Q:  "Is Pilates like Yoga?"

A:  Pilates and yoga are two different types of movement exercise.  They are, however,  both mind-body forms of exercise.  Pilates is based more on strengthening the body through postural awareness.  Pilates exercises are performed by repeating a movement pattern through a series of 5-10 repetitions.  These movement patterns are usually small and very controlled.  Yoga is usually performed by moving from one pose to a different pose.  The pace of these movements varies depending on the style of yoga you participate in.  Some forms of yoga hold a pose in a static (still) position for varying lengths of time while the more popular "power yoga"  workouts move through a series of poses at the pace of your breath thus becoming quite cardiovascular.

Q:  "What is the difference between STOTT PILATES™ and "Classical Pilates"?

A:  STOTT PILATES™ considers its training style to be the "contemporary approach" to Pilates.  STOTT PILATES™, with the use of physical therapists, anatomists and biomechanical experts, looked at the exercises that comprised Joseph Pilates original teachings and combined that with what we now know about how the body functions and developed a new approach.  STOTT PILATES™ created modifications for many of the exercises in order to better suit all body types including those recovering from injury.  Performing a postural analysis in order to better program for all clients was included.   STOTT PILATES™ prides itself on training the body to re-establish the natural curves of the spine whereas Joseph Pilates' teachings were all done in a flat back position.  For additional information please view the STOTT PILATES™ website.

Q:  "If I have injured my back can I still do Pilates?"

A:  Yes.  Pilates is one of the few exercise regimens that can be modified for almost any injury.  You may be required to obtain your physician's permission for participation in Pilates first.  You will also want to make sure that your Pilates' instructor is skilled at working with injuries.

Q:  "What is the difference between Pilates mat and equipment training?"

A:  Mat based Pilates is done with only the use of you own body weight for resistance.  You may also use small prop items such as bands, rings and barrels for added variation.  Not all mat exercises are applicable for all body types.  Make sure that your trainer knows your body type and can modify the mat exercises accordingly.  Equipment training offers a wide degree of flexibility for all body types.  Equipment training increases the workload by using springs for added resistance.  This type of training will have a greater affect on re-shaping your muscles than the mat alone.

Q:  "Will I lose weight doing Pilates?"

A:  Pilates alone is not a weight loss program.  You must combine Pilates training with at least 3 days of cardiovascular activity in order to lose body fat.  Pilates will reshape your body by creating lean and lengthened muscles that are designed to support your body in its most biomechanical efficient position.  This is how Pilates lessens the risk of injury and can rehabilitate existing injuries.