/r/pilates

Photograph via //r/pilates

Welcome to the Pilates community of Reddit! ⭐️ Everybody is welcome!

See the r/Pilates Wiki for info.

Welcome to /r/Pilates!

Click here to visit the Wiki

What is pilates?

Pilates aims to strengthen the body in an even way, with particular emphasis on core strength to improve general fitness and wellbeing. Pilates exercises are done on a mat or using special equipment, such as the Reformer, the Cadillac and Wunda Chair. With its system of pulleys and springs, handles and straps, the apparatus can provide either resistance or support, depending on your needs. Pilates was developed by German-born Joseph Pilates, who believed mental and physical health were closely connected. His method was influenced by western forms of exercise, including gymnastics, boxing and Greco-Roman wrestling. Pilates immigrated to the US in the 1920s and opened a studio in New York, where he taught his method – which he called contrology – for several decades.

What's the difference between pilates and yoga?

While the methods are different, pilates and yoga both develop strength, balance, flexibility, posture and good breathing technique. Both systems emphasize the connection between physical and mental health, although yoga places more emphasis on relaxation and uses meditation. Pilates is performed both on apparatus and mats, whereas classic yoga doesn't require any equipment. Pilates exercises are performed in a flow of movement without the static poses associated with yoga.

Related subreddits:

*/r/posture * /r/bodyweightfitness * /r/yoga * /r/meditation

/r/pilates

140,316 Subscribers

6

Instructors - what makes a good student?

i.e., What kinds of students do you enjoy teaching/having in class?

1 Comment
2024/12/03
05:50 UTC

3

Share your cues!

I’m a student (Balanced Body) and feeling really intimidated by cueing. What’re some of your favorite cues or “go-to” cues?

TIA!

0 Comments
2024/12/03
03:02 UTC

13

Only person in group class-- should I cancel?

I have a question for instructors: do you get frustrated when only one person signs up for a group reformer class? Would you prefer they cancel, or is better to teach even if it's an "accidental" private?

My studio doesn't cancel group lessons as long as one person is registered, but the few times I've shown up and been the only person there I've felt bad! Like, I'm cheating my way into a private lesson, which was not my intention!

I've started checking to see how many other people have registered for a class and often feel like I should cancel (within the cancellation window) if it's just me. I'm relatively new to Pilates so welcome input from the pros!

14 Comments
2024/12/03
02:57 UTC

3

Classical group class experience

I recently tried out a classical group class with only 6 students in it, much fewer than what I usually experience in a contemporary class. As much as I’ve been regularly attending both classical and contemporary, the classical group class wasn’t what I expected. I was disappointed and didn’t feel like I attended a session. I know that classical has less variation since it follows the original sequence of Joseph, but I didn’t expect that in a group class, it would feel so different and off. The instructor was okay, but 90% of the time, I was doing it on my own, counting on my own, and wondering if I was doing it correctly. I also experience this in contemporary, but not to the extent where it feels like a self-practice session.

This experience made me realize how challenging it can be to teach a group class under classical. As much as I enjoy private classical sessions, I think I have to stick with contemporary for group classes. I’m sharing this here because I would like to know the community’s thoughts too. Does anyone else have experiences to share in a classical group class?

0 Comments
2024/12/03
02:55 UTC

36

Pilates not enough?

I keep reading here that Pilates just isn’t enough, that I need strength training. I’m 64 and have run, cycled, swam, boxed, weight lifting classes, spin PLUS I teach yoga BUT I’ve never been more muscular than I am now. My arms & legs are solid. Abs are strong (but you know, abs are made in the kitchen🤷🏻‍♀️) I do Pilates 3x a week, yoga X2 & walk 10-15,000 steps a day. Are weights & strength training really necessary?

18 Comments
2024/12/03
01:27 UTC

3

Pilates teachers wanted in Surrey (UK)

Hi all, posting on behalf of my wife who has a small boutique rerfomer studio & is currently looking for additional teachers on a self employed contracting basis. Ideally comprehensively trained, It's a fully equipped studio offering classes and one to one sessions. Here's the website for further info:- www.frameworkpilates.co.uk If you know of anyone feel free to get in touch. Thanks!

