A. (puh-LAH-teez) is a total body physical conditioning program designed by Joseph H. Pilates during the 1920s. The Pilates work is different from a basic conditioning program in that the primary goal is to strengthen and balance the body from the inside out, by integrating both the large and small muscle groups. Pilates works the whole body deeply without repetitive or ballistic movements. The movements in the Pilates vocabulary are fluid yet rhythmic, performed with precision, concentration, awareness and control. Focused breath patterns guide the body’s energy through all of the flowing movements, which in turn increases lung capacity and improves total body circulation. The ultimate goal of the Pilates method is a uniformly developed body and mind. The benefits of the Pilates method are a centered and well balanced body, elongated spine, flexible joints, increased stamina and heightened body awareness. Pilates is for everybody and every body type. The end result of a comprehensive Pilates program is overall strength, flexibility, vitality and endurance. For more information on the Pilates method or Joseph and Clara Pilates, please visit www.pilatesmethodalliance.org
A. Ron Fletcher passed away on DEC. 6th 2011 at 90 years of age. Ron is one of the few Master teachers that had the opportunity to study directly with Joseph and Clara Pilates. In addition to his devoted studies with Joe and Clara Pilates, Ron Fletcher also studied with visionaries such as Martha Graham, Agnes DeMille, Alma Hawkins, and Yeichi Nimura. Innovative techniques unique to Fletcher Pilates® are the Fletcher Percussive Breathing®, Fletcher Standing and Centering®, Fletcher Towelwork®, and Fletcher Floorwork®. Ron’s pioneering techniques support and further inform the body to be able to truly internalize the Pilates method. Devoting over 50 years of his life to the study of movement, Ron Fletcher has created a rich body of work designed to inform not only the body, but the mind, breath and spirit. Through his intuitive sense of movement and knowledge of the human body Ron Fletcher has created the most holistic approach to fitness and wellness available. Body Harmony is the only Pilates studio licensed in the state of Nevada to teach Fletcher Pilates®. For more information about Ron Fletcher and Fletcher Pilates®, please visit www.Fletcherpilates.com
A. Harmony Cycling is unique to Body Harmony Pilates. Similar to all cycling classes your endurance and cardiovascular strength will be challenged. As an added benefit Harmony Cycle will tone your upper body and core musculature, by incorporating light weighted balls and stability exercises. Harmony Cycle is the only full body workout on a bike. Class takes place in a small, serene environment where teachers encourage you to work to YOUR full potential while connecting to body, mind and breath.
A.When practiced diligently and with precision, no matter what your level of fitness the benefits of the Pilates method are felt and seen. Joseph H. Pilates said it himself, “In 10 sessions you will feel a difference, in 20 sessions you will see a difference and in 30 sessions you will have a whole new body!
A.Wear clothing that you are comfortable in. You should not be distracted by your clothing or hair. You want to be able to move freely. Keep in mind that your instructor can give you more detailed attention when they can see your body clearly, so wearing something somewhat fitted is recommended. Since Pilates is practiced with bare feet, there is no need for shoes!
A. Similar to most conditioning programs consistency is crucial. For most individuals 2 to 3 times a week is the most effective provided that you are also participating in other forms of exercise. Combining the Pilates equipment work with the Pilates mat work is the best way to truly experience the benefits of the Pilates method. Body Harmony offers a variety of equipment classes as well as mat classes so that you are able to practice the full spectrum of the Pilates syllabus in a cost effective manner.
A.So long as you have been given clearance by your physician to begin a physical conditioning program, Pilates is a great way to get back in shape after recovering from an injury. The intensity of your workout can be especially tailored to your needs and your specific injury. In fact, health professionals at times have recommend Pilates to their patients as a means to become re-conditioned after an injury due to the gentle and rehabilitative nature of the Pilates method.
A.In order to lose weight it is essential to participate in aerobic activity such as cycling, swimming, running, etc. The Pilates work does not become aerobic until the advanced work is mastered. However, the Pilates method can be a tool in your weight loss program to help you build muscle mass, sculpt, define and tone your whole body.
A.The Pilates method is focused around strengthening the core of the body, which includes the entire torso not just the abs. An added benefit of strengthening the core of the body is that over time if worked correctly the abdominals (and the waistline) will become strong, lean, and flatten as they become more conditioned.
A.Absolutely! Pilates is a total body movement system and thus a total body conditioning system. As the whole body becomes more uniformly developed and conditioned you might feel increased flexibility in some unexpected places! Most often our clients tell us they feel increased flexibility throughout their body.
A.Similar to yoga, Pilates is a mindful practice. The premise of the Pilates method is to cultivate a uniformly developed mind and body. The three guiding Pilates Principles are whole body health, whole body commitment and breath. The Pilates method centers itself on eight basic movement principles; whole body movement, breathing, balanced muscle development, centering, concentration, control, rhythm and precision (PMA, 2006). These principles are similar to the concepts practiced in yoga, yet Pilates and yoga are two distinct movement practices. Pilates has a more athletic approach to fitness while in general (dependent upon the type of yoga practice) yoga tends to be more restorative. Both movement modalities center on a mind body connection and can compliment each other when both movement modalities are practiced.
A.Yes, bone density and joint health will improve. Most all of the Pilates equipment utilizes spring-based resistance which requires force from the musculature, which in turn creates force upon the tendons and ligaments and thus the force is translated to the bones, which helps to build bone density. Pilates will also help improve your balance, which will decrease the potential for falls and fractures.
A.The very nature of the Pilates method is to build a body that is lengthened and elongated while building strength, stamina and endurance. The Pilates method of conditioning the body does not build bulky musculature. The Pilates method of conditioning builds a body that is strong yet not bound up by heavy overdeveloped musculature.
A.There are several Pilates certification programs/schools, all of which offer different levels of training/certification. Some instructors receive a limited certification where they are only licensed to teach Pilates mat work or Reformer work. One of the best ways to ensure that you are studying with a qualified Pilates Instructor, licensed to teach the full Pilates movement repertoire, on all of the Pilates apparatus’ is to go to the Pilates Method Alliance® website at www.pmapilatescertified.com At this website you will find a listing of all instructors that are PMA Pilates Certified™.
A.The PMA® was created in 2000 in an effort to regulate the quality of the Pilates industry by maintaining an adherence of standards, certification, and continuing education for Pilates professionals, (PMA®, 2003). For more information on the PMA® or the Pilates method, please visit www.pilatesmethodalliance.org
A.Absolutely NOT! Individuals of all ages are able to reap the many benefits of a comprehensive Pilates program.
A.No. As with most people beginning an exercise regime, the hardest part is getting started. Do not wait any longer to begin to get active! Pilates is for all bodies, shapes and sizes. An invigorating Pilates program may just be what you need to jump start your physical activity.
A.Please call Body Harmony at 775.825.8804 to set up an initial consultation. We will be happy to answer any lingering questions you may have or get you started right away with any of our studio offerings. We look forward to meeting you.