IN JOE’S STUDIO

Joseph Pilates recommends practising his discipline 3 times a week. With Joe, you had to sign up to come to his Contrology gym 3 times a week for 3 months. The guy was serious! Joe Pilates knew that achieving consistent results would require considerable hard work and dedication. His famous quote:

“In 10 sessions, you’ll feel the difference. In 20, you’ll see the difference. And in 30, you’ll be on your way to a whole new body.”

But let’s put things in context: in his studio, you had Privates and then you trained on the equipment yourself. Apprentices and teachers supervised, correcting and helping out where necessary. Autonomy has been encouraged – including memorizing your sequence and configurations, with the help of photos and exercise lists. Your practice has been refreshed and progressed over time.

But what about real life? How often you should practice Pilates really depends on you, your commitments and your priorities.

From my personal observations, after working with students over the years and after the challenge of 30 sessions in 10 weeks…..I summarize as follows:

• 1 session a week on a consistent basis for maintenance, you’ll spend time recreating what you’ve already felt and learned, helping and educating you in injury prevention. You’ll get great stress relief, but don’t look for results! Flexibility and strength will gradually improve, layer by layer.
• 2 sessions a week on a consistent basis will bring big changes later on in terms of strength, stability, mobility and flexibility – it will improve performance. 2 sessions a week will also help you treat specific injuries with deeper work.
• 3 sessions a week consistently – here the Pilates promise comes to life – optimal Pilates results – you get a transformed body, not surgical enhancement. We’re talking about visible changes in the way you carry yourself and the way your clothes fall on you. This will have an impact on how efficiently you carry out your daily tasks and activities. You’ll notice significant improvements in posture, mobility, strength and flexibility, as well as improved concentration and mental control.

Good instruction is worth the time and expense, but we understand that time and funds are not infinite. Aim for 2 sessions a week, and make a commitment to yourself and your body, and if you can from time to time, add a series of 3 times a week!

And remember, Pilates doesn’t have to be your only exercise. Commit to moving every day: walking, cycling, weight training, swimming, hiking, dancing. Do what you like, you say! Pilates is an effective way to do just that!