2 Comments
2024/12/02
21:02 UTC

26

Class closing statement

what is your closing phrase when ending a class?

I took a pilates class and we ended in Savasana. The instructor said “Connect with the earth and trust that it will wake you up when it’s time.”

I thought it was really clever and a thoughtful way to unwind from class.

40 Comments
2024/12/02
19:01 UTC

4

Grip Sock Recommendations and Black Friday Sales

I am needing to get some more grip socks and was wondering if anyone had any recommendations?!

I like crew style socks (regular, not toe socks), and I would really love to get them in packs.

I noticed on a lot of websites they are $15+ for just a single pair, so was wondering if anyone had affordable options they have enjoyed (even Amazon packs are fine, they're just socks so not super worried about name brands), or if anyone knows of any deals going on.

TIA!

8 Comments
2024/12/02
14:30 UTC

0

Is it better to do Pilates in the evening?

For context I don’t have much time in the mornings but I would like to know benefits of Pilates in the evening, the effect is has on sleep? Also other useful tips, should I do it just before bed or after showering / will I need to shower after?

Also I am a total beginner starting out with some YouTube videos. What the most notable changes to your body that make sticking with Pilates very worth it?

10 Comments
2024/12/02
13:46 UTC

1

Classes in Chicago

Hello, can anyone recommend any Matt Pilates classes in Chicago. Preferably northwest side but anything helps.

I am interested in boutique studios, park districts community centers etc. No corporate chains like club Pilates.

Also matt Pilates or Yogalates type combinations are fine with me. Does not have to be a classical Pilates or an equipment class. The more affordable the better.

Thank you!

5 Comments
2024/12/02
13:45 UTC

7

Starting BASI teacher training😍

Im starting my basi teacher training soon, im so excited!! Any tips for pre course prep?

3 Comments
2024/12/02
13:29 UTC

17

How long does it take to get good at pilates?

I had my second class today and I felt so embarrassed because the instructor kept having to correct me. I felt so unfit and uncoordinated. Everyone else in the class knew exactly what they were doing. I don’t wanna give up after just 2 classes but I’m scared I won’t get any better.

31 Comments
2024/12/02
08:56 UTC

1

Teacher Training, Not PMA-Affiliated

I’ve heard less than ideal things about the PMA (and NPCP? NPCT?) - I want to pursue my teacher training, but don’t want to do a program in any way connected to them.

That said, can I avoid the org entirely? What teacher training programs do you recommend (ideally global, but would consider others) in this case?

Important factors for me:

  • Modern, ever-evolving, science-based curriculum (no pseudoscience)
  • Physical Therapy, injury prevention/rehabilitation
  • Functional movement, mobility, and general wellness emphasis
  • Apparatus emphasis preferred
6 Comments
2024/12/02
07:27 UTC

0

Made it to 77 classes… out for 3 weeks. Will I lose my progress? Will it be like starting over?

I finally reached over 75 Pilates classes and I feel like I’m seeing visible progress. I started the end of May and have tried to go at least 3 times a week. I feel like my progress isn’t as noticeable because I have a connective tissue disease called lipedema that affects the fat in my body (so I have some part of my shape that won’t change without liposuction) and now I’m nervous since I have been sick the past 2 weeks and then the holiday this week that I will lose all of my progress. Does it go away that easily with Pilates? Will I see my progress return faster jumping back into it than I did before? Will it be like starting over?

Thanks!

5 Comments
2024/12/02
06:04 UTC

1

Mat pilates Sydney (north shore)

Does anyone have an recommendation for mat pilates classes in Sydney's North Shore? I've googled searched and I can only find reformer studios. I've already been doing reformer for 1.5 years and would love to mix things up with some Mat classes.

