FAQ's:


Q. What is the difference between Contemporary Pilates Methods and Classical Pilates?
A. Contemporary Methods incorporate modern exercise principles, including contemporary thinking about spinal rehabilitation and athletic performance enhancement. For example, some approaches may promote a flat back, whereas Contemporary exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and rebalance the muscles around the joints, placing more emphasis on scapular stabilization. As well, there are more preparatory exercises and modifications to cater to many different body types and abilities, making it applicable to everyday life.


Q.What are the benefits of  Pilates?

A. longer, leaner muscles (less bulk, more freedom of movement)
improves postural problems
increases core strength, stability and peripheral mobility
helps prevent injury
enhances functional fitness, ease of movement
balances strength & flexibility
heightens body awareness
no-impact, easy on the joints
can be customized to suit everyone from rehab patients to elite athletes
complements other methods of exercise
improves performance in sports (golf, skiing, skating etc.)
improves balance, coordination & circulation


Q. Is Pilates exercise like Yoga?


A. In some respects Pilates is like Yoga. Both are considered mind-body type methods of movement; both emphasize deep breathing and smooth, long movements that encourage the mind-body connection. The difference is that while Yoga requires moving from one static posture to the next, Pilates flows through a series of movements that are more dynamic, systematic and anatomically-based incorporating resistance equipment. The goal with Pilates exercise is to strengthen the postural muscles while achieving optimal functional fitness.


Q. How long will I have to do the workout before I see results?


A. The average active person doing 2-3 classes per week should see some results within 10-12 classes. This will vary depending on each individual and other factors such as the number of classes a person takes each week, whether they are private or group classes, whether they participate in other physical activities, and whether they have any existing injuries. It is also important to work with a well trained Certified Instructor.

Testimonials:


Pilates is absolutely the best exercise I have ever done.  As I grew older exercise became a necessity but also a burden.  I wanted something to strength my bones and tone my muscles yet I did not want the pain involved when you begin exercising.  You know the "I can't move I hurt so bad " kind of pain.  The old adage no pain, no gain certainly was not my mantra.  At The Pilates Concept Sarah and Amanda listened to me and made Pilates not only fun, but also listened to me and created a program that worked for me.  Three years later I still love Pilates and workout twice a week.  My bones are stronger and my muscles toned (well, sort of).  No, really, I even wear sleeveless dresses now.  I LOVE my workouts and hate when I am out of town and have to miss.  I would recommend the Pilates Concept to every one of all ages, not just those middle- agers like me.  Wish I had started years ago.
-Myra Huff

I have been with the Pilates Concept for only a few months but they have made me LOVE Pilates. Normally I love high intensity cardio but Sarah and her staff have helped me to strengthen and lengthen muscles. I am more controlled in movements, have better posture and eliminated back pain. The stretching and flexibility is an added bonus! Even in small group classes, they tailor the workout for your level. I love the Pilates Concept so much that I drive from Arlington for their sessions as much as possible. You should at least give it a try!
-Denille Ferguson


I started Pilates as another attempt, of many, to lessen my low back pain and avoid another surgery. I think that if I had tried Pilates sooner, and importantly, with instructors like Sarah and Amanda who are experts in their field, then I might have prevented the first surgery and not have spent years in pain. I am now able to spend most days with minimal or no pain and I attribute this recovery to Pilates. This is a great facility-friendly, knowledgeable and welcoming instructors and convenient to downtown.
-Amy

The Pilates Concept offers a cheerful, clean, and rigorous environment in which to exercise.   The equipment is great, and the instructors are professional and so knowledgable.  They make certain that you are doing the exercises correctly and with proper form.  After doing Pilates for about a year and a half, upon my follow-up bone scan....my bone density had improved.  Prior to that, I was diagnosed with Osteopenia.  My doctor was amazed at how much my bones had strengthened.  Pilates is the first kind of exercise that I have not dreaded.  Sarah tailors classes to the abilities of the clients, and the sessions are always interesting and varied. 
-Peg Murphy