- Isn't it the same as Yoga?: No, while they have their similarities, Pilates and Yoga are two different movement modalities. They are both mind-body exercises, asking you to pay attention to your movements and connect to your breath. They both emphasize stretching and strengthening, though in Pilates we move through, rather than holding poses. Pilates is also more founded in functional movements, and does not have a spiritual element like Yoga. If you've tried Yoga and didn't like it, then maybe Pilates will be more your cup of tea. Or, if you are a die-hard Yogi, you might find Pilates to be wonderfully complementary to your practice!
- I tried a video once, and it was too easy/hard: Videos are convenient, but nothing beats having the watchful eye of an instructor on you. If you felt it was too easy, you were most likely doing it wrong! Pilates involves very precise alignment to target small muscles, and it is very easy for more dominant muscles to take over. If it felt too hard, perhaps you weren't quite ready for whatever exercises you attempted, and an instructor will be able to modify and guide you through the process of strengthening and preparing for greater challenges.
- Pilates is too expensive: There is a Pilates option for every budget, depending on the type of service and the location. While private sessions are highly recommended as a way to start, taking a group Mat class is much more affordable, and will still provide many benefits. My goal is to provide affordable Pilates to the community, just contact me if you have financial concerns.
- Pilates is just abdominal work: Pilates works your entire body! The key is an emphasis on core-controlled movement, meaning even if you are working your legs or arms, you are conscious of keeping your core stability muscles engaged and in control, providing a safer and more efficient workout. Another added benefit is you will learn to engage your core in everyday activities, helping to prevent daily aches, pains and injury.
- Pilates is just for women: Joseph Pilates originally intended his method as a form of military training! The active stretching that Pilates provides is especially good for the male body, which tends to be less flexible. Many male professional athletes have discovered the amazing benefits of Pilates- you can read one of their stories here. And more about Pilates for men here.
- I'm too inflexible/out of shape: Pilates can be modified and tailored to every body type. It is designed to balance out the body, so you will stretch what is tight, and strengthen what is weak. And how will you ever improve that strength and flexibility if you don't try?
- I have an injury, can I still do Pilates?: Pilates can be as safe and gentle as your body needs it to be, and it is a great form of post physical therapy rehabilitation. Just check with your doctor first!
- Do I have to wear special clothes?: No need to buy expensive leggings, just wear something you can move in, not too baggy so your instructor can see your body.
- Will Pilates help me lose weight?: This one is tricky. Losing weight is a very individual matter, and usually involves some sort of modification of diet in addition to exercise. But Pilates can definitely change the way your body looks- I personally dropped two pants sizes while doing Pilates regularly, without losing any weight at all! But I had tightened, toned, and built muscle, which weighs more than fat. Pilates emphasizes building long, lean muscles, so no need to worry about bulking up either!
- Is it Cardio?: No, but it's a great compliment to Cardio workouts, helping to condition, prevent injuries, and improve breathing patterns. The only true Pilates exercises that offer cardio are Jumpboard on the reformer. Any other Pilates class that offers cardio is a hybrid with some other exercise form.
- Is it safe for pregnant/post-partum women?: Yes! Pilates is wonderful for pregnancy, conditioning the body for giving birth, and re-connecting to your body afterwards. Read more about the benefits of Pilates for Childbirth here.
