It seems like Pilates is everywhere lately (which we definitely love!). #Pilates boasts over 19 million posts on Instagram with a slew of related hashtags all gaining popularity, and it seems to be a key component in every celebrity’s workout regime. But whether you are a Pilates regular or thinking about gracing the reformer for the first time, there are some serious misconceptions about the practice, and we are here to set the record straight.
MYTH 1: “I’ve never done Pilates, it’s like yoga right?”
Well yes, and no.
Though they have many similarities, the two practices are not synonymous. Both can be done on a mat, have a focus on breath coordination and low-impact movement, and center on the mind-body connection. The two may even share some poses, but in actual practice, they are very different.
“Originally named Contrology, the Pilates Method ensures each movement is performed with control and intention.”
Pilates is grounded in science with a focus on creating a healthier and more balanced you through precise movement. It includes elements of strength training, resistance training, endurance training, and flexibility training, but unlike many traditional exercise regimes, Pilates emphasizes quality over quantity.
“A few repetitions of precise movements with coordinated breath = significant results in less time”
Yoga is a much older practice with its roots in spirituality. If you’ve had some yoga experience, recall the last few times you practiced. Though each of the classes you took or videos you watched were yoga, they likely varied greatly in postures, philosophies, and benefits. (Think gentle Hatha yoga versus a Vinyasa flow class, or just check out the chart).
Image by ALL YOGA TRAINING
In contrast, Joseph Pilates developed 6 fundamental Pilates Principles that are the foundation for every Pilates class from mat to reformer:
Image by Katie Dickens
MYTH 2: “Pilates is just for women.”
Surprise (or not for some of you)! Pilates was actually created by a man to help other men! Yes, while serving as an orderly in a hospital during WW1, Joesph Pilates developed the method (and the apparatus we see today) as a rehabilitation program for injured soldiers before bringing it to the United States in the 1920s.
Many high-impact exercise regimes focus on dominant muscle groups which in turn creates muscle imbalances and leaves you more susceptible to injury. Pilates’ focus on length and strength increases range of motion and in turn, reduces injury risk. This is why Pilates is used by many male athletes including Tiger Woods, Kobe Bryant, Cristiano Ronaldo, and LeBron James to prevent injury.
Pilates is for everybody at every age! The sooner you begin, the sooner you will see results.
MYTH 3: “I can’t do Pilates, I’m not flexible enough.”
After everything we just covered, this one seems pretty self-explanatory (though still a very popular misconception!). Using a combination of strength and stretch, Pilates is known to help develop and improve flexibility, and many of our clients have seen huge improvements in this area! In fact, a regular Pilates routine will aid you not just in your quest to touch your toes, but also in everyday facets of life from putting on your shoes to getting out of your office chair at the end of the day.
MYTH 4: “It’s just too expensive.”
By purchasing a group movement class package (social distancing policies in place!), our classes are as affordable as $11 per session. Just like anything else, Pilates can be as expensive or inexpensive as your budget allows. We offer private, duet, and group sessions with pricing adjusted accordingly.
Americans spend an average of $58 monthly on just a gym membership alone. Our studio goes above and beyond what you receive in a basic membership by providing a personalized experience. Let our instructors know what you need and we will help you achieve your goals!
Now that you’re a Pilates expert, join us for a class (or more!) and see what all the hype is about!