Pilates FAQ

What is Pilates? What is Stott Pilates?

The Pilates method is a mind-body exercise system focused on improving strength and flexibility for the total body while also enhancing posture, balance, and coordination. Pilates is particularly effective in developing core strength (the trunk, from shoulders to hips). It was pioneered by Joseph Pilates, a German-born bodybuilder and nurse who opened his studio in New York in 1926. Stott Pilates is the contemporary method taught at this studio. Stott exercises preserve the essence of Pilates’ work while enhancing it with modern principles of spine stabilization and exercise physiology. The goal of Stott Pilates is to provide people with the knowledge and tools required to develop optimal physical and mental well-being.

What is the difference between Pilates on the mat and on the equipment?

Both versions of the movements use the same Basic Principles of biomechanical awareness to make them safe and effective. Matwork uses only your own body and small props for resistance, while the equipment adds spring-loaded resistance to create additional support or challenge in performing the same kinds of movements. Focused matwork is an important foundation in a Pilates training program.

Should I take private lessons or group classes?

Private instruction is tailored to the specific needs of your body. Exercises are selected to build and balance weak muscles and modified to accommodate injured or delicate joints. Private instruction is the best way to learn good technique and is particularly important for people who are injured or at risk of injury due to poor fitness. We recommend that all beginning students take at least two private lessons to gain better understanding of the work, and we offer a special introductory package for this purpose. Group instruction is a fun and economical alternative or supplement to private lessons. Group instruction is most appropriate for non-injured people with a moderate to high level of fitness and body awareness. We would be glad to discuss your particular needs and help determine the right Pilates approach for you.

Should I exercise between studio workouts?

Ideally, you should do aerobic exercise such as walking, biking, or swimming several days a week. We recommend practicing Pilates at least twice a week. You can do matwork at home between studio sessions. We sell matwork videos, and resistance bands for this purpose.

What is GYROTONIC^®?

The GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM is an invention of Juliu Horvath who was a professional dancer. He combined his knowledge of yoga, gymnastics, and ballet to create a system that would help his physical body stresses. Gyrotonic is a powerful system of exercise for conditioning, stretching, strength, balance, and flexibility. The exercises build muscular strength and promote stability around the joints, enabling increased range of motion. Gyrotonic is a three dimensional type of movement. The Gyrotonic Expansion System has a handle unit which works as rotational discs in combination with the pulley tower. The Pulley tower is a unilateral system which is plate loaded. This allows the work to come from the joint itself and allows more of an opening to the joints. The movements on this system are more circular.

The benefits include:

• Increased circulation and coordination
• Increased mobility of the spine
• Strengthening and stretching of muscles
• Increased flow of energy