Frequently asked questions
- What is pilates?
- What are the benefits of Pilates?
- I have a bad back, Why have I been recommended to do Pilates?
- Will Pilates help me to lose weight?
- What should I wear?
- Will I need to bring anything?
What is pilates
Pilates is a system of controlled exercises that engage the mind and condition the total body. It is a balanced blend of strength and flexibility training that improves posture, reduces stress and creates long, lean muscles without bulking up. Pilates works several muscle groups simultaneously through smooth, continuous motion, with a particular concentration on strengthening and stabilizing the core (the abdomen, back and pelvic girdle region, sometimes referred to as the "powerhouse").
The focus is on quality of movement rather than quantity, which makes one feel invigorated rather than exhausted after a session. Pilates takes a balanced approach so that no muscle group is overworked and the body works as an efficient, holistic system in sport and daily activity.
Pilates exercises can be performed on a mat or on specialized equipment such as a Pilates Reformer,
Pilates Cadillac
and Ladder Barrel.
What are the benefits of Pilates?
With regular committed Pilates workouts you can expect to:
- Improve strength, flexibility and balance
- Tone and build long, lean muscles without bulk
- Challenge deep abdominal muscles to support the core
- Engage the mind and enhance body awareness
- Condition efficient patterns of movement making the body less prone to injury
- Reduce stress, relieve tension, boost energy through deep stretching
- Restore postural alignment
- Create a stronger, more flexible spine
- Promote recovery from strain or injury
- Increase joint range of motion
- Improve circulation
- Heighten neuromuscular coordination
- Offer relief from back pain and joint stress
- Correct over-training of muscle groups which can lead to stress and injury
- Enhance mobility, agility and stamina
- Compliment sports training and develop functional fitness for daily life activity
- Improve the way your body looks and feels
I have a bad back, Why have I been recommended to do Pilates?
The important principles of Pilates are consistent with an exercise program that promotes back health. In particular, learning awareness of neutral alignment of the spine and strengthening the deep postural muscles that support this alignment are important skills for those with back pain .
Patients with pain stemming from excessive movement and degeneration of the intervertebral discs and joints are particularly likely to benefit from a Pilates exercise program. In addition, postural asymmetries can be improved, thus decreasing wear and tear resulting from uneven stresses on the intervertebral joints and discs.
Pilates improves strength, flexibility and suppleness of the muscles of the hip and shoulder girdle. Fluid and supported movement through these joints helps prevent unnecessary torque on the vertebral column.
The Pilates program also teaches awareness of movement habits that may stress the spine, and helps the patient change these habits to those that preserve neutral alignment. Awareness of excessive tension and the use of proper focus helps the patient use the body efficiently.
Will Pilates help me to lose weight?
Pilates is supportive of weight loss. In many cases just beginning Pilates class, or a home routine, is enough to jump start weight loss. However, as time goes by you may find that your body becomes accustomed to your workout level. Then, you will need to increase the intensity of your workout enough to help you continue to burn extra calories. Talk to your instructor who can offer advice and design a plan to help you achieve your weight loss goals together.
What should I wear?
What to wear for doing Pilates exercise is very much up to you . Comfortable exercise clothes that let you have full range of motion are fine. If you are going to class, then you will want to be sure that the instructor can see your body well enough to make corrections to your posture. Sometimes clothes that are very loose can be too revealing.
Will I need to bring anything?
All equipment (mats, bands, balls e.t.c) Are provided. There is an opportunity to purchase equipment through the instructor for home use at discounted prices.