whaT is pilates?

Pilates, originally known as Contrology, was created by Joe Pilates in the early 1900s. He used his system of exercises for his own health aliments, then to train fellow prisoners of war and injured soldiers during WW1 in Germany, before immigrating to the US to train boxers, athletes and dancers of New York City. His method, passed down by generations, has continued to grow into what we know it is today: a low-impact form of exercise that focuses on building strength, flexibility and balance by utilizing springs and body weight. Pilates emphasizes core strength while also improving posture, alignment and body awareness. Originally, Pilates began on the mat, and with time, the invention of specialized equipment came to be what we love today. Pilates blends mindful breathing with purposeful movement, creating a customized workout that strengthens the whole body from the inside out and supports overall health and mobility. It is utilized by all ages, bodies, abilities, sports and hobbies.

Do i need private sessions before joining group classes?

Private sessions are recommended at the start of your Pilates journey. There are many layers that go into understanding the work, and to fully grasp the focus and intention of each exercise or piece of equipment, it is highly recommended to work one on one with an instructor first.

However, with East Cape Pilates, our pop up mat classes around the community or our virtual classes are open to all levels. They are beginner friendly with plenty of progressions to make even the most seasoned and experienced Pilates practitioner challenged. For these classes, all you need is your mat and willingness to try something new!

Our group classes at the studio utilize specialized Pilates equipment however, so yes, prior experience is necessary, whether through ECP or from another studio. Even in the beginner classes, a few private sessions are needed, that way you feel comfortable with the equipment, spring tension and movement vocabulary prior to a group class.

what’s the difference between mat pilates and reformer pilates?

Mat Pilates is primarily done on the floor using a yoga style mat, sometimes small props like resistance bands, rings or balls are used to target specific outcomes. Mat Pilates relies mostly on your own body weight for resistance and focuses on control, core strength and breath.

Reformer Pilates uses a specialized machine called a reformer, which has a moving carriage attached with springs and a rope and pulley system. Springs add adjustable resistance and a different variety of exercises than the mat, and often making certain movements more accessible for beginners while also challenging advanced students.

how is pilates different from yoga?

Both Pilates and yoga connect the mind and body, but their focus and approach are different.

Pilates is centered on building core strength, improving posture and enhancing alignment through precise, controlled movement. It’s exercise based, with a focus on muscle activation, balance and stability. Breathing in Pilates is coordinated with movement to support the core and control each exercise.

Yoga emphasizes flexibility, balance and relaxation while integrating physical poses with breath work and mindfulness. It often includes meditation or spiritual elements, with sequences designed to flow or hold postures for deeper stretches.

what do i wear to pilates?

Comfortable workout attire that isn’t too baggy nor too constricting so your instructor can see your body alignment. (Make sure to wear proper undergarments especially if wearing loose attire like flowy shorts.) NO ZIPPERS as they can tear the upholstery. Lastly, socks are recommended, either grippy or regular, barefoot is acceptable as well.

who can do pilates?

Anyone! That’s what makes it so great. Pilates can be adapted to each individual’s needs. Whether you’re looking to build strength, increase flexibility, support rehabilitation, or simply move with more ease, Pilates offers options for every body.