Philosophy » Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I do Pilates?
Try to work out 2-3 times a week, taking a day off in between sessions to rest or enjoy some kind of cardiovascular activity (walking, bicycling, swimming). This kind of regular, consistent practice will help you make the mind-body connection and integrate the various Pilates principles. You should start seeing and feeling results after about 10 to15 sessions.
Will I lose weight through Pilates exercises?
In the beginning, Pilates exercise is not a cardiovascular workout and burning calories is not its main focus. However, in conjunction with a sensible diet and some cardio work such as brisk walking, bicycling and swimming, Pilates can factor into a weight loss program.
Pilates exercises help strengthen, sculpt and tone the body while building long, lean muscles. Whether the number on the scale goes down or not, you will tend to look and feel better through continued Pilates practice.
What are the benefits of Pilates?
With regular committed Pilates workouts you can expect to:
- Improve strength, flexibility and balance
- Tone and build long, lean muscles without bulk
- Challenge deep abdominal muscles to support the core
- Engage the mind and enhance body awareness
- Condition efficient patterns of movement making the body less prone to injury
- Reduce stress, relieve tension, boost energy through deep stretching
- Restore postural alignment
- Create a stronger, more flexible spine
- Promote recovery from strain or injury
- Increase joint range of motion
- Improve circulation
- Heighten neuromuscular coordination
- Offer relief from back pain and joint stress
- Correct over-training of muscle groups which can lead to stress and injury
- Enhance mobility, agility and stamina
- Compliment sports training and develop functional fitness for daily life activity
- Improve the way your body looks and feels
Can I do Pilates if I'm pregnant?
There is a lot of debate on the subject of Pilates and pregnancy and exercise in general. Generally speaking, moderate exercise is safe throughout a normal, healthy pregnancy and many gentle Pilates exercises are appropriate. However, keep the following cautions in mind:
- Do not over-exert the abdominal muscles to avoid diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles).
- Take care of you lower back, which can be strained with the weight of the fetus. Do not over-stretch, as relaxin and progesterone levels increase during pregnancy causing the ligaments around the joints to become lax, loose and vulnerable. Be aware that your center of gravity and therefore your sense of balance has changed.
- Do not start a brand new exercise regimen in the first trimester.