+ What is Pilates?
Pilates is an exercise form that was invented over 100 years ago by Joseph Pilates. Originally called Contrology, Mr. Pilates created his form of exercise originally to help detainees and sick and injured soldiers during World War I while interned at the Isle of Man. After seeing its success in improving their health it was later refined and brought over to New York City in 1926. Since then Pilates is known for creating a strong core and long lean muscles while working in a gentle way of movement. Pilates equipment, originally designed by Mr. Pilates, utilizes a variety of forms including the Reformer, Chair, Trapeze Table, and Barrel.
+ What is the Benefit of Pilates?
Pilates provides a gentle, controlled way to strengthen and tone muscles while stretching and moving through full range of motion in every plane of movement. It focuses of mindful movement and re-training body alignment and awareness. The Pilates principles each exercise embodies are Breathing, Concentration, Control, Centering, Precision, Balanced Muscle Development, Rhythm and Flow, Whole Body Movement, and Relaxation.
Many find that Pilates as a regular exercise routine helps improve posture, develop a strong core and back, create long and lean muscles, and move efficiently which helps prevent injury and can improve sports performance. The variability of exercises allows Pilates to be specifically tailored to the individual making it a gentle yet effective way to improve your health and fitness.
+ What to Expect in Class?
Each class varies depending on the equipment being used and focus or emphasis of the class that day. Pilates Movement Principles that are incorporated into each session are Breathing, Lower Core Activation, Neutral Spine, Abdominal Strengthening, Lumbopelvic Stability, Strengthening and Mobilizing the Spine, Shoulder Stability and Mobility, Release Work, and Stretching. Each Pilates class is lead by a certified Pilates instructor who is able to observe your alignment and movement and help you to exercise in a safe and effective way. Our small class size allows for individual attention even when exercising in a group. Classes typically will begin with a warmup to increase awareness of the body and blood flow to the muscles about to be exercised. The instructor will skillfully guide you through the selected series of exercises targeting both large and small muscle groups to help your body move optimally. Classes conclude with either stretching or cooldown exercises to allow your body to adjust and prepare for the end of your exercise session.
+ What to Wear/Bring?
Dress in comfortable clothes that allow for movement. All rooms are maintained at a comfortable room temperature but if you tend to be cold or get very warm while exercising please dress accordingly in layers if necessary. Water is allowed in the studio for you to sip as needed. Please wear socks with grips on the bottom for safety.
+ Do you offer private pilates packages?
Yes, M Pilates and Yoga has multiple package options to fit your needs. We have group packages, duet packages (you plus one other client being trained together), and private packages.
+ How many students are in a class?
Our group Pilates Reformer, Pilates Tower, and Pilates Chair rooms can each accommodate up to 4 clients. Class sizes are kept small to keep focused attention on your specific needs to ensure you are getting the full benefit from your exercise session.
+ What happens if there aren't enough students in a class?
Group classes run optimally with 4 in the class but will still be on if there are 3 clients signed up. If there are 2 or less for the class that day you will be notified by Catherine that the class is canceled for that day and have the option to join a different class with an open space for the day.
+ Is there a waitlist if the class is full?
If a class you would like to attend is full you can sign up or Catherine can add you to the waitlist for the class for that day. If someone cancels from the class you will be notified by MindBody of the opening. Please make sure your MindBody account settings are turned on for email and/or text notifications to get the alert in a timely manner.