PILATES & BODYWORK FAQ

Pilates is a full-body conditioning program developed by Joseph Pilates over a period of 40 years, beginning in the 1920's. It is designed to strengthen the core musculature as it lengthens the body. This dual emphasis leads to a longer, leaner, more flexible, better toned and more evenly developed physique. A compete Pilates program involves both mat and equipment work. The Pilates equipment employs spring-based resistance to create muscular strength and tone without building bulk. The focus on breath and properly performed movements leads to improved posture and overall physical balance.

The main difference between Fletcher Pilates® and other forms of Pilates is reflected in the core of the Fletcher Pilates® method - the Fletcher Percussive Breath™. The fully developed, specific training of one's lung capacity while moving through Pilates exercises helps improve posture and recruit core muscles. Fletcher Pilates® is derived directly from the original Pilates method taught to  Ron Fletcher by Joe and Clara Pilates. The dual emphaisis on movement awareness and efficient body mechanics for the post-rehabilitative client as well as the athlete is the key to improving posture, alignment and overall body balance.

Yoga and Pilates practice both encourage strength, mobility and flexibility while connecting the mind, body, spirit and breath. 

• Joseph Pilates created this method 1913 in Germany and called it contrology. He introduced contrology in America in 1926.
• Yoga began in ancient India around 5000 years ago. It was in the 1800's when yoga spread in the West.
• Pilates like yoga can take place on a mat in a variety of positions.
• Pilates unlike yoga uses a variety of equipments or Pilates apparatus. Each apparatus is designed to help accelerate the process of stretching & strengthening while improving body alignment and improve core strength. These apparatus use different spring load as resistance, a pulley system and body weight on the equipment.

Before your first session, you will complete an Intake and Health History web form to let us know about your specific body issues and fitness goals. Your Health History is important for us to know because your safety is our first priority. We will work with you to structure a conditioning program based on your physical needs and goals including a general Postural Assessment during your Prelude(Intro) Session. We will then discuss what is the best route for you to begin your movement practice, either Solo Session, Trio group classes or a combination, which ever will be most beneficial to your needs and achive your goals.

As in any physical conditioning program, to reap the full benefits, one should be practicing a minimum of 2-3 times/week. This includes a Solo private as well as Trio group class or a combination.

Most can perform the movement exercises, however, if you've had a serious injury or a recent surgery, we strongly recommend consulting your doctor before beginning any new exercise regimen. If you have been in the care of a physical therapist, we would be happy to consult with them about your program.

Articulate Bodies integrates Fascial Fitness concepts in teaching and facilitating sessions and classes. Fascial Fitness Training is a brand but essentially it's training the fascial system through movement. First, what is fascia? It's a biological fabric that surrounds every structure in the body. It consists of fibrous collagen and living soft tissues. It has a significant influence on muscles, posture, force transmission, sensation of pain and proprioception (our awarenss of the position and movement of our body in space.) 

Training the fascia will enhance performance, useful for rehabilitation of an injury, help with aging and prevention of injury.

Yes, In fact the movement concepts that you learn from Articulate Bodies can be applied to - and will enhance- virtually any supplemental fitness program or sport you may enjoy.

Absolutely not! One of the great things about Pilates movement is its versatility, so that people of all levels and physical fitness can practice and progress at their own pace. Although it is a great workout for dancers and athletes, beginners are welcome and will be taught how to work at their level. Articulate Bodies movement methodology has a language of its own and since we all have different goals, needs and physical history, we suggest that all new clients begin their movement  journey with the Prelude program.

Not very long at all! Joe’s original claim was “In 10 lessons you will feel the difference, in 20 you will see the difference, and by 30 you will have a whole new body.” Many people can feel the work begin to reorganize their body within the first few lessons and with time profound change can happen for anyone.

Comfortable but form-fitting clothing, so the teacher can make precise corrections to your form. We encourage bare feet but socks are ok. No shoes.

Yes. Yes. Yes. Improving flexibility is one of the principal benefits of a consistent movement practice.

Having a Pilates movement practice provides resistance and will help you burn calories. However Pilates movements are not considered aerobic until one masters the advanced work. If you are trying to lose weight, we recommend your movement practice at Articulate Bodies along with aerobic exercises (running, swimming, biking, etc.) - and diet prescribed by your nutritionist - to help burn calories and speed your metabolism.

Mindfully practiced movements would help with moving  the joints in your spine to promotes circulation, proprioception and possible shearing in the fascial tissues. These characteristics can possibly help alleviate back pain depending on the severity. However, back pain can stem from issues as simple as muscle weakness and/or lack of flexibility to complex disc issues. We recommend if you suffer from back pain that you consult with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program.

If you are new to Pilates and/or new to Articulate Bodies, we encourage you to start with our Pilates Prelude Session.

You can also call us 647-519-0395 or email info@TorontoPilatesStudio.com. You can also start booking right away through the SCHEDULE link. 

We would be happy to get you started with a personalized movement program.