Frequently Asked Questions.
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Pilates is a mind-body exercise system developed in the early 1900s by Joseph Pilates, a renowned physical trainer. This system of exercises, often using specialized apparatus, is designed to improve physical strength, flexibility, posture, and enhance mental awareness.
The foundation of Pilates lies in its five basic principles: breath, pelvic placement, rib cage placement, scapular movement and stabilization, and cervical and neck placement. Joseph Pilates created a series of exercises using a variety of equipment, incorporating cables and trolleys, to support both fitness and rehabilitation. The practice offers significant benefits, including increased strength, flexibility, and control of the body. It also helps build endurance and coordination in the legs, abdominals, arms, and back.
Pilates equipment includes the mat, reformer, cadillac, chair, and barrels, along with smaller props. With its system of pulleys, springs, handles, and straps, the apparatus can provide either resistance or support based on individual needs. Performing the same exercises on different equipment can benefit various body types and target different areas effectively.
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Pilates was originally designed to assist individuals in recovering from injuries. While it remains a valuable tool for rehabilitation, practicing Pilates regularly can also play a significant role in injury prevention. The benefits of Pilates include improvements in:
Spinal Mobility
Flexibility
Muscular Endurance
Posture
Body Awareness
Lower Back Pain Relief
Bone Density
Core Strength
By correcting alignment and posture, Pilates helps reduce pressure on sensitive joints, such as the knees and hips, thereby lowering the risk of strain or injury. Enhanced posture, combined with a stronger core and improved muscle tone, contributes to a leaner and taller appearance. Furthermore, Pilates promotes balanced development throughout the body, resulting in noticeable improvements in overall physique.
Unlike static stretches, Pilates emphasizes dynamic movements while stretching. This approach enhances mobility and flexibility, reducing aches, pains, and the risk of injury. Improved circulation is another benefit, as better mobility allows blood to flow more freely, preventing the body from becoming stiff or stuck in one position for extended periods.
Chronic pain and poor posture can exacerbate stress levels. Pilates addresses these issues by promoting relaxation and mindfulness through focused breathing techniques. Regular practice can lead to better sleep, not only due to its calming effects but also because it alleviates physical and psychological tension.
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Both practices aim to build strength, coordination, and balance, promoting overall health for both the body and mind.
Yoga, rooted in Eastern philosophy, emphasizes the flow of energy through the body and serves as a holistic spiritual discipline that includes meditation. In Yoga, movements are typically performed on an exercise mat, with the body’s weight serving as resistance during exercises.
Pilates, on the other hand, is primarily focused on physical conditioning. Originally developed to rehabilitate injured soldiers after World War I, Pilates employs a unique system of cables and trolleys to stretch and strengthen the body. In addition to mat exercises, Pilates often incorporates various machines. Pilates works the entire body as well as the mind, with a particular emphasis on strengthening the core, allowing the rest of the body to move freely. This approach fosters a balance between flexibility and strength, resulting in stronger, leaner muscles.
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Pilates enhances the body by strengthening, toning, and building muscle mass. The increase in muscle mass leads to a corresponding rise in metabolic rate, which can support weight loss when combined with cardiovascular exercise.
Stronger, healthier muscles are more efficient at metabolizing fat compared to weaker, untrained muscles. As such, Pilates can be a valuable component of a comprehensive weight-loss program. Additionally, combining Pilates with aerobic exercise provides further benefits, including a deeper mind-body connection, improved posture, increased flexibility, and enhanced overall functionality.
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To provide personalized attention, we keep our classes small, ranging from one-on-one sessions to groups of no more than 6 participants.
The versatility of the Pilates method, accommodating various fitness levels and body types, has made it an accessible and effective fitness choice for both men and women.
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If you're new to Pilates, you have two options to get started: Foundation Private Sessions or Foundation Group Classes. Both options introduce you to the Reformer and Tower equipment, as well as the fundamental principles of Pilates, ensuring that you can fully benefit from group classes later on.
Private sessions are ideal if you prefer personalized instruction tailored to your specific needs or wish to progress at your own pace. Alternatively, if you're excited to jump into group classes right away, our Foundation Group Classes will equip you with the essential principles and techniques before you transition to regular group sessions.
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You can book group classes up to one month in advance. For private sessions, you have the flexibility to pre-book sessions based on the number of sessions remaining in your package. Be sure to renew early to make sure that you can continue to reserve your preferred time slot.
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Packages are tied to individual clients and cannot be shared with others. This allows us to offer personalised loyalty rewards, including special discounts and priority bookings, which are based on your unique visits and purchases. By tracking everything individually, we ensure you get the best experience and benefits tailored specifically to you.
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Both our certified and trained instructors have undergone the same rigorous training and are equally knowledgeable in their field. The key difference is that certified instructors have completed an additional certification process consisting of a practical and theory exam.
However, you can be confident that both types of instructors are fully equipped to provide high-quality, effective instruction to help you achieve your fitness goals.
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While we don't offer free trials, we do provide the flexibility to purchase individual sessions on an à la carte basis. This way, you can experience our classes without committing to a full package right away.