Spring brings Change....
Change. Change is the only thing that succeeds. Some fear it. Some don't want to think about it. Some go with its inevitability and creatively make it work for them. That's us - and that's what Pilates is all about -- changing bodies and minds. And breathing deeply as we change......
Seasons come and go and with them, changes in the colors, feelings, and activities that belong to a particular season. For me, this season also comes with a renewed appreciation for the gifts I've been given -- including the opportunity to share my love of Pilates with a wonderful "family" of clients, and of caring, loyal teachers and apprentices. You are all so important to me!
I'm excited about the changes we're making in both our Spring schedule and the ease with which you will be able to diversify your Pilates training with our new program packages and memberships. I hope you will agree.
Thank you for choosing us to be your partner as you endeavor to change....... and reach your health and fitness goals. As we teach you, we learn from you -- and we all change for the better together.
"Action and reaction, ebb and flow, trial and error, change - this is the rhythm of living. Out of our over-confidence, fear; out of our fear, clearer vision, fresh hope. And out of hope, progress." ~ Bruce Barton
Sincerely,
Joy George-Bryden
Joe's Place-True Pilates
Showing posts with label Pilates. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pilates. Show all posts
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Friday, September 30, 2011
Top 5 Pilates Myths
The increasing popularity of Pilates is a wonderful thing, but like the game, Telephone, where the meaning of a phrase gets distorted as it is passed along, as word spreads about Pilates, so have some ideas about it that aren't serving anybody. Here a few of the myths about Pilates that can send Pilates folks into mild hysteria, if not full on conniptions.
Myth 1: Pilates is a Derivative of Yoga
Ah, this one is causing a gnashing of teeth for both Pilates and yoga practitioners, especially teachers who have students come in thinking that yoga and Pilates are interchangeable. Pilates is not a derivative of yoga, although Joseph Pilates did study yoga, along with many other fitness and body/mind disciplines. While Pilates and yoga are very complementary practices, they are also very different.
Myth 2: Pilates is Just a Quick Fix for Flabby Abs
Well, the truth in this one is that Pilates is a fix for flabby abs. Pilates is well known for flattening tummys. The reason that Pilates does focus on working from the core, especially the deeper abdominal muscles, is that toning the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles provides stability and freedom of motion throughout the body. This is one of the reasons that Pilates has been so successful for people who have back pain.
However, Pilates does not stop at abdominal work at all. Structural integration, and learning to create a flexible, strong body that can move freely and efficiently are important goals of Pilates fitness. To this end, Pilates works all body parts in a very balanced way, not just the abs.
The Pilates method is also a practice of mind/body fitness. Developing a body that works as a harmonious whole requires much more than a calisthenic or spot reduction approach to fitness. The Pilates principles ~ control, centering, breath, flow and precision all support an integrative mind/body experience through Pilates exercise.
Myth 3: Pilates is Easy & for Wimps
Hold it while I count to 10, do my breathing exercises and visualize peace! I've been hearing this easy Pilates rumor around lately and it just about sends me into orbit.
I think the idea that Pilates is easy comes from a few places. First, Pilates is very adaptable. It can be easy, or very hard, depending on the needs of the individual. The ability to modify exercises for different populations is actually one of the greatest strengths of Pilates. Second, the soaring popularity of Pilates has meant that there are many beginner Pilates classes in practically every gym and studio around the country. This is a good thing, but it also means that people are not necessarily exposed to the intermediate and advanced levels of Pilates. Third, Pilates exercises are often done slowly. There is an emphasis on awareness and control that can make an exercise look easy to a casual observer.
I can think of other reasons that Pilates might seem to be easy. It is a popular form of exercise for pregnant women, it is used in rehabilitation, and people of all ages and sizes can do Pilates. Nevertheless, I assure you that the Pilates method presents ongoing challenges for even the fittest athletes (with whom Pilates is also very popular).
