yes. Due to the fact that Bodyscape is also a physical therapy practice, all of our Pilates instructors have been extensively trained in injury rehabilitation and prevention. Thus, with an existing injury, your Pilates program would be focused on resolving your injury safely, as well as improving your whole body fitness.

Can I try one class before enrolling in the ten week series?
While single sessions are available for purchase, it is important to note that full appreciation for the Pilates method will not come with just one session. At Bodyscape, we offer an introductory package of three individual training sessions to give our clients a more complete initial experience.

What do I need to wear?
You should wear snug, comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement.

What benefits can I expect from Pilates?
Pilates at Bodyscape can improve posture and alignment, strength and flexibility, cardiovascular function, and agility, balance, and coordination. It also contributes to the reduction of stress, the stimulation of the mind, and elevation of the spirit. Pilates also enhances rehabilitation of orthopedic and neurological conditions and can be used to strengthen and simulate performance in athletic and artistic activities.

Can I lose weight with Pilates?
Initially the workout is slow because everything is explained to you. Eventually, once you know the workout and principles at its intermediate to advanced levels, Pilates can provide an aerobic/cardiovascular workout that helps to lose weight. In conjunction with Pilates, we always recommend an additional form of cardiovascular exercise at least 3x/week. Examples include walking, swimming, or hiking. Also, nearly any movement program done regularly over an extended period of time can help to reduce weight.

Should a student expect to feel sore?
If you are really conscious and make the effort to have every movement count, likely you will feel something the following day. It also has to do with how much exercise you have recently done prior to beginning Pilates. If you’ve been sedentary, you’re probably going to feel it more than someone who’s been very active. It’s all relative.

Can I use Pilates for general fitness training?
Yes, when practiced on a regular basis, Pilates encompasses all aspects of fitness, including strength, coordination, flexibility, cardiovascular exercise, motor skills, and relaxation.

How can beginners get the most benefit from Pilates?
Be consistent, especially in the beginning. Make it your reward, a break from a hectic day. Also, listen to your body and really concentrate as it makes for a better workout.

Is it safe to practice Pilates if I am pregnant?
Yes, but it is important to check with a physician before starting any exercise program during pregnancy.

Is it important for Pilates instructors to have certification?
Yes. When you are contacting various studios/instructors to determine where you are going to start Pilates, it is important to be an educated consumer and ask questions. Find out how long the instructor(s) have been teaching Pilates, who was their mentor that they trained under, and how long was the training, as well as where they were certified. I then recommend that you contact their mentor and certifying organization and find out how extensive was their training. Unfortunately, many instructors become certified in a single weekend course and have not had the extensive training needed. At Bodyscape, all of our instructors are certified and have a broad and thorough training background.

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