I have never done Pilates before. How do I get started?
If you have never done Pilates, it is best that you experience a few private lessons first, so that you can understand the specifics of alignment and form that help you to get the most out of your lessons. As Joseph Pilates used to say, doing one repetition of an exercise perfectly is more valuable than doing it 100 times incorrectly. By working one-on-one with us, you can see how Pilates relates to your body and get the tools to be successful with the goals you have. Our studio offers an introductory privates package for $200. It includes 3 lessons to introduce you to Pilates, and at the end your instructor can help you decide which options are best for your needs.
What if I just want to be in a group?
We offer duets for students that are at similar levels and who have some familiarity with the classical repertoire. While groups can be a fun and cost-effective way to do Pilates, we want to make sure that each student gets the most out of their experience and stays safe during the lesson. Because we work with spring resistance and equipment, it is important to have a foundation before partnering. If you have questions about starting or joining a group, feel free to call the studio for more information.
How often should I do Pilates?
How often you do Pilates is not as important as how consistent you are with your program. Coming once a week consistently is better than doing it 3x in one week and then taking a long break. The wonderful thing about Pilates is that you can practice its principles on and off the mat; we encourage all our students to take the lessons of alignment and awareness with them everywhere they go. That being said, Pilates is designed so that you can safely practice it every day. Two to three times a week is often a good number of sessions to help the body change quickly and the mind remember what is learned.
What should I wear?
For Pilates, workout pants and a fitted or semi-fitted top are best so that your instructor can better help you with alignment and body positioning. You can be barefoot or wear socks although we highly recommend that you wear socks. On some of the apparatus more slippery socks may have to be removed. The most important thing is that you are able to move comfortably.
I am pregnant. Can I do Pilates? Can I do Melt?
It is not advised for those who have not done Pilates prior to pregnancy to begin once pregnant. In order to properly modify for safety, the deep core work must be limited and for a new student, even the basics may be too strenuous for the body at that time. Women who have already been practicing Pilates can continue, but the sessions will be modified as necessary to create an appropriate level of workout. Light stretching and strengthening work can be very beneficial during pregnancy and afterwards. It is important that regardless of physical conditioning, women actively communicate with their doctor and Pilates/Yoga/Melt instructor regarding any exercise program and its effects.
The Melt Method is designed to relax, stretch and literally “melt” the tightness being held in the body. It is completely safe to start and continue throughout pregnancy. Many women complain of pain in the sacrum and lower back due to the extra load of the baby and the Melt Method can significantly reduce that discomfort, among others.
Do men do pilates?
YES! In fact, Pilates was developed by a man and is a very tough workout. Men are often pleasantly surprised by how challenging Pilates can be and also how much the emphasis on core strength and flexibility can increase their efficacy in everything from muscle tone to competitive athletics performance. Pilates is also preventative care for back problems, which are a common injury for men. Truly Pilates is for everyone; whether struggling with injury or trying to run faster and jump higher in your sport, it is never too late to get started.
Why aren’t there mat-only classes?
Students interested in learning the mat work or developing their already existing skills in that arena can enroll for our small group mat sessions of 3-5 students. Classes will be held in an extended workshop format, with each class building upon the next and focused on a specific topic or skill set. We teach the original classical method as was developed by Joseph Pilates. While the mat work is an integral part of the workout, it also requires the most body awareness and skill as a Pilates practitioner as it is easy for the body to “cheat” or “compensate” through the exercise. There are no resistance and springs for biofeedback on the MATWORK. We strive to inform our clients’ bodies first by using the apparatus and then the client can apply that information to his/her mat work.
What is the difference between Yoga and Pilates? Which should I do?
Yoga and Pilates are very interrelated, offering many of the same attributes to the mind and body but go about it in different ways. While Pilates is a very energizing practice meant to strengthen the body and increase vitality, Yoga focus more on calming the mind, reducing stress and creating openness. Pilates strengthens while stretching to create long, lean muscles while in Yoga, there is more focus on increasing flexibility. Pilates uses spring resistance and various apparatus to challenge the body in different planes of motion; Yoga uses the weight of gravity against the body to create strength. They are very complementary because they attack many of the same problems, so it is great to include some of each in your wellness program. The best way to find out what works for you is to give them both a try. The needs of the student (stability, fixing muscular imbalance, recovering from injury) will often dictate which option offers the best results.
Do I need to bring anything?
Just bring yourself and your highest quality of attention. We are a full service studio and have all the equipment for your class. You are welcome to bring water or a hand towel for sweat, if you like, but we have water and even coffee or tea if you need a pick-me-up after class.
What is your cancellation policy?
We have a 24-hour cancellation policy for all sessions. Anything cancelled in less than that window will be charged. If you have a conflict with your schedule, please contact the studio as soon as possible via phone, email or in person.