What's the difference between Pilates and Yoga? 

There are several key differences between Pilates and Yoga, which are as follows: 

1. Pilates tightens while yoga stretches muscles.

2. Pilates uses multiple spring-loaded machines to add resistance to exercises. 

3. Pilates machines allow the user to move the static poses in yoga.  

 

What should I wear and bring to the studio? 

Bring a small hand towel, a bottle of water, and a pair of socks, preferably ones with grips.  Wear comfortable clean exercise clothes.  If men wear shorts, they should wear bike shorts underneath.  We are allergic to pet dander, especially cats.  Please be sure that clothes are not covered in pet hair.  Also, please do not wear perfume or body lotion to the studio.   

 

Do I need to be in shape or flexible to do Pilates? 

No, there is nothing to do to prepare for Pilates.  It is an entirely different way to exercise.  All you have to do is make a reservation and show up.  

 

How often should Pilates be done? 

Pilates should be done 2-3 times per week in a cross-training program.  Pilates done only once a week produces slow results because it is challenging for the body to recall proper muscular recruitment.  The body has an easier time if 2 Pilates training sessions are done within a week.  The body can easily build on the work done in the first training session.  Pilates every day is generally not recommended because the body needs time to rest and recover. 

 

Can I take classes or do I need private sessions? 

Private sessions are strongly recommended for those new to exercise, have limited physical activity, need individual attention, or cannot inhale and exhale on demand.  Private sessions ensure that you build a solid foundation on Pilates equipment, terms, body placement, body alignment, movements, breath patterns, muscular engagement, and timing.  As a result, clients may safely practice Pilates in class and at home.   

 

Pilates sessions are also strongly recommended for clients with special circumstances, including clients experiencing pregnancy, surgery recovery, osteoporosis, scoliosis, sciatica, frozen shoulder, and herniated or bulging discs at L4, L5, or S1.  In the above situations, medical clearance is required to begin Pilates.  Additionally, we will not train clients that are pregnant and have never done Pilates or have a history of miscarriage in their first trimester.   

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Classes are for those that have prior Pilates experience or athletic backgrounds.  Generally, clients with experience in football, basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, dance, or yoga have an easier transition into Pilates classes than most.  Classes are small, but individualized attention is limited.    

 

Do you have classes for a true beginner to Pilates? 

No, we do not. We recommend that beginners take private sessions so that they may learn the fundamentals of Pilates, including the terminology, equipment, basic movements, muscle focus, and breath patterns.  Clients will understand Pilates and its benefits.  Beginners are not allowed to take group reformer classes without prior approval.  

 

Is Pilates for Men? 

Yes, Pilates was created and taught by a man, Joseph Pilates, to help rehabilitate soldiers wounded in World War I. 

 

I called the studio, but no one answers. What should I do? 

We are most likely teaching and cannot answer the phone.  We have very limited breaks during the day. We teach 10-11 sessions back-to-back on any given day.  Please click on this question and complete our Contact Us form.  Kindly provide us with your name, phone number, question or desired information, and the best time to contact you.  For reservations, provide us with your availability, such as, days and times that work best for your schedule.  We will respond as soon as we can.  For a faster response, please email or text the studio.  It's quicker and easier for us to read and respond to a message than to listen to voicemail, have a conversation, or play phone tag.        

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Will I lose weight with Pilates? 

It's hard to say.  There are a lot of factors that contribute to a person's body weight, including diet and cardio activity.  Weight loss is not a key objective of Pilates.  But often times, it is the result. 

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Pilates transforms the body by replacing fat with muscle.  Muscle weighs more than fat.  So it is not uncommon for a person to stay at the same weight, but find that they fit a smaller dress or pants size.  

 

How does the 1-Month class package work? 

With the monthly package, a client can attend classes on the schedule for 30 consecutive days.  Client may attend 1 class per day and up to 4 classes per week.  The package can be activated on any day of the month.  The package cannot be shared between clients. Please note that the unlimited month package is subject to our 24-hour cancellation policy.  Late cancellations or no shows will be charged a late fee of $17.50 per class.  If your schedule is uncertain, it is best to sign up for class at least an hour prior to class time.     

 

An awesome person gave me a gift card. How do I redeem it? 

Gift cards must be redeemed in person at the Studio.  However, you can make a reservation by contacting us via email with the link provided.  Please indicate the gift card number in your correspondence.   

 

What type of payment do you accept? 

We accept cash and the following credit cards: VISA, MasterCard, AMEX, and Discover. No checks! 

 

I'm 6, 7, or 8 months pregnant, can I start Pilates? 

No, please enjoy the rest of your pregnancy and contact us 2-3 months after having a safe delivery.    

 

I'm pregnant or I just had a baby. Should I tell the instructor? 

Yes! 

 

Can I use the equipment in the studio by myself? 

No, The Firm Pilates is not like a health club or local gym.  You will never use the equipment in the studio unattended.  All of our classes and sessions are taught by a certified instructor who will guide you through exercises and provide individual feedback.