Pilates FAQ

What is Pilates?
 Pilates is a physical conditioning system that was developed in the early part of the 20th century by Joseph Pilates. Joe named his conditioning system “Controlology.” Today we know it simply as Pilates. Joe Pilates estimated that 95% of the people he saw had physical problems arising form bad posture and weak abdominal muscles. While many exercises in Pilates seem simple, their power and effectiveness must not be underestimated.

Pilates is simply resistance training. We use springs and bodyweight exercises to develop a strong core and condition the whole body. Pilates is designed to give you suppleness, natural grace and skill that will be unmistakably reflected in the way you walk, play and work. You will develop muscular power with corresponding endurance with the ability to perform physical duties efficiently and an increase of aerobic capacity without undue body fatigue or mental strain.

What to expect on your first visit:
During your first session, we will do a general posture evaluation. We begin with the basics getting you to become aware of breathing, muscle structure, and how you use your body. The process is slow in the beginning, but as you grasp the fundamentals, you will begin to realign your posture and exercise your muscles in the most efficient way to support your bones and organs. Your program continues to increase in the number of exercises and associated intensity.

What do I wear to my session?
Wear comfortable clothing, free of buttons, snaps, and zippers, that will allow for a full range of movement, i.e. sweat pants, leotards, leggings, biking shorts or gym attire are recommended. No shoes are worn in the studio during your session; socks are optional.

What can the results of Pilates exercise be?
Pilates relieves stress, builds strength, and improves balance and coordination. It will also increase flexibility, redistribute weight, balance musculature and boost energy. Pilates is also a great way to change bad postural habits that may lead to injury and ill health. Here at Rolates Pilates everyone progresses at his or her own rate. You will be able to function better in your daily activities with greater ease, grace, and lack of injury. Grow old gracefully—you’re never too young or too old to start.

About Group classes
Our classes are so intimate you can’t even call them “Groups.” They have a maximum size of 3 persons. Now that’s a lot of individual attention for a “group” class.

Should I take private Pilates sessions before starting group classes?

Absolutely. Your private sessions will be the foundation of your Pilates practice and that is part of why we have a Welcome Pack of three private Pilates sessions for $180 (link) Our classes employ the unique Pilates equipment, and we need to show you how to use the system of Pilates machines.

So many different group classes! How do I know what’s what?

You will find descriptions of each of our group classes by clicking on the class type found on the schedule page. Because of our small group classes, you receive the attention you need for the exercises.

How long is each session?
Each session lasts 45 minutes.

What can I expect as I progress in by training and development?
Pilates can relieve stress, build strength, and improve balance and coordination. It will increase flexibility, redistribute weight, balance musculature and boost energy. Pilates is also a great way to change bad postural habits that may lead to injury and ill health.

Here at Rolates Pilates everyone progresses at his or her own rate. We believe in re-educating the spine back to the natural aligned state. You will be able to function better in your daily activities with greater ease, grace, and movement. Grow old gracefully. You’re never too young or too old to start.

If I am pregnant, can I take Pilates?
Yes, many clients have taken pilates through their pregnancies. We have a prenatal modified program.
(link to prenatal testimonial)

I have injuries, can I do Pilates
If you have an injury, it is very important to have permission from you doctor or physical therapist to take pilates. We are happy to communicate with your health specialists so that we can provide an appropriate pilates session.

Pilates is perfect for allowing an injury to heal while strengthening the rest of the body. Depending on the injury, we can avoid the area in question and focus on the surrounding musculature body as a support system.

There are countless modifications to accommodate different injuries and limitations.

Don’t see your question? Call or email us!
Phone: 212-247-9603
Email: info@rolates.com