Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a system of movement developed by Joseph Pilates to move the body through a full range of movement, in all directions. Through a series of movements, pilates targets all muscle groups in the body, working on posture and alignment, strengthening, balance, and flexibility. A classical pilates workout includes apparatus that are designed to assist the client with the exercises, and the appartus used for a session will be chosen based on the client’s needs that day.

Who benefits from Pilates?

Everyone benefits from Pilates.  Whether you are involved in athletic activities regularly, or are just getting started in exercise, pilates can help you.  I’ve worked with clients as young as 14 and into their 80s.  Anyone who wants to work to feel better, gain strength and flexibility, improve their posture and balance, and develop more conscious movement will benefit from Pilates.

Do I need to be flexible to start Pilates?

Since you may associate the practice of Pilates with dancers or gymnasts, you might think you need to be flexible in order to start your own practice. Not True! You are starting Pilates to improve your flexibility, so we start where you are and work from there. You will notice better flexibility with just a few sessions, and most people are more flexible at the end of their first workout!

Why is the apparatus so scary looking? Do I need to have prior experience using it?

I think the first time most of see the apparatus we are a little intimidated. Maybe you think it looks like medieval torture devices (I hear this all the time), or you are worried that you will hurt yourself (or at least embarrass yourself) while using it. While it may look a little scary, once you’ve been introduced (reformer, meet Joe; Joe, meet the reformer) you will likely love the support and challenge that each apparatus provides. Most people, even if they are familiar with Pilates from mat work, end up with a favorite apparatus and enjoy the studio experience specifically because of use of the apparatus.

How often do I need to do Pilates to get results?

The more you do anything, the more you learn and change. The more often you practice Pilates, the more quickly you will feel and see a difference in your body. You can practice Pilates every day and for most clients you’ll get the best results by coming to the studio twice a week. I can give you homework (and probably will)— exercises that you can do at home to augment your studio practice. Homework is especially important if you only take a lesson once a week.

What if I have injuries?

Pilates can help you even if you have injuries. Pilates exercises will be chosen for you to help strengthen the supportive structures around your injured area. As long as you have been cleared by your physician for exercise, a Pilates program can be developed for you to help you recover and build strength, and provide you the body awareness you need to help prevent further injuries in the future. There are no stairs to the studio, so it is easily accessible.

What do I wear?

Wear leggings/yoga pants, sweatpants, or shorts, and an athletic top or T-shirt. Clothes should be close-fitting or semi-loose but not baggy. Please choose clothes without zippers or buttons, as these can damage the equipment upholstery. Pilates is practiced without shoes, but you will wear socks. Socks with grips are best but you may wear regular socks. If regular socks are worn, you may be asked to remove them for certain exercises for safety reasons.

Do you have restrooms and showers?

A restroom is provided at the studio, but no shower is available. There is a changing room available.

Is there parking?

You may park on the street or on the left hand side of the driveway. Bicycles can be brought behind the gate for security.