About Pilates

About Classical Pilates

  • Originally called “Contrology” for over half a century, Pilates is an extremely effective discipline of neuromuscular (mind-body) exercise created by Joseph Pilates. The method employs novel ways to move and novel concepts unique to Pilates and utilizes a range of specialized equipment.

    The Classical method uses a set sequence of exercises requiring focus and concentration to move the body through precise movements and form. Emphasis is placed on correct bio-mechanical movement and the exercises are guided by breathing patterns and the 6 principles of Pilates: Breath, Concentration, Control, Precision, Centering and Flow.

    The Classical method also emphasizes continuous movement patterns, each exercise seamlessly transitions into the next and integrates both strengthening and stretching elements simultaneously. The pace and difficulty level is constantly increased as one advances, eventually providing not only an intense workout, but also a cardiovascular workout.

    Pilates strengthens and rebuilds the body from its centre; the spine and intrinsic muscles, out to the periphery of the body and is a transformative experience that many come to rely on for the lifetime of benefits it offers.

  • The following are a few of the many benefits that Pilates provides:

    • Builds a uniformly developed body which moves with ease, grace and fluidity

    • Increases power, strength, flexibility, and core stability in a new way

    • Teaches how to fully and correctly engage the intrinsic and entire deep core musculature

    • Builds long, lean muscles and elongates the body

    • Increases flexibility, joint mobility and range of motion

    • Corrects structural imbalances, alignment and improves posture

    • Decompresses the spine and contributes to restoring spinal health and vitality 

    • Teaches spinal articulation, spinal decompression, length and the oppositional stretch technique

    • Teaches neuro-muscular patterning, concentration and body awareness

    • Improves coordination, balance, proprioceptive vision and neuroplasticity

    • Provides mindful techniques and a healthy outlet to seek improvements in mental well being

    • Reduces stress and boosts mood, energy, and motivation

    • An invaluable adjunct to professional sports training and rehabilitation

    • A key tool for the aging population, benefiting bone health and density, enhancing coordination and postural awareness and promoting neural (brain) plasticity to potentially slowdown cognitive decline

  • Pilates is an excellent exercise form for individuals of all ages, genders, and fitness levels. The age range of clients at Yaletown Pilates is between 11 and 84 years; from aspiring youth seeking the conditioning edge to prepare for their Olympic journey, to seniors seeking longevity and vitality.

    For Pilates clients from the film and showbiz industry seeking privacy and customized schedules during their visit to Vancouver, Yaletown Pilates is the ideal private setting and location and experienced in providing client discretion.

  • Many people believe Pilates is just stretching— Contrary to popular belief, Classical Pilates does not involve passive stretching or holding poses. Each exercise integrates both a strength and stretch element simultaneously. Pilates exercises also stretch multiple muscle groups at once.

    Going for the “burn”— Exhausting a muscle group or aiming for the “burn”  is not an intention in the Pilates Method. The focus is on quality of movement vs quantity. The exercise sequences are performed in low repetition, between 3-10 maximum repetitions and without any repeated sets, in order to maintain proper form.

    Don't expect the typical feeling of soreness the next day to be a measure of your success— Likewise, soreness the following day a is not a measure in gauging a successful Pilates workout. (Please view the first section on this page, “What are the Benefits of Pilates?” to learn what changes and benefits to expect from participating in Pilates.)

    Don't expect to work only certain body parts on certain days— Pilates uniformly engages the entire body musculature in every exercise. The body is not broken down into body parts that are focused upon on certain days, as in a typical gym routine.

The Pilates Equipment

Pilates utilizes a range of specialized apparatus that enables multi-directional and three-dimensional movements enabling a full-body workout by engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously. The unique use of spring resistance on the apparatus and their capacity to facilitate unconventional movement planes distinguishes Pilates from conventional fitness regimes. The apparatus caters to varying skill levels, offering versatility for both novice and seasoned practitioners.

  • The reformer was the first piece of apparatus created by Joseph Pilates. It provides spring resistance from underneath its sliding carriage. The reformer also uses leather straps for the hands and feet.

  • The Cadillac, or its floor version cousin known as the Tower, is one of the most comprehensive pieces of Pilates equipment. It incorporates bars, straps, springs, and push-through bars that allow for a wide range of 3-dimensional movements, offering a full-body workout. The horizontal, vertical and overhead components on the Cadillac version allow full 3-dimensional work in all planes of movement, including inversion work.

  • The Pilates chair is a compact and highly effective piece of equipment that requires tremendous strength and control. Its small size doesn't limit its effectiveness. The chair provides an intense workout, forcing you to use your local stabilizers and challenges the entire body from the inside out. The chair was created by Joseph for clients to practice their exercises at home. It was a smaller piece of equipment that could still replicate the Reformer. It also doubled as an armchair when flipped over and could be incorporated as furniture when not in use. Ingenious!

  • Various size barrels, such as the Ladder Barrel and Spine Corrector support and challenge the spine through a range of exercises that help deepen the Pilates fundamentals. The Ladder Barrel, in particular, allows for deep stretches and promotes spinal mobility and flexibility.

  • Classical Pilates mat is a set sequence of 34 Pilates exercises taught in the same order on a specialized Pilates mat. Many of the exercises originate from the equipment work, but are performed without the support the springs and equipment provide. Additionally, the majority of exercises are performed in prone or supine position, working against gravity and therefore provide an additional challenge.

 Frequently Asked Questions

  • If you are detail-oriented person and prefer the exclusivity of working in a private setting with one-on-one instruction, this may be the right environment for you.

  • As standard across the industry, 24hr notice is required for cancellations or changes. Late cancellations or no shows will be charged in full.

  • Comfortable, form-fitting workout clothes that allow us to monitor your alignment and movement are recommended.

    For hygienic and safety reasons, we require Pilates, anti-slip socks be worn during your session. Socks are available for purchase at the studio at a cost of $20.00. If you are bringing your own socks, please ensure they are freshly washed.

    Please note: The studio is a shoe-free zone as teachers and students work on the floor. This is for hygiene as well as safety. Soles of shoes deposit granular dirt or tiny stones that can cause injury. Please respect the Studio policy by leaving your shoes in the entry area.

  • Yes! Not only was Pilates originally created by a man, but it was originally designed exclusively for men.

    Private Pilates sessions are the ideal way to create the ultimate balanced body for men with muscle mass from traditional gym fitness. Strong armoury muscles generally mean weak intrinsic muscles, spinal compression, muscle imbalances and tight fascia.

    Pilates will help increase power and strength in a new way, by helping find deep core muscle activation, spinal decompression, improved fascial health, elongated muscles and increased flexibility and joint mobility.

    The results will be better posture and a more balanced healthier body, that moves with greater ease and fluidity.

  • This can be arranged! Currently we only offer private 1:1 sessions, However, this is an upcoming option for clients after they have taken their initial private introductory sessions.

    Please connect with us using the contact us form to enquire.

  • As in any other fitness regime, 3-4 sessions per week are optimum to feel the full benefits. However, we understand this is not always practical. A minimum commitment of 2-3 sessions per week are suggested. However, even with 1 session per week you will feel an improvement.

  • Pilates is not like yoga. Yoga is done on a mat without any equipment in large groups without personal guidance. Poses are held in yoga.

    Pilates is a steady, dynamic flow, all about equipment and spring resistance work and is taught 1:1 or in very small groups with teacher guidance and hands on corrections.

  • Please use the contact form. We will respond within 24 hours. On occasion, emails dont always reach a recipient, If you have not heard back within 24 hours, Please try connecting again.

  • At Yaletown Pilates we hold ourselves to a highest standards of hygiene in the Studio.