frequently
asked questions
Pilates on the reformer is a refreshing mind-body workout that helps you develop a strong core, flat abdominals, a strong back, gain long lean muscle and flexibility. With Pilates you can create an even condition body, improve sports performance and most important prevent injuries. You will learn how to move efficiently. Pilates is a gentle but also challenging exercise. try it!
Stretch stronger. Ki-Hara resistance stretching is a revolutionary technique which utilizes a person’s own resistance for increasing lasting mobility. Ki-Hara uses scientifically-backed methods to reduce injury, balance muscle groups and increase flexibility using concentric exercises for strengthening and eccentric movements for stretching.
During Ki-Hara resistance stretching, the muscles are being contracted and lengthened at the same time so the muscles are only taken as far as they can resist to keep stretching safe and effective.
The basic concept of Ki-Hara is that the muscles are strong throughout their ranges of motion–strength and flexibility go hand in hand– keeping the muscles more stable and explosive.
We’ve found that an “inflexible” muscle may actually be unable to stretch because of inactivated muscles, scar tissue or tightness elsewhere. The Ki-Hara method stresses the importance of working through these imbalances to release the muscles surrounding the problem area to allow for true flexibility and strength in full range surrounding the joints.
Benefits of Ki-Hara resistance stretching: a scientifically-backed eccentric strength-training program, creates lasting gains in flexibility, strength and aerobic capacity, Improves performance and recovery, creates more powerful, explosive, and core stable movements, realigns the body to improve posture, removes chronic joint stress, painful muscle tension and injuries, prevents injury from over stretching, targets specific areas of existing or potential injury
People are becoming increasingly more interested in fitness modalities that help relieve stress. They’re also much more interested in prevention and taking care of their bodies.
They want to stay fit and look good for as long as possible. Pilates is complementary to many traditional ways of working out. It’s excellent for all ages, fitness levels and goals. It’s mind-body aspect requires focus, concentration and connecting to your breath.
No form of exercise is appropriate for everyone, but Pilates is appropriate for most people. As with any exercise method, you should always consult with a medical expert before beginning an exercise regime.
A modified program may be recommended if you have any physical limitations. Everyone from serious fitness enthusiasts, to rehab patients, elite athletes, and prenatal clients will see a difference in their bodies over a short period of time.
Pilates exercise is a musculo-skeletal conditioning program. It’s ideal in combination with some kind of cardiovascular exercise (walking, running, aerobics, aqua fitness etc.), and a great complement to your weight training program or athletic training.
In some respects Pilates is like yoga. Both are considered mind-body methods of movement; both emphasize deep breathing and smooth, long movements that encourage the mind-body connection.
The difference is that while yoga requires moving from one static posture to the next, Pilates flows through a series of movements that are more dynamic, systematic and anatomically-based incorporating resistance equipment.
The goal with Pilates exercise is to strengthen the postural muscles while achieving optimal functional fitness.
Pilates can be a positive addition to your overall weight-loss program. Weight loss occurs when the number of calories consumed is less than the number of calories expended.
The most successful and healthy way to achieve weight loss is an exercise plan that includes an aerobic component coupled with a strength training component and following a balanced diet. Combining Pilates with aerobic exercise also offers additional benefits: greater mind-body connection, improved posture, flexibility and functionality.
The difference is that while yoga requires moving from one static posture to the next, Pilates flows through a series of movements that are more dynamic, systematic and anatomically-based incorporating resistance equipment.
The goal with Pilates exercise is to strengthen the postural muscles while achieving optimal functional fitness.
Despite its slow, careful movements, Pilates is not easy. Pro athletes like NHL, NBA players, and tennis pros benefit from practicing Pilates. They realize the importance of core stability and rebalancing the muscles making them work more efficiently. this helps prevent injury and improves athletic ability.
Two to three times a week is ideal, but even once a week is beneficial. The most important thing is long term consistency.
Joseph Pilates said: “In 10 sessions you’ll feel the difference, in 20 sessions you’ll see the difference, and in 30 sessions you’ll have a whole new body”. Exact results may vary by individuals, but we are sure that you will notice the difference as you commit to a consistent program.
You’re probably wondering how am I going to stay fit, have a comfortable pregnancy and easy labor and delivery. Well, we are here to help you. Pilates is a safe and effective approach to exercise for pregnant women.
