What other types of instruction are offered?

What Should I Wear?
Wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable.  Some students prefer t-shirts and sweatpants. Others prefer workout tanks and yoga pants.  Athletic clothing that is flexible and non-binding is recommended.  We request that bike shorts or tights be worn underneath loose fitting shorts. Flexibility and mobility are the most important elements of your workout attire.

What is Pilates?

The Pilates exercises focus on lengthening and straightening the spine, strengthening of abdominal and back muscles, balanced use of all the muscles, flexibility, and joint mobility.  >>read more...

How is Pilates different from other exercise programs?
Each exercise engages the abdominal muscles, and the method emphasizes the strengthening of the ‘powerhouse’ region – abdomen, lower back, inner/outer thighs and buttocks. Pilates focuses on lengthening, strengthening and toning your body, without adding bulk to your muscles.

Is Pilates like Yoga?

Yes and No. Although the two systems have similarities Pilates exercises are done in a repetitive fashion to increase strength in the abdominal and back muscles. It requires concentration and lots of breathing.  In Yoga the focus is on flexibility through various postures, which will are held for a period of time.

Who can participate in Pilates and Gyrotonic®?

Anyone, of any age, and any gender, at any fitness level.

Is Pilates done with machines only?
No. Joseph H. Pilates designed the spring resistance machines in association with a matwork program, and your complete workout includes exercises on a combination of the Reformer, Wunda Chair, Half Barrel, Cadillac and the mat.

Why are there so few repetitions of each exercise?
Less IS more! Each Pilates exercise has only 3-10 repetitions. The exercises were designed to work your body with precision and effectiveness, making additional repetitions unnecessary.

What Should I Bring?
We provide everything but towels, should you prefer to use one.  Mats and props are provided for you.  You may however want to bring your own mat for personal hygiene reasons.
 

I'm Not Very Flexible
No one is without practice, but with a little effort, you will see real improvement in your strength, flexibility, posture and attitude.

Does it Hurt?
No, and it shouldn't!  If you are ever in pain, stop exercising and rest.  While all exercise requires you to exert yourself, it should never cause pain.  If anything is uncomfortable, tell your trainer!  Your instructor will show you a modification to better suit your personal needs.

Why are Gyrotonic and Pilates considered mind/body conditioning program?
Gyrotonic® and Pilates are very intelligent forms of body conditioning. Your mind is engaged throughout a specific program of exercises, rather than wandering aimlessly during a workout of repetitive activity. When you focus and concentrate on your body’s movements, you are performing a complete mental and physical workout.
 

How soon after beginning Pilates will I see results?
Although individual results will vary, most people feel better in just a few sessions. With consistent practice, you will gain increased strength in your ‘powerhouse’, and be well on your way to achieving true mental and physical fitness.  We recommend two to three sessions a week for best results.

When I look at someone doing Pilates, it doesn’t seem vigorous enough for me.  Can Pilates give me a good workout?
When most people first start Pilates, there is a lot of new information for the body to learn, so you probably won’t get an aerobic workout in the beginning.  Pilates can be aerobic at intermediate and advanced levels when the movement patterns become more familiar. Also, Pilates combines stretching and strengthening, using springs and your own body weight as resistance, in a way that may appear easier than other forms of exercise, yet you actually work harder and more deeply through the muscles.  

I have had many injuries and physical problems during my lifetime.
Can Pilates help me?
Yes, definitely. The Pilates method of body conditioning has a long history of helping people with previous and current injuries. Both physical therapists and chiropractors have collaborated with Pilates instructors to help heal soft tissue injuries, and recover from various physical problems.

Is there a fee?

Yes. You can view the pricing right on our website  >>pilates pricing...  >>gyrotonic pricing...

To make a reservation, contact the studio (408) 559-9700    >>contact us...

>>directions and map...

Simply download one of our registration forms.  Fill out the required information and bring it with you to your first scheduled appointment. Give the filled out form either to your Pilates instructor or the front desk.   >>download registration forms...