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What is Pilates – A Beginners Guide

Feb 7, 2021

What is Pilates? Have you overheard conversations about Pilates and wondered what it is all about? We have got the answers for you and answers to some common questions that will determine whether Pilates is ideal for you.

What is Pilates?

Pilates (pronounced puh-lah-teez) emphasizes your body’s core — the abdomen, obliques, lower back, inner and outer thigh, bottom, and so on. For this reason, Pilates develops much of what exercisers need — strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, coordination, balance, and good posture — with a much lower chance of injury than with other forms of exercise.

Pilates moves require you to engage virtually your whole body. At times, you may try to strengthen one muscle while stretching another. The moves take lots of concentration and then, for every move you think you’ve mastered, Pilates has another version that’s a little different and a little harder.

 The discipline emphasizes correct form instead of going for the burn. With so many exercise variations and progressions, you may have a hard time getting bored with Pilates.

Can anyone do Pilates?

Yes – Pilates can be adapted to provide a gentle strength training and stability program, or it can be modified to give a seasoned athlete a challenging workout. We offer private Pilates as well as classes, so can cater for all abilities and needs.

Our timetable includes classes suitable for beginners and a dedicated Gentle Pilates class aimed at those who wish to take things a little slower.  Our Gentle Pilates class is perfect for our over 60s and exercises here are tailored to suit those with Bone Health Conditions such as Osteopenia and Osteoporosis without fracture.

If you’re older, haven’t exercised for some time or have health problems, we do recommend speaking with either ourselves or your GP if you are unsure whether you will be able to do Pilates.  Similarly, women who are pregnant should check with their health care providers before starting Pilates or other exercise programs.  Due to the nature of providing a safe environment for expecting mums and baby, our online Pilates does not currently cater for pregnant clients, we can however provide 1:1 Pilates or you may be suitable to join a class in our studio.

When you join Causeway Pilates, we ask you to complete an enrolment form which lets us know if you have any conditions or previous injuries so we can assist you in modifying movements if required during your class.  Sometimes a 1:1 private session is required before joining a class.

What are the health benefits of Pilates?

Pilates focuses on core strength, however it is unlike many other forms of exercises as it trains the body as an integrated whole. It is a functional fitness necessary to help you move through and move with life, having a body that can stretch and bend to meet the flow of life is a realistic goal! 

The core muscles of the body are the deep muscles of the back, abdomen, and pelvic floor. We rely on these muscles to support a strong, supple back, good posture, and efficient movement patterns.  When our core is strong, the frame of the body is supported.

List of benefits both mental and physical …

  • Tone – long, lean muscles
  • Improved posture
  • Reduced back pain
  • Feel energised
  • Improved balance, reduced risk of falling
  • Build Strength & Stamina
  • Balanced Body
  • Flexibility
  • De-stress
  • Increased awareness of Mind/Body connection

Can Pilates help me lose weight?

If you practice Pilates regularly, it will change your body. Known for creating long, strong muscles and a leaner look, Pilates improves your muscle tone, balances musculature, supports beautiful posture, and teaches you to move with ease and grace. All of these things will make you look and feel very fit. Combined with aerobic activity, Pilates can help you.

All our Classes are tailored to provide you with a balanced workout.

Do you need any special equipment?

In our studio, we have all the equipment you need, including a wide range of equipment for more specialised equipment classes. At home, all you need is a mat on the floor and a small cushion to use as a head support. We also offer an equipment class online using smaller, more common pieces of equipment such as weights, therabands, balls and rings – these are easily accessible though you can join the class without them (most items are available for purchase in the clinic).

Can Pilates be done at home?

Yes, it sure can! In addition to our popular Studio classes we also teach Online Pilates, Live streamed via zoom.  They have all the same benefits as taking part in a class in our studio, the only difference being you are in the comfort of your own home. Our online classes have become a life-line to many of our clients since the first lockdown!

How can I sign up for Pilates?

Signing up for one of our Pilates classes is extremely easy. Either take a look at the different types of classes we have on offer or if you already know what class you want to take part in then head straight over to our sign-up form.

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