Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find answers to many of the questions we commonly hear about Pilates. If your question is not represented among these, please contact us and we will be happy to speak with you by phone or e-mail. And we would be happy to schedule your free, introductory consultation visit to our studio.

Who can practice Pilates?

Pilates can be practiced by anyone, from beginners to elite athletes. Everyone can use Pilates to improve their posture, breathing, and alignment. In addition, the mind as well as the body will greatly benefit: you’ll feel stronger “from the inside out.”

The Pilates method can be beneficial for virtually all ages, fitness levels and body conditions. Our oldest client celebrated her 100th birthday in September 2009, and our youngest was just 12 when she started her sessions! Adaptations can be made to accommodate all levels of flexibility and movement experience, and it can be modified and customized for individual needs.

Exercises, which are both mat and apparatus-based, can be executed by beginners as well as advanced students. Pilates is truly the ultimate form of functional training.

Models and actors have used the Pilates method for many years, even going back to the days of Gregory Peck and Katherine Hepburn. Today, it is practiced by a number of well-known personalities including Madonna, Jessica Lange, Julia Roberts, Sharon Stone, Sigourney Weaver, and Tracy Ullman.

In addition, well-known athletes who incorporate Pilates into their training program include tennis players Pat Cash, Venus and Serena Williams, Jennifer Capriati, Anna Kournikova and Martina Navratilova. Golfer Tiger Woods and figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi are also Pilates enthusiasts.

Pilates enthusiasts also include pregnant women (both pre-and post-natal training), the elderly, and those returning to exercise after short to long-term inactivity.

 

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What is the difference between “core” training and Pilates?

“Core” training refers to isolating and contracting the body’s abdominal muscles. Pilates strengthens, stretches, and balances the entire body with all of the movement initiated and controlled from the development of the body’s center which is referred to as the “Powerhouse.” The Powerhouse is made up of all of the abdominal, back, and gluteal muscles, as well as the pelvic muscles, thigh muscles, and diaphragm. Learning to engage these muscles properly through Pilates is the key to a strong core, a balanced musculature, and a supple spine.

 

How is Pilates Different?

Pilates is invaluable not only as an overall fitness program, but also as an important addition to professional sports training and physical rehabilitation of all kinds. With literally hundreds of exercises, Pilates lends itself to all fitness levels, from post-rehabilitation, to exercise novices, to the elite athlete.

Lasting results are achieved through the use of proper form combined with the mechanics of the equipment and total concentration of the participant. The exercises are performed on a mat and/or spring driven apparatus. In all cases, each movement is flowing, centered, and performed with control.

Unlike many other forms of exercise, Pilates does not emphasize multiple repetitions or duration. Instead, the goal is to create a balanced body; one which is agile and structurally sound. Top athletes use Pilates training to improve their performance, as well as enhance their rehabilitation from injury.

 

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Is it safe?

Pilates is a very safe, non-impact system. However, if you have been under a doctor’s care for an injury or recent surgery, please ask your health care professional if you are ready to start.

 

What can Pilates do for me?

• Improve posture and core strength
• Strengthen and tone muscles without added bulk
• Increase flexibility and muscle control
• Improve alignment, coordination, and balance
• Increase lung capacity and circulation
• Uniformly develop muscles
• Improve range of motion
• Improve body awareness
• Develop a more balanced body which helps prevent muscle and joint injury
• Improve bone density and joint health
• Enhance mental awareness and mind/body connection

In addition, you will probably sleep better, have increased energy, release stress, reduce fatigue and relieve chronic pain.

 

What if I am overweight?

Pilates is a wonderful program for those who are starting or already engaged in a weight loss program. You will learn to control, center and balance your body through discovering and engaging your Powerhouse. This will result in being able to move your body in more fluid motion utilizing your muscles rather than stressing your joints.

 

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Will I lose weight through Pilates?

Pilates can be an important adjunct to any weight loss program. Because of its resistive nature, Pilates will tone and lengthen muscle groups creating a much longer, leaner appearance. As your Powerhouse gets stronger and you become more toned, you will notice the difference in your body. Yet although the waistline will narrow and the thighs will slim down, Pilates is not typically a cardio workout. The best way to balance the scale of caloric energy is to add your Pilates practice to a proper cardio training and diet regimen. With commitment to your Pilates practice, however, you can develop into more intermediate/advanced training, which will become more flowing and can, in fact, have an aerobic training effect.

 

I have been injured. Is Pilates a good idea for me?

Pilates is excellent for someone who has finished physical therapy and has been cleared by their physician to go on with more movement conditioning. It is a system of body conditioning that is both gentle and athletic, known for its rehabilitative and body transforming results.

 

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What should I look for in a qualified Pilates instructor?

Today’s competitive fitness market has produced a dangerous flurry of companies seeking to capitalize on Pilates’ popularity by mass-producing generic teachers. An ironic twist of fate considering the Pilates credo of “Quality over Quantity.” This dilution of the exclusive standards once upheld within the trade has caused confusion and uncertainty for those searching the marketplace for an authentic program, with true results.

