No More Excuses – It’s Time to Start Pilates

If you think it might be time to start doing Pilates, but something is holding you back, this is the post for you! Maybe you came across Pilates on social media or someone suggested it to you to help with a specific condition. Or maybe your balance isn’t as good as it was or you feel tight and sore after a day at work. It all sounds good, but you just haven’t got around to it. Let me take those speedbumps out of your way. 

If You’re Confused About What Pilates Is

A lot of people like to research an activity before they start, which can be helpful.  It can also be very confusing! You likely will come across photos of a lot of thin, fit women on reformers. Then you’ll see there are many types of studios: ones that have lots of reformers, some that have mats only, or small studios with a variety of equipment. And all those tik tok and instagram posts certainly make it look like you need to be fit and flexible to get started. Spoiler alert! Pilates is meant for all body shapes, sizes, and abilities. The equipment is there to help you build strength, flexibility, and mobility, and you’re very  likely able to start Pilates in the shape you’re in now. 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed about what Pilates is and if it’s right for you, stop scrolling and call a local studio. Most would be happy to chat about what they offer and if it’s right for you. 

If You’re Waiting For Something Special to Get Started

Yes, starting something new can be difficult, and as a Pilates teacher who has been doing this for the past 20+ years, I have heard all of the excuses…

• I’ll start when I am more flexible.
• I’ll start when I retire.
• I’ll start when I get back from holidays.
• I’ll start when I lose some weight.
• I’ll start when my friend will be able to come with me.
• I’ll start when I am more fit.
• I’ll start when I make more money.
• I’ll start when my back isn’t sore.

Here’s the thing: there will never be a  right time to start Pilates, and in the end, it will help you feel better in your body. You probably will even have fun! 

If You’re Nervous About Not Knowing What to Do

Pilates is not sanctioned and more so now than every, has become a blanket name for all kinds of fitness.  Pilates is actually its own thing with very specific exercises, exercise orders that have a built in progression that a well trained, experienced Pilates teacher will know how to give you a session that is appropriate for you.  

Over the years, I ‘ve learned that for some clients, private sessions are the best option for them at first and eventually they move into small group classes. For others, private sessions might remain the best. Most people are ready to join our small group classes right away after their intro series. That’s right – we do an intro series before you join classes. This lets us get to know you and your goals or limitations, teach you the basics, and you have time to get comfortable in the studio. I promise – we don’t throw you in the deep end on the first day. 

You Can Start Doing Pilates The Way You Are

I’ve often heard people think they are too old, injured, or unfit to start Pilates. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Just yesterday, I taught a group session with a client in her 70’s and one in her 40’s. The elder client has been working with us for four years, and during that time she’s had a hip replacement, knee surgery, back pain, and a couple of bad falls. A few years ago, I wouldn’t have suggested she do group classes, but after working on her strength and mobility, she was finally ready. She is actually very inspiring!  

The woman in her 40’s has only done Pilates for a couple of months and is still working on her understanding of the method. I was able to teach both women in the same class by offering them some small changes when needed, but for the most part, they did the same workout.

The class the ladies were in was a slower-paced group class that focuses more on the foundational exercises. This is perfect for those who’ve had surgeries, injuries, are moving slower in life, or are brand new to Pilates. The cool thing about traditional Pilates is that the foundational exercises are always there and always the same, but you do them differently over time, with more practice, until you have more control, you are more aware of the movement, and you have more strength or flow.  

Think about a sport or a traditional dance form.  In these activities you repeat the same moves over and over again. What you start to learn as a young child is the same thing you are still practicing as a teen and still as an adult.  You get better at it and you can add layers to make it more challenging but those foundations need to be solid.  

You Just Need To Start

Have I convinced you, yet? If you think it’s time to start doing Pilates, then YES – it’s time to start doing Pilates! Once you get going, you’ll wonder why you waited so long.