A. Pilates and Yoga both use a series of controlled movements to reach the same goals. However, Pilates incorporates work on the Pilates equipment along with its full complement of Mat work. The emphasis of the exercises is to strengthen the abdominals, improve posture, stabilize and lengthen the spine, improve balance and overall strength. And unlike many other training programs, Pilates works the whole body, emphasizing control, precision and concentration in both the mind and the body.

A. The apparatus will give you resistance that may enhance and challenge your workout as well as assist you in certain exercises that may be more difficult to do on the Mat. Utilizing various pieces of apparatus will also give you the opportunity to try additional exercises. The apparatus allows you to go deeper into the work and can be more advanced. However, you can also advance on the Mat and it will offer you a fantastic workout – you provide your own resistance and some clients find the Mat exercises more challenging. The apparatus is recommended for those clients that have physical limitations either due to illness or injury. The apparatus provides the support needed to strengthen any weaknesses in the body.

A. In the studio, you receive personalized instruction and immediate feedback so that you experience better results. Joy will teach you correct and safe body placement for each exercise. Understanding the placement can be difficult when you are watching TV and doing the exercises at the same time.

A. Yes. Regardless of your age, gender, goals or fitness level, you will discover that Pilates transforms the way your body looks, feels and performs. Joy understand that every body is different and will tailor your workout to your ability and needs.

A. Consistency and commitment are the keys to success in any fitness activity. To reap the benefits from your hard work, incorporate Pilates at least two to three times a week. You can mix a couple of apparatus sessions with Mat classes. Individuals who are dedicated to long-term fitness instead of just a ‘quick fix’ will find Pilates the most rewarding.

A. Yes. Pilates has a long history of helping people with previous and current injuries. Both physical therapists and chiropractors have collaborated with Pilates teachers to help their clients heal and recover from various physical problems. However, it is important to understand that Pilates teachers do not diagnose or treat physical problems.

A. Every body is different. Most people begin to feel the difference after a few sessions. Consistency is the key. Joseph Pilates said, “In 10 sessions you will feel the difference, in 20 sessions you will see the difference, and in 30 sessions, you will have a whole new body.” Real and lasting changes will happen over time, but more importantly, you will leave every session feeling rejuvenated and energized.

A. Pilates is a workout! When you first start Pilates, you are learning a whole new ‘language’ for the body, so you probably won’t get an aerobic workout at the beginning, although you will feel and see results from your workout. Pilates can be aerobic at the Intermediate and Advanced levels when the movement becomes familiar and the transitions flow quickly. Pilates combines stretching and strengthening using springs and your own body weight as resistance in a way that may appear easier than other forms of exercise, yet you actually work harder and more deeply through the muscles.

A. Yes. Pilates is an excellent form of exercise for older people. You will build strength in all the right muscles to assist you in your daily activities and improve mobility to help prevent common injuries.

A. Every pregnant woman is different. If you have been practicing Pilates before you became pregnant, you can continue with your workout after consulting your doctor. The exercises will be modified as necessary. Joy will design a safe program and work with you through the different stages of pregnancy. It is not recommended for a woman to start any new form of exercise once she becomes pregnant, including Pilates.