Pilates FAQ
What does Pilates do for the body?
Pilates conditioning will help you simultaneously develop optimal strength, flexibility, endurance and posture without adding muscle bulk or placing stress on your joints. The perfect compliment to cardiovascular exercise, athletic training or rehabilitation Pilates exercises will leave you looking toned, feeling revitalized and moving with ease. You can expect an increase in flexibility, mobility, balance, and body awareness, as well as a decrease in back pain or other general pains
What is a Reformer?
The Reformer is the main piece of equipment used in equipment-based Pilates exercise. The reformer glides forward & backward on rollers and uses springs for resistance, along with other attachments, for a wide variety of exercises and positions (i.e. lying down, seated and standing.)
What are the benefits of Pilates?
There are several benefits that are unique to pilates training, that you will not find in conventional exercise.
- longer, leaner muscles (less bulk, more freedom of movement)
- improves postural problems
- increases core strength, stability and peripheral mobility
- helps prevent injury
- enhances functional fitness, ease of movement
- balances strength & flexibility
- heightens body awareness
- no-impact, easy on the joints
- can be customized to suit everyone from rehab patients to elite athletes
- complements other methods of exercise
- improves performance in sports (golf, skiing, skating etc.)
- improves balance, coordination & circulation
Is Pilates like yoga?
In some respects pilates conditioning is like yoga. Both are considered mind-body type methods of movement; both emphasize deep breathing and smooth, long movements that encourage your muscles to relax and lengthen. The difference is that while yoga requires moving from one static posture to the next without repetitions, pilates flows through a series of movements that are more dynamic, systematic and anatomically-based. The goal with Pilates exercises is to achieve optimal functional fitness.
Will I get the same results with a mat workout as with a reformer or equipment workout?
Mat-based workouts are very convenient and can be done anywhere. However, a mat workout will provide no added resistance. A reformer workout, on the other hand, can add resistance to your routine and can correct muscular imbalances better than a matwork routine would. The Reformer also offers more opportunities to modify (progress or regress) exercises.
If I'm doing pilates, should I still do my regular workout?
Pilates is a musculo-skeletal conditioning program. In combination with some kind of cardiovascular exercise (walking, running, aerobics, aqua fitness etc.), it's all you need.
Is the Reformer good for flexibility?
Yes, the Pilates Reformer is excellent for improving flexibility. Flexibility is a key component of total fitness that has been largely ignored by other conditioning methods.
I have a bad back. Will I be able to do pilates?
Although you should always consult your physician before starting any fitness routine, a pilates workout is gentle and controlled with no sudden jarring actions. It is therefore more important that you work with a qualified instructor to ensure that you are doing the movements correctly. An experienced instructor will be able to modify the exercises to accommodate your limitations, continually challenge you within your range and monitor your improvements. If you commit yourself to a consistent workout schedule you will certainly feel results.
