What are the qualifications of your teachers?
All instructors at Mindful Moves Pilates Center are fully certified in the method of Pilates.
Instructors are either certified by the Physicalmind Institute or by Power Pilates, both located in New York.
While working toward their certifications, our teachers completed hundreds of hours of active training,
observation and apprentice teaching on all equipment including the mat and then were required to pass both
written and practical examinations before receiving their certification. All instructors at Mindful Moves
continue their education on a monthly basis and take weekly lessons themselves.
What is the difference between apparatus/equipment sessions and mat classes?
The complete Pilates method involves both the apparatus and mat exercises. It is common to combine
your private or semi-private session with a mat class. While both private/semi-private and group
classes focus on flow, efficiency and control of movement, as well as precision, a private session
will better allow the student to focus on his/her individual needs. During a private semi/private
session the student can expect to work on the mat, the reformer (a gliding bed attached to springs
and a frame), the Cadillac (a soft mat surrounded by a 4 poster metal frame, housing springs), the
chair (an upright version of the reformer, also housing springs), and the wall or ped-i-pul.
Mat classes use a mat and your own body's weight as resistance against gravity. Although both are
beneficial, the springs add both assistive work as well as resistive work to the method.
How should I begin?
The best way to begin is with a private lesson. Even though they are more costly, the benefits are enormous. Private sessions are the best way to understand where to initiate movement from, making a class situation a much more enjoyable and successful experience. Working privately is also best for someone with injuries, health issues or specific training goals. In the event a private lesson is unobtainable, a beginner mat class would be the next alternative. In this class, all exercises are geared to the beginner and can be practiced at home. No equipment is necessary for this class.
Can I start by taking a duet or a trio lesson?
Yes, but do realize that your progress as a beginner may be slower as the instructor
must carefully watch more than one student.
Yet, we do highly recommend some private lessons before you go into a semi-private
lesson in order to have a baseline understanding of the method as well as maintain
flow of your workout.
What should I wear?
We recommend body aware clothing. Simply put, students should wear fitted tights, capri's or lightweight sweat pants. Lose shorts are discouraged although fitted ones are fine. Tops are best if fitted so the instructor can observe the action of the abdominals (they need not be short). Shoes are not used. Socks are not required.
How long before I see results?
The answer to this question varies. This really depends on the determination of the student. The following are factors in a successful session (workout): frequency of workouts, ability to focus and attend to the teacher's directions, and body awareness. If all factors are present, results are usually quick.
How many people do you allow in a class?
We allow 6 students to a tower class at any one time. Ball classes and mat classes vary from 8-12. We try to limit our beginner mat classes to 8 whereas our multi-level or intermediate classes will hold more.
Who will benefit from Pilates?
Just about everyone can benefit from Pilates. Remember, the method works to stretch overly tight muscles, strengthen weaker ones and balance movement patterns by balancing muscle groups. Everyone to an athlete to the stressed executive to the injured can do Pilates.
Can I do Pilates if I am pregnant?
If you have been doing Pilates prior to your pregnancy, yes as long as your doctor sees no complications. If you have not done Pilates before, pregnancy is not the time to begin. I wouldn't suggest any new exercise program to a pregnant woman.
Will I lose weight doing Pilates?
Pilates, because of its resistive nature, will tone and lengthen muscle groups creating a longer, leaner appearance. Yet although the waistline will narrow and the thighs will slim down, Pilates is not a cardio workout. Pilates coupled with a cardio and diet regimens are the best ways to balance the scale of caloric energy.
Will this help my weak or injured back?
Yes, it should. The very nature of strengthening the core muscles will help support
the spine. Strengthening, lengthening and flexibility through movement are
key components of healing.
How many times a week should I do Pilates?
We recommend three times per week as with any resistive or stretching routine.
Will I ever be able to workout on my own?
Yes. All of the mat work can be performed on your floor at home. Self-study apparatus training is reserved for teachers of the method as proper spinal alignment and safety are of concern.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express), checks and cash.
Can I bring my children to the studio while I workout?
No. We do not have childcare facilities and feel that you will receive a better workout (your focus will be greater) if you are not additionally challenged by interruptions.
Do you sell Gift Certificates?
Yes. Gift Certificates are available.
