Pilates FAQs

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a mind-body exercise system created by German-born Joseph Pilates in 1920. It is a blend of several disciplines including Yoga and Thai-Chi. There are different forms of Pilates; physiotherapists use Pilates based exercises to rehabilitate patients, and the fitness industry offer Pilates classes as a core workout.

What are the health benefits of Pilates?

Pilates rebalances the body and restores its correct alignment relieving the aches and pains associated with poor posture and dysfunctional movement patterns.

It improves joint mobility and muscle function allowing the body to move with greater ease and reduced stress helping to prevent injury and facilitate healing.

Who is Pilates for?

Anyone and everyone. Elite athletes, fitness enthusiasts and those who are new to regular exercise will find improvement in their movement, posture and appearance.

Am I too old for Pilates?

Pilates is suitable for people of all ages and it’s never too late to start.

What’s the difference between Pilates and Yoga?

Both Pilates and Yoga develop strength, balance, flexibility, posture and good breathing technique. Both emphasize unity between body and mind except Yoga has a more spiritual side that Pilates does not. The main components of Yoga are postures or poses called stanzas, whereas Pilates is focused on centred and controlled, flowing movements.

What’s the difference between Pilates with studio equipment and Pilates with mats?

Pilates matwork has evolved from the original, classical repertoire of 34 exercises and uses small pieces of equipment such as bands, balls, Arcs and Magic Circles.

Pilates studio equipment (Reformer, Trapeze Tower and Chair) is sprung loaded and can be used to provide both challenge and support for your body, depending on your needs.

For certain medical conditions, equipment-based Pilates may be more suitable. The equipment provides a means to design a programme tailored to individual needs.