What Pilates classes to take? What do the different Pilates exercises do? Is pre natal Pilates / Pilates for pregnancy beneficial?

So many questions, which we will try and start to answer for you now…

What should I wear to a Pilates class?

Your clothes need to have enough ‘give’ to let you stretch fully. However, the instructor will need to be able to see your alignment and how your muscles are engaging, so remember: loose is fine but baggy probably isn’t. Suggest fitted but comfortable clothing. Pilates is usually done barefoot, so no fancy footwear is needed.

Is Pilates just for women?

A common question that gets a resounding NO! Ask any of the scores of large rugby players who have signed onto Pilates in recent years – improved balance and coordination means fewer injuries. The re-alignment of the spine and increased core strength developed by Pilates leads to better balance and coordination. If it’s good enough for the English Rugby team…

Can Pilates help improve my back pain?

Yes - Some evidence shows that Pilates does help improve non specific back pain. As mentioned above, Pilates can help improve posture and an improvement in posture can help to alleviate lower back pain. Pilates can also improve flexibility and movement as well as strengthen which can most definitely improve some of the symptoms of back pain. The great thing about Pilates is that the exercises can be catered to an individual – we suggest enlisting the help of a properly qualified instructor to all people new to Pilates, especially those with previous injuries or those experiencing symptoms of pain.

Can Pilates help me lose weight?

Hmmm - This is a hotly contested topic – with some people saying yes and others no. Pilates can absolutely support in the weight loss process and streamline your appearance. However, if your primary goal is to lose weight, we suggest combining Pilates with a healthy eating plan and cardio exercise.

Am I too old for Pilates?

No - never! The exercises in Pilates can be adapted to suit all ages and fitness levels. In fact, the low impact nature of many of the exercises makes Pilates even more desirable to some of its older converts. Extra bonus: there is evidence to suggest that Pilates can help with the prevention of osteoporosis and incontinence.

Do I have to be fit to do Pilates?

No. Pilates is suitable for people of all fitness levels.

Is Pilates suitable for injury rehabilitation?

Yes - Due to the low impact nature of Pilates, it is widely recognised as a good form of exercise to assist in rehabilitation following an injury. According to Kris Bosch, president of Northstar Pilates in Buffalo, NY, Pilates is also excellent as part of a rehabilitation programme because: “Part of its success is indeed based on the approach to the principles of Pilates – core strength, an even musculature, etc. But another reason is that it provides a greater degree of flexibility than most conventional forms of physical therapy. This is true because Pilates exercises can be modified for each person and still be extremely effective. You can go from basic movements to very advanced, depending on how a patient needs to progress or how badly they are injured.”

What is the difference between Pilates and Yoga?

While both focus on developing strength, balance, flexibility, posture and good breathing technique, Yoga has a more spiritual element that Pilates does not. Pilates uses a range of specifically designed equipment such as the reformer and tends to focus on more specific exercises aimed at strengthening the body – particularly the core abdominal muscles.

Pilates and pregnancy

During pregnancy, Pilates can be done to help prevent injury or back pain. It also helps to keep muscles strong during the rapid changes your body undergoes. It is very important to consult with your GP before undergoing any new exercise during pregnancy.

Post natal Pilates is an excellent way to start getting back into shape once you have had your 6 week post natal check (or have been given the go ahead in the case of a C section). Pilates is great for retraining stomach muscles that may have been a bit stretched out of shape and for strengthening your pelvic floor. Again, ALWAYS check with your doctor before starting back to exercise following your pregnancy.

Want to know more?

Just email us at enquiries@fitforgym.co.uk or call 020 7907 1900.

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