2 Comments
2024/12/02
05:38 UTC

0

Hyperextended hip?

Hello, I’m somewhat new to Pilates, but not working out. I went to a Pilates class a few weeks ago and we used a reformer. Near the end of class, the instructor told us to stretch freely while our feet were in the loops that pull the platform we were laying on- she didn’t specify a specific stretch… she gave us the liberty to do whatever felt comfortable. I chose to do large circles with my legs, which felt like a great stretch at the time. I am a few weeks out from that class and I’m still sore in my hips- did I hyperextend something in my hips? The onset of soreness was the very next day so I know it was the Pilates class.

2 Comments
2024/12/02
04:33 UTC

7

I’ve been asked to schedule demos with 2 studios

I reached out and asked if they subs or needs to fill in any gaps for classes because I’ve finished both Mat and Reformer class modules with BB. Both studio owners asked me if we could schedule a demo and one of them specifically said she has a really hard time finding certified teachers or even just people pursuing certification so she would love the help. These are both studios local to me that go to 1-2x a week each.

I am excited but nervous. How do demos work? Any tips for programming your demo?

9 Comments
2024/12/02
02:20 UTC

0

Is 6mm mat enough for pilates?

A beginner looking to invest into a good mat for home work outs in pilates and yoga. I do tend to need cushion for my knees and I sweat easily. Ive done a lot of research and am aware the difference between yoga and pilate mats but I'm wondering is it best to get the impact mat by b yoga (10mm) or strong b mat / manduka pro (6mm) to suffice both exercises? Thank you!

3 Comments
2024/12/02
01:41 UTC

2

Online Cadillac classes

Hi! I already subscribe to several Pilates video apps: John Garey, Pilates anytime, Forma, speir, Pilatesology, epoch to name some. I have taken all of the Cadillac classes on these sites, multiple times now, and I’m getting bored. There aren’t that many. Some apps have zero Cadillac classes. Does anyone know of an app that truly has regularly updated new Cadillac/trapeze table classes? It’s easy to find a new tower class, but it seems like nobody is making new Cadillac classes very often. I love the Cadillac and I want to use it more. Any suggestions are appreciated! Thanks!

0 Comments
2024/12/02
01:31 UTC

23

What is your least favourite move on the reformer?

Mine are rail crunches. Hate how uncomfortable they are on my shoulders and wrists!

124 Comments
2024/12/01
23:37 UTC

1

Book recommendation please

I have scoliosis and it causes me to both under use and over use certain muscles. I would love a book that has a good variety of photos of poses but also thorough descriptions of which muscles should be contracted with each pose. I’m guessing that this might be a book more geared for instructors of Pilates, but something like this could help me tremendously. Thank you!

13 Comments
2024/12/01
23:36 UTC

5

Aloha, join my Online Pilates Program! Black Friday Deal ends tomorrow!

Aloha, everyone, my name is Christina Black! I was born and raised in Hawai’i but I’ve lived in NYC and LA as a professional dancer. I’ve been teaching Pilates for over 10 years now and I’m excited to share my knowledge with you through my Online Pilates Program! I have over 200 Pilates videos: contemporary and classical mat, TRX, circuit training, outdoor Pilates workouts filmed on the beautiful island of O’ahu and I even have a 12 part Pilates for Beginners series (some of you may know me from my YouTube channel as well)!

I have a Black Friday/Cyber Monday deal going on for the next couple of days! Use the code “BLACKFRIDAY” for 20% off an Annual Subscription - it comes with a FREE 7 day trial! Head to https://christinalkblack.uscreen.io/pages/clkbpilates 

Please let me know if you have any questions at all...I love sharing all things Pilates!

