Pilates FAQ

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Pilates Frequently Asked Questions

» What is Pilates ?

Pilates is a system of precise, focused exercise that has long been used to correct alignment, improve posture and tone muscles.
It is an exercise method which relies on strengthening the core postural muscles and developing body alignment.
In Pilates, the key to success is the engagement of the mind in the actions of the muscles of the body.

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» What kind of background and training should my potential Pilates instructor have ?

Pilates is a knowledge-based method of exercise, so qualified Pilates teachers are those who have a working knowledge of functional anatomy and have completed an intensive certification program incorporating significant hands-on practice.
Make sure your Pilates instructor is qualified to teach on all types of Pilates equipment and find out how long he or she's been practicing and teaching Pilates.
As a certified Pilates instructor by PhysicalMind Institute [ USA ], I teach a contemporary approach to the original method of exercise developped by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s.
This method preserves the essence of the original technique, but incorporates modern principles of exercise science.

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» How is Pilates different from other exercise programs ?

Unlike other exercise programs, Pilates helps you do everything better. Whether it is walking, dancing, skiing, playing golf - Pilates improves all movement.
Pilates sculpts your body by working muscles evenly and uniformly.
The end result is long lean muscles that are flexible and strong. In addition, Pilates engages your mind.
You will learn movements that not only improve your fitness, but improve your balance, coordination and posture. You might even get taller.

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» How is Pilates different from Yoga ?

Pilates is movement based. Unlike Yoga, Pilates does not require you to maintain a still position. Instead, Pilates is based on a series of movements intended to improve core strength, flexibility, balance and sense of body awareness.
In addition, Pilates requires deep abdominal engagement to support the spine and create core centered movement. Not only are the exercises challenging and fun, they are functional.
Pilates is wonderful for pregnancy because it improves circulation, balance and strength.
It helps women to stay toned, flexible and moving freely throughout their pregnancy.
Women who do Pilates while pregnant have been known to regain a flatter tummy more quickly as well.
Doing Pilates after pregnancy is very helpful to restoring core strength and balance to the body.

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» Why is Pilates considered a mind/body conditioning program ?

Pilates requires precision, control and concentration in order to create movement that is fluid, easy and rewarding.
Unlike some workouts, Pilates requires you to continuously think about what you are doing.
As a result, you will find your Pilates workouts absorbing and even rejuvenating.
It may be the one hour of your day when you are able let go of everything except the present moment.

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» Why should I do Pilates ?

This method of exercise offers a no-stress approach to better posture and stronger, leaner muscles.
It is the perfect complement to aerobic exercise or it can be used to help you get back on your feet after an injury.

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» What kind of benefits can I expect ?

The no-impact, toning technique is designed to improve posture and body awareness and strengthen and lengthen muscle without adding bulk.
An emphasis on breathing relieves stress and leaves you feeling refreshed, not exhausted.

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» What kind of equipment do you use ?

Many of the exercises can be done on a mat.
For the full effect, exercises should incorporate specially designed resistance equipment.

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» How soon after beginning Pilates will I see results ?

Many people feel different after only one class, however real and lasting changes may take up to 10 sessions.

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» If you do the same exercises every week doesn't it get boring ?

Your body varies from day to day so no workout is ever the same.
The exercises were designed with intelligence in the order so that each muscle group is worked.
Pilates provides a total body workout and each time you exercise you are challenging your body to get longer and grow stronger.
Consider a runner, a footballer, a golfer and indeed any sport. The basics are the same but you can vary the pace and effort.

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» Should I take private or group classes ?

It depends on what you like and can afford.
Because of the technique's extensive repertoire and complexity, we recommend three introductory one-on-one sessions after the FREE introductory class before getting into small group sessions.

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» What is the advantage of Pilates Reformer/Cadillac classes versus Pilates Mat classes ?