Pilates is often called a Mind Body Method of exercise, and for good reason. Pregnancy can be a time to tune inward and connect with the core principles of Pilates which are centering, concentration, control, precision, breath and flow.
While these principles can enhance your workout, they also offer skills like focusing the mind and offer breathing techniques that can help you with a smoother delivery.
Pilates strengthens the most important muscles you’ll use during pregnancy and labor: your abdominals, pelvic muscles and your back. Pilates will help with muscular endurance, flexibility, and balance as your center of gravity starts to shift. Building core strength, and toning your abdominals, pelvic muscles and your back will not only help you with your delivery but will help with:
– lower back pain
– maintain your fitness level
– self-esteem
– physical demands of being a mother
– strengthen pelvic floor muscles
The most common question we are asked by pre and post natal women is WHAT IS DIASTASIS RECTI?
Diastasis recti (also known as abdominal separation) is a disorder defined as a separation of the rectus abdominal muscle into right and left halves. Essentially your abdominal muscles become separated. This happens sometimes during pregnancy. Diastasis recti is caused by the growing uterus pushing against these muscles and separating them. Hormones during pregnancy can also cause the connective tissue that holds these muscles together to weaken aggravating the problem even more. The worst thing you can do is a normal ab workout. These types of exercises
will only pull your abs further apart. Don’t worry though, Pilates abdominal work can be modified and is safe to do throughout your entire pregnancy with your doctors permission. We have instructors that are trained in pre and post natal Pilates. Call or come in to schedule a free consultation to find out how we can help you during your pregnancy.
Pilates is a great form of exercise for anyone with back issues. Private sessions are strongly recommended so the teacher can create a safe and effective program best suited for your individual needs. Pilates will strengthen your muscles, increase your flexibility and improve your posture helping you to prevent back pain.
Although you should always consult your physician before starting any fitness routine, a Pilates workout is gentle and controlled with no sudden jarring actions. It is more important, however, that you work with a qualified instructor to ensure that you are doing the movements correctly.
An experienced instructor will be able to modify the exercises to accommodate your limitations, continually challenge you within your ability, and monitor your improvements. If you commit yourself to a consistent workout schedule you will certainly feel results.
All of our teachers are Pilates certified and have been teaching different lengths of time. Each teacher has a distinct style and personality. Our job is to help you connect with a teacher who will inspire and help you with your goals.
If at any time you decide to change teachers, this is no problem. We are here to give you the best workout experience possible!
Call the studio to schedule a consultation or a private session. Classes can be booked and paid for online by logging into mindbody (app also available). Our price list, class description and teachers’ bio’ s are also on this site.
We have a 12 hour cancellation policy because we are a professional studio. Our teachers reserve the time and keep it available for each client. Cancellation 12 hours in advance allows our teachers sufficient time to book another client to fill that void.
We know that unforeseen emergencies come up. Please call the studio as soon as you know you cannot attend a scheduled session. This applies both to group classes and private sessions.
2 hour parking in the surrounding residential area is free for 2 hours. Metered parking is available in front and additional public parking across 41st street. Arrive few minutes early to check in with the receptionist, fill out forms, put your personal belongings in a cubby and introduce yourself to your teacher, who can answer any last minute questions you may have.
Please let the teacher know if you have any injuries. We recommend you wear non-slip socks during your Pilates session.
We know that unforeseen emergencies come up. Please call the studio as soon as you know you cannot attend a scheduled session. This applies both to group classes and private sessions.
We have assisted stretching Ki-Hara, and mashing.
Ki-Hara
Ki-Hara Resistance Stretching is a comprehensive and innovative approach to flexibility training. Moving the body through multiple planes of movement as you resist allows for concentric and eccentric training (developing strength and flexibility).
In self stretching you provide your own resistance, and during assisted stretching sessions we provide resistance to press against you as you move in patterns that go deep into hip and shoulder joints, maximizing flexibility for everyday movements. Ki-Hara is a balanced and integrated approach to well-being and creates lasting change.
South Beach Pilates believes in giving back to our community. We want Pilates to be accessible to everyone. If you need private Pilates sessions and cannot afford our prices we will discount the sessions for a period of time so that you can move into the group classes. We also donate Pilates classes to area schools, places of worship and non profit organizations.
Yes. We are very proud of the Pilates Plus Teacher Training Program. We offer mat, reformer and comprehensive programs. If you are interested in becoming a Pilates teacher contact Susan Karvelis for more information.
We take cash and all credit cards. Gift certificates are also available.