Myth 4: Pilates is Mostly for Women
Pilates has never been "just for women" and its benefits are certainly not gender biased. After all, Pilates was developed by a man, Joseph Pilates, who is said to have been a rather macho man at that. Joe was a gymnast, a boxer, and a military trainer in his early years, and pictures of Pilates even into his 80's, reveal a very strong, fit physique. Men have always played an important role in maintaining the Pilates work and shaping its evolution. Teachers like Ron Fletcher, who studied directly with Joseph Pilates, and Rael Isakowitz are among the most visible today.
It is true that Pilates is very popular with women, but there is nothing about Pilates that makes it more for women than men. The adaptability of the Pilates method to different levels of fitness and body types has made Pilates an accessible and effective fitness choice for women. Also, Pilates has attracted a large number of dancers, especially women, and many of them have chosen Pilates as a next career. More women teachers has made Pilates more attractive to women students. Both of these factors may have contributed to a somewhat feminized perception of Pilates. Fortunately, now that the Pilates method is becoming so well accepted in fitness, more men are showing up in studios and training programs.
Myth 5: Anyone can Teach Pilates with a Little Book & DVD Study, or a Short Workshop
There is an unfortunate truth in this. Pilates instruction is not regulated at the moment and anyone who wants to can claim to be teaching Pilates. But that's as far as it goes. Pilates is a sophisticated method of exercise and a qualified instructor will have had a lot of education and apprentice experience.
The certification to teach Pilates mat exercises is often just a weekend course, but this should be preceded by extensive time spent as a student. Full Pilates certification is much more extensive, requiring the study of anatomy, special populations, teaching skills, and all of the Pilates equipment and mat exercises. Most Pilates instructors have good training, but since the industry is not regulated it is up to the consumer to ask questions and be a discerning student, and the responsibility of prospective instructors to be sure that they have adequate education before teaching a class.
Courtesy of About.com.
Myth 1: Pilates is a Derivative of Yoga
Ah, this one is causing a gnashing of teeth for both Pilates and yoga practitioners, especially teachers who have students come in thinking that yoga and Pilates are interchangeable. Pilates is not a derivative of yoga, although Joseph Pilates did study yoga, along with many other fitness and body/mind disciplines. While Pilates and yoga are very complementary practices, they are also very different.
Myth 2: Pilates is Just a Quick Fix for Flabby Abs
Well, the truth in this one is that Pilates is a fix for flabby abs. Pilates is well known for flattening tummys. The reason that Pilates does focus on working from the core, especially the deeper abdominal muscles, is that toning the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles provides stability and freedom of motion throughout the body. This is one of the reasons that Pilates has been so successful for people who have back pain.
However, Pilates does not stop at abdominal work at all. Structural integration, and learning to create a flexible, strong body that can move freely and efficiently are important goals of Pilates fitness. To this end, Pilates works all body parts in a very balanced way, not just the abs.
The Pilates method is also a practice of mind/body fitness. Developing a body that works as a harmonious whole requires much more than a calisthenic or spot reduction approach to fitness. The Pilates principles ~ control, centering, breath, flow and precision all support an integrative mind/body experience through Pilates exercise.
Myth 3: Pilates is Easy & for Wimps
Hold it while I count to 10, do my breathing exercises and visualize peace! I've been hearing this easy Pilates rumor around lately and it just about sends me into orbit.
I think the idea that Pilates is easy comes from a few places. First, Pilates is very adaptable. It can be easy, or very hard, depending on the needs of the individual. The ability to modify exercises for different populations is actually one of the greatest strengths of Pilates. Second, the soaring popularity of Pilates has meant that there are many beginner Pilates classes in practically every gym and studio around the country. This is a good thing, but it also means that people are not necessarily exposed to the intermediate and advanced levels of Pilates. Third, Pilates exercises are often done slowly. There is an emphasis on awareness and control that can make an exercise look easy to a casual observer.
