F.A.Q.

Am I too old/young for pilates

You are never too old to do Pilates. If you are over the age of five, there is a benefit that you can experience with a Pilates program. One's chronological number doesn't necessarily limit one's movement capabilities. Pilates can be adapted to meet anyone's physical needs and goals. That is the beauty of the method. Click here to learn more.

I am overweight, and out of shape. Can I do pilates?

Absolutely! Because of the unique make-up of the Pilates Method, it is extremely versatile and exercises can be adapted so that ANYONE can perform them. Our instructors have been certified to work with any fitness level and trained to create programs on a need-to-need basis. You can never be too out of shape to start Pilates, or any exercise program for that matter! Click here to learn more.

When can I expect to see results?

Result time is individual depending on your commitment to Pilates. Generally, clients begin to feel these benefits within one session and start to see them in ten to fifteen sessions.

Pilates himself said, in reference to practicing Pilates, "you'll feel better in 10 sessions, look better in 20 sessions, and have a completely new body in 30 sessions". To put this statement into perspective, any movement program that is practiced regularly (at least 3 times per week) will offer benefits after 30 sessions.

How many times per week should I do a pilates workout?

Pilates is a form of exercise that you can do daily. We recommend two to three times per week to get started. This kind of regular, consistent practice will help you make the mind-body connection and integrate the various Pilates principles which will help you to see results faster. Click here for complete list of Pilates Fundamentals.

What should I wear to work out in?

Wear something you are comfortable moving in, that will allow you to breathe, bend and stretch without constriction. However, do not wear anything too loose or bulky as it hinders the instructors' ability to visually analyze body placement, thus decreasing the effectiveness of your session or class.

Layers are best so you may adapt as your temperature changes. Most clients wear sweat pants, t-shirts, leggings and work-out attire. Guys, we have just one word to say to you - Underwear!

Exercises can be performed either barefoot or in socks.

What is the difference between matwork and equipment?

Both provide a complete workout to strengthen and stretch the entire body.

The matwork is a compile of exercises designed to be performed on the floor sitting, standing, kneeling or lying on your back, belly, or side. Mat classes can incorporate small apparatus such as rings, mini-balls, thera-bands, and thera-balls.

The machines give you full body resistance training, much like a weightlifting routine, but don't bulk you up. The equipment adds a whole other dimension to Pilates work, and is tons of fun! And, allows you to get into positions that you may have not been able to achieve on your own. Click here to learn more about the equipment.

What is better, mat or equipment pilates exercies?

It's not a matter of one being better than the other. It is simply two different ways to achieve desired results. So, the answer: It depends. Which is better for you? What are your fitness goals? If, for instance, you are extremely overweight, want to increase strength and flexibility, than the apparatus would be best for you to begin with. It provides support that allows you to safely manipulate your body to stretch and engage muscles otherwise challenging to isolate. However, if you are currently active and fit, then a combination of both would be best.

It is best to consult an instructor, discuss your physical condition, and help to design a workout ? whether it be on the apparatus, mat or both, that is best for you. Click here to contact an instructor today.

Should I start with mat classes or on the apparatus?

You can begin with either mat classes or apparatus sessions. It is common to combine both mat classes and apparatus sessions in your exercise program (see Apparatus/Equipment Sessions and Mat Class Schedules for more information). Mat classes are the most affordable program we offer. In a group setting, you will learn exercises that you can practice at home ?no equipment is necessary. Apparatus sessions are offered by appointment. They are an excellent way to experience the complete Pilates Method. They are also the best place to begin for anyone with injuries, health issues or specific training goals to begin.

When do mat classes start, can I drop in to any class?

Mat classes are offered in 6 week sessions. Registration is required for each session. For the schedule of mat classes in 2005 please click here.

How many people attend a mat class?

Our mat classes are limited to 15 people per class.

How long will it take me to progress to the next mat class level?

As you attend your first mat class session, your instructor will encourage you to practice the exercises at home to help with your progression. Progress will depend on your commitment to practice and your current fitness level. The Pilates Method is an in depth exercise system and most clients take each mat class level at least twice.

What is the difference between a private, duet, and trio class?

Some individuals prefer individual attention, while some enjoy the dynamics of a partner or a group.

Can I start out doing a duet or a small group as a beginner?

It is best to start with a one on one session so that your fitness level can be assessed and matched to another individual. However, if you have a friend that you are confident is at a similar fitness level, and then you could begin as a duet.

