Your Questions Answered!
“In 10 sessions you will feel the difference, in 20 sessions you will see the difference, and in 30 you will have a new body.” Joe Pilates
What is Pilates?
An innovative system of mind-body exercise evolved from the principles of Joseph Pilates. Pilates exercises simultaneously stretch, strengthen and balance the body, enabling you to move with economy, grace, and balance, make the most of your strengths, counteract any weaknesses, and correct any imbalances. Practicing Pilates will bring you to new heights of physical fitness and control, as well as emotional well-being and balance.
What can I expect to gain from Pilates?
Pilates transforms the way your body looks, feels and moves though a series of exercises that enable you to build strength without bulk, resulting in:
-Longer, leaner muscles
-Increased flexibility and strength
-Better balance and coordination
-A strong, stable core/center
-Improved posture
-Abdominals that draw in and up rather than protrude
-A uniformly developed body
-Heightened body awareness
-Increased range of motion
-Improved bone density and joint health
-Reduced back pain and compensatory weaknesses
How soon will I see results from Pilates at Thrive?
You will feel the benefits of Pilates right away. During your workout, you will feel strong and in control. When you leave, you will feel invigorated. In as few as five sessions your flexibility and strength will increase. To quote Joseph Pilates himself, “In 10 sessions you will feel the difference, in 20 sessions you will see the difference, and in 30 you will have a new body.”
Who benefits from Pilates?
Pilates is for everyone from the super-fit to the soon-to-be fit. Joseph Pilates knew the best way to challenge stronger bodies as well as rehabilitate, improve and develop those who were not so strong. The Pilates method evolved with professional dancers; pro- athletes use it for strength, flexibility, and injury prevention; Hollywood celebrities and supermodels use it to maintain picture perfect physiques; Physical Therapists and doctors recommend Pilates to rehabilitate patients who are injured or experiencing compensatory pain; and scores of people all over the world—just like you, have made Pilates their workout of choice. Whether you want to improve your golf swing, alleviate back pain or look longer and leaner, Pilates can meet your needs. Pilates can be modified to be more challenging or gentle, depending on your individual needs, which may change day to day. No matter what your age or condition, Pilates is intelligent, functional exercise for optimal, lifelong well-being.
How does Pilates reduce mental/emotional stress?
Practicing Pilates not only works the body, but brings the mind to a level of awareness with the body so that these two deeply connected entities can work in concert to maximize your experience. The principles of Pilates: concentration, control, precision, stabilization, flow and breath, facilitate quality of movement. Every breath and movement is done with intention—intending correct spinal and pelvic alignment, smooth, flowing movement, relief from both physical and mental stress, core control, and maximum power and efficiency. At the end of your 1-hour session, you will be in disbelief that the time has passed; because your mind was not wandering or worrying about your obligations, commitments, time-constraints and stresses, but rather you were truly in the present moment focusing on the great facility of your body.
How can I benefit from Pilates after my workout?
Physically you will leave feeling stronger, leaner, longer, more flexible and more balanced. You will gain strength to help you stand straighter and taller, pull your abdominals in and up and relieve your back of strain. Working deep muscle strength is different from cardio vascular exercise, since you continue to burn calories long after your workout with strength training.
Mentally, you will feel refreshed, revitalized, calm, confident, and focused. You will take with you the experience of being in control of your body and the ability to respond appropriately to stress and discomfort.
How does Pilates prevent injuries and/or help heal injuries and reduce pain?
By elongating and strengthening the muscles, Pilates promotes muscle elasticity and joint mobility. By focusing on core strength, Pilates promotes equal balance and support of the abdominal muscles and spine. By emphasizing a neutral pelvis, Pilates alleviates tightness in the hips, hamstrings and lower back. By encouraging proper technique, Pilates re-trains your body to move in more safe and efficient patterns of movement. By conditioning the whole body from the core, Pilates creates a balanced and conditioned body, head to toe. A body with balanced strength and flexibility is less likely to be injured.
What differentiates Thrive Pilates from Pilates at my gym?
The setting is private, serene and inspirational. There are no distractions from other people working out around you. You can feel comfortable moving your body and learning new things, without being intimidated by other people watching. At Thrive, every client will always receive personal attention.
What do I need to wear/bring?
Wear something that allows you to move comfortably without getting in your way. You don’t need sneakers. Socks are optional. You can bring your own mat, or rent one for $2 at the studio. Please bring cash or check to pay for your session. We look forward to seeing you!
From Hally and the Staff at Thrive Pilates