What is Pilates? Pilates is a workout method that is loved by so many people for many different reasons. It has many different styles and forms, which you might know from taking a mat or reformer class, but there is more!

• Pilates is a full body workout designed to be dynamic, flowing and focused.

• Pilates helps you build strength from the core to the extremities, which in turn helps you function better in everyday life.

• Joseph Pilate’s original method brings the mind to the body, where you find there is a deep connection between the two.

Benefits: What I get out of Pilates and what you get out of it might be different just because we have different bodies and unique needs. In my experience, I usually leave a Pilates session feeling good and happy. There’s something magical about it. For me, it’s probably because there is a rhythm and flow in the routine and because there are a variety of challenging exercises that leave me satisfied. Pilates focuses on the quality of the exercise, not the quantity and we rarely do more than 10 reps of any exercise. Here are some other key benefits:

• Better posture; learn skills to keep your spine healthy and strong, while correcting that tech neck from too much time spent on screens.

• Strength and flexibility; strengthen your core so you can use a two-way stretch to gain better mobility, allowing limbs to move freely with less risk of injury.

• A focused mind; bring your mind to your body when you begin your workout and learn to become more focused outside of Pilates.

• Stronger abs; there are ab strengthening elements in every Pilates exercise.

• Increased circulation; the design of the workout naturally increases blood flow and brings more oxygen to all parts of the body.

PRINCIPLES OF PILATES

Control
Centering
Concentration/Focus
Breathing
Rhythm and Flow
Precision

Who can benefit from Pilates? Just about everyone. I’ve had the pleasure of teaching a variety of athletic people such as runners, surfers, dancers, golfers, equestrians, snowboarders and tennis players. I’ve also taught those recovering from injuries; many with tight shoulders, back and neck pain, those seeking a challenging, but low impact workout and many just wanting to increase their fitness levels. Talk to your instructor about your goals and they’ll work on a plan with you.

What is Classical Pilates? There are several different methods of Pilates and each one has their fans. I teach Pilates in the order developed by the original Pilates guy, Mr. Joseph Pilates. This traditional method is often referred to as Classical Pilates. Joseph Pilates taught the exercises in a specific order to create a continuous workout flow as each exercise is meant to build on the previous, challenging the body. If you find an exercise that is too challenging for you, go back to the foundational work and continue to practice until you gain strength and can progress to the next level. You will get there if you master the foundational work. Classical Pilates uses the mat, reformer, Wunda Chair, ladder barrel, spine corrector, small barrel, baby arm chair, high chair, foot corrector, pedi-pole and an apparatus called the guilliotine.

Some say Pilates is hard, but I just knew it wouldn’t be easy, because good things don’t usually come easy. My advise: stick with it and you’ll find it more of a healthy addiction than “hard”.

Harper’s Bazaar Article on classical Pilates

Working with me, you’ll get:

• Private sessions: In-depth time to focus on what your body needs, giving you the opportunity to learn and master each exercise, so you can progress (good for any level and for those who have current injuries)

• Fun, small group classes: the goal in these classes is to keep moving and get in a good, sweaty workout (good for injury free bodies who know the system and are at the same level)

• Great advice on where to start: even if you are the strongest athlete around, I highly recommend you start at the beginning and learn the foundational work. Precision and good form will lead to a stronger workout without injury.

  If you’re currently injured, or have a condition that requires more attention when working out, please consult your physician before working out and please keep your instructor informed. Consider taking private sessions over group classes to get the most beneficial workout for your needs.