Do you have to be flexible to do Pilates?

No! As a matter of fact if you feel restriction in everyday life movements or athletic endeavors, this is a GOOD reason to begin implementing the Pilates system to your life.

Does Pilates “stretch” muscles?

Pilates creates functional length and strength through natural organization and firing patterns. Muscles actually hate to be isolated and “stretched.” They respond to their fibers being pulled apart by triggering the “stretch reflex” - which then returns the muscle to its previous shortened state. This is why you feel like you always have to stretch.

However, muscles love to work together and as such they elongate and shorten in concert. It is these opposing actions that facilitate muscle pliability and allow joints to go through full ranges of motion and meet various power demands.

Neuromuscular firing patterns, which are a critical component of elongated muscles, are enhanced when the bones of the skeleton are aligned. Pilates is a method that builds the stability for this skeletal alignment and promotes proper sequencing in firing patterns which in turn increases functional pliability and strength.

What is “The Core”?

“The Core” is actually considered the “powerhouse” in Pilates speak, which means that the biotensegrity of support and movement requires the whole body to be engaged in fluid alignment. The core is not merely your “abs” or your back. The muscular-skeletal system is layered and the deepest layer connects your bones together. Not the least of these is your diaphragm and the muscles of breath!

The neuromuscular system drives the cause and effect of health. That is why Pilates is considered a mind/body form of training. Your awareness and mental attention drives functionality.

Am I too….old, stiff, injured, uncoordinated, out of shape…to do Pilates?

Heck NO! Those are great reasons to begin working with me. Having my guidance as a 30+year experienced movement specialist, trained in the nuances of Pilates, leads to transformation and success.