How many different pieces of apparatus do you have?

Perfect Pilates Studio is equipped with two Reformers, two Cadillacs, three Wunda chairs, 5 Spine Correctors, two Small Arcs, and a Ladder Barrel. Please click here to learn more about the apparatus.

I have a medical condition or injury, is it still good for me to do pilates?

YES! The Pilates Method integrates into a rehabilitative exercise program to speed recovery from many medical conditions and injuries.

Click here to learn more benefits of a Pilates program and who can benefit. Or for more information contact us.

I have chronic back pain and returning flare-ups of old injuries, can pilates help?

Pilates is a wonderful rehabilitation tool. Because Pilates teaches re-programming of the entire musculature, it can be as gentle and simple as is required. Pilates redevelops strength, stability, balance and symmetry to areas of the body, which may have been misaligned due to an injury. So, YES, YES, YES, it can and will help!

Can I do pilates if i'm pregnant?

YES! Pilates is awesome for pregnant women! Pilates is one of the most advantageous forms of exercise pre-natal and post-pregnancy, because of its focus on core control, and the muscles of the abdomen, back and gluteus. As with any exercise program, and especially when pregnancy is concerned, please discuss any interest in establishing an exercise program with your doctor first! Please click here to learn more about the advantages of pre-natal & post-partum Pilates.

(Note: As a precaution for all of us, Perfect Pilates Studio requires a signed doctor's release indicating that you are cleared to engage in the type of physical activity experienced in a Pilates program before you may participate in our classes or individual sessions.)

Is pilates an aerobic exercise?

Pilates is and of itself is a form of anaerobic exercise. However, it can be taken to the cardiovascular level as you learn the exercises and advance with the work.

In other words, in the beginning, you are learning the exercises, and how to do them properly and effectively. This takes time. So you may only perform eight to fifteen exercises in one hour. As you advance, and know the exercises, you will be able to do twenty-five to fifty exercises consecutively and by doing this; it will increase your rate, thus, taking it to a cardiovascular level. In fact, it is the one of the best cardio work-outs to promote weight loss because similar to interval training, your heart rate changes throughout the workout.

Will pilates help me to lose weight?

Yes, it can help you lose weight. Weight is lost through a simple equation, that is, expend more energy than you consume. Pilates increases strength through lean muscle mass. Muscle consumes more calories at rest than adipose tissue.

For many, Pilates has been helpful with weight loss. .Pilates provides resistance training and cardio-interval training which are both beneficial for weight loss. And, when combined with additional cardio and healthful eating, the results can be dramatic!

Weight loss, however, is not universally accepted as a result of Pilates. Why? Some forms of Pilates are purely rehabilitative, so weight loss, is not the primary goal.

Pilates may also inadvertently help you to lose weight by increasing body awareness, and control. With awareness and control, you may become more careful with what you consume and when you consume it. Those individuals who have started the program at Perfect Pilates and have enjoyed all the benefits are those who have approached the method as a part of their lifestyle, instead of just a quick fix. Click here to learn more!

If I do pilates, how often should I do cardio?

It solely depends on your fitness goals. For instance, if you are trying to maintain your weight you would need less cardio than if you were trying to lose weight. If you would like help on designing a fitness program for you, please contact us.

Is pilates all you need?

Pilates has often been regarded as a foundation for every other activity an individual may engage in. The great thing about Pilates is that it can transform every other activity you do. Pilates principles, breathing techniques and fundamentals can be applied to walking, driving, cleaning, sitting, standing, weight lifting, running, sports, relaxing, dancing, hiking- the list is endless. So is it all you need to do? That depends on your lifestyle. However, Pilates is a great basis for ANYTHING you choose to do

Should I still lift weights if I am doing pilates?

Depends. What are you trying to achieve? Do you want to "bulk up" or "tone" your muscles? Pilates will not bulk muscles. It does not build muscle mass. It strengthens the muscles that you already have, which leads to a toned appearance. So, if you want to tone and tighten your body, then you do not need to lift weights. However, if you are looking to "get bigger," then, yes, Pilates would be a great complement to weight lifting.

When can I start independent workouts or open studio?

Independent workouts require a high level of experience. Achieving that level of experience depends on your current fitness level. If this is a goal of yours for the future, you should discuss this with your instructor.

Why are personal training sessions with a pilates instructor so expensive?

