Thoughts on Yoga
WHAT THE HECK IS PILATES?
2004-09-15
Dear Yoga Friends:
Perhaps you already know all about pilates—so you can stop reading and go back to the home page now. However, you might be hesitant to try our new pilates classes because you're unsure what it is. Here's "The Scoop" (that's a pilates pun).
Our pilates classes are BASIC MAT classes. (That means we just use the same mats we use for yoga. There are many pilates exercises that are done on special equipment, but not as part of a mat class) The exercises are performed seated, lying down on the back, side, or tummy. The classes are suitable for all levels. Breathing and alignment are emphasised in each exercise. Class ends with gentle stretch and relaxation. Sounds a lot like our yoga...so far.
There are several key differences between our pilates and our yoga: In pilates, we emphasise toning and stretching mostly the "core" muscles—deep abs, back, glutes. In our yoga, shoulders, hips, and all other joints also share the focus so relatively less time is spent on the core. In pilates there is a lot of rhythmic movement— whereas our yoga will have more stopping to "stretch"—(what's called "static stretching.") In pilates we practice keeping core muscles "switched on" throughout the class. In yoga there are many times when those muscles are supposed to let go and relax. When you come to pilates, expect to work hard, have fun and leave feeling energized.
Some of the benefits of pilates are the same as those you get from our yoga classes: mind–body connection; reduced pain and fatigue; higher level of fitness, strength and flexibility; and more. Some of the results however are more specific to pilates. The greatest of these is the improved function of the spine through the strengthening of the muscles that attach to it. The way this shows up is reduced back pain; taller posture, flatter tummy; better balance when walking, hiking, kayaking, playing tennis, dancing, or climbing; and improved strength when lifting objects or performing difficult yoga postures. You will also notice a feeling of power and strength emerging from deep in your center. This has positive physical as well as psychological components. (Josh and I noticed this on our recent trip to Maine, where we were able to tackle the steepest, longest, and most exciting hikes we'd ever done. As I stepped from rock to rock, I could feel my core kicking in, keeping me balanced on my feet.)
To experience a taste of what pilates can offer you, consider taking a class. Then consider taking five more classes, either once or twice a week. After six classes, you can expect to see and feel some positive changes.
Think of pilates and yoga as two different systems that complement each other perfectly. You can practice either yoga or pilates and you will get tremendous benefit from either practice. However, some folks will want to "cross–train" with both systems in order to achieve even greater levels of fitness and well–being. We offer both systems at our studios so you don't have to choose one over the other.
Pilates basic mat classes are offered in Easthampton on Saturdays at 10:45–11:45 am and Thursdays 6–7pm In Amherst, they are held on Monday 7–8pm, Wednesday 7:05–8:05pm and Saturday 9–10am. All classes are for all levels. Hope to see you in class soon! —Ruth Anne