About Pilates

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a holistic form of exercise that not only focuses on the physical body but also on the mind-body connection. Joseph Pilates, the founder of the method, believed that mental and physical well-being are closely connected and that Pilates could help improve overall health and well-being. Pilates classes are focused body's core muscles, which include the muscles of the abdomen, lower back, and hips. The goal of Pilates is to improve flexibility, balance, and overall strength by using controlled movements that engage the core muscles.

Pilates is typically performed on specialized equipment such as the Pilates reformer or a Mat. Mat exercises are usually done in a series of flowing movements, while equipment exercises involve resistance and support from the machine.

Pilates can be beneficial for people of all ages and fitness levels. It can improve posture, balance, and coordination, and help alleviate pain in the back, neck, and joints. It also helps to increase muscle strength and tone, improve flexibility and promote overall physical fitness. Pilates can be modified to suit different fitness levels and abilities, making it a versatile form of exercise. It can be used as a form of rehabilitation for people recovering from injuries, and it can also be used as a form of cross-training for athletes.

Pilates exercises are often done in a slow and controlled manner, with an emphasis on proper breathing and alignment. The breathing technique used in Pilates is called diaphragmatic breathing, which involves breathing deeply into the abdomen rather than shallow breathing in the chest. This type of breathing is believed to help relax the body, increase oxygenation, and improve focus and concentration.

Pilates is often taught in group classes, but it can also be done individually with the guidance of a trained instructor. It's a low-impact form of exercise, making it an excellent option for people who are recovering from injury or have limited mobility. Pilates is a form of exercise that is often used in combination with other forms of physical activity, such as yoga, dance, or cardio, to create a well-rounded fitness routine.

  • Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on strengthening the core muscles and improving posture, flexibility, and balance. Some benefits of Pilates include:

    Improved core strength and stability, which can help reduce the risk of back pain and injury

    Increased flexibility and range of motion, which can help improve athletic performance and reduce the risk of injury

    Improved posture and alignment, which can help reduce stress on the joints and improve overall bodily function

    Increased balance and coordination, which can help improve overall fitness and reduce the risk of falls

    Stress relief and relaxation, as Pilates emphasizes controlled and precise movements which can help reduce tension and promote feelings of well-being

    It is also low-impact and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.

  • Pilates can be beneficial for people with back pain as it focuses on strengthening the core muscles, which can help improve posture and reduce stress on the joints. Strong core muscles can help support the spine and reduce the risk of back pain. Additionally, Pilates focuses on proper alignment and body mechanics, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by poor posture.

    Pilates exercises can also help to improve flexibility and range of motion, which can help to reduce muscle tension and stiffness in the back. Additionally, the controlled and precise movements of Pilates can help to improve balance and coordination, which can help to reduce the risk of falls and injury.

    It's important to note that Pilates is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. It's also worth considering that if you're experiencing back pain it may be beneficial to work with a qualified Pilates instructor who can adapt the exercises to suit your needs and avoid any movements that may exacerbate your pain.

  • Scoliosis is a condition characterized by a curvature of the spine. People with scoliosis can definitely do Pilates, but it's important to work with a qualified Pilates instructor who has experience working with individuals with scoliosis. A Pilates instructor can adapt the exercises to suit your needs and avoid any movements that may exacerbate your condition.

    Pilates can be beneficial for people with scoliosis as it focuses on strengthening the core muscles, which can help improve posture and reduce stress on the joints. Strong core muscles can help support the spine and reduce the risk of back pain. Additionally, Pilates focuses on proper alignment and body mechanics, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by poor posture.

    Pilates exercises can also help to improve flexibility and range of motion, which can help to reduce muscle tension and stiffness in the back. Additionally, the controlled and precise movements of Pilates can help to improve balance and coordination, which can help to reduce the risk of falls and injury.

    It is important to note that Pilates should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. It's always best to consult with your healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have a condition like Scoliosis.

    It's also worth considering that if you're experiencing back pain or you have Scoliosis, it may be beneficial to work with a qualified Pilates instructor who can adapt the exercises to suit your needs and avoid any movements that may exacerbate your pain or condition.

