Pilates by Rya

Pilates is an exercise system designed by Joseph Pilates. Joe Pilates strongly believed that one’s quality of life is largely dependent on physical health and posture. He believed that the mind when housed in a healthy body possesses a glorious sense of power. The Pilates System teaches you how to move from your “centre”, classically termed your “Powerhouse”, strengthens and stretches your body in a functional way, so you can perform with ease and energy the physical activities your day requires. Personally, I find Pilates both a very loving and empowering practice. While the mat work is the foundation of the work, apparatus or props are used to deepen the exercises and educate your muscular and fascial system to engage as it is meant to, in a more holistic way. A couple of examples of Apparatus include the Reformer and the Magic Circle.

Yes, almost 100 years ago Joseph Pilates, a professional boxer, self-defence trainer, circus performer, yoga and animal-movement scholar, invented interesting pieces of equipment. He used bedsprings, barrels and other creative things. His equipment, called apparatus, was designed to strengthen and support organic movement of the body. He dedicated the rest of his life developing this apparatus and refining what is now known as the Pilates System, a whole body exercise regime. Since his time, many health and fitness professionals have added and adapted Pilates exercises into their programs, hence the many different styles of contemporary Pilates.

No, if you have the motivation, you can start at any age! I currently work with and 82 year old who thanks herself everyday for committing to her Pilates lessons.

It depends. While Pilates can be used as a rehabilitation tool, I recommend you get the clearance from your health professional (Physiotherapist, Doctor…) that you are ready to exercise.

If Pilates is new to you, I recommend starting Pilates after your pregnancy. However, I can offer you valuable prenatal lessons with appropriate breathing exercises, yoga and some Pilates exercises.

Many changes happen to your body during pregnancy and birth. Postpartum, it is important to take it slow and set a solid foundation before jumping back into the activities you did before pregnancy. Everybody is unique in how they heal, but for most, some retraining is required to heal imbalances and prevent them from worsening. Common imbalances include incontinence, prolapse, Diastasis Recti Abdominis and back pain.

Many reasons! You can work with me from anywhere in the world! You do not have to travel to a studio. You do not have to worry about catching or spreading germs. You can still benefit from a guided session, including real time feedback specific to your body. You can apply what you learn into your self-practice.

The basic props for the Mat class include a towel and either a theraband (I recommend blue or green) or a scarf” Then, to deepen and expand your practice, you can build on the basics by adding Classical Pilates apparatus, as simple as the Magic Circle or as grand as a full Reformer - Tower unit.

Multi-level. You can be new to Pilates or an avid practitioner.

It is basically a piece of wood bolted to the wall with hooks to hang springs from. The springs are used to deepen the mat work, and educate the muscular and fascial system to work more holistically. Using springs in your workout is also really fun!

It all depends how much space and money you would like to commit to it. It can be as simple as a yoga mat and a theraband or as grand as a room stocked with Classical Pilates apparatus (Reformer, Cadillac, Barrels, Chairs etc.)

Set aside a space that you enjoy being in, this can include good air circulation, pleasing simple visual surroundings and an empty space on the floor. If you don’t have the space to keep it set up permanently, choose the same area that is easy to set up and take down each workout. Store your props nearby so they are easily accessible. Then commit yourself! Schedule yourself the time and set a timer. When the timer starts, no procrastination, just get on your mat and the rest will flow from there. One of the best ways to be accountable for your workouts is to pre-sign up for a class or a lesson. Book yourself-in the same time, daily or weekly. You will thank yourself after!