First and foremost, Pilates Equipment is expensive! And, GOOD Pilates instructors go through extensive training, which can be very costly as well. In addition, you are paying for one-on-one instruction or "small group" instruction, both of which are very demanding on instructors.

There are pilates classes taught by "certified instructors? at the gym for free. Why should I go to a pilates "studio" and have to pay?

There is nothing wrong with attending a class at a gym. However, there are some things to be aware of that do not occur in Pilates studios. Here are some instances.

Little or no experience or training. Some classes offered at gyms and similar institutions are taught by individuals with little or no actual Pilates experience or training. Some instructors who do have training are only qualified through weekend certification courses (usually only 16 to 20 hours), designed for the purposes of gyms, etc. Instructors at Perfect Pilates Studio, however, are certified through BASIC and PhysicalMind Institute and have completed hundreds of hours of instruction and many hours of supervised teaching. Please visit our Staff/Instructors page for a full listing of our Instructors credentials.

Large Classes with multi-level students. Classes at gyms are not necessarily the ideal choice for those wishing to develop full-body awareness and a deep understanding of the Pilates method. These types of classes can be dangerous for students who are not fully aware of their bodies and have not mastered the principles and fundamentals of Pilates before engaging in higher level exercises. Some instructors will give modifications to less experienced students, but it is virtually impossible to look in two different directions, and be completely aware of too many people at one time. This MAY result in injury, unsatisfactory results, and frustration.

Superficial aspects of Pilates. Most gyms are in existence to help people feel better about themselves, by helping them to change the way they look. And, in turn, most Pilates classes offered at gyms focus on the ability to "tighten buns, hips and abs". There is no doubt that Pilates can dramatically change your body, and result in a tighter, leaner, longer physique, but in a Pilates Studio, there is a lot more emphasis put on the mind-body connection and the principles and fundamentals, as well as an individualized approach to your specific concerns and goals. Classes at Pilates focus heavily on establishing a strong foundation for movement in your life. See our benefits page for more information.

Finally and very important, many gyms do not offer qualified individual instruction on high caliber apparatus, which is a staple of Pilates studios.

Can I bring my children to the studio while I workout?

Part of our commitment to every client is to provide a supportive atmosphere in which clients may grow, learn, and be guided towards a fitter lifestyle. Our facilities do not have the ability to provide child care. If you have an emergency situation where you must bring your child, please contact the studio and perhaps, special arrangements could be made.

Can I give pilates classes as a gift to a friend or family members?

Yes, gift certificates are available. Please call us to make arrangements, 317.441-7364.

I bought a pilates instructional video, isn't that the same as taking a class?

Pilates videos and books can be a wonderful tools for supplementing your training in Pilates under a qualified instructor. Pilates is an exact form of movement. It is highly recommended that you first learn Pilates under the direction of a fully certified instructor before attempting to do the exercises on your own. An important part of a successful Pilates program is knowing what your goals and expectations are for the program. For instance some popular videos available in infomercials focus heavily on the aesthetic benefits of Pilates without a great deal of focus on improving flexibility and movement. Also, videos are limited in their ability to identify body types and styles, sometimes creating a condition that could lead to injury. Please choose any Pilates video carefully and be aware that Pilates in and of itself is not a weight loss exercise program. If you would like to ask an instructor more about this, please contact us.

I bought pilates apparatus on television, isn't it basically the same as the equipment used in studios? And would I be able to achieve the same results on this equipment?

There are a lot of different types of Pilates apparatus out there these days. Some of the more popular pieces of apparatus sold on television, for example, are rarely the type you'd find in a Pilates studio. Be very careful when making choices about purchasing apparatus. There are a lot of very unsafe pieces of apparatus on the market today. If you are planning on purchasing Pilates equipment and have any questions regarding the quality of the manufacturer please contact us for a list of recommended suppliers.

Once you purchase a safe piece of equipment, as long as you know the exercises and understand the principles behind Pilates and the exercises, then yes, the same results can be achieved. If you already have equipment at home, or are thinking of purchasing some, our instructors can help get you started by coming to your home and teaching you how to use the machine and exercises on it as well. Contact us for more information.

What are the qualifications of your teachers?
Our fully certified teachers have fulfilled a minimum of 600 hours of active training in all equipment and mat exercises, seminars, and apprentice teaching. After completion of these hours, all certified teachers must pass both written and practical examinations. After certification, teachers are annually required to complete a continuing education course.