  • Pregnant women can generally start doing Pilates, but it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any specific health concerns or complications. Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise that can be beneficial for pregnant women as it focuses on strengthening the core muscles and improving posture, which can help support the extra weight and changes in body shape that occur during pregnancy.

    Pilates can also help to improve flexibility and range of motion, which can help to reduce muscle tension and stiffness in the back, which is a common issue during pregnancy. Additionally, the controlled and precise movements of Pilates can help to improve balance and coordination, which can help to reduce the risk of falls and injury.

    It is also important to note that during pregnancy, it is best to avoid exercises that are done lying flat on the back or stomach, as well as any exercises that require excessive twisting or jumping. Pilates instructors will also avoid exercises that put pressure on the abdominal muscles.

    It is also very important to listen to your body and not overdo it. Pregnant women should also avoid getting overheated, so it's important to stay hydrated.

    Overall, Pilates can be a great form of exercise for pregnant women when done under the guidance of a qualified instructor who can adapt the exercises to suit your needs and avoid any movements that may not be appropriate during pregnancy.

  • After giving birth, it is important to consult with your healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you had a cesarean delivery, complications during birth or if you have any health conditions.

    Pilates can be a great form of exercise for postpartum women as it focuses on strengthening the core muscles, which can help support the extra weight and changes in body shape that occur during pregnancy and after birth. It is also a low-impact form of exercise, which can be helpful for those who are recovering from a vaginal or cesarean delivery.

    Pilates can also help to improve flexibility and range of motion, which can help to reduce muscle tension and stiffness in the back, which is a common issue during postpartum. Additionally, the controlled and precise movements of Pilates can help to improve balance and coordination, which can help to reduce the risk of falls and injury.

    It is important to note that postpartum women should avoid exercises that are done lying on the stomach until cleared by their health care provider, as well as any exercises that require excessive twisting or jumping.

    It is also important to listen to your body and not to overdo it. It is recommended to start with a few easy exercises and gradually increase the intensity and duration of the workout.

    Overall, Pilates can be a great form of exercise for postpartum women when done under the guidance of a qualified instructor who can adapt the exercises to suit your needs and avoid any movements that may not be appropriate during postpartum.

  • If you have had a joint replacement, it is important to consult with your healthcare professional and a qualified Pilates instructor before starting any new exercise program. They can advise you on the best exercises for you based on your specific condition and the type of joint replacement surgery you have had.

    Pilates can be beneficial for people with joint replacements as it focuses on strengthening the muscles surrounding the joint, which can help improve stability and reduce stress on the joint. Additionally, Pilates focuses on proper alignment and body mechanics, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by poor posture.

    Pilates exercises can also help to improve flexibility and range of motion, which can help to reduce muscle tension and stiffness in the joint. Additionally, the controlled and precise movements of Pilates can help to improve balance and coordination, which can help to reduce the risk of falls and injury.

    It is important to note that while Pilates can be beneficial for people with joint replacements, certain exercises may not be appropriate for certain types of joint replacements or certain stages of recovery. A qualified Pilates instructor can guide you through the appropriate exercises and modifications that are safe for you.

  • Pilates can be a great addition to a weight loss program as it focuses on strengthening the core muscles, which can help improve posture and reduce stress on the joints. Strong core muscles can also help support the spine and reduce the risk of back pain. Additionally, Pilates focuses on proper alignment and body mechanics, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by poor posture.

    Pilates exercises can also help to improve flexibility and range of motion, which can help to reduce muscle tension and stiffness in the body. Additionally, the controlled and precise movements of Pilates can help to improve balance and coordination, which can help to reduce the risk of falls and injury.

    Pilates can be an effective form of exercise for weight loss as it can burn calories and increase muscle mass, which can help boost metabolism and increase the number of calories burned throughout the day.

    However, it's important to note that Pilates alone may not be enough to cause significant weight loss. Weight loss generally occurs when you burn more calories than you consume, so a combination of a healthy diet and regular exercise is necessary for weight loss. Pilates can be a great addition to your regular exercise routine and can help you to achieve your weight loss goals.

