 |
|
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get started in Pilates?
There are various ways to get started. You can purchase books, tapes and videos to use in your home or come along to group or private matwork class.
Back to top
Why should I practise Pilates?
Pilates is a balanced, safe, relaxing form of exercise. It combines the focus on suppleness that you find in yoga, with strength movements you find in the gym. By correcting and making ourselves aware of our posture, through Pilates we can strengthen our bodies against future injuries.
Back to top
How often should I practise Pilates?
Once you have a basic sound knowledge of Pilates, you should aim to fit in 2-4 sessions a week depending on your reason for practising Pilates, i.e. if it is for rehabilitation, you may practise more often than if it is for fitness. It is best to practise Pilates once the body has had a chance to warm up, as one is stiffer first thing in the morning thus restricting your range of movement.
Back to top
What will Pilates do for me?
It will make you more aware of your body and how you carry yourself, as well as allowing you to tone and strengthen your muscles. Due to its emphasis on breathing, centering, flowing of movement and isolation it also leaves you feeling relaxed and de-stressed, essential in our lives today!
Back to top
Can I still practise Pilates if I'm pregnant?
Pilates is an excellent exercise for pregnancy, with many benefits in most cases, but as some exercises require adaptation you are advised to commence with one or more one-to-one sessions before joining a class.
It is vital that you consult your doctor before embarking on any exercise routine if you are pregnant. Once you get clearance from them it is safe to practise Pilates, however is it important that you constantly communicate with your instructor throughout. Normally anyone who has practised Pilates before their pregnancy can continue.
Back to top
I have recently had a baby; is Pilates suitable for me?
Absolutely, Pilates is perfect to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Pilates is also excellent for anyone recovering from a Hysterectomy operation.
Back to top
What is the difference between Yoga and Pilates?
Although they are very similar the main difference is that in Yoga you tend to move from one static position to another, whereas in Pilates the aim is to obtain your posture and then challenge the body by moving limbs.
Back to top
Will Pilates help my flexibility?
Most definitely!!! Pilates works on increasing your muscle strength in a controlled supported manner, unique to Pilates, and at the same time you are increasing your range of movement, and thus flexibility.
Back to top
Can anyone teach Pilates or do you have to be qualified?
As with all walks of life there are always people practising who are not qualified. My advice is to always ask if the person is qualified in their field, as incorrect teaching can result in physical damage. You can check if studios or instructors are certified at www.pilatesprecision.co.uk.or www.bodycontrol.co.uk, although some organisations now ask that you pay them a fee to be on their website and that you submit a video of you teaching a class, which is not really a true reflection of their teaching standard or style. Ask to see their certificates!
Back to top
How fit do you need to be?
The beauty of the Pilates method is that it lends itself to all levels of physical fitness and to all ages. As classes are choreographed for each individual, the Pilates method can be tough enough for the strong and gentle for the weak.
Back to top
What do I wear?
Comfortable loose clothing (jogging/tracksuit bottoms and a close fitting T-shirt so I can check your posture), no jeans! No shoes are required although you might want to wear socks.
Back to top
WIll I lose weight?
No, to lose weight you will need to combine cardiovascular exercise and a healthy eating plan. Pilates will complement the other exercise in your regime. Pilates will help you to tone and lengthen muscles so you may look slimmer.
Back to top
Will Pilates give me a flat stomach?
It can help but only if you combine Pilates with a low fat diet and cardiovascular exercise.
Back to top
Can Pilates help particular health problems?
The Pilates method can help the nervous system, easing migraine, tension headaches, depression, seasonal affective disorders, and the metabolism. Pilates promotes healthy cardiovascular, respiratory, and digestive systems. The muscular skeletal system can be helped by relieving problems such as lumbar/sacral disc problems, knee pain, and pressure on cartilage on joints. Through exercise, the urogenital system can be helped, aiding problems like stress incontinence. High blood pressure can also be reduced by regular controlled exercise.
Back to top
I have Osteoporosis. Can I do Pilates?
Yes, because Pilates is a low impact exercise.
Back to top
Should I do Pilates if I have a bad back?
After checking with your GP or Health Professional first. Pilates will help to strengthen and lengthen muscles around the spine.
Back to top
Is Pilates right for you?
Pilates has proved to be of great benefit to huge numbers of people, all across the world. It can be of significant use in the treatment of backache and other muscle disorders, but it can also be great just as a means of relaxing after a hard day's work.
If you're not sure whether it would be right for you, please contact me and I will be happy to discuss things further with you.
Back to top
What happens during a Pilates session?
Most of my classes are group matwork classes with a maximum of 12 people. The session is split into 3 distinct sections:
A warm up section to help mobilise your body and to focus your mind on the "Neutral Spine", core muscles and Pilates breathing (Lateral Thoracic breathing). More will be explained during the class. The class normally begins with a few gentle stretches to relax you and get you focused.
A main section comprising movements to strengthen your core, abdominal muscles and lumbar spine. Essentially you will be strengthening the muscles around the spine and abdomen to give good postural alignment. During the class the whole body is challenged through various movements leaving you lengthened, energised and yet relaxed.
A Cool Down section of relaxation and stretching to prevent injury and stiffness in your muscles.
Back to top
What happens if I miss a class?
If you are unable to make your usual class, I encourage you to make it up in one of the other classes subject to availability. Please let me know which class you would like to attend instead on 01793 791386. Fees are non refundable for missed weeks.
Back to top
I have tried Pilates but I don’t feel very much happening?
It takes time and practice for the brain to use muscles that have stopped working effectively due to injury, childbirth or surgery. Be patient you will see gains in your flexibility, posture and abdominal strength.
Back to top
Can anyone attend Pilates?
Yes everyone of any age, sex or fitness level can join Pilates.
Back to top
|
|
|
