FAQs

Q? While doing Pilates, do I need to do other forms of exercise?: A.

Pilates can stand alone but we recommend that our clients complement it with cardiovascular exercise. It is a perfect complement to athletic training and all kinds of sports.
Q? Does Pilates tone and shape the body?: A.

Nothing is better for toning and shaping than Pilates! In Pilates we tone and strengthen the body while keeping it stretched and supple. This is actually the chief physical result of practicing Pilates. It means a slimmer waist, a flatter tummy and better posture. It means a strong, shaped and healthy body!
Q? How long before I see results?: A.

This depends on the individual but everyone notices positive changes. Some people notice changes after a few classes while most notice strength and flexibility improvements within a few weeks. The real benefit is the combination of short term improvement with long term changes to your fitness and well-being. This continuing improvement is what turns most people into passionate devotees of Pilates as a lifetime endeavour. The process however is entirely individual and depends on each client and whether they are healthy or injured, used to exercising or not, and on the frequency of weekly classes.
Q? So what is Pilates and is it for me?: A.

Pilates is a non-impact form of exercise and is not only safe for young and old, fit or unfit; it is recommended.
Pilates works on developing and strengthening the central core muscles. Joseph Pilates understood that a strong central core facilitated the physical power to execute movements that allowed the body to work as a balanced unit. Whatever fitness levels, no matter your injuries, whatever your age, Pilates can and will improve your quality of life.
Pilates is not a passing fad; it is a scientifically developed discipline that has stood the test of time and its popularity continues to grow. Why, because the benefits are real and lasting.
Pilates is often recommended by medical practitioners to patients with back problems, sports injuries and rehabilitation. It also works to enhance muscle control and fitness to improve your performance in all sports including golf, tennis, swimming, cycling, running, dancing and gymnastics.
Q? Who is Pilates for?: A.

Pilates is for everyone! Anyone can practice Pilates, from teenagers to seniors, post-surgery and rehabilitative clients to professional athletes and dancers. Everyone can benefit from Pilates. The unique exercises can be modified to match the requirements of every individual.
Q? Can I do Pilates if I have a bad back, bad knee?: A.

Absolutely! In fact in those cases you SHOULD be doing Pilates. Exercising and strengthening your body is a key factor in rehabilitation. Pilates is a safe, low impact and highly effective method of exercise and is designed to isolate body parts and encourage positive movement patterns. This allows us to address any injured or vulnerable areas in a safe and controlled way while addressing the rest of your body in the appropriate way to encourage quicker recovery.
Q? What should I expect at my Pilates session?: A.

If it is your first class, you will be asked to complete a short questionnaire and you will have an initial assessment with your instructor to discuss your physical history and determine your needs and goals. Your Pilates instructor will introduce you to all the equipment and the exercises, and monitor your technique. Over time, your technique will be improved, and your needs may change. Together with your Pilates teacher, you will be able to measure your progress. Be prepared to work hard and love every minute.
Q? Do I need experience?: A.

There is absolutely no experience required. The only way to know Pilates is to do Pilates. All you need is the will to strengthen and balance your body and the desire to improve your performance and work towards tension-free, pain-free living!
Q? Can I do Pilates while working with a physiotherapist, osteopath etc.?: A.

Absolutely! Pilates is ideal to complement any kind of body-therapy and is recommended by many practitioners and therapists today. At Urban Flow we can work in conjunction with your practitioner to give you the best results. We can help you to bring your body back into balance and through Pilates you learn how to maintain that balance, build on it and avoid future imbalances–postural and muscular.
Q? What is the optimal number of Pilates classes?: A.

You will achieve optimal results with two sessions per week (or more). The body learns best with a regular and gradually paced program creating an imprint which integrates the physical workout with the mental challenge. Once a week is not ineffective but the progress is slower.