    It's also important to note that every individual is different and the result of weight loss may vary from person to person. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional or a nutritionist before starting any weight loss program.

  • Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on strengthening the core muscles, which include the muscles of the abdomen, lower back, hips, and pelvis. It also works on other muscle groups in the body, such as the glutes, quads, and upper body muscles. It is considered a form of strength training as it uses resistance from the body weight, springs, or bands to challenge the muscles and improve muscle tone, endurance, and strength.

    Pilates exercises are typically done with slow, controlled movements, which can help to improve muscle tone and endurance. The focus on proper alignment and body mechanics can also help to improve posture and reduce stress on the joints.

    It's important to note that while Pilates can be considered strength training, it is not as intense or heavy as traditional weightlifting, it's more of a low-impact and controlled form of exercise that emphasizes on the quality of movement over quantity. Pilates is not typically used to build large muscle mass, but it can help to tone and sculpt the muscles, improve muscle endurance and overall body strength.

    If your goal is to build muscle mass, Pilates can be complementary to your weightlifting or resistance training routine. Pilates can help improve your flexibility, balance and core strength, which can help you to perform better in other types of exercises.

  • If you have had knee surgery, it is important to consult with your healthcare professional and use a qualified Pilates instructor (like the team at Absolute Pilates) before starting any new exercise program. They can advise you on the best exercises for you based on your specific condition and the type of knee surgery you have had.

    Pilates can be beneficial for people recovering from knee surgery as it focuses on strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee joint, which can help improve stability and reduce stress on the knee joint. Additionally, Pilates focuses on proper alignment and body mechanics, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by poor posture.

    Pilates exercises can also help to improve flexibility and range of motion, which can help to reduce muscle tension and stiffness in the knee joint. Additionally, the controlled and precise movements of Pilates can help to improve balance and coordination, which can help to reduce the risk of falls and injury.

    It is important to note that while Pilates can be beneficial for people recovering from knee surgery, certain exercises may not be appropriate for certain types of knee surgery or certain stages of recovery. A qualified Pilates instructor can guide you through the appropriate exercises and modifications that are safe for you.

    It's also important to note that Pilates is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. It is always best to consult with your healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have recently had knee surgery.

 

Our Goal is to help you reach your health and wellness goals as we evaluate your body type, lifestyle, medical history and any injuries. Together, we will then design a custom Pilates plan unique to your needs. We can not wait to chat with you in your Planning for Sucess Session.

 

YOU HAVE UNIQUE GOALS, CHALLENGES, AND EXPERIENCE

That’s why we start all new clients off with a Planning for Success Session, and at least one private session where we can take the time to get to know you and recommend the best experience and classes for your needs.

Introductory Offers

3 Private Sessions

For those looking to do Private Training or you want a more personalized start in the studio we have 3 Private Training Sessions for $199. Not sure if this is the right option for you book a Planning for Success Session to allow us to help you get started.

1 Private and 2 Classes

For those looking to do Small Group Classes on the Pilates machines, we have 1 Private Training Session and 2 Small Group Classes for $99. Not sure if this is the right option for you book a Planning for Success Session to allow us to help you get started.

We have won Simply the Best for Harrisburg 6 times for Pilates Class. Our teachers truly are the best-educated and skilled practitioners in all of Central PA.

Practicing at another studio?

Its’ time to join Absolute Pilates. Starting at $15 per class, we have membership options and term lengths created to fit for your goals, lifestyle, and budget. Try us out for 5 classes for $99.

Already know that you're ready to

REFORM Your LIFE?

Pick your membership

We’ve been hosting students in our Pilates studios since 2009. We know what makes you feel better, move better and be healthy. Practice regularly for at least twelve months and watch your physical and mental health flourish. Its’ time to join Absolute Pilates. Starting at $15 per class, we have membership options and term lengths created to fit for your goals, lifestyle, and budget. Let us design a membership just right for you! Reach out to us at info@absolutepilates.com or click the box to learn more…