The mat work is wonderfully practical and complete. However, it does require a certain level of strength and flexibility.
If you have an injury or are out of shape, mat work can be frustrating and inappropriate.
The reformer is ideal for everyone. The cadillac is a great equipment, and can be very useful to prepare a mat workout.
Whether you are an elite athlete or a couch potato, the reformer and the cadillac provide the exact amount of support and challenge you desire.
In addition, the reformer and the cadillac enable you to stretch deeply in places that may be difficult to do effectively on the mat.

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» How many times a week should I practice Pilates ?

Joseph Pilates recommended doing Pilates four days per week. I see most of my clients on average twice a week.
Depending on your lifestyle and personal goals, I recommend devising a plan that is realistic for you.
If you want to generate results quickly, you will benefit greatly from three days a week in our Pilates studio on the machine or/and on the floor [ Pilates mat classes ] at your own location.
Otherwise, I recommend consistently doing Pilates every week as a way of life to maintain better health and fitness.

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» What is the proper teacher/student ratio ?

A teacher/student ratio of 1:10 is ideal for mat work classes and 1:3 for group reformer classes.
Either way you should be encouraged to work at your own pace.

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» How much do classes cost ?

Depending upon whether you take classes at a fitness centre and gym facility, at your own location or at Style Pilates studio, rates can range from THB 100-500 for a Pilates group session [depends on how many students attend the Pilates class] to THB 1000-1400 for one hour of private instruction.
For further information about pricing, please call or email us.

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» Can I do the exercises at home ?

Yes, but proper orientation and instruction, as well as quality equipment, are essential.
Instructional videos and books can help you get started and keep you motivated at home.

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» I work shifts and I can't commit to the same time each week ...

We would suggest one-on-one Pilates tuition and personal practice between sessions or get a small group of your friends or colleagues together and book small group sessions on a week to week basis to fit in with your shifts.

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» Who can practice Pilates ?

If you can breathe... you can do Pilates. Just lying on your back focusing on Pilates breathing, you will engage your deep abdominal muscles.
Pilates is wonderful for everyone.
It is the ultimate form of cross training for athletes, and it is a preferred method of rehabilitation used by many physical therapists.
In addition, no one is too old or too young to enjoy the benefits of Pilates.
We will ask you to complete a medical form before you join and we may contact your Doctor with your permission.
Pilates is physically strenuous but we tailor the workout to the individual and we recommend one-to-one work before joining a group.

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» I have had many injuries and physical problems during my lifetime. Can Pilates help me ?

Many people suffering from back pain or injury benefit greatly from Pilates.
By developing a stronger core, improving alignment and body awareness, back pain can often be reduced if not eliminated.
In addition, Pilates emphasis on sound biomechanics may help a person avoid re-injuring their back.
Pilates is also great post rehabilition exercise for sports injuries.
Pilates restores strength and flexibility so you can get back to doing the activities you love.

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» Do I need to bring a mat ?

Health and safety rules now state that multi user equipment must be capable of being scrubbed to maintain cleanliness.
As many people break sweat in class and use bare feet, we think this is a very positive step if you can bring your own mat or purchase a specialised Pilates Mat.
Your Pilates teacher can guide you as to the type of mat which are suitable for Pilates.
If you join an introductory session, you will be given your own small mat.

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» What do I need to wear ?

Joseph Pilates encouraged his students to wear bathing suits so that he could really see how the body was working !
We don't go that far but ask that your t-shirt is fairly fitted and trousers should allow comfortable movement.
Running trousers or joggers are appropriate.
If you feel you would rather stay in baggy t-shirts and trousers then please feel free to do so.
We do not wear shoes but for hygiene reasons we recommend special Yoga/Pilates socks for Matwork.

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» What is the Powerhouse ?

You can imagine this as a 4 inch band running around between the ribs and the hips supported by the muscles of the inner thighs and the seat.
Each exercise within Pilates uses the trunk muscles in some way and also in a combination.
This allows stabilisation in one area, movement in another or by using the entire trunk in rotation, flexion or extension.
To create stability and strength the student learns that movement emanates from the powerhouse.

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