Was there a ‘Mr Pilates’?
Are there a set of exercises that are always done, similar to yoga?
What are the benefits of Pilates?
Do I have to be ‘fit’ to do Pilates?
What do I need to wear to a Pilates class?
How many times a week should I do Pilates?
Will I lose weight doing Pilates?
Is it my imagination or am I actually taller after a Pilates class?!

Was there a ‘Mr Pilates’?
Yes, Joseph Pilates was born in Germany in 1883. He was not a well child, suffering from rickets and severe asthma attacks, the combination of which left him with abnormal bone structure. He spent his young adulthood striving to overcome these physical limitations and worked determinedly to develop a system of body conditioning that would free up and ‘fix’ his own muscular dysfunction.

‘Return to Life Through Contrology‘ was the published work which described and demonstrated the original matwork exercises, all of which we work from still today.  Then, during World War I, he worked ingeniously with bed-bound hospital patients in the UK to rehabilitate them.  The use of springs, pulleys and support tools that he incorporated to keep them safe whilst they did their exercise, was the framework of the machines we also still work from today.

In 1926, Pilates took a ship to New York meeting his wife Clara during the journey. Together they set up a Studio and worked with celebrity clients like dancer Martha Graham and choreographer George Balanchine. Joseph died in 1967 at the age of 83, leaving behind several trusted instructors to teach his method.  Since then, Pilates has become a household name and his method has benefitted people all over the world.

Are there a set of exercises that are always done similar to yoga poses?
Although there are 34 ‘original’ matwork exercises, they sometimes ask too much of the average beginner’s body and mind.  They are often adapted to suit the needs of the client or the level of the class.  Because the technique is founded on practical fundamentals of movement and strength building, there are many variations that can be tailored to the individual.  What have prevailed throughout the evolution of the original technique however, are the 6 ‘principles’ of Pilates: concentration, control, centre, precision, flow and breath.

What are the benefits of Pilates?
Regular practice of Pilates will build muscle strength without bulk, will help increase flexibility and will improve posture.  The focus on ‘the powerhouse’  of the body emphasises the need for a strong core whilst developing pelvic and spinal alignment.  The inclusion of lateral breathing and coordinating the breath to specific stages of movement creates an awareness and grace to the repertoire.  Pilates helps to improve balance, proprioception, neck and back pain and pelvic floor dysfunction.

Do I have to be ‘fit’ to do Pilates?
Pilates can be enjoyed by anyone.  I have taught 16 to 85-year olds.  Whether you want to just “see what it is all about” or if you a have specific need or goal, the repertoire can be adjusted to your level.  Perhaps you are recovering from knee surgery, or maybe you have recently had a baby, or perhaps you need to get stronger for a hike in the Himalayas in three months!  Strength and conditioning underscore all healthy movement patterns.

What do I need to wear to a Pilates class?
Comfort is key!  Leggings or fitted workout trousers are ideal, with a reliable and fitted waistband. A couple of layers on top will allow for when you warm up and cool down throughout the class.  If you are working on your own mat and the environment is warm, then bare foot is good.  But if coming to my studio, then clean socks please.

How many times a week should I do Pilates?
Practicing Pilates once a week in an hour-long class is a good start.  If you can take home a 20-minute routine that you manage to complete an additional 2-3 times a week, then that is great. Two classes a week will make a change to your body awareness and thus your muscular balance. Three classes a week will change your body.  It is up to you.  Be well and be realistic.  This is a way of movement that should seep into your daily movement patterns: how you walk, how you stand at the bus stop, how you pick up a child and sit at your desk.

Will I lose weight doing Pilates?
Pilates is not a weight-loss program, but its focus on control and fluidity means that you have to use your core muscles to do the work well.  This means your muscle tone most definitely will improve.  You will change shape.  You may drop a size in your clothes. But if you feel you need to lose weight, any bodyworker will tell you that you should incorporate some cardio into your weekly regimen as well as review your dietary intake.  Perhaps start with low-impact training: swimming, work on the elliptical machine or even just brisk walks in supportive shoes.  Do something you enjoy.

Is it my imagination or am I actually taller after a Pilates class?!
The exercises work on your postural muscles as well as strengthen your core.  By working from the “inside – out”, your increased strength and postural awareness enables you to release usually tense muscles and your body becomes more efficient and fluid. Many people comment that they ultimately feel “taller”!