Pilates Questions Answered

WHAT IS PILATES?

The general methodology behind Pilates is the focus on working the "CORE". In PILATES this means; the deep stabilising muscles that stabilise the spine (diaphragm, transverse abdominal, lumbar multifidus, internal obliques and the pelvic floor). The correct muscle recruitment pattern of our core stabilsing muscles assists us with our daily functional movements and the demands of our jobs!

WHERE DID PILATES ORIGINATE?

The name Pilates comes from Joesph Pilates, he was born in Germany in 1880. Joseph worked as a boxer, circus performer and self – defense instructor. During WW1 Joe was placed into a camp, it is believed that it was in this camp that he developed and began teaching his mat exercises. Joe was a genius for his time in health and fitness. Joe produced two books which are still available for purchase: YOUR HEALTH and RETURN TO LIFE THROUGH CONTROLOGY (Joesph named his exercises Contrology, today we call them Pilates).

WHAT IS PILATES ALL ABOUT TODAY?

Optimal movement patterns, Pilates will help you to move more efficiently by strengthening muscles that are weak and lengthening or releasing muscles that are tight.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PILATES AT A GYM AND STUDIO PILATES?

Pilates at a gym is just group exercise, the exercises do not look after the individuals needs and goals. In large groups it is impossible to ensure that each individual is correctly performing the exercises. In a studio environment Pilates Instructors must have a high level of training in both anatomy and physiology along with an accredited course which usually takes a minimum of 1 year to complete. Gym instructors can simply complete a weekend course and then teach Pilates at a gym.

WHAT IS SEMI-PRIVATE TRAINING?

Semi-Private Training is where 1 to 4 people train at the same time, although each person will have an individual program and be given individual exercises to reach their personal goals and bodies needs. Your individual program will be prepared for your semi-private training sessions after your initial consultation. Semi-Private training involves using the Pilates equipment (reformer bed, wunda chair and springs) most clients will start off with a combination of floor exercises and Pilates equipment. Semi-Private training is an affordable way to have a personalised program. Our studio has the smallest number of clients per instructor ensuring that each client recieves the attention that they would expect in a professional Pilates studio.

WHAT IF I HAVE AN INJURY OR ILLNESS?

Each persons body is assessed in an initial consultation and we will work around any pathologies you may have, since we also work alongside an osteopath we can ensure you are receiving the most appropriate exercises for your body.

WHAT IF I HAVE NEVER BEEN TO GROUP EXERCISES BEFORE?

Not a problem, our studio is a small non-intimidating environment, once your body has been assessed we will only give you exercises that we know your body is capable of doing and because we only have up to 4 people in a class all exercises can be modified to suit your needs!

WHAT IF I FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE AROUND OTHERS?

The Wholesome Fitness studio is a non-intimidating environment, your initial consultation will be in our studio with just the instructor and yourself, no-one else will be in the room. After your initial consultation you can decide if you would like to have personal private sessions and if you would like to attend a class we will put you with people suitable to your age and level of competency.

WHAT DO I WEAR?

Comfortable clothes that are easy to move in. Such as a t-shirt and tights or shorts.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

Nothing, we provide everything you need: water, fresh towels and comfortable flooring. Along with a medley of Pilates equipment.