Pilates

"In order to achieve happiness, it is imperative to gain mastery of your body. If at the age of 30 you are stiff and out of shape, you are old. If at 60 you are supple and strong then you are young." Joseph H. Pilates

Imagine a exercise program that you look forward to, that engages you and leaves you with a feeling of physical and mental well being.  The Pilates Method of body conditioning and correction will do all this - and more.  The Pilates Method strengthens core postural muscles and develops body alignment to help improve your body shape, coordination and physical performance.  It is suitable for men and women of all ages and levels of fitness.  The focus is on quality of movement rather than quantity as Pilates is a personal journey, not a competitive sport.

Alpha Myotherapy runs group mat classes (maximum of 10 participants) or private and semi private (group of 3) classes.  Classes run during school terms and must be prebooked.

Term 2 2010 classes will begin in April.  All classes will run until the week ending Friday 25th June. 
 

Term 2, 2010

Monday (no classes 26th April or 14th June)	6pm	Level 1 / Progressive Pilates - for those who want a challenge!
	7pm	Beginner's Essentials / Advanced Beginner
Tuesday	9.30am	Advanced Beginner / Level 1
Thursday	9.30am	Level 1 / Progressive Pilates - for those who want a challenge!
	10.30am	Beginner's Essentials / Advanced Beginner

 Term 2 2010 - Monday 9 week term.  All other classes 11 week term.

FAQ

Why Pilates?
This method of exercise offers a non-stress approach to better posture and stronger, leaner muscles. It complements aerobic exercises and can be used to help you recover after injury.

What kind of benefits can I expect?
You can expect an increase in flexibility, mobility, balance and body awareness. The low-impact technique is designed to improve posture and strengthen and lengthen muscles without adding bulk. An emphasis on breathing leaves you feeling revitalised, not exhausted.

Do I need a certain level of fitness before I start?
No. Pilates caters for everyone from beginners to advanced conditioning and is suitable for all age groups. As with any exercise program, start on the beginner levels, progress slowly and listen to your body. All participants must complete a Beginner's Essentials Series before enrolling in the next levels.

How long will it take to see results?
The answer is relative to the individual's goals and level of fitness. A regular Pilates routine of two or three classes per week should see improvement within 10-12 classes. This will vary depending on each individual and factors such as the number of classes a person takes each week, whether they are private or group classes and whether they participate in other physical activities.  Ideally if doing one class per week, an individual would also be practising at home      1 - 2 times as well.

How different is Pilates from Yoga?
Although similar to yoga exercise, Pilates requires you to set a posture and then challenge the torso by moving the limbs, whereas yoga will move from one static posture to another with no repetitions.

What age group is Pilates for?
Pilates is beneficial for all ages, fitness levels, body shapes and sizes, and can be adapted, modified and customised for individual needs. Pilates is more about fitness conditioning than age, so with regular practice and focus you can achieve fantastic results over time. One's age, body shape or previous abilities doesn't limit one's movement capabilities - sometimes a 75 year old can perform contortions with their body while a 19 year old finds it a challenge to touch their toes. Pilates is not about keeping up with the person next to you, it is about your own journey and your personal connection to your body.

How often can I do Pilates?
It would be fantastic to work out 2-4 times a week, taking a day off in between sessions to rest or enjoy some kind of cardiovascular activity (walking, bicycling, swimming…). However, most of us have employment, families and other activities that require our time. So if you can take time for yourself and participate in a class once a week, this is a great way to start practicing Pilates. Eventually you may want to participate in more than one class a week or work out to a DVD at home and this kind of regular, consistent practice will help you make the mind-body connection and integrate the various Pilates principles into your daily life.

Can I do Pilates if I'm pregnant?
Generally speaking, moderate exercise is safe throughout a normal, healthy pregnancy and many gentle stretching and strengthening Pilates exercises are appropriate.

To be safe during pregnancy, firstly check with your medical practitioner before starting a program and secondly only practice Pilates under the guidance of a professional Pilates instructor who has knowledge and experience in teaching pregnant women.

If you are already doing Pilates classes before you become pregnant then it is usually safe to continue (with medical guidance) all throughout the pregnancy.  If you wish to start classes after becoming pregnant then it is advisable that you wait until after the first trimester.  You should always advise the instructor about your pregnant status.

At this stage, Alpha Myotherapy does not offer specific classes for women during pregnancy but hopes to add a special "mums and bubs" classe in mid 2008.  Pregnant women can participate in the normal classes under the conditions outlined above.

What should I wear?

For Pilates it is desirable to wear comfortable close fitting clothing, such as bike pants with a fitting top, leotards over tights or leggings or close fitting track pants and a top. Please wear thin socks to class.

There is a reason for this type of clothing - the only way to improve your postural muscles is to give the instructor an opportunity to see what your muscles are doing. Wearing unsuitable (baggy shorts and thick materials) make it difficult for the instructor to see your movements, and could mean you could recruit your muscles incorrectly, resulting in no benefit.

You only need to bring a bath sized towel to put on the mat and for a prop in some exercises. This is for your own hygiene reasons. If you wish to bring your own mat you may.  Mats can be purchased through Alpha Myotherapy.

It is imperative that you bring a water bottle to prevent dehydration.  The instructor will provide everything else.

Can I do Pilates with an existing injury i.e. a back problem?
Of course that depends entirely on the injury. Anyone with a prior injury should have completed any required rehabilitation and have obtained their doctors permission prior to enrolling in classes. Individuals perform the exercises within their own limitations and may benefit from the increase in strength and flexibility obtained through Pilates.

Allison is not only a fully qualified Pilates instructor but is also a fully qualified and very experienced Myotherapist.  All exercises can modified to suit people who have injuries or previous complaints.  Please ensure that you tell Allison prior to starting the classes about any issues that you may have.

Can I try one class before enrolling in a Series?
The Pilates method of exercise is a progressive learning experience and therefore one cannot appreciate all the benefits from a single class. If you wish to try a single class rather than the full beginner’s course then it is advised that you organise a private tuition class.  There will be an opportunity to try a "taster" class at various times throughout the year.  Bookings essential.