Red Zen Pilates Studio

What is Pilates

Pilates is a system of over 500 controlled exercises that engage the mind and condition the total body. It is a balanced blend of strength and flexibility training that improves posture, reduces stress and creates long, lean muscles without bulking up. Pilates works several muscle groups simultaneously through smooth, continuous motion, with a particular concentration on strengthening and stabilizing the core (the abdomen, back and pelvic girdle region, sometimes referred to as the "powerhouse").

What are the benefits of Pilates

With regular committed Pilates workouts you can expect to:

Improve strength, flexibility and balance
Tone and build long, lean muscles without bulk
Challenge deep abdominal muscles to support the core
Engage the mind and enhance body awareness
Condition efficient patterns of movement making the body less prone to injury
Reduce stress, relieve tension, boost energy through deep stretching
Restore postural alignment
Create a stronger, more flexible spine
Promote recovery from strain or injury
Increase joint range of motion
Improve circulation
Heighten neuromuscular coordination
Offer relief from back pain and joint stress
Correct over-training of muscle groups which can lead to stress and injury
Enhance mobility, agility and stamina
Compliment sports training and develop functional fitness for daily life activity
Improve the way your body looks and feels

How Often Should I do Pilates

Pilates is safe enough to do every day. Initially you may want to do it every day so you get a rhythm and become consistent; then a good goal is to do it every other day. Joseph Pilates used to say to do it three times a week.

How's Pilates Different

Pilates is different from most exercises out there because it's non-impact and safe, and it really works on using the body as a whole. You're either lying on your back, on your side or kneeling on the floor where it's safe. When you move the body, you're trying to move it from the powerhouse, using your abdominal wall to protect your back. You're also working the body very evenly and symmetrically, making sure one side is not working harder than the other.

What Should I Wear

Pilates is usually practiced in socks or bare feet. If you wear non-baggy clothing, it’s much easier for your posture and alignment to be observed and modified, which will help you achieve your Pilates goals.

Am I Doing it Right

What if I don’t feel like I’m doing it ‘right’?

At Red Zen Pilates Studio there is no pressure to ‘do it right’ and, like any new practice, Pilates takes varying numbers of sessions to ‘get it,’ though clients immediately reap the benefits simply by moving through the exercises. Your range of motion and ability to approach the ideal versions of the exercises will improve over time as you progress. Most important, Pilates is not about performance – how high, how big and how beautiful. It is about executing the exercises with mindful intent to improve function and strength.

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