What is Pilates?
Pilates is not just another workout method or ab builder. It's a systematic approach to total fitness that targets the deep core muscles and provides strength, flexibility and stability for all your activities.
Q. How did Pilates get started?
The Pilates method was developed by its namesake, Joseph Pilates (1880-1967). Joseph Pilates had very progressive ideas about physical fitness and injury rehabilitation. Working on himself to overcome injury and weakness, he used his innovations to develop the technique he originally called Controlology.
In 1926 Joseph and his wife Clara set up the "Pilates Studio" in Manhattan. Their work was immediately popular in the dance community and many of this century's great American dancers incorporated Pilates training into their careers.
Professional athletes saw its benefits in performance enhancement. Fitness enthusiasts found it to be an exercise program that stimulates the mind and body, rather than relying on endless repetition and a "no pain no gain" mentality.
Q. What makes Retrofit Pilates so effective?
Retrofit Pilates works so well because it reeducates muscle patterning. It is movement training, not simply muscular training. Over time, our bodies build inefficient movement patterns - certain muscle groups end up being overworked while other muscle groups don't work at all. This often results in overuse injuries in muscles and joints - the spine, shoulders, hips and knees. Our program wakes up those sleeping muscles! You begin to work muscles you didn't even know you had. You develop strength, flexibility, and control, in a balanced body without bulk.
Q. What kind of results can I expect and how quickly?
The first thing you will notice is that you feel taller and leaner through your midsection as you begin to develop strength and tone in you core abdominal and back muscles. You will quickly begin to see more tone in your hips and thighs. Your posture will improve as tension diminishes in your neck and shoulders. You will develop long, lean muscles without bulk. You will feel stronger, more flexible and more graceful. By reeducating muscle patterning, you will work your body efficiently and in optimum alignment, making all movement easier. You will begin to feel results almost immediately. With consistent practice, you will see significant results in three months.
Q. How often should I do Pilates?
We recommend doing Pilates 2 to 3 times per week. At a minimum, you should do it once per week. The key to getting results is consistency.
Q. What is the best way to get started?
For best results, we recommend you begin with an initial assessment followed by a series of private sessions. Personalized instruction ensures you receive maximum benefit from your training and your individual needs are addressed. It is also the best way to make certain you understand and master the fundamental principals of Pilates. Another way to go is to start with an entry level class. These classes focuses on the fundamentals upon which the entire Pilates method is built. We recommend you do at least one entry level group class session before moving on to more advanced mat or reformer classes. Many clients find it beneficial to repeat the entry level classes, to get the most out of the work. A fit person could follow a more advanced class and do the exercises, but as with yoga and martial arts, there are fundamental principles that need to be learned and applied so that the work can reap its real rewards.
Q. Who can do Pilates?
Retrofit Pilates is appropriate for anyone, regardless of fitness level, age or capability. It is appropriate for athletes as a means of performance enhancement. It is also recommended by health professional for:
- Injury and accident post-rehabilitation
- Relief of back, neck, and shoulder pain
- Treatment of chronic disorders such as fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, repetitive strain injuries, and arthritis
However, not all Pilates classes are appropriate for all individuals. It is important that the method of instruction you choose meets your unique goals and needs. Retrofit Pilates offers a broad range of one-on-one sessions and group instruction. If you have very specific needs regarding injury post-rehabilitation, chronic conditions or performance enhancement, we strongly recommend that you book an initial assessment to identify the best Pilates route for you.
Q. Will it help me lose weight?
You will build strength and develop lean muscle through Pilates, which is an important component of weight loss. However, if your goal is to shed pounds, it is necessary to combine your Pilates program with a sensible eating plan and regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, cycling or swimming.
Q. Can I do Pilates if I'm pregnant?
A modified Pilates program can be a safe and beneficial part of a normal, healthy pregnancy. The key word here is 'modified' as certain exercises and positions should be avoided during pregnancy. By the second trimester, women should avoid exercising while lying flat on their backs. As well, abdominal muscles should not be overly exerted, and care must be taken in stretching. We do not recommend that you start a Pilates program during pregnancy unless it is a specifically designed pre-natal class or one-on-one instruction. If you have been doing Pilates for some time before becoming pregnant, it is probably fine to continue with a modified program, but check with your doctor first.
