People have asked us repeatedly what exactly are the things to know before you take a Pilates class? We’ll break it down for you.
Who is Pilates good for?
The great thing with Pilates is that it can be performed by and benefit all kinds of age, fitness, and ability levels. The practice is versatile and can be adjusted to accommodate each individual’s needs, ranging from elite athletes to those with injuries or medical conditions.
Why is Pilates good for you?
Those of you asking this question may be wondering, is Pilates a form of exercise? Yes, it is this, and so much more—Pilates is a movement method for the body and mind. Physically, the exercises in Pilates work to increase flexibility, strengthen the muscles pivotal to maintaining a healthy spine, and improve muscular imbalances within the body. As a result, practitioners experience improved coordination and posture, rehabilitation of injuries, and a proportional increase in muscle strength throughout the body. Mentally, Pilates increases body awareness, improves concentration, reduces stress, and promotes relaxation by centering the practice around breathing through controlled movements.
What is the difference between Pilates and Yoga?
Pilates utilizes resistance training to increase the strength and flexibility of very specific muscles, improve posture, and develop balance in mind, body, and spirit. Joseph Pilates invented this method of movement in the 20th century, specifically for body uniformity. Pilates is generally a continuous movement flow. Yoga was created over 5,000 years ago to connect the individual’s consciousness to the consciousness of the world. Yoga improves flexibility and strength; however, there is a greater emphasis placed on holding poses. Also, yoga is a spiritual practice based on the eight limbs for which the poses (asana) are just one.
Should I take a Pilates class or do a private Pilates lesson first?
The key to getting the most out of Pilates is sensing your body in space, learning to know the movements, and doing them efficiently. As a beginner, there are many new movement patterns your body will be going through that are not familiar to you. We compare learning Pilates to learning a new language. We recommend starting your Pilates journey with a private Pilates session from an instructor that has comprehensive training. One on one attention from an instructor will help you to master the basics of the Pilates method. Once you’ve built up your confidence in your ability to move through the movements correctly, you can move to Pilates classes and practice with less one on one attention.
What Pilates equipment do I need?
The answer to this depends on the variation of Pilates you are interested in trying. If you would like to try reformer Pilates in a studio, you will need to wear form-fitting clothing and grippy socks. This attire will help you move through the exercises without slipping or getting caught on a machine. Pilates studios’ basic equipment for you to use during this type of class includes magic circles, weights, resistance bands, Pilates reformers, Pilates chairs, barrels, towers, and Cadillacs. If you are interested in trying mat Pilates at home or in a studio, the required equipment includes pilates mats, exercise balls, resistance bands, and Pilates rings.
How often should you do Pilates for the best results?
The short answer is that there is no magic number. The key to benefitting from Pilates is creating a routine for yourself that makes achieving consistency possible. As Joseph Pilates, founder of the Pilates method says, “In 10 sessions you’ll feel a difference, in 20 sessions you’ll see a difference, and in 30 sessions you’ll have a whole new body.” He suggests three times a week, These numbers are meant as a broad generalization. Everyone’s body is different and adapts to change in movement uniquely. The key thing to understand is that just like any movement method, long-term, consistent commitment is the only way to create real tangible change within your body. Pilates is a practice.
How can I find Pilates classes near me?
When you do a quick Google search. you’ll find many options available for Pilates classes. However, picking the right Pilates studio is just as crucial to your practice as accurately going through the movements themselves. You need an instructor that is attentive, passionate, and experienced in the Pilates method. MatWorkz Pilates instructors are devoted to the art and science of Pilates. With decades of experience, their instructors are experts in their craft, ready to guide you through your Pilates journey and help you achieve your goals.
