Pilates is exercise. It is a method of body conditioning created by Joseph Pilates. The Pilates method trains the mind and body to work together toward the goal of overall fitness.

The Exercises

There are over 500 different exercises performed on five unique pieces of apparatus. Each exercise is done in a particular sequence, with a minimum number of repetitions and a high degree of precision and mental focus. The movements are continuous from one exercise to the next, and as the client progresses, the workout becomes increasingly more challenging and aerobic. The pure Pilates method captures the benefits of Eastern exercise philosophies, such as yoga, by emphasizing mental focus, breathing, and flexibility. Pilates also maximizes strength and endurance, which is the focus of traditional forms of Western exercise methods. By blending the best of these approaches, the Pilates method trains the mind and body to work together toward the goal of overall fitness.

Stretch, Strength and Control

Not only do Pilates exercises eliminate the need for tedious repetitions, but they are inherently more effective because they work several muscle groups at the same time. The movements stretch one muscle group while strengthening another, and require a great deal of abdominal control. The result is a toned body, but without the bulk seen in more conventional exercise methods.

Intelligent Exercise. A better result for the effort and time invested.

At the Core of the Pilates Method: the Powerhouse

Pilates is the godfather of core strength training. The core, or in Pilates terminology, the powerhouse, is comprised of the upper and lower abdominal muscles, the lower back and the buttocks. Conventional forms of exercise and athletic activities develop strength in the arms and legs, but largely ignore this area because these muscles are difficult to isolate and strengthen. This is the same set of muscles that support good posture and, if not used properly, will deteriorate with time. Pilates exercises are designed to stabilize the torso and work the muscles of the powerhouse lower, deeper, and more intensely. All movements are initiated from the powerhouse, which strengthens the support muscles deep within the body; muscles that typically get overlooked in conventional weight bearing or aerobic exercise. By stabilizing the powerhouse, the arms and legs can move freely from a stable spine, increasing flexibility and strength at the same time.

Everyone Can Benefit from Pilates

Pilates is something you carry with you for a lifetime. It can benefit people at all levels of fitness. Anyone can do it. Men and women, the young and athletic, or the older individual. The benefits range from helping the average person become more physically fit to perfecting the performance of the elite athlete. Regardless of your physical ability, whether you're young and limber or older and inflexible, the Pilates method teaches you a way of life. You sit better, you sleep better, you stand better, and you feel more in control of your body.

The Workout

The Metropolitan Pilates method uses specialized equipment (called apparatus) and mats. A Pilates session is 45-60 minutes in length and is composed of a combination of apparatus and matwork at a level appropriate for each client. A client works with an instructor on a one-on-one basis or in small groups of two to four people. Because of the individual focus, clients start at their own level and progress from that point. The instructor is trained to develop a system of exercises tailored specifically for each client based on age, fitness goals, and the presence of any prior injuries. The focus is on identifying bad habits, correcting any misalignment, and re-educating the body with better movement patterns and posture so injuries don't repeat themselves. In order to really see and feel results, clients are encouraged to come to two to three sessions each week.

The talented staff at Metropolitan Pilates teach the pure, genuine Pilates method of body conditioning. We are dedicated to the original teachings of Joseph Pilates, which have stood the test of time and really do deliver lasting, life-changing results.

Intelligent exercise that will change the shape of your body.

Some History

Pilates is not a new phenomenon. Joseph Pilates started developing his exercise method while serving in hospitals during the first world war. In 1926, Pilates moved to New York City where he opened his studio and since that time has maintained a steady and devoted following. After his death in 1967, his work has been carried on by Romana Kryzanowska, Master Instructor and protégée of Joseph Pilates. Early advocates of Pilates came from the arts and entertainment community. The New York City Ballet's legendary George Balanchine and dance icon Martha Graham were early adopters of the Pilates method as were the dancers that followed them. In recent years, celebrities such as Madonna, Julia Roberts, Patrick Swayze, Jodie Foster, Danny Glover, Jamie Lee Curtis, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman, Jennifer Anniston and Elizabeth Hurley say they attribute their strong toned bodies to the Pilates Method.

All Pilates Is Not the Same

The popularity of Pilates has grown in recent years, and many health clubs and sports facilities have begun offering Pilates-inspired or Pilates-based programs. And many more are offering just the mat portion of the program. The genuine Pilates method is different. It is a registered trademark that refers to the system of exercises as originally advocated by Joseph Pilates. It is a unique and powerful method that has stood the test of time and really does deliver results. At Metropolitan Pilates, we offer only the genuine Pilates method and we use apparatus built from the original design specifications and mechanics of Joseph Pilates' own equipment. All of our instructors have undergone over 600 hours of training and extensive testing, and all have been certified by Dorothee VandeWalle at Metropolitan Pilates.

Know the difference. Insist on authentic Pilates.
Get the Best at Metropolitan Pilates.

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