10 Pilates Myths

Pilates is a core workout.

Pilates is a whole body workout! Every movement uses the whole body, and this is one of the reasons Pilates requires absolute focus and concentration. You should know exactly what position you should be in, what you are moving, and how that movement should ‘feel’ rather than what it looks look like (or copying the movements) and more importantly you should know what you are not moving! We are usually working on stabilisation of the spine and pelvis.. unless we are moving them.

The core is the abdominals.

The core is the centre of the body, not a small group of muscles. The core is all the abdominal muscles, the glutes, the back muscles, pelvis and hips including the pelvic floor muscles. In Pilates we start at the centre of the body and work outwardly. A strong core will give you a sturdy frame so you are strong from the inside out. And well, life will just be a whole lot easier, and could actually save your life one day.

You need to be flexible to do Pilates.

Pilates is often very functional movement, and if it isn’t it can be made to be more functional. Being flexibile is not required to do the movements. The more inflexible you are, the more you will gain from a Pilates class.

It will help you develop more flexibility, as well as strength, balance, mobility and better control. You may also start to look and feel better.

Pilates is good for weight loss.

Joseph Pilates turned away famous actresses because they wanted to do his classes for weight loss. Pilates will not make you lose weight, although lots of people report weight loss after taking my classes. Pilates helps you stand taller, tone up and develop balanced muscles, it also helps you feel better, sleep better and brings you into a healthier mind set. So you might lose weight through improving your lifestyle as you start to take better care of yourself or because you are developing your smaller, deeper muscles, so it may make you look and feel like you’ve lost weight.

You need to use some equipment.

You can use equipment and it can be very helpful. However, I devised my classes to be performed without the use of any equipment. I have made this work by adapting a lot of movements that would be done with equipment (reformer, circle chair) to using your body instead, adding in visualisations and modifications to certain movements.

I am not against using equipment, but for me simplicity is important, and the original sequence by Joseph Pilates was his 34 exercises without equipment; my class is an interpretation of his work.

And the results seen in my clients speak for themselves.

Pilates is boring.

Not really a myth but something I used to think when going to (some) Pilates classes. When I started out devising my classes I wanted to create a class that I myself would love to attend. My class is based upon the classical sequence which I have adjusted to suit different levels, I take inspiration form yoga and dance and some of the movements are my own ( but you will always see the classical movements in each section!) and everything we do strictly follows the key classical principles of Pilates.

The most common feedback I get is that the class ‘went so quickly’ and yet they feel they did so much.

Pilates is easy.

If you found it easy, you just did it wrong. Even when we go back to basics sometimes it’s up to you to make the movement harder. I sometimes do the beginners exercises and think how hard it actually is. Finding it hard but having control over everything is what we are aiming for.

Pilates is similar to yoga.

Pilates and yoga are both done on a mat, there are some crossovers and I do add a few yoga movements as transitions into another movements to get a smooth flow. But Pilates and yoga are opposites to each other in many ways. If you practise yoga, Pilates will really compliment your practice.

Pilates is confusing.

Pilates is structured and precise. It can take a few sessions to get used to it and you will need to listen carefully and follow the instructions. Eventually things will start to feel more connected and you will know what you are doing.

If you feel confused, I am here to answer all your questions either at the start or end of class, alternatively you can book a free call with me or book in for a private 1-1.

Pilates is a fitness class.

Not in the typical sense. Pilates is challenging for the mind as well as the body. As you improve with commitment to classes you will start to find the connection between the body and the mind, or the control you have over your body with your mind. This is an important part of the journey! Pilates will help keep you fit but it will keep you strong and sturdy in your body, and in your mind too. It will challenge your coordination, balance and focus as well as being physically demanding at times. My classes are not a typical fitness class, they incorporate mindfulness, breathing, classical Pilates movements, gentle stretches in between which flow into the next movement. I aim to always challenge everyone in the room (at least at some point). All sessions end with a guided relaxation and a moment for personal reflection.

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Hate the gym but want to move your body? Pilates might just be for you!

Book onto a class today!