Frequently asked questions
How do I know what level I am?
“If you’re newer to Pilates, you might not know this: The end goal is to do less reps, not more. In Pilates we don’t measure progress by number of reps. Being “advanced” means you’ll have all of the following in Every. Single. Rep.
Concentration
Control
Breath without tension
Flow
Proper alignment
Moving from your Center
We prioritize quality, not quantity.
On a good day, I can probably check off at least 4 out of the 6 on that list. Some days, it might just be 2 😅
If you can TRULY do an exercise precisely with the correct form, while breathing, concentrating, maintaining the flow of the workout, and staying present and centered, then you don’t really need to do a ton of reps. In fact, it’s so exhausting that you can probably ONLY do a few reps.
As a beginner, you’ll of course have to do more reps because you’re learning new movements. But as you get better, you’ll start to do fewer reps of MORE exercises. There is a specific sequence of exercises that we follow in classical Pilates, and while not every exercise is suitable for every body, the goal is to do few reps of as many of those exercises as possible. More exercises means more movement variability in different planes, which means more 3D movement of our joints.
Understand that this is a lifelong endeavor, and while I consider myself advanced at certain exercises, I am still a beginner when it comes to others. Make every movement count!”
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a method of exercise, developed by Joseph H. Pilates during the First World War, that emphasizes the balance of strength, stretch and control in the entire body. It is not physical therapy, it is not massage, it is not yoga, it is not meditation – just sweaty, hard exercise. Joe understood that the body repairs and strengthens itself through movement. Pilates is a workout that will keep your body functioning as it ages and enables you to do whatever you enjoy doing for longer.
Why is there so much emphasis on the stomach?
The strongest muscles in the body are in the girdle around the middle. All strength and movement originates here. A well-balanced Pilates workout uses all the muscles in the girdle including the abdominals, back and sides of the body. When balanced strength and flexibility is returned to the girdle, a feeling of freedom and well-being results.
Who is it good for?
Pilates is good for anyone who is interested in improving their fitness, posture, coordination, balance, freedom of movement and overall well-being. The Pilates method can be adapted to suit any fitness level, however we do require clients with health issues, injuries or chronic pain to consult their physician before beginning any new exercise program.
I’ve never taken Pilates before. What can I expect for my first lessons at Urban Pilates?
First, you'll get careful, patient instruction that's geared specifically to your needs. Beyond that, you'll learn to move in a new way. You might discover things hadn’t noticed about the way your body moves. We'll teach you the essential principles of Pilates, and help you discover how Pilates will help you reach your fitness goals. Oh, and you'll have fun!
What’s different about Urban Pilates?
As the popularity of Pilates grows, health clubs and sports facilities are beginning to offer Pilates-inspired or Pilates-based programs. Classical Pilates is different, a unique and powerful method that has stood the test of time and delivers long lasting results. At Urban Pilates, we offer only the Classical Pilates method performed on the originally designed equipment the way Joseph Pilates himself would want it.
Can Pilates cure me of my pain?
Pilates is not physical therapy, but it is correct exercise, and as such has many benefits including injury prevention and improved athletic skill. Orthopedic problems need the attention of a medical specialist and anyone under a physician’s care should not engage in Pilates without consent from their physician.
How often do I need to take Pilates to maintain good health?
Three times per week is optimal, especially at the beginning. As one gets stronger and develops proper use of the body, as little as once per week is good for maintenance. Combining sessions at the studio with mat work at home is ideal.
What are the age limits for doing Pilates?
Children as young as 5 or 6 years old can do the mat work. The body should be more developed, and the bones hardened, before attempting work on the apparatus. People in their 90’s have started Pilates with surprising results.
I take mat classes. How is a workout with equipment different?
The equipment was developed to help people gain strength and flexibility for the mat work. Doing the mat properly is extremely difficult and takes a strong, well developed body. The various apparatus that Joe invented help to target specific areas that need strengthening or more freedom. Each piece of equipment supports the other and teaches the body the principles of Pilates in different ways. The equipment was developed to help people gain strength and flexibility for the mat work. Doing the mat properly is extremely difficult and takes a strong, well developed body. The various apparatus that Joe invented help to target specific areas that need strengthening or more freedom. Each piece of equipment supports the other and teaches the body the principles of Pilates in different ways.
What should I do to prep for my first Pilates session?
For your own comfort, do not eat heavily 2 hours before your workout.
What do I wear to Pilates?
Leggings or shorts, athletic top or t-shirt, socks. Nothing too loose or baggy.
What are Urban Pilates' studio policies?
If you are ill, please cancel.
We ask that you do not wear jewelry or scented lotions and perfumes.
Do not wear clothing that is too loose or baggy as it can be hazardous when using the equipment. As well, do not wear clothing with zippers or rivets as it will damage the upholstery on the equipment.
If you have long hair or braids, please tie it up so it doesn’t get caught in the equipment. Pig tails, two braids or even high princess Leia buns are ideal as your head will need to be flat agains the mat or wall, depending.
Must wear socks. Grippy socks are great, however any socks will do.
Please wear clothing free of zippers, rivets or anything that might scratch or puncture the upholstery of our equipment.