Frequently Asked Questions

What is the goal of Pilates matwork?
When participating in the Pilates/Methodology program you are re-writing the way your body looks, works, & feels. Matwork incorporates movements that allow your body to maintain correct alignment. Concentration, focus & awareness are absolutely necessary to this workout. There are many goals of matwork. The initial goal is to increase awareness of your own body. Through breathing and deep focus we "re-teach" our bodies to perform optimally and properly. Physical health and fitness are also main goals. By being mindful of each and every movement you can create a workout that is customized for your own distinct/unique body. With these initial goals in mind you can create specific goals for yourself. Here are some of our participants goals: * Complete all the exercises in a beginners course while maintaining correct posture, alignment, & breathing. * Move up from the beginner class to the intermediate class. * Work on a new move. (For example: "The Teaser") * Add modifications to increase the difficulty of moves already mastered. * Attend two classes vs. one, attend three classes vs. two etc. These are just a few ideas. Customize your goals to fit your lifestyle.

I have little/no experience with exercise programs and I don't exercise regularly. Can I do Pilates?
Absolutely! The Pilates program is designed to meet EVERY body's individual needs. By attending a matwork class your instructor can include modifications to meet your needs. A good instructor will always demonstrate many different variations of a Pilates movement. Also, at any time during the 50 minute matwork lesson you can take a break by lying back on your mat and focusing on correct breathing. This is not cheating, failing, or giving up! By knowing when to take a break you are being mindful of your own body's needs. As you practice, your endurance will increase. Take your time, move slowly, and don't push yourself too far. The great thing about Pilates is that you can start small, start slow, and work your way forward at a pace designed for you.

How hard should I push myself? How quickly should I be improving?
Pilates is designed to be a non-impact, rejuvenating experience. DO NOT push yourself to the point of pain, fatigue, or tears! The goal of this program is to increase your quality of life. Let it do just that. Work slowly, master a few moves at a time, and try one-two repetitions of a few others. Listen to your body and let it delegate your pace. If you are being mindful and aware of your body, focus, control and greater physical fitness will soon follow.

If I have an injury, a disability, or an illness is Pilates right for me?
As with any exercise program you should consult a physician before beginning. Most specifically if you have any type of un-healed injury. Although all of the movements in Pilates can be modified or left out to fit your specific needs, Pilates instructors are not doctors. If you have an unhealed injury many exercises can aggravate that condition. My best advice: If you have any questions, doubts, etc. always consult your physician.

I am pregnant and/or am planning to be pregnant. Is Pilates right for me?
Most importantly: If you are planning on becoming pregnant it is recommended that you begin Pilates BEFORE you become pregnant. If you are pregnant you should have express written consent from a qualified physician before beginning any exercise program, including Pilates & Methodology.

Susan taught and practiced the Pilates method throughout and up until she delivered her last child! She took a couple weeks off and was back to teaching. Each body is drastically different, therefore it is imperative that you consult a physician before beginning this exercise program. Obviously all moves performed laying in the prone position (on your stomach, face down) will have to be eliminated. It has been said that Pilates produces a shorter, less painful labor/birth. There are many books you can read on this subject. One of the best is called "The Pilates Pregnancy: Maintaining Strength, Flexibility, & Your Figure by Mari Winsor.

It is best to plan ahead and read these books before becoming pregnant.

What kind of equipment do I need?
Each participant should bring a sticky mat, water, & a small towel to each class. The sticky mat provides a stable surface to perform movements and just enough padding to protect the spine from a hard surface. A large towel, small blanket, or mat-sized strip of carpet also works well. However, you don't want to use something with too much padding. Too much padding makes balancing movements very difficult. A small towel is optional, but many find it helpful to use for modifications. The towel can be rolled up and placed under the nape of the neck for support during more challenging movements. The beauty of this program is that virtually no equipment is necessary.

Where can I get a sticky mat?
They can be purchased online. Simply type in "Pilates mat" at google.com. Otherwise Target, Walmart, Ulta, Meijer, KMart, Kohl's, and most other larger retail stores carry them for under $20. **You can even get them on ebay!

What should I wear?
Many people like to wear loose fitting clothes during exercise. However, in Pilates baggy clothes prohibit movement and don't allow the participant to see the parts of his/her body. We usually encourage fitted leggings and a tank top or t-shirt. You can purchases these pants at Target and most other retail stores for under $20. There are more expensive versions online from Victoria's Secret and Danskin, but these aren't necessary. These pants are commonly referred to as dance pants, yoga pants, or pilates pants. Wear whatever you'd like on your feet to class, but no shoes are worn during the matwork class.

When should I do matwork?
This is entirely up to you. Classes are generally offered early morning and later at night. Many people choose the early morning classes to wake up and start their day in a fresh and invigorating way. Just as many people choose the night classes to relieve stress and wind down at the end of a day.

You should not do these exercises directly after eating a large meal, when you are sick, or if you are overtired (as concentration is key to the effectiveness of the program.) Our classes do re-energize you and make you feel so much better after a long day. They also get your day off to a great start!

How often should i do matwork?
Joseph Pilates himself recommends practicing four times a week for 15-30 minutes at a time. The important thing is quality over quantity. If you have a few minutes in the morning choose one or two exercises and perform them perfectly, concentrating on each individual detail. Don't try to rush and include as many exercises as possible. In today's busy world most recommend taking two 50 minute Pilates classes per week and practicing for a few minutes at home during the off days. Most of all just remember that Pilates is all about quality! A well thought out movement performed with deep concentration and attention to detail will always be more effective than a few quick, sloppy ones.

What are some of the benefits of the Pilates, Yoga, & our dance based classes?
Increased strength
Increased flexibility
Better circulation
Better balance
Improved coordination
Rehabilitation of old compensatory patterns
Alleviates Aches & Pains
Relief of Sciatica
Release Stress
A more toned, streamlined appearance
A body that functions smoothly & properly
Better posture
Reduced fatigue
Reduction of chronic pain
Rejuvenate the mind & body
Healthier, less brittle bones
An easier pregnancy, less painful delivery
and many more...