Mahalo, Christina

0 Comments
2024/12/01
22:52 UTC

3

swimmer with a shoulder injury looking for an alternative to weightlifting

like the title says, i'm a competitive swimmer but also have a shoulder injury because of it. i'm doing basic physical therapy, but i also have stopped lifting because my shoulder is so painful, so i can't train upper body, and i also can't train my lower body because my shoulder cannot handle holding heavy enough weights for me to get in an effective workout. so instead, i thought i'd try pilates instead because i don't want to lose the muscle that i've spent years building for swim, but i have no idea really where to start. i tried doing some beginner pilates with my friend who has been doing pilates at home, but it was too easy for me because years of swimming has given me an extremely strong core and built up all the little muscles that aren't normally used in every day life. so, basically... i'm trying to find beginner pilates... but hard? i'm a little bit lost here.

3 Comments
2024/12/01
21:53 UTC

10

Online mat classes from a UK-based, BASI-certified teacher

Hello! I thought I’d share a little info about my online mat Pilates classes, which I absolutely love running. I’m a BASI-certified teacher from Manchester, UK and I teach twice weekly over Zoom (45 mins, all levels). I’ve seen such incredible progress in my regulars over time, which really shows that even remote practice can be effective with the right verbal cueing! I place huge emphasis on form, precision and control, but do so in a way that I like to think is relaxed and positive. Always options to modify and progress. The online subscription also includes on-demand streaming (100+ videos, including a couple of beginner series). Find out more here: https://www.pilatesbyashiya.com/online-on-demand

You can also check out my teaching style via YouTube, where I have a few free classes: https://youtube.com/@pilates_by_ashiya?si=pTSwcVgLVTavwAKm

Thanks for allowing the opportunity to share, much appreciated ❤️

2 Comments
2024/12/01
21:06 UTC

0

Anyone want to split PILATES BY BRYONY membership ??

its $320 after discuss I believe. anyone want to split for the year?

Thx.!

2 Comments
2024/12/01
21:03 UTC

3

Home Pilates Studio in Singapore

I have recently opened a pilates studio at my home in Singapore offering private reformer lessons for women.

Connect with me through the link in my website if you are interested to book a trial session. Thanks!

Lightwellnesspilates.com

0 Comments
2024/12/01
20:30 UTC

30

Beginner & Mixed-level Pilates on YouTube

Hey Pilates friends! 🙋🏻‍♀️

For all the members looking for YouTube Pilates ❤️ I have a mix of realistic beginner classes and mixed-level Pilates workouts. Here is my channel: https://youtube.com/@thegoodmood_club?si=d4Rofzq2MiHHaK8A

I’m a Comprehensive Pilates Instructor teaching feel-good Pilates that builds strength and relieves stress—without the pressure of aesthetics or intense workout trends. You’re welcome to checkout my YouTube Pilates Page & come say Hi! 😊

9 Comments
2024/12/01
20:20 UTC

13

Promotional posts are welcome on r/pilates today! See inside for posting guidelines - We're running a trial of allowing promotional posts on the 1st of every month, feedback is welcome

Guidelines for Participating:

  1. All posts must be related to Pilates. Examples include:
    • Online or in-person classes/workshops.
    • Pilates equipment.
    • Training programs or certifications.
    • YouTube channels, blogs, or other resources.
  2. In-person businesses (instructors, studios, equipment vendors), should put their location in the title, we want to know where in the world you are!
  3. Avoid spamming. Use this day to connect genuinely with the community rather than posting generic ads.
  4. One promotional post per user or business per event day.
  5. As long as it is the 1st of the month in your time zone, you can post
3 Comments
2024/12/01
20:10 UTC

2

Balanced Body Metro IQ

Hi all, not sure if this has been asked but couldn’t find another post when I searched.

Are there any legs or risers which can be used with this reformer if needed in the near future? Or will the aeropilates reformer stand work?

Any ideas will be much appreciated !

Also can I use a regular sitting box or only the lite version?

4 Comments
2024/12/01
18:18 UTC

0

Need to find which app my GF uses

She is about to update her app that doing pilates but I dont know which one is it and I want to make her a gift.

What I know is that its 170$ a year but its 130$ for black Friday.

Ring any bell?

12 Comments
2024/12/01
17:47 UTC

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