Ideally your Pilates instructor should be certified through a recognized, comprehensive Pilates training program comprised of lecture, observation, practice, and hands-on apprenticing, plus written and practical examinations. The New York Pilates Studio® Teacher Certification Program and Romana’s Pilates Instructor Training Program are the most widely recognized, rigorous, and highly regarded certification programs available, and the only Pilates certifications that teach the authentic Pilates method. Every instructor is required to complete a minimum of 600 hours of training and apprenticeship and must pass rigorous written and practical examinations at all levels of Pilates mat work and apparatus training. Certification must be maintained through yearly continuing education seminars where CPE credits are earned.

 

How Many Private Classes do I Need?

Initially, 5-10 Private sessions with a qualified instructor are highly recommended. You will then get individual attention and a greater understanding of using your body properly along with learning and breaking down the Principles of Pilates. It is important that you understand how to do the exercises correctly and engage the Powerhouse properly to gain the full benefit from the method and prevent injuries.

Thereafter, we suggest 2–3 times per week (in any combination of private sessions, open mat classes, or small group sessions) for best results. However, even one session per week – done consistently – will provide results, especially in conjunction with other forms of exercise or leisure activities.

Keep in mind that everyone is different and will learn at a different rate. Be patient, learn properly, and you will reap the rewards of Pilates!

 

How long is a session or class?

Private sessions, semi-private sessions, small group classes, and open classes are 50-55 minutes long.

 

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What are the benefits of working out with Pilates apparatus?

Pilates apparatus consists of a wide array of equipment designed to accommodate clients at every ability level. It was developed by Joseph Pilates after he created the traditional mat exercises. Pilates apparatus used today is not much different than that of the Pilates apparatus in the original New York Pilates Studio. Spring tension, straps to hold feet or hands, supports for back, neck and shoulder are as important now as they were then. Because of the remarkable nature of the apparatus to both challenge and support the body as it learns to move more efficiently, the inimitably designed pieces truly act as a complement to the challenging matwork exercises.

When you train at Joe’s Place-True Pilates you will be working on Gratz Pilates apparatus, the true classical equipment, and the finest available, with designs based upon the original specifications of Joseph Pilates.

 

How do I get started?

We offer a free initial consultation visit to introduce you to our studio and the options available for your Pilates training that will best help you achieve your goals. Please call us at 508-385-8882, or e-mail us at

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to set up this valuable free visit!

 

What should I wear?

We recommend that you wear comfortable, breathable clothing that will allow you to move freely and stretch, and allow your instructor to see how you are moving. Be sure that pants or shorts are well-fitting and not too loose. And it is a good idea to dress your upper body in layers, so that you can remove or add layers as needed for warmth. No shoes are required - be prepared to work in socks.

 

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What do I do if I want to learn Classic Pilates Mat Exercises but don’t want to do Private sessions?

The Classic Pilates Mat exercises are appropriate for men and women of all ages, body types, and fitness levels. However, not every body can do every Pilates mat exercise to its fullest, especially when first learning Pilates. Modifications of the exercises are often necessary to allow the student of Pilates to gradually increase their strength and flexibility, thereby reducing the possibility of unnecessary strain to the body. Learning Classic Pilates is a gradual process that over time and practice will go very deep into both body and mind. This is why we most strongly recommend private sessions to beginners. However if you are unable to do private sessions, we are able to offer you alternative choices through our open mat classes and small group sessions.

 

My gym offers Pilates….why should I pay to come to your Pilates studio?

Although the widespread availability of Pilates classes is a tribute to its effectiveness as a workout system, Pilates classes are not necessarily comparable between studios and gyms. Because we specialize in teaching True Pilates, we have comprehensively certified Pilates instructors, who are committed to teaching the authentic Pilates method -- which means that in general the classes offered here will be superior to those offered at gyms or general fitness centers. The most noticeable difference between the two typically is seen in teaching style, skill and experience of the instructors. We also offer an extensive selection of Pilates apparatus, as well as expertise in use of this apparatus, whereas the Pilates classes at gyms may only involve matwork.

 

Do I need to do other exercise?

Complementing Pilates with cardiovascular training/workouts is beneficial, both for weight management and heart health!

 

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How long before I see results?

The answer to this question varies. This really depends on the determination of the student. The following are factors in a successful session (workout): frequency of workouts, ability to focus and attend to the teacher’s directions, and body awareness. If all factors are present, results are usually very quick. Typically, if practiced consistently, you will see results in 4-6 weeks. As Joseph Pilates said, “In 10 sessions you will feel the difference, in 20 you will see the difference, and in 30 you will have a whole new body.”

 

Do you sell Gift Certificates?

Yes. Gift Certificates are available online or in the Studio. Choose any denomination or purchase by session or class. We will be happy to assist you with your decision and encourage you to contact us at 508-385-8882 or e-mail us at

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with your questions, needs, and timeline. We are able to prepare certificates for you to pick up at the studio, or we can mail or e-mail certificates to you, or the recipient.

 

 

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