"I feel much stronger & more flexible and I cannot say enough about Andrea & Danielle as pilates instructors. I love pilates! It helps me relax and feel better."      ~Debbie S. 

          "Using pilates & yoga during my pregnancy was wonderful. It helps by stretching the tension and aches and pains away. It is a definite if you are pregnant."     ~Linnette B. 

           "The instructors are great and I always get such a great workout!"     ~Michelle P.

          "Working out at Pilates+ makes me feel stronger, longer and more toned. I have increased flexibility and have lost inches along the way."       ~Stephanie W.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Apparatus and Pilates Mat?
How many times per week can I do Pilates?
Will I lose weight by doing Pilates?
What should I look for in a Pilates instructor?
Can I do Pilates while I am pregnant?
Do men do Pilates?
Why are private sessions so expensive?
Can I get a good workout with DVDs and books?

What is the difference between Apparatus and Pilates Mat?

Pilates Mat is performed on the floor without any large Pilates machines. The original Pilates Mat routine was done with body weight alone but many instructors now use props such as bands, rings, and various sized balls. Using your own body to create resistance can be a great way to find your mind-body connection!

Pilates Apparatus classes use Pilates machines, usually the Reformer, and are formatted similar to a group fitness class. All students perform the same exercise at the same time. The Reformer is a very adaptable machine and can be used to support and assist the student. It also creates tension and resistance, making Pilates Apparatus classes very versatile and available to everyone. There are over 500 exercises on the Reformer making each class exciting and unique!

How many times per week can I do Pilates?

You can do Pilates every day. Pilates involves stretching and strengthening simultaneously and is much gentler on your body than other forms of strength training. However, we advise you strength train only every other day and attend Yoga and deep stretching classes or perform cardiovascular exercise on your days of rest. If you are preparing for a special event, wedding or upcoming vacation it is okay to attend more often, but you are much more likely to stick to your program if it becomes regular, consistent and reasonable.

Pilates does not burn nearly as many calories as cardiovascular exercise, but it does strengthen, sculpt and tone the body while building long, lean muscles. Since muscle burns more calories than fat, you can lose weight simply by creating a more productive body. Most clients see huge number losses: not necessarily on the scale, but with the tape measure. A five inch loss around the waist is always better than a five pound loss! Whether you lose thirty pounds or none, you will be happier and healthier with Pilates. 

Many Pilates studios and gyms employ “instructors” who have been trained through three-day programs or who are still in the process of being trained. These under or uncertified “instructors” can be a hazard. However, our instructors are well trained with professional and/or educational histories in areas of movement. Our Pilates trainers have completed a minimum of 400 hours of Pilates Education in various nationally recognized programs which include lectures, observation, practice, hands-on apprenticing and written and practical exams. A 400-hour minimum, comprehensive certification and professional experience in movement should always be the minimum requirements with any Pilates instructor. So whether you choose our facility or another: be safe and ask about your instructor's education. Another important aspect of choosing an instructor is personality- find someone you click with! Whether you want fun and casual or serious and direct, make sure you choose someone that you are comfortable spending time around.

First of all, you should always seek your physician/obstetrician's advice before starting any new exercise program, especially if you are pregnant. If you are already doing Pilates and you become pregnant, then most likely your doctor will let you continue. Inform your instructor immediately if you are or become pregnant. Once you enter your second trimester, you should consider doing only private sessions. It is very important that your Pilates Instructor is educated, experienced and pays special attention as you will require many modifications. With the right instructor Pilates can make your pregnancy and delivery much more comfortable!

Do men do Pilates?

 Yes, yes, yes! Pilates was originally created by a man for men and later was adapted for women. Men generally have less flexibility and a greater degree of upper body strength than women. Pilates helps create longer, more agile muscles, as well as counter-strengthen in the core and lower body. From CEO's and professional athletes, to men recovering from injuries or surgery, Pilates helps both men and women retrain and re-strengthen the body for optimum performance.

Here are a few articles regarding professional athletes and the benefits of Pilates:

Basketball Pilates Buff NBA Star, Jason Kidd, Wished He Started Pilates Long Ago

The NFL's Oldest Lineman, Washington's Ray Brown, Use Pilates To Keep His Body Young

(Nate) Robertson Using Pilates To Get In Shape

Pilates instructors are highly trained professionals who have invested 400+ hours obtaining an education in Pilates. They learn hundreds of exercises, including the anatomy and techniques behind each one. Through observing and mastering proper form and sequences, they are able to assess their students’ postures, adapt exercises for various conditions, and customize each session or class. This specialized training, combined with the expenses of furnishing and maintaining a fully equipped studio, explains the high cost. There are instructors who offer highly discounted rates, however most of these instructors are poorly trained with dangerous, unmaintained equipment. For your own safety, avoid any deal that seems “too good to be true.”

Can I get a good workout with DVDs and books?

There are some great videos and books available which are certainly worth the investment for those days you are unable to make it to the studio, although we do not recommend DVDs and books for beginners. If you find yourself confused by an exercise on DVD, your only option is to replay the sequence until you understand. If your form in not correct, you can put yourself at risk for injury and there is no one present to correct you. The proper anatomical and movement terminology of books can be confusing for those not trained in Pilates. DVDs and books are a great way to save money and time, but only after you have learned proper form and technique through group Mat classes.

If time and money are your biggest worries, our instructors can create a personalized workout routine for you to do at home. During a series of private sessions, your instructor will teach you exercises focusing on the areas you want to work, modifying each exercise for you personally in order to get the most benefits. Once the routine is complete, your instructor will present you with written notes and sketches to remind you of the exercises when working out at home. You only need to return if or when you would like your routine updated!