I can think of other reasons that Pilates might seem to be easy. It is a popular form of exercise for pregnant women, it is used in rehabilitation, and people of all ages and sizes can do Pilates. Nevertheless, I assure you that the Pilates method presents ongoing challenges for even the fittest athletes (with whom Pilates is also very popular).
Myth 4: Pilates is Mostly for Women
Pilates has never been "just for women" and its benefits are certainly not gender biased. After all, Pilates was developed by a man, Joseph Pilates, who is said to have been a rather macho man at that. Joe was a gymnast, a boxer, and a military trainer in his early years, and pictures of Pilates even into his 80's, reveal a very strong, fit physique. Men have always played an important role in maintaining the Pilates work and shaping its evolution. Teachers like Ron Fletcher, who studied directly with Joseph Pilates, and Rael Isakowitz are among the most visible today.
It is true that Pilates is very popular with women, but there is nothing about Pilates that makes it more for women than men. The adaptability of the Pilates method to different levels of fitness and body types has made Pilates an accessible and effective fitness choice for women. Also, Pilates has attracted a large number of dancers, especially women, and many of them have chosen Pilates as a next career. More women teachers has made Pilates more attractive to women students. Both of these factors may have contributed to a somewhat feminized perception of Pilates. Fortunately, now that the Pilates method is becoming so well accepted in fitness, more men are showing up in studios and training programs.
Myth 5: Anyone can Teach Pilates with a Little Book & DVD Study, or a Short Workshop
There is an unfortunate truth in this. Pilates instruction is not regulated at the moment and anyone who wants to can claim to be teaching Pilates. But that's as far as it goes. Pilates is a sophisticated method of exercise and a qualified instructor will have had a lot of education and apprentice experience.
The certification to teach Pilates mat exercises is often just a weekend course, but this should be preceded by extensive time spent as a student. Full Pilates certification is much more extensive, requiring the study of anatomy, special populations, teaching skills, and all of the Pilates equipment and mat exercises. Most Pilates instructors have good training, but since the industry is not regulated it is up to the consumer to ask questions and be a discerning student, and the responsibility of prospective instructors to be sure that they have adequate education before teaching a class.
Courtesy of About.com.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
lululemon Product Lingo
Confused by those special little abbreviations on lululemon hangtags? Want to learn to educate like the pros in our boutique? Say hello to our crash course on lululemon product lingo. They use abbreviations in their product names and hangtags to tell you what kind of technology makes each garment special. Consider this your go-to education guide to knowing exactly what your excited about!
Generation of Garment (I, II, III, IV)
These little Roman numerals are how lululemon indicates a new version of a much loved item. Every season, lululemon counts on your feedback to figure out exactly what you love and what can be improved. Their quest never ends when it comes to fit and function and I, II and III mark the way.
*Fabric Name
Whenever you see a (*) followed by the fabric, it indicates that this fabric has been used to create the product. It can represent the main fabric used, or a secondary fabric only used in sections. *Tweed, *Mesh, *Rib and *Org are all examples.
Brushed (*Br or *Brushed)
Brushed promises a warm, soft layer against your skin. Specifically, the fabric's bottom layer has been agitated and brushed to create a cozy, super soft feel.
Durable Water Repellent (DWR)
Fabric has been treated with a finish that causes water to bead off of the surface to keep you dry.
Water Repellent vs. Waterproof: lululemon waterproof products have an outer shell capable of repelling water and taped seems to keep all water from penetrating. Water repellent garments do not have taped seems.
Organic (*Org or *Organic)
Certified Organic Cotton is an exciting edition to the amazing lululemon fabric line.
Pique (*Pique ~ pronounced "pee-kay")
Pique luon fabric is luon that has been woven to give a more textured look and feel. It's like wearing your favorite knit sweater or pants with the superb 4-way stretch and sweat wicking abilities you know and love.
Ruffle (*Ruffle)
A textured detail to add originality to your athletic gear!
