When you are looking for a Pilates studio that is right for you, it is best to have a trial class or a one on one consultation with the teacher who would become your instructor. There is a distinct difference in the different styles of Pilates instruction being taught today.
Today we are seeing more “boot camp” Pilates happening with the younger generation of teachers. Their focus is core, core, core because that is what many people are looking for.
In my opinion, the boot camp approach of pushing one’s body to the point where form is compromised, for example: the shoulders tense and the lower back strains, is defeating the purpose of doing Pilates in the first place. A body does what it is trained to do. To exercise with one’s shoulders up is training the shoulders to do just that. Plus, lower back strains and injuries are common when people are pushing their cores to do more than they are capable of doing.
My training was based on the original Pilates method that is a total body workout, a slower paced class where form and balance muscular development is of utmost importance. Joseph Pilates often mentioned the importance of uniformly developed muscles. He placed an emphasis on nurturing the body rather than punishing it.
I have to admit that I often pushed my body a little beyond it’s limit in my younger years. I might have been attracted to a Boot Camp Pilates studio had they existed back then, but I had youth on my side and strains repaired quickly. I was also a professional dancer, had a very strong body, and was intune with it’s limitations.
My goal today as a teacher is to empower as many people as I can to take control of their well being. Having a fit body for one’s age is a critical part of that equation. The challenge for most people is finding a fitness program that appeals to them, and for many, the “no pain – no gain” approach doesn’t last. It also isn’t a safe way for them to exercise.
For more information contact: Julie Akin of Synergy Staying Fit Pilates in South Surrey / Ocean Park Tel: 604 809-9463
