What to expect in your first Pilates session
Some of my clients have said that they expected Pilates to be more about stretching, and then were surprised to find out just how much strength work is involved, although there are some amazing stretches in Pilates that really help to unwind tight muscles, improve breathing and open out the body, getting rid of all those kinks.
Other clients report being sore the next day; this just means you're challenging your muscles in new ways or working muscle groups that don't usually get much attention. Pilates works the smaller muscles that work to stabilise the body - the deeper often neglected muscles. Pilates also works many muscle groups, both big and small, but mainly the slow twitch muscle fibres as these are endurance fibres that work with control and can continuing firing over a longer period of time.
Some of my clients say that it took them 6 months to understand the concept of Pilates, so don't expect you will master the moves in your first session! They report that you start to learn how to sit, to improve posture, how to move more efficiently, but this is not in the first session. Expect to learn to breathe for better oxygen exchange, to move more gracefully and to be able to understand and engage your core - you won't get this all in the first lesson but you will over time master the Pilates moves and the concepts and benefits behind each exercise.
Many beginner classes will feature the same group of exercises in each class, so that you can master the basics before moving onto the more challenging repertoire.
Wear formfitting clothes that are comfortable to move in. As Pilates is done without shoes, socks are required for hygiene purposes, but because you might slip in a pair of socks the ones with the grip on the bottom are best. You can probable buy a pair at the studio you are attending or pick up a pair on line.
The first time you take any new class can be a little intimidating. But here at Taube Pilates we try and make it more friendly and fun. Pilates may seem overwhelming with the Cadillac that looks a little like a torture rack, and the names of the exercises like the Teaser.
At Taube Pilates you are not left to your own devices. You are monitored closely even if in a small group session of up to 4 people. Here is a little sample video of some of the moves you might do in a session:
Pilates offers plenty of benefits to your body, no matter your fitness level. You’ll improve your posture, focus on bodily alignment, and get a great workout, whether you're on the Cadillac, Reformer, Ladder Barrel, Spine Corrector, Wunda Chair or mat.
Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise that aims to strengthen muscles while improving posture and flexibility. Pilates exercises tend to initiate from the centre, the core, even if working other parts of your body. Expect the exercise to involve, precise movements with breath control.
Below is a little history on how Pilates started:
