» What kind of background and training should my potential Pilates instructor have?

Pilates is a knowledge-based method of exercise, so qualified Pilates teachers are those who have a working knowledge of functional anatomy and have completed an intensive certification program incorporating significant hands-on practice. Make sure your Pilates instructor is qualified to teach on all types of Pilates equipment and find out how long he or she's been practicing and teaching Pilates.

What is Pilates?

As promised in my last posting here's a brief explanation of what Pilates is.

» What is Pilates?
Pilates is a system of precise, focused exercise that has long been used to correct alignment, improve posture and tone muscles. It is an exercise method that relies on strengthening the core postural muscles and developing body alignment. In Pilates, the key to success is the engagement of the mind in the actions of the muscles of the body.

What Pilates is Not

Pilates is not yoga. There is no spiritual connection with anything higher except for yourself and believe me that's plenty. Pilates is not Physical Therapy. Although it can be used as a form of therapy for people who have injuries, I like to think of it primarily as Prehabilitation instead of Rehabilitation. Pilates is not a competition. There are no awards or trophies given to the students who pump the fastest Hundred. Pilates is not a replacement for cardiovascular exercise. This is not to say that Pilates can't be cardiovascular but you need a very strong foundation to be able to perform the exercises at speeds required to get heart rate up.

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