Question 1

What is pilates?

Accepted Answer

Pilates is a low impact body conditioning exercise which helps to improve general fitness and overall wellbeing. Pilates concentrates on strengthening the body (particularly the core) while improving postural alignment, balance, mobility and flexibility.
 At LYC we focus on the mind-body connection. While doing the various exercises your mind needs to be constantly aware of your breathing and the way your body moves, practising principles such as control, concentration, flowing movement and stamina

Question 2

What is the 'core'?

Accepted Answer

The ‘core’ refers to the centre of the body. It is a group of muscles that stabilise and control the spine and pelvis. It includes muscles in the hips, back, pelvis, buttocks, abdominals and around the diaphragm.

Question 3

What is core strength?

Accepted Answer

Core strength is less about power and more about the subtleties of being able to maintain the body in ideal postures — to unload the joints and promote ease of movement. For the average person, this helps them maintain the ability to get on and off the floor to play with their children or grandchildren, stand up from a chair, sit comfortably at a desk, or vacuum and rake without pain. For athletes, it promotes more efficient movement, therefore preventing injury and improving performance.

Question 4

Can men do pilates?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Pilates was invented by a man and was used to help injured soldiers rehabilitate during WW1. 
LYC studio has an urban masculine atmosphere, and there are no gender-specific exercises so it is definitely suitable for men. We often have reluctant men dragged along by their partners in the classes who find it very beneficial and end up coming weekly!  So please do not be shy about coming along. 
Pilates is popular amongst many male and female athletes. Many football clubs insist on players taking up pilates to help them with their balance and suppleness, reducing risk of injury and extending their professional career. When asked about Pilates, David Beckham himself said: “I do an hour of Pilates a day. It is fantastic and fitness-wise I am the best I have been for a long time”.

Question 5

Can I lose weight doing pilates?

Accepted Answer

In combination with a healthy lifestyle, eating well and staying active, yes. Pilates may not be as effective for weight loss as other cardio exercises, such as running or boxing, as it is relatively low intensity. However it does burn calories and tones your muscles. Practising Pilates twice a week also keeps you mentally in gear for staying on track of your goals, if that is to lose weight, tone up or stay motivated.

Question 6

When will I see results?

Accepted Answer

Joseph Pilates himself said that in 10 sessions you will feel your results, in 20 sessions you will see them and in 30 you will have a whole new body!

If you start practicing pilates a few times each week, (that could be two classes at LYC and one 20 minute practise at home) then typically after the first 30 days or one month, you’ll notice a marked improvement in your posture, balance, and flexibility. You should start having more energy, and you may notice your muscles look a little leaner and more toned. 
Unsurprisingly effort=outcome so it depends on how frequently you are doing pilates, how much effort you put in and of course your expectation. 
Mental changes will be felt even sooner, with most people feeling more energised, positive and happier after each Pilates session.

Question 7

How often should I do pilates?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your reasons for attending and your physical goals of course. If you choose to attend a class fortnightly or once a week just for enjoyment that is completely fine and up to you! However, you might not see or feel a great deal of improvement if you are not also practising regularly at home as well.
At LYC we recommend practising pilates at least twice a week, ideally 3 times to feel and see reasonable improvement. The consistency of twice weekly practice allows your body to become more familiar with movements and gradually build your strength and improve your flexibility without your muscles ‘forgetting'. This allows you to focus on improving and growing as opposed to always trying to ‘get it right.’

This doesn’t mean you have to attend three 1 hour long classes a week. It might mean 2 classes and a 20 minute practise at home.