PILATES at the NAC

 

Because Pilates is a progressive exercise method, it is essential to learn it from the beginning. There are 10 basic mat and reformer exercises that must be mastered before progressing to the intermediate level, as well as developing an understanding of the “key principals” of Pilates.  These principals include Concentration, Centering, Fluidity, Precision and Breathing.  The goal of the beginning work is to learn the choreography of the exercises, stabilize the shoulder and pelvic girdle, master the key principals, and strengthen the deep abdominal and back muscles as well as increase flexibility and mobility.

 

The NAC is equipped with ten reformers.  All Pilates classes require a stamp in at the desk and are distributed on a first come, first serve basis up to 30 minutes prior to any given class. Class size is limited to insure safety and individual attention as much as possible in a group setting.  It is the discretion of the instructor to allow up to thirteen participants and conduct a mat class.

 

BEGINNING PILATES:  In the beginning classes you will learn the fundamentals, “basic ten” mat choreography and reformer exercises.  You will also learn your personal “reformer fit”.  The beginning work must be mastered before progressing to the intermediate level.  Your instructor will be happy to tell you when you are ready to move on.

 

INTERMEDIATE PILATES: Fundamentals are not taught at the intermediate level.  Participants have mastered the beginning choreography therefore more challenging exercises are taught and layered into the sequence.  The pace of the class is brisk and fluid, with an emphasis on precision, control, balance and strength.

 

ADVANCED PILATES:  Space in the advanced classes is reserved for those participants who have been participating in Pilates classes on an ongoing basis and have demonstrated the ability to perform the intermediate mat choreography and reformer work.  It is the discretion of the instructor to allow participation in the advanced classes.

 

POWER PILATES:  Power Pilates is a briskly paced 45-minute reformer or mat class that requires participants to be working at the intermediate level.  Control of the reformer is a pre-requisite as is mastery of the fundamentals of Pilates.  Class size is limited to 10 participants.

 

MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION:

Since I’ve been working out for years and consider myself “fit”, can I skip the beginning class and attend the intermediate and/or advanced classes?

 

The answer is “preferably not”.  The beginning work is very challenging and often more so for the very “fit” participant.  Pilates requires a release of the more frequently used large muscles and a focus on the smaller, deeper muscles that support the large muscles and joints. It is also a requirement to know the beginning choreography to keep the class flowing.  Flexibility, joint mobility and stabilization are crucial for proper execution and safety. There are not a required number of beginning classes that should be attended since we all learn at our own pace.  It is, however, the discretion of the instructor to allow participation in intermediate and advanced classes.

 

You can reach the Group Exercise Department at:

215-968-0600 x29