New clients, please print and fill out and sign these forms and bring them to the studio before your first class.
Yoga and Pilates share some common traits; they both incorporate physical and mental qualities, which is one reason people often confuse them. Yoga was developed in ancient India, and Pilates was developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates, who was from Europe. Pilates looked to many sources for inspiration for his exercises, including yoga postures and animals in the wild. Yoga uses a mat and small props to help align the body during postures, whereas Pilates uses both the mat as well as spring-based equipment, such as the reformer, to align and exercise the body. Although they are both mind-body disciplines, there is a big difference between the two.
Women are most comfortable in form-fitting clothing, with longer shorts, pants, or leggings.
Men are most comfortable in bike or compression shorts worn under another pair of shorts or sweat
pants.
Very loose fitting clothing should not be worn, as it can become caught in the machine.
For the majority of people, Pilates absolutely works. It’s not an overnight fix, because it takes time to learn new and more efficient movement patterns. But it is a long-lasting program and lifestyle.
You should ask your doctor if Pilates is recommended for you. The teachers at Whole Body are trained in the special needs of pregnant women, which are different due to the change in the abdominal muscles during pregnancy. Women often continue their Pilates program with a specially qualified instructor until the end of their pregnancy term.
Pilates teachers are not required to complete a national exam, and not all teachers are equal. You should make sure a teacher’s initial Pilates certification required at least 400 hours of training. Further, you should make sure your teacher continues their education.
At Whole Body, almost half our clients are men. In fact, the system was originated by a man to help heal soldiers with war injuries. Pilates then came to New York, where he helped heal injured dancers.
Make sure your instructor is trained in dealing with your type of injury, or is willing to learn about it. You are looking for an instructor with a great deal of movement anatomy and physiology knowledge, as well as a working knowledge of current rehab treatments. Look for an instructor who is willing and able to work with your team, be it PTs, MDs, and/or chiropractors.
Pilates can help most types of physical injuries. Spinal injuries, shoulder injuries, pelvic disorders, knee pain, chronic pain, and chronic disorders are often helped by Pilates. Ask your doctor if Pilates is appropriate for your injury. If you have any detailed injury-related questions, please contact the studio.
Pilates is best utilized 2-3 times per week. You can supplement your Pilates class experience by doing Pilates mat work at home.
If you have never done Pilates, you will want to try a private or beginner class first. Equipment safety is taught during these intro-level classes and privates. If you have an injury, a private is also recommended, to evaluate your skill and proficiency level. If you currently practice Pilates, join a class that seems appropriate for your skill level! If you feel unsure, please call the studio and we will help you determine the best place for you.
