What is Pilates?
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What can Pilates do for me?
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I am new to Pilates, is that okay?
Absolutely! There’s never been a better time to begin discovering all the wonderful benefits of Pilates. You do not need any previous experience to get started at our studio. We simply recommend the Introductory session package. You can call us to book your first class.
How often should I practice Pilates?
To experience the optimal benefits of Pilates, it’s important to commit yourself regularly! We recommend a minimum of 1 time per week, more (2 - 3 times) if you can make the time. Whether in a private class, semi private class or mat class – consistency will accelerate your results and greatly enhance your overall health.
+ Are your instructors qualified?
Yes, definitely! You can request to see their authentic qualifications. Alternatively, all leading registered teaching organisations (such as BASI Pilates©) also list successful graduates on their individual websites.
Who is a good teacher? Who has the most Pilates experience?
All of our teachers are highly qualified Pilates instructors and have been teaching different lengths of time. We only hire the best! Each teacher has a distinct style and personality and our goal is to help you connect with your teacher and be inspired to move. We promise you to work intelligently in making that happen. Check out our instructor profiles here.
I thought Pilates is just a Mat exercises?
Pilates Matwork is perhaps the better -known style of exercise as it is the most accessible in fitness centres and community groups. Matwork utilises small props and the resistance of gravity to work one’s body.
Pilates apparatus work utilises specifically designed Pilates equipment for exercises. Resistance or assistance to the exercise is provided by a variety of springs ranges. These may be adjusted accordingly, so that a body will achieve a positive and achievable movement experience.
What is the difference between using apparatus and just doing matwork?
The apparatus allows for modification of exercise through the changing of springs and altering equipment setup. Due to the intricacies of the exercise, equipment sessions are often performed in small groups or in an individual setting where detailed corrections and adaptations to movement patterns are made. Programs are prescribed to the individual’s needs and goals.
Matwork only requires a mat and at times small props, and is therefore more easily accessible. The focus is on movement of the body against gravity, and with increased complexity in choreography and continuity of exercise, this format can prove to be quite challenging when properly executed.
My friend tells me that Pilates is just like yoga. What is the difference between Pilates and Yoga?
Yoga is one of the six orthodox schools in Hindu philosophy. It is based on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and aims to use meditation to attain spiritual insight and tranquillity. We understand that Yoga focuses on flexibility and mobility. Pilates focuses on the development of core control, stability and the creation of dynamic, functional total body movement. Through Pilates, one will develop postural strength and endurance as well as mobility and flexibility.Through movement we also benefit and create efficiency in all systems of the body including vascular, respiratory, endocrine and digestive.For the experienced Pilates practitioner, Pilates can be a very challenging, dynamic and powerful workout.
I am healthy and fit. Why should I add Pilates to my program?
Running and cycling provides us with aerobic fitness, weight training provides us with strength, dancing and aerobics provide us with coordination and swimming provides us with challenging non weight-bearing exercise.To ensure correct execution of all of these and develop correct alignment and skill of acquisition, one needs to specifically exercise the deeper intrinsic group of muscles.This helps to create a rounded exercise program and reduce the chance of injury, which may occur during ballistic forms of exercise.
I just want to take Mat classes. Do I have to take Introductory Private Classes?
Our policy for safety and correct class placements is for all clients to take Introductory Private Classes. However, if you decide to not take an Initial Private Classes then you may start with a Level 1 Pilates Mat class, providing that you are injury free.
How quickly will I see results from my Pilates training?
Results depend on each individual. Pilates is a toning and strengthening regimen that if included in a healthy lifestyle approach to fitness (proper nutrition & cardiovascular training), results are noticeable within 10 sessions. Listen to your body to find a routine that works for you. Most clients enjoy 2-3 sessions per week to see results while allowing your muscles to properly recover and repair.
As Joseph Pilates himself famously said:
“you will feel a change after 10 sessions, you will see a change after 20 sessions and you will have a new body after 30 sessions”
We encourage participants to follow his lead: for further benefits, preventative care and to achieve the satisfaction and challenge of newfound skill.
What is the difference between a Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 Mat class?
Level 1 will move a bit slower and take time to explain exercises so each client knows how to execute the movement in a safe manner. Clients are challenged by working on the Fundamental exercises in Pilates in a deep and connected manner.
Level 2 class is tailored to the more experienced clients. Clients will continue to work on Level 1 exercises while more advanced exercises will be introduced and integrated. Clients are expected to know Level 1 exercises and are challenged by a class that flows.
Level 3 is an advanced class that will challenge the client with flow, focus, concentration, control and stamina. The client must be injury free and able to do Level 2 classes.
What should I wear to Pilates class?
Please wear comfortable clothing that allows for free movement. Avoid clothing with pockets or embellishments that could damage the leather surface of the equipment and the mat. You may wear socks or go barefoot during the class (clean feet please!). A small towel is often useful if you tend to perspire a lot during exercise.
I am pregnant, can I take group classes? Which one are safe for me to take?
If you are new to Pilates, we recommend that you take our Introductory Private Classes. Thereafter, you can continue your Pilates practice in a private class setting or Semi Private Class setting. If you are a current client, you may continue with you current Pilates schedule (Mat or equipment). However you may need your instructor’s approval to continue in Mat class after 4 months. We recommend that you wait to join Pilates in your 2nd trimester if you are new to Pilates and have not been active previously.
I signed up for a class but need to cancel my class reservation, what do I do?
All our classes have 24 hour cancellation policy. Please be sure that you cancel your class reservation within the time frame. You can call our front desk at 021 - 579 012 73 or email us at info@aalayapilates.com for Semi private, Duet and Private class. If you sign up through our online booking for a mat class, you can log in and remove yourself from the class on your own within the 24 hour period.
What happens if I book a class and do not turn up or cancel with late notice?
If you cancel within 24 hrs of your session, you will unfortunately be charged at the appointment rate. We have a responsibility to our other clients who would otherwise miss out, so we know you understand.
My package of classes is about to expire, how can I extend the expiration date?
All 10 class packages expire 3 months from the date of purchase. In order to extend the expiration date, you can see a front desk staff to purchase the same or larger package and we will extend the date of your previous package to coincide with the newly purchase package.