What will my first session be like?
You will first be asked to fill out a client intake form that asks you various questions concerning your health, exercise history, and reasons for seeking us out. Your instructor will then go over the information, get an idea of your goals, and do a postural analysis. At PHIT Pilates Studio, we believe you must first understand the basic principles of Pilates and develop the necessary strength to keep yourself safe during your workout. For these reasons, we start you out on the mat going over the basics and preparing you for further development. After all, you must build the foundation before you build the house!

Will I get individual attention?
At PHIT Pilates Studio, we are all about the individual! Some studios offer a huge class schedule. At PHIT, we do almost entirely private and semi private sessions. We believe that the individual attention assists our clients in achieving their goals quicker and safer. Private sessions allow us to tailor your session around your needs with appropriate levels of difficulty. Pilates focus is on form, alignment, and accuracy. There is no better way to get all of that than with private sessions.

Who can do Pilates?
With the assistance of a qualified instructor, anybody can do Pilates! I have worked with people from all walks of life from age 12 to age 90 and with all different physical issues. When working with a qualified instructor either one-on-one or in a small group setting, your own personal needs and physical attributes are taken into consideration when developing a program design.

How many times a week should I do Pilates?
If Pilates is the only form of exercise you are doing, than 2-4 times a week is great. If you are very active and exercise 4-5 times a week, than one Pilates session a week will enhance what you are already doing. Every person has different issues or limitations in terms of money and time. Doing something, even once a week, is better than doing nothing at all!

Will I tone up and lose weight with Pilates?
Pilates is a great addition to any weight loss regimen. Pilates can help to tone and strengthen your body, but as with any exercise routine, it is not the only answer. Eating a healthy diet, watching portion sizes, making lifestyle changes, seeking professional help when you need it and of course, exercise, are just a few of the components of a successful weight loss regimen.

Is Pilates an aerobic exercise?
Cardiovascular, or "aerobic", exercise is any exercise that increases your heart rate and works your lungs. While not typically categorized as cardiovascular exercise, Pilates can up your heart rate. When a certain proficiency is achieved, and the client can move through the exercise sequences continuously, it can raise your heart rate for sure!

Why is it called "mind-body" exercise?
Joseph Pilates believed "strong mind, strong body". The brain and the body work together to achieve it's strength. Pilates is not an exercise that you can "zone" out on. Concentration, focus and control are a necessary part of your workout. Besides, it's much more fun, and intense, to get your mind involved with what you are doing!

Will I bulk up doing Pilates?
No! Pilates is known for creating long lean muscles and a balanced strength.

Do men do Pilates?
Absolutely! Joseph Pilates was a man! The exercises are invigorating for anyone.

What is the difference between Matwork and the Machines?
Joseph Pilates developed exercises for the mat to strengthen your core, or as he called it, your powerhouse. When working on the mat, you use your own body weight and gravity as resistance. The basic strength you develop here is essential for all machine work. The machines were developed to add resistance to the movements with the use of springs. These springs mimic closely a muscular contraction. The Reformer, the Cadillac (or trapeze table), the Foot Chair, the Ladder Barrel, the Pedi-pull and other small equipment make up the machines that Joseph Pilates developed. All are great ways to build your strength, balance, flexibility, body awareness and control.

Can I do Pilates if I am pregnant?
ACOG (American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists) has set guidelines for exercise and pregnancy. The rule of thumb is not to start a new exercise routine when pregnant. If you were doing Pilates before you became pregnant, than you can certainly continue. Your routine may change a bit as you progress and a certified instructor will be able to tell you what exercises are not recommended in each trimester. My pregnant clients appreciate Pilates stretching and breathing and it keeps them strong for when baby arrives!

Need an answer to your question? Email me at: susannah@phitpilates.com