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What is Pilates?
The Pilates method is a fitness program developed by its namesake,
Joseph Pilates (1880-1967). Joseph Pilates had very progressive ideas
about physical fitness and injury rehabilitation. Working on himself
to overcome injury and weakness, he used his innovations to develop
the technique he originally called Controlology. While interned in
Britain during World War I, he taught other German nationals his
physical fitness program. He also worked with people disabled by
wartime diseases and incarceration. Using bedsprings, he rigged a
hospital bed so that patients could begin their rehabilitation while
still bedridden. This became the prototype for his future equipment.
Joseph and his wife Clara, a registered nurse, emigrated to the United
States from Germany in 1926 and set up the "Pilates Studio" in Manhattan.
Their work was immediately popular in the dance community and many of
this century's great American dancers incorporated Pilates training
into their careers. Joseph and Clara trained a handful of teachers
who eventually set up Pilates studios across the United States, and
its popularity grew. Pilates caught the attention of health care
practitioners who recognized the intelligence of its rehabilitative
function. Professional athletes saw its benefits in performance
enhancement. Fitness enthusiasts found it to be an exercise program
that stimulates the mind and body, rather than relying on endless
repetition and a "no pain no gain" mentality.
The Retrofit Bodyworks Pilates program works so well because it
reeducates muscle patterning. It is movement training, not simply
muscular training. Over time, our bodies build inefficient movement
patterns - certain muscle groups end up being overworked while other
muscle groups don't work at all. This often results in overuse injuries
in muscles and joints - the spine, shoulders, hips and knees. Our
program wakes up those sleeping muscles! You begin to work muscles
you didn't even know you had. You develop strength, flexibility, and
control, in a balanced body without bulk.
Q. What kind of results can I expect and how quickly?
The first thing you will notice is that you feel taller and leaner
through your midsection as you begin to develop strength and tone in
you core abdominal and back muscles. You will quickly begin to see
more tone in your hips and thighs. Your posture will improve as tension
diminishes in your neck and shoulders. You will develop long, lean
muscles without bulk. You will feel stronger, more flexible and more
graceful. By reeducating muscle patterning, you will work your body
efficiently and in optimum alignment, making all movement easier.
You will begin to feel results almost immediately. With consistent
practice, you will see significant results in three months.
Q.How often should I do Pilates?
We recommend doing Pilates 2 to 3 times per week. At a minimum, you
should do it once per week. The key to getting results is consistency.
Q. What is the best way to get started?
For best results, we recommend you begin with an initial assessment
followed by a series of private sessions. Personalized instruction
ensures you receive maximum benefit from your training and your
individual needs are addressed. It is also the best way to make certain
you understand and master the fundamental principals of Pilates. Another
way to go is to start with the Foundation level mat class. This class
focuses on the fundamentals upon which the entire Pilates method is built.
We recommend you do at least one 12-week session before moving on to
more advanced mat or reformer classes. Many clients find it beneficial
to repeat the Foundations class, to get the most out of the work.
A fit person could follow a more advanced class and do the exercises,
but as with yoga and martial arts, there are fundamental principles
that need to be learned and applied so that the work can reap its real rewards.
Q. Who can do Pilates?
Retrofit Bodyworks Pilates is appropriate for anyone, regardless of
fitness level, age or capability. It is appropriate for athletes as a
means of performance enhancement. It is also recommended by health professional for:
- injury and accident post-rehabilitation
- relief of back, neck, and shoulder pain
- treatment of chronic disorders such as fybromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, repetitive strain injuries, and arthritis
However, not all Pilates classes are appropriate for all individuals.
It is important that the method of instruction you choose meets your
unique goals and needs. Retrofit Bodyworks Pilates offers a broad
range of private and group instruction. If you have very specific
needs regarding injury post-rehabilitation, chronic conditions or
performance enhancement, we strongly recommend that you book an
initial assessment to identify the best Pilates route for you.
Q. Will it help me lose weight?
You will build strength and develop lean muscle through Pilates, which
is an important component of weight loss. However, if your goal is to
shed pounds, it is necessary to combine you Pilates program with a
sensible eating plan and regular aerobic exercise, such as walking,
cycling or swimming.
Q. Can I do Pilates if I'm pregnant?
A modified Pilates program can be a safe and beneficial part of a normal,
healthy pregnancy. The key word here is modified, as certain exercises
and positions should be avoided during pregnancy. By the second trimester,
women should avoid exercising while lying flat on their backs. As well,
abdominal muscles should not be overly exerted, and care must be taken
in stretching. We do not recommend that you start a Pilates program during
pregnancy unless it is a specifically designed pre-natal class or private
instruction. If you have been doing Pilates for some time before becoming
pregnant, it is probably fine to continue with a modified program, but
check with your doctor first.
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