Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I know about
my Pilates Instructor?
A: Pilates has changed so much since many older instructors were
certified in the 90's. Since the industry was highly unregulated at that
time, the Pilates Method Alliance was created with the mission to
protect the public by establishing certification and continuing
education standards for Pilates professionals. Did your instructor
complete a comprehensive training program of 500 hours or more? How long
have they been teaching? And Very Important: Are they doing any
continuing education to keep them from getting stuck in a rut with the
same routine always and not using the equipment to its full potential?
There are over 500 exercises on the Pilates reformer alone!
Q: Is Pilates Right for me?
A:
Pilates is for Everyone, from young to old, sedentary to athletic, it is
for people who are strong or weak, flexible or inflexible. It is for
pregnant women, is great for rehabilitation from injury, and is often
recommended by doctors, physical therapists and chiropractors. Pilates
can be used as a complete fitness program as well as a supplement to
other methods of fitness or as a tool to educate the body to have better
posture, or to move in a more effective way.
Q: How Often should I do Pilates?
A: Two to three times a week is recommended but not required. Like any
other form of exercise, consistency is key, and it is helpful not to let
too much time pass in order to remember the previous lesson and
incorporate the information in your body. You will be happy at how you
look and feel after just a few weeks.
Q: What Should I wear?
A: Dress comfortably so that your movement is free, but try not to wear
clothing TOO loose fitting, It is important that the instructor be able
to observe your body as you move.
Q: What is a duet (Semi-Private)?
A: A Duet is a Pilates Lesson for two people. It is great for those who
like working out with a friend or family member. A Duet works for people
at all levels.
Q: Can I Learn Pilates from a Video?
A: While you can learn the choreography of the exercises from a video,
it is unlikely that you will be performing them correctly. A Certified
teacher is there to help guide you through the exercises, focusing on
form and breathing techniques.
Q: What is the difference between Pilates
and other forms of Abdominal training techniques?
A: Pilates Focuses on strengthening the deepest layers of abdominals
which form a corset around your torso, while other forms of abdominal
training focus only on the superficial layer of abs.
Q: How does Pilates differ from Yoga?
A: Joseph Pilates was inspired by both eastern and western forms while
developing his method, so there are many similarities. The Breathing is
different, and you are asked to pull your stomach in rather than
allowing it to fill with breath. Pilates is also movement, rather than
the holding of postures that is yoga.