Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

When will you be starting yoga? What type of yoga classes will you be offering and how much will the classes cost?

We're currently working out our new schedule and hopefully will have yoga on board soon.

Can anyone do Pilates, Gyrotonic or Gyrokinesis?

Yes, the movement modalities are ideal for people of all fitness levels, ages and body conditions. The movements are like a bridge between physical fitness and physical therapy, and can be easily adapted, modified and customized for individual needs.

Can I do Pilates with an existing back problem or post-rehab from a surgical procedure?

It would actually depend upon the injury or condition. We have students who have undergone spinal and cervical fusions, have experienced sciatica and spondylolysis among other conditions (all of whom have obtained their doctors permission and release) who have benefited greatly from the Pilates work. We work with hip and knee replacement clients before surgery to strengthen around the joint as well as the entire upper body and post rehab providing a continuum of care in regaining strength, stability, flexibility and balance.

Does Pilates and Gyrotonic compliment other forms of exercise as well as daily activity?

Yes, Pilates and Gyrotonic help you to understand how proper posture, core strength, flexibility and balanced muscles will enhance other activities such as weight lifting, running, swimming, boxing, golfing as well as support you in your everyday activities.

What is the difference between Pilates and Yoga?

Pilates requires you to set a posture and then challenge the torso by moving the limbs in a repetitious manner. Yoga moves from one static posture to the next with no repetitions. Breathing patterns for Pilates are also different and in some instances opposite from the breathing performed in yoga.

How long are the sessions and classes?

All sessions and classes are 50 – 55 minutes in length unless otherwise stated.

How often do I need to do Pilates to see results?

We recommend Pilates be practiced 2-3 times per week in order to see results. This can be accomplished by doing private sessions, group classes and homework in any combination.

When will I notice results?

A famous quote by Joseph Pilates states: “In 10 classes you will feel the difference, In 20 classes you will see the difference, and in 30 classes you will have a whole new body.” It is also important to maintain a proper diet and engage in other activities such as cardio.

What results can I expect from Pilates and Gyrotonic?

Clients who practice the movements 2 – 3 times a week in either Pilates, Gyrotonic or Gyrokinesis gain muscle tone, strength, balance, coordination, flexibility and an overall sense of well being.

How do I get started?

Call the studio to set up an appointment. If you are new to Pilates and the Pilates equipment you will begin with our Introduction Series. The series of 4 private sessions will begin with an evaluation and an introduction to the fundamentals of the Pilates exercises and the use of the equipment. The series requirement is designed to teach you how to get the most out of your continuing Pilates sessions whether they be private, semi-private sessions or group classes.

What should I wear to my sessions?

Students should wear comfortable clothing that isn’t too baggy. This allows the instructor to see your alignment and better correct your form. For your comfort as well as the instructors we recommend that you do not wear baggy or open leg shorts unless you have layered biker shorts underneath. Pilates is done primarily with bare feet although, socks are permitted for most exercises. For general hygiene reasons we request clean feet and socks for working on the equipment.

Do I need an appointment for a private session or to attend a group classes or can I drop in?

A client needs to make an appointment for all Private sessions and sign up in advance for group Equipment classes (preferrably 24 hours before class time) due to limited space. You can use our online scheduler to sign up for classes or make private appointments in real time.

What should I look for in a Pilates instructor?

Your Pilates instructor should be certified through a comprehensive Pilates training program, one comprised of at least 300-500 hours of lectures, observation, practice, hands-on apprenticing plus a written and practical examination. This level of training is especially important if you are going to be working out on any of the specialized Pilates equipment - some courses only cover mat exercises while others educate trainers in the full range of apparatus.

Find out if your instructor is educated in handling clients with specific injuries or body conditions that might warrant a modified approach.

A professional Pilates instructor should keep up with the latest developments in exercise science, choreography, small prop usage and more through continuing education workshops. Any background or teaching experience in other movement disciplines such as dance, aerobics or yoga is also a plus.

A professional instructor should make good use of visual, verbal and tactile cueing to ensure students are exercising with proper form and technique. Whether you are working out in a group setting or one-on-one personal training, make sure your Pilates instructor is confident, knowledgeable, responsive and personable so you can have a safe and effective experience.

All of our instructors at Pure Movement meet and exceed the above mentioned criteria.

What sets apart Pure Movement instructors?

All of our instructors are highly trained professional teachers who have invested years studying the technique and hold Pilates certifications through nationally recognized, reputable organizations. They have learned over 500 exercises for both mat and Pilates equipment as well as the philosophy and theory behind each movement. They learn more than just a series of moves, they learn how to assess their students’ posture, how to adapt exercises for various body conditions, and how to customize the optimum Pilates program for each individual.

Can I do Pilates if I am pregnant?

Generally speaking, moderate exercise is safe throughout a normal, healthy pregnancy and many gentle Pilates exercises are appropriate. However, keep the following cautions in mind and be sure to ask your instructor if they have received training for Pilates and pregnancy. As a rule of thumb, doctors recommend not starting a brand new exercise regimen in the first trimester.

• Do not over-exert the abdominal muscles to avoid diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles).

• Take care of you lower back, which can be strained with the weight of the fetus.

• Be cautious with exercises that require you to lie on your back. The American Council of Obstetrics and Gynecology advises women in the second trimester of pregnancy against doing any exercises that require this position as it can compromise the vascular system of both the mother and fetus.

• Do not over-stretch, as relaxin and progesterone levels increase during pregnancy causing the ligaments around the joints to become lax, loose and vulnerable.

• Be aware that your center of gravity and therefore your sense of balance has changed.

That being said, many gentle stretching and strengthening Pilates exercises can be very beneficial for a woman’s body and mind during pregnancy. Most exercises can be adapted from a supine (back lying) to a sitting, kneeling or side lying position. We are also able to build a support incline on the equipment in order to perform most exercises comfortably without placing undue stress and pressure on the abdomen or low back.

Don’t see your question here?

Use the form below and a Pure Movement staff member will answer your question and add it to our FAQ. If you’d like an email reply, please be sure to include your email address in the body of your question. As always, please do not hesitate to call or email us directly.
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