FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can Pilates help with weight loss?

Strength training combined with cardio and good dietary choices is the best formula for weight loss -- though Pilates helps weight loss with or without cardio.

Can Pilates be used as part of cross training?

Pilates cross trains well with anything.

You might want to think about cross training Pilates with some of the top cardio exercises like walking and running. This would be especially true if you are interested in weight loss.

Cross training is really just combining exercise types. In that light, doing things, like yoga and Pilates on the same day for example, could be fine. On the other hand, cardio and strength training are best done on different days. That way you won't be too tired to do one or the other, and your muscles get a chance to rest and repair -- which is how you actually build strength and endurance. It is also a good idea to alternate the exercise intensity levels in your weekly routine. An every-other-day cardio then strength program with alternating heavy and light workouts is a good choice.

What is the exertion level of Pilates?

People often underestimate the exertion level of Pilates. Many people find it too much to do a full Pilates class and cardio on the same day. So as you begin cross training, stick with alternate days or do a very light Pilates workout on a cardio day.

How often should one do a Pilates session?

To get the full benefits of Pilates, you should probably do it at least 3 times a week.

Pilates will still help you even if you do less sessions, though the founder of Pilates, Joseph Pilates, did recommend doing at least 10 minutes every day.

Can you do Pilates daily?

In short, yes. But you should vary the exercises in terms of intensity and muscle groups.

Also see: "How is Pilates different from regular strength exercises?"

How is Pilates different from regular strength exercises?

Pilates is a form of moderate strength training and challenging Pilates workout will breakdown muscle, thereby promoting the build up of stronger muscles.

However, a big difference between Pilates and regular strength training is that in Pilates we are also working toward body/mind integration and educating the body to move more efficiently.

To this end, Pilates workouts will emphasize things like awareness, functional alignment, breath and co-ordination. This multidimensional approach gives us the opportunity to shift the focus of our workouts, making it possible to do a safe and interesting workout every day.

Is Pilates a precise method?

Yes. Very definitely.

Pilates is a very precise system of excerises that must be done correctly. Pilates done incorrecly can lead to causing damage to one or more parts of the body.

It is recommended that Pilates is done with a trained instructor for at least one session a week.

What types of classes are there?

Here at New Life Pilates we run the following types of classes:

Private - this is a one-on-one class where you will given private instruction.
Semi-Private - this is a one-on-two class. Join with a spouse, family member or a friend.
Group - these are classes with three or more people in a class. This is fun and cost-effective.

It is recommended that you do three or four private classes first before you join the group classes. This way you will be trained in the principles and have a greater benefit from the group classes.

“
Physical fitness can neither be achieved through wishful thinking nor outright purchase.
”

Source: Joseph Pilates, the Founder of the Pilates method