Pilates
Expand All Guide SectionsPilates
Dulcinea's Insight
- This section will introduce you to what Pilates is, but each instructor will have their own modifications to the technique.
- Although Joseph Pilates first developed his technique using specific machinery, many people simply practice mat Pilates. Learn the difference between mats and machines before you choose a course of study.
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For a general introduction …
offers various Pilates videos. This one, which introduces you to the essential elements of Pilates, begins by pointing out that very few people know exactly what Pilates is. If you fall into this category, you might want to explore the rest of the videos about Pilates available here.
has an introductory guide to Pilates from the book The Pilates Body, by Brooke Siler. This guide touches on the fundamental principles behind the Pilates method and offers instruction for six beginning moves.
is a nonprofit organization dedicated to governing Pilates instruction in the United States and abroad through a standardized certification process. This page is an introduction to Pilates that explains its myriad benefits, describes the original technique and machinery designed by Pilates, and provides a few historical pictures.
For introductions to Pilates machines …
describes the most popular pieces of machinery you might use if you chose to extend your Pilates practice beyond the mat. This page gives a quick summary of each, and you can click on the name of a piece you’re interested in for more in-depth information.
has a great 41-page beginner’s manual on using the Pilates Reformer, which is a home fitness machine designed to combine resistance training with a typical Pilates workout. For those without a Reformer, this introductory booklet, located in the "Downloads" section, can still enrich your understanding of the method.
Doing Pilates
Dulcinea's Insight
- If you’re a Pilates teacher or you own a studio, many online directories will let you add your studio for free.
- Most argue that the best way to study Pilates, at least in the early stages, is with a private instructor. If you do elect to take a class or study at home, pay close attention to form and nuance. An exercise performed incorrectly may produce no effect, or could prove harmful.
- Pilates necessitates special equipment and gear, such as a mat or a Pilates Reformer machine. Explore these options in the “Where can I buy gear and apparel?” section and the “What are the different kinds of Pilates?” section of this guide.
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For online instruction …
brings you full-screen, DVD-quality online Pilates video courses. To access courses you need to pay for a membership; an unlimited membership is $9.95 per month. You are permitted to try a sample video before signing up.
is a trademarked Pilates style, described fully in the “What are the different kinds of Pilates?” section of this guide. While there’s plenty of information on the site about equipment to buy and classes to sign up for, it also offers these instructions for a basic Stott Pilates warm-up. Learn the five basic principles of Stott Pilates before you start, and then practice the warm-up.
isn’t pretty, but it does have over 75 pictures and descriptions of Pilates exercises and stretches. This site is a useful resource, especially if you’re interested in looking up a term or element of the practice.
For finding a pilates instructor or class by state …
has a directory of Pilates resources that you can search by state. Once you enter your state you’ll chose from its cities and areas, then learn what studios, teachers, and classes are available.
magazine offers a studio finder by state. It’s less specific than the Pilates Insight directory, as you don’t get to choose your city, but you may find resources listed in one directory that aren’t in the other.
Types of Pilates
Various teachers have modified Joseph Pilates' original technique, and there are numerous ways you can practice. Several Pilates teachers have taken their knowledge of Pilates to develop and teach modified versions of the original practice, such as Fletcher Pilates, Stott Pilates, Power Pilates, and Winsor Pilates.
Dulcinea's Insight
- If you're interested in reading about the court ruling that determined Pilates to be a generic form of exercise and not a trademarked name, you'll find the article on Balanced Body's Web site.
- It's hard to say objectively whether one type of Pilates is really better than another. Remember that each of these styles is represented by a commercial business that wants to sell its product. Before you choose a style or program, carefully outline your goals so you can easily determine which classes can best meet those goals.
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Pilates Gear
While some people will only need to purchase a Pilates mat and stretchy pants, others may decide to invest in their own Pilates reformer. Whatever your needs are, the sites below offer the best in Pilates gear.
Dulcinea's Insight
- If you practice Pilates at a studio, the studio probably has most of the equipment you need.
- Some of the sites dealing in machinery cater toward studio owners. Look for special information geared to helping you build your business.
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Pilates Certification
The following organizations have developed official certification programs and standards for what makes a good, safe Pilates teacher. You'll learn about teacher certification programs and requirements in the sites below.
Dulcinea's Insight
- Most of the organizations below offer their own teacher training programs, but in some cases, alternate training is accepted, especially if a teacher has a number of years of experience. Review the details listed on each site carefully.
- The schools of Pilates listed in the "What are the different kinds of Pilates?" section of this guide also offer certification programs.
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