How do I get started?

Start with an introductory private session. This session will include a general assessment as well as an introduction to the basic principles of Pilates. This class is often offered at a discounted rate.

 

What should I expect in my first session?

Our first Pilates class focuses on teaching the principles of breathing, spinal alignment, shoulder stability and deep abdominal connections. This approach sets the fundamentals for all of the exercises to follow. After the first few sessions, the focus extends to a whole body workout, incorporating the principles within each exercise and at every level.

 

How often do I need to do Pilates for it to be effective?

This varies depending on your goals. Different factors will determine how often you should take classes. It depends on whether you are trying to overcome injuries or improve your posture or fitness level. It may also depend on what other physical activities are involved in your week. However, 2-3 times per week is recommended. This could be a combination of private classes and work at home or group classes.

 

What classes do you offer?

We offer private, semi-private and group classes. About 80% of our classes are private instruction. If you have a friend who you think can take classes with you, then a semi-private class can be scheduled for the two of you. This usually works well for people who are at a similar level of physical ability. Group classes with a maximum of 5 people are also offered at the three different levels.

 

What are some of the benefits of Pilates?

Pilates has numerous benefits including: improved posture, increased muscle tone (longer, leaner muscles), stronger abdominals and spinal muscles, increased flexibility, improved coordination and body awareness. Private sessions can also target and strengthen personal areas of weakness or vulnerabilities, and develop more balanced musculature.

 

What should 1 wear at a class?

It is important to be dressed comfortably enough to move freely. Therefore, any variety of workout clothes is appropriate including loose-fitting (not too baggy) sweatsuits, etc Shoes are not required as Pilates is done in socks or bare feet.

 

Do you offer group classes?

Yes, we do offer small group classes up to a maximum of five students per class. These classes combine both matwork and equipment. Our ongoing group classes are designed for clients who have already done some private classes or completed one of our introductory group series.You can also arrange your own group series.

 

What are the levels?

Group classes are offered at Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 which is the most advanced.  We also offer several Primary classes per week which are modified classes for clients working through injuries or chronic conditions.

 

Why is taking classes at a Pilates studio better than at a fitness club?

T he more precise or specific the instruction the more benefit you will get. If you are taking class from a fully certified instructor then you are likely getting good instruction. However, if you are in a class with many people you are getting at best only a fraction of the instructor's attention. Further to this a fitness club is not usually as fully equipped as a Pilates studio and as a result the instructors may not be able to cater to all of your body's specific needs.

 

What if I'm not flexible, should I get in shape before taking classes?

If you are about to undertake intense physical activity after a prolonged sedentary period we would suggest starting with Pilates to increase your core-strength and stability first. The pilates method that we teach has so many modifications to each and every exercise that immobility and poor fitness levels are not obstacles to a good workout.