Pilates Classes in York

What's the difference between Yoga and Pilates?

Whilst both Pilates and Yoga share the same objective; improving strength, balance, flexibility, posture and breathing, the delivery of movement is different.

Yoga focuses on static poses to gradually improve flexibility and does not require the use of any equipment.

Pilates, on the other hand, practices an almost constant flow of movement to relax any tense muscles, which in return strengthens muscles around the body.

Additionally, Pilates incorporates equipment, such as; resistance bands, a magic circle, small ball and mat work.

What area of the body does Pilates target?

Pilates is famous for Core strengthening. Which includes but is not limited to the deep abdominal muscles of the back, abdomen, and pelvic floor. These muscles rely on good posture, to work effectively with a great movement pattern.

When the core is strong, the frame of the body is supported. As a result, a strong core allows the neck, shoulders, and other surrounding muscles and joints to relax.

Although the core is the focus for most movements in Pilates, it’s not the only body part to benefit from this type of workout. Hips, pelvis, glutes, back, shoulders, and arms are all targeted. Pilates is one of the best workouts for discovering muscles you weren’t even aware of (or haven’t been used effectively in years).

The fact that there are dozens of different styles of Pilates is a testament to how adaptable the workout is to challenging different areas of the body, as well as achieving different fitness goals as Pilates is a great foundation for any sport.

Can Pilates help you lose weight?

Pilates is known for creating long, strong, and lean muscles. Whilst it’s not a cardiovascular workout in the same sense as a spin class or a 20-minute run, it’s fantastic for improving muscle tone and restoring muscle balance. This creates a posture that helps you look and feel extremely fit.

Our clients often report that Pilates was the key to them achieving the shape they’ve been working towards for years. Not only this, but some adaptations can increase the number of calories burnt.

Winsor Pilates, for example, was started by a dancer who studied under a first-generation teacher. This style shares many aspects of Classical Pilates. However, it differs in its focus on maintaining continuous movement, which increases the cardiovascular benefits and number of calories burnt.

If you are looking for weight loss and cardio more help can be given through 1 to 1.

How long does it take to see results?

Combined with positive changes to your diet, you should start seeing benefits in just a few sessions. This is the result of targeting and strengthening muscles that have often been left untrained for long periods of time. This is why so many of our clients are so surprised by how such a controlled workout may leave their muscles feeling so tired and sore the next day.

To continue seeing improvements and advancements in your Pilates practice, it is important that I vary the movements used from week to week.

By offering dozens of different small group classes each week I am able to perfectly guide you on the path to continually improving your Pilates practice.

What are the different levels/styles of Pilates?

• Fundamental: Basic principles and fundamental exercises which are great for new beginners, Hip replacements, etc
• Improver level: Great for people starting out, who want something a little more challenging but modifications/progressions are offered
• Intermediate: Great for higher level pilates or fitness background
• Sport Pilates: Challenging exercises that target the full body through strength and flexibility. Great for Advanced or fitness/sports enthusiast