Alternative Medicine Directory

SEARCH OUR PILATES DIRECTORY

AltMedWeb Categories

AltMedWeb Videos

Reyes Video

Choosing The Right Pilates Class

Shannan Powell | May 27, 2008

Pilates classes are offered almost everywhere you look, it seems, with more gyms, studios, and community centers adding more classes every day. Sorting through all of the offerings can be vital in your success with using Pilates as a workout program. You need to decide if you want to take classes in a studio, which offers equipment, or just a basic beginner’s class with only floor exercises. If you want more from your workout, you might want to consider a fusion class that brings Pilates together with another form of exercise. The options are nearly endless, so careful consideration is important when choosing your Pilates class.

Though the classes offered in every area differ, here are some common class types and what they generally offer to help you get some ideas of what might work best for you:

Mat Pilates – These classes are offered at nearly every gym, health club, community center, and Pilates studio. They teach a basic Pilates workout, focusing on proper technique and implementing the principles of Pilates. For those who have never done Pilates before, these classes will give you the basics you need, plus help you to develop the strength and flexibility necessary to move on to more difficult routines. More advanced mat classes are available, including those that incorporate the exercise ball, resistance bands, and other portable pieces of equipment. You may have to complete a beginner’s class, in order to be allowed access to the advanced workouts.

Studio Pilates Classes – Taking classes within a Pilates studio setting will offer you access to many more options. You can choose to take group classes using Pilates specific equipment, such as the reformer. Most Pilates studios have a wide assortment of equipment that cannot be found at the local health club, so for those who are looking for a serious Pilates experience, this would be the best choice. Private instruction can be received at a studio, teaching you the proper techniques on a one-on-one level, which gives you the best overall benefits from the exercises. Of course, mat classes are available as well, at varying levels. One of the best benefits to choosing to take classes at a Pilates studio is the level of instruction. Usually, intense training and certification is required to teach in these establishments.

Pilates Fusion Classes – One of the hottest new Pilates trends is to combine the basics of Pilates with other types of exercise to receive a more rounded workout. Pilates is wonderful for toning, flexibility, and strength, but doesn’t offer as much in the cardiovascular sense. Many gyms and even the occasional Pilates studio have combined Pilates with cycling, spinning, yoga, and other popular exercise forms to give exercisers with less time on their hands a better workout. These classes are a great choice if you want a bit more than just Pilates. Keep in mind though, that you may not get a “genuine” Pilates experience from these classes. Be sure that the instructor is knowledgeable and trained in the techniques of Pilates, to ensure that the movements are taught properly for your own physical safety.

One of the best ways to determine if a class will be right for you is to test it out. Most gyms and studios will allow you to try a class for free to decide if it is a good fit. Try out a few different types of Pilates classes, at a few different locations to find the right workout for you. Make sure you are physically able to handle the class, are comfortable with the instructors, and that you like the environment. Once you have found the perfect Pilates class, you will have found a workout that will suit you for life.