Frequently Asked Questions, Important Studio Information, & Studio Etiquette   

The Pilates Method focuses on engaging the 'core' abdominal muscles, while working the extremities in concert with the breath.  Pilates can be therapeutic or challenging. Often, it is both.  Pilates is a total body conditioning workout that engages the mind. Pilates can help improve strength, stamina, flexibility, and balance. Pilates can help improve posture, body image, self-esteem, and mood. Pilates is suitable for all ages, body types, & abilities. Pilates produces long, lean muscle tone, realigns the body, & aids in injury prevention. Those who are new to Pilates or those needing one-on-one attention should start with Private Sessions before joining any Group Class.

Q. I am seeing a Doctor for illness/injury. Can I take a class? 

A. If you are seeing a medical professional and/or are receiving treatment for an illness/injury, you must by cleared for exercise by your healthcare provider. In some cases, a letter may be necessary.. After your healthcare provider has released you for physical activity, Pilates can be extremely effective as continued rehabilitation because it aids in the process of regaining balanced strength. Pilates addresses the weaknesses that can cause injury and serves as an excellent preventative. Pilates incorporates specifically designed, custom apparatuses with spring resistance which is less impactful on the joints.

Q. Is Pilates just stretching or does it replace traditional weight training?

A. Yes and No. Pilates is a System of over 600 exercises that work the body in alignment, building strength through resistance, Although, the exercises do dramatically increase flexibility, the emphasis is on centered strength. Pilates has all the benefits of weight bearing activity without impacting the joints or building bulk. Pilates can be done on it’s own or in combination with traditional weight training, depending on the needs , and goals of the client. As with any exercise program, it is best to workout 2-3 times per week in addition to your cardiovascular program for optimal results.

Q. What should I wear?

A. Wear clean, comfortable, form-fitting clothing that will allow you to move freely. Avoid loose, draping fabrics, and dangling jewelry that can get caught in machinery causing damage or personal injury. Secure long hair for the same reason. To protect your health, clean socks are REQUIRED. Grip Socks (or socks with sticky nubs on the soles) are highly recommended, as they will provide extra grip/stability and prevent slippage.  The studio has grip socks available for sale. Please do not wear rings with protruding stones or clothing with zippers, as they can puncture and tear the apparatus  upholstery.  We want to keep our equipment working properly and looking nice for you. Arrive to class on time and silence your ringtone to avoid disruptions.

Q. How do you keep the studio clean & safe? 

A. Equipment, accessories, & surfaces are thoroughly cleaned with a non-toxic, disinfectant solution between each appointment.  Hand-washing is required before entering the studio & CDC-compliant hand sanitizer is available for your use.  Clean, non-slip socks must be worn. If you are experiencing contagious symptoms of cold, flu, or allergies, you must contact the Studio as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment.  

Q. I just ate breakfast/lunch/dinner. Can I workout? 

A. You will be engaging your abdominal muscles  'in-and-up'. It is best to eat lightly at least 2 hours prior to your workout. Hydrate and avoid caffeine or alcohol. 

Q. Can my child do Pilates? 

A. Only children 16 years of age or older are allowed on the Pilates equipment.  They are welcome to do Mat Pilates (with no added resistance).

Q. Can I bring my baby/toddler/small child to class? 

A. Although the Studio does appear like a giant playground, is not a safe place for small children to explore. Studio equipment is heavy and can cause injury, if handled improperly. If your child can sit quietly they are welcome to wait while you complete your workout. Otherwise, please leave children with a loved one and enjoy some 'YOU' time.

Q. Can I bring my dog/cat/bird/rabbit/horse to class? 

A. We love animals but only registered service dogs are allowed in the studio.

A Very Brief History of Pilates

Joseph H. Pilates was born in 1880 in a small town near Dusseldorf, Germany. Plagued by a host of childhood illnesses, he became intent on improving his personal health and physique. He studied both Eastern and Western forms of fitness, and by his early teens, had trained his body so extensively that he posed for anatomy charts. He later became an accomplished skier, diver, boxer, and gymnast. His boxing career led him to England where he was interred in a camp for German nationals on the Isle of Man. His methods were soon recognized for their effectiveness and used by allied soldiers for training and rehabilitation. While interred, he became a skilled medical assistant and began devising equipment derived from the springs of a hospital bed. This equipment would later develop into the Universal Reformer and the Cadillac, two mainstays of the Pilates Method. Upon immigrating to the U.S., Pilates trained boxers at his gym in New York City.  Known then, as 'Contrology',  Joe's method became popular with professional dancers when he, along with his wife, Clara, helped  the renown choreographer, George Balanchine, recover from injury.  Balanchine's former student and beloved Pilates' protégée, Romana Kryzanowska, carried on his legacy until her death in 2013. Considered to be way ahead of his time, Joe Pilates also invented the Wunda Chair and other apparatus still in use today. Gratz Industries, in Pennsylvania,  is the original manufacturer of Joe's designs. To know more about the man behind 'The Method', read his books: 'Return to Life Through Contrology' and 'Your Health'.