Pilates FAQs
Do I have to be flexible in order to do Pilates?
The Pilates method caters to all individuals at every level, no matter their level of flexibility or strength. Instructors often modify exercises to suit the needs of clients based on their physical level.
I have back pain, will Pilates hurt my back?
At Performance, our integrated model promotes injury prevention and corrective exercise. If you have back pain or any other injury, we can provide an assessment to make sure you can continue. Science supports that those with back pain actually benefit from the postural focus and breathing techniques that Pilates promotes.
What are the benefits of Pilates?
Pilates improves flexibility and range of motion, improves muscle tone, and increases body awareness and strength in all areas of the body. The gentle, spring-like action of the reformer allows for a low-impact workout, eliminating unwanted stress on joints.
What do I wear to a Pilates session?
Be comfortable! We usually tell clients to wear what they would wear to a workout.
What is the difference between Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates?
Mat Pilates classes incorporate body weight exercises while Reformer beds use different weighted spring combinations to adjust resistance. This can make it harder or easier to move the carriage back and forth. You can also do more exercises on a Reformer compared to a mat. A Reformer gives you the option of performing exercises in various positions: on your back, side, stomach, feet, knees or being seated. Reformer Pilates helps target smaller muscle groups, so you form long, lean and toned muscles, while Mat Pilates is a less targeted approach that still provides you with results.
Can Pilates help my posture?
The Pilates method is widely recognized for its effectiveness in improving postural alignment. There are studies that show a healthy individual who did one-hour mat sessions twice per week for six months significantly improved frontal alignment of the shoulders and sagittal alignment of the head and pelvis.
Can Pilates make my bones stronger?
A 2015 study of 41 post-menopausal women found that those who practiced Pilates significantly increased bone mineral density in the lumbar region, significantly decreased pain intensity and enjoyed a better quality of life.
Is Pilates recommended for high-performance athletes?
Absolutely! Pilates exercises lead to greater core stability, which is imperative for optimal athletic performance, no matter the sport. Studies show that greater core stability leads to improvements in length and flexibility of the hamstrings, which are essential for speed.
How often should I do Pilates to see results?
Everyone is different, so it depends on which frequency is right for you as well as what your goals are. It also depends on what other exercise-based activities you are doing. Our instructors find that if a client commits to twice a week for a 4-6 week period, you can start to see results as early as the first few weeks.
