Introduction to Pilates: What To Expect

Before you get started at b.Pilates & Fitness, you must do an Introduction to Pilates. This is done over three sessions, either in a small group or in private sessions. The purpose of the introduction classes is to familiarize you with the studio, equipment, and the Pilates method, as well as so I can get to know you and your goals or needs. Here is what you can expect during these sessions. 

Small Group vs. Private Introduction to Pilates

Our small group Introduction to Pilates Series is open to two to three people. It runs on a set day and time for three weeks in a row. You are committed to the three sessions, as we don’t offer make-up sessions for cancellations. The series runs once or twice a month, generally in a time slot that we are looking to build into a class.  

Our introduction to Pilates Package is three private or semi-private appointments. This means you can book alone, or with a friend or family member. We’ll work to find three appointments that fit everyone’s schedule. In this case, we can reschedule your session as long as you provide 24 hours notice. This is a good option if you need one-on-one attention due to health or physical limitations, have a complicated schedule, or just prefer the extra attention in a private setting. 

Before Your First Class

Prior to your first class, I’ll send you information about parking and studio access so there is no guesswork on your part. I also like to get to know you a bit by email before you even come to the studio so I can be prepared. Do you have any persistent aches or pains? What other activities or hobbies do you do? What is your job? And were you referred by a friend or another practitioner (like your doctor or physiotherapist)? All of these things will help me understand where you are starting from and if you may need modifications at first. 

Session One

While group classes are slightly different from private sessions, the Introduction to Pilates sessions are all tailored to your needs. If you don’t have many restrictions or limitations, we will do fuller workouts. On the other hand, if you require modifications, we will see where you are at and make alterations as needed. 

We’ll start with a quick tour of the studio and introductions to your classmate(s) if you have any. Then we’ll get right into the pre-Pilates exercises, and foundational mat, tower, and cadillac exercises. This is where you’ll learn the basics of Pilates and the common movements you’ll start seeing everywhere. 

Sessions Two & Three

In session two, we usually review some of the pre-Pilates exercises before getting on the reformer. Yes, it’s reformer time! Finally, in session three you’ll be introduced to the wunda chair and then we’ll either work on additional mat exercises or maybe pull out the magic circle or spine corrector to show you the basics on them. 

Moving Into Regular Classes

Once you’ve completed your Introduction to Pilates classes, you’ll have the basics and are ready to join in group classes (three to six people) or continue on with private sessions. Sessions are 50 minutes long, and you’ll mostly do your workouts on the mat, tower, reformer, and wunda chair. Pilates is a system, with different apparatuses designed to help you find more control, strength, flexibility, and mobility so that you can do the mat work.

Mat work can be incredibly challenging, especially as you get into doing the high-intermediate and advanced exercises. Using the different apparatuses will help you learn to use the muscles that you might not be using and let go of the ones you might overuse. The springs add resistance and assistance, and as you learn to control them you’ll build strength in areas where you need it. The springs and straps also offer great stretches and help to improve your mobility. Finally, there are many smaller apparatuses that we may use as a starter or finisher to the class. 

Are you starting to see how it all works together? While we incorporate one, two, or several apparatuses into most classes, it’s nice to do a full mat class every so often to see where your weaknesses are and what you need to keep working on. I find that using the apparatuses also allows me to keep things interesting and challenging in the studio, too. 

Ready For Your Introduction to Pilates?

To find out when the next Introduction to Pilates series is, get on the waitlist! We’ll send out an email when the next session is announced. And if you’re interested in the private sessions, send us an email at bpilatesmr@gmail.com to get the conversation started.