About Pilates

For Group Mat Classes, click here.

history
pilates resources
pilates on the ball
neck & back pain
pilates teachers

Pilates is a form of exercise developed by Joseph H. Pilates over the course of his life (1880-1968). Pilates studied Eastern and Western forms of exercise and blended them into a conditioning system that focuses on your core-deep abdominal, back, and pelvic floor muscles. He emphasized control, concentration, centering, precision, flowing movement, and breathing. Pilates moved to New York from Germany in the 1920s and dancers were immediately attracted to his work, but only in the last ten years or so has it spread more to the general public.

So why do Pilates? Many people are discovering that it is a wonderful way to get back in shape after pregnancy or injury and others find it a great supplement to sports or other exercise programs that they are already doing. Pilates teaches you to work from your deep core muscles outward-improving your posture, balance, and coordination-something seldom taught in other forms of exercise. An additional benefit is that it's a wonderful way to tone your muscles and get stronger. Besides it's really fun.

Many people ask if it is better to go to a studio to learn Pilates or if they can learn it on their own at home. There are advantages to either, of course. In a studio you get personalized, professional feedback and instruction. You have the camaraderie and encouragement of your fellow students and teacher. You have the incentive to stay on a schedule and work out regularly, which may be harder at home. At home, however, you can work out whenever it is convenient for you, at your own pace, for as long or as short as you want, and without the expense of a class. Because there are so many quality books and videotapes available, it's easier than ever to do a Pilates workout at home. The mat work doesn't require any props, so for a very small investment, you can get started.

To really get the full benefits of Pilates, and to see results quickly, it is ideal to work out three times a week (minimum of two times). One thing that makes it easier to meet that goal of two to three times a week, is to combine workouts in the studio and at home. I recommend starting at a studio or with a videotape because it is usually easier and nothing substitutes for actually seeing the exercises performed. Because Pilates is different than most other forms of exercise, a class or a tape that explains the principles: breathing, abdominal control, pelvic positioning, shoulder and head placement, etc., is really a must. Unfortunately, doing Pilates without really knowing how to find your core and stabilize yourself, can lead to neck and back injuries. Some tapes are beautifully choreographed and great to follow after you understand how to use your core, but not a good place to start.