Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

                Pilates is the exercise method developed by Joseph H. Pilates.  Mr. Pilates philosophy on health & well-being was the foundation for designing a beautifully integrated system.  His holistic approach to movement uses multiple muscles at the same time and involves both the sequenced mat exercises and the equipment Mr. Pilates invented.  As proper practice requires concentration, the Pilates method strengthens both the body and the mind.

                The benefits of Pilates include increased strength, flexibility, lung capacity, and circulation.  Improved breathing, posture, concentration and awareness are some of the benefits of a regular practice.

                Yes, you can practice Pilates and participate in sports or other activities.  As you gain balanced muscular development with Pilates, you will be less prone to injury and even likely to improve your game.  As always, it is recommended to check with your doctor before beginning a new workout regimen.

                During the first session or initial consultation, the unique client history is investigated and a postural assessment given.  The first session is an introduction to the Pilates method and an individualized program is designed to help the student meet his or her goals.

                Sessions are 55 minutes.

                Practicing twice a week is recommended in order to progress.  Home practice can count toward the two sessions.  Practicing on a more frequent basis will accelerate progress and is generally not contraindicated.  Pilates is something that can even be practiced daily.  Your teacher can guide you in a personal practice and frequency that is right for you.

                In order to focus on quality, the studio only offers private sessions and a limited number of duets.

                Joseph Pilates used to say that “After 10 sessions, you will feel a difference.  After 20 sessions, you will see a difference.  And after 30 sessions, you will have a whole new body!”  While a new body in 30 sessions might be a stretch, often students do begin to feel a difference in the first session or two.  Things start to “pull in”.  A regular Pilates practice combined with good nutrition and cardio/walking, will yield the best results for both health and weight loss.

                Wear something in which you feel comfortable, covered and have freedom of motion.  During a Pilates session, you might find yourself in positions or stretches, where certain areas of the body could be exposed.  Please make sure what you are wearing covers you and is not likely to shift.  If wearing loose shorts, a pair of form fitting biker shorts underneath are recommended, especially for the gentlemen.

                Both Pilates and yoga fall into the mind/body fitness category and both Pilates and yoga can increase flexibility and core strength.  Yoga, however, has deep roots and was developed thousands of years ago in India.  Pilates is a more modern development and was created by Joseph Pilates within the past 100 years.  Mr. Pilates also invented specialized equipment that utilize spring resistance.  Yoga has a spiritual aspect and associated ancient texts and practices.  While Pilates is holistic and seeks to uplift the spirit, there is less emphasis on spiritual disciplines.

                “Yamuna® Body Rolling (YBR) is a completely orignal fitness and therapy practice that combines healing, wellness and injury prevention in a single, simple workout.”  Developed by Yamuna (pronounced Ya-mu-na) Zake, Body Rolling involves 6-10 inches balls that are used to release muscles from beginning to end.  Based on Yamuna® Body Logic system, Body Rolling feels like a combination of massage and chiropractic session all in one.

                Some of the benefits of Yamuna® include freeing restrictions, elongating muscles, improving alignment and increasing circulation.  As the Yamuna® balls are reinflatable, YBR is easy to practice at home or on the road and great tool for self-care.

                Yes, Pilates and Yamuna® do compliment each other.  While both focus on balancing muscle development, they have different approaches.  Pilates focuses more on strength, while Yamuna® focuses more on releasing the muscles.  The Yamuna® Ball can help free up restrictions and Pilates can help maintain that freedom.