Sparkle (*Sparkle)
Subtle silver-colored threads woven into the fabric make you shine on the outside too!!
Special Edition (*Special Edition)
A new detail, feature or pattern puts a twist on a core item.
Reversible (*RVRS)
Your outfit possibilities double, thanks to lululemon's reversible options in both pants and jackets. Their flat seem technology enables them to offer two unique looks in one.
SL, SS, LS
lululemon provides all the options. You can choose between sleeveless (SL), short sleeve (SS), or long sleeve (LS) to ensure the right garment for every workout.
Regular (*R)
This indicates lululemon's standard inseam. For ladies, the inseam is 31.5" (size 2/4 = 31"). Men can expect 33".
Tall (*T)
Those with wonderfully long legs need not worry - a tall length is made just for you!! Women's *T inseam is 35" for sizes 4 & 6, and 35.5" for sizes 8 - 12. Men's *T is 36".
And there you have it. Take your newfound knowledge and shop fearlessly!!!
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Last Week in the Studio.
As busy as the studio gets in the summer, I never tire of teac
hing Pilates! I am constantly rediscovering my enthusiasm within the authentic work -- through watching the progress of my clients' practice. Here are a few examples from last week:
Allen conquered the Pull-Up on the Wunda chair. Nicely done!!
My Chairs & Barrels group did a great job this week with the One-Arm Pumping, and started work on their Swans!
And my new client Enzo, discovered some Magic in the Method! Here he is preparing to do his Chest Expansion....
..
And take a look at the change as he performs the exercise!
Looking forward to starting a great new week tomorrow!! See you there!
hing Pilates! I am constantly rediscovering my enthusiasm within the authentic work -- through watching the progress of my clients' practice. Here are a few examples from last week:Allen conquered the Pull-Up on the Wunda chair. Nicely done!!
My Chairs & Barrels group did a great job this week with the One-Arm Pumping, and started work on their Swans!
And my new client Enzo, discovered some Magic in the Method! Here he is preparing to do his Chest Expansion....
..And take a look at the change as he performs the exercise!
Looking forward to starting a great new week tomorrow!! See you there!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
The Foot Corrector
An often neglected piece of Pilates apparatus, the Foot Corrector deserves far more attention than it receives! Use of this small, simple but fabulous invention helps strengthen and stretch the muscles of the foot and lower leg, as well as correct imbalances in the foot.The Foot Corrector exercises are generally done in a standing position, one foot at a time, but they may also be done sitting. Feet and ankles should be warm and limber before using the Foot Corrector, so it is best to do your Foot Corrector exercises near or at the end of your Pilates session.
When performing the Foot Corrector exercises, as with exercises on any of the Pilates apparatus, you work the springs, they don't work you! This can be challenging because the exercises are done standing up with the foot on top of the pedal. It's important to imagine the foot working into the pedal, rather than just on top of it. And of course, scoop your abdominals in and up -- away from the downward motion of the foot.
The springs on either side of the pedal may reveal if the inner edge or the outer edge of the foot is stepping harder or sooner. Correcting imbalances like this can help with knee problems and aid in overall stability of the whole body.
Do all the exercises with one foot first, then stand up on both legs and take time to feel the difference between them. It is likely that the leg you just worked will feel longer, as if it is almost "hanging" from your body. The other leg may feel more "bunched up" at the top -- thicker and shorter. You may realize that both legs felt like this before the exercises and you weren't even aware of it!As with all Pilates apparatus, correct usage is key. Be sure to learn how to properly work with the Foot Corrector -- it is well worth the effort. And, as simple as it looks, it's actually quite a challenge!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
June 2008 - Citysearch Video
We had a great time putting together this video for our Citysearch.com listing! Many thanks to all that participated for making the day so much fun:
Barbara Bragdon
Suzanne Carter
Sue Duchesney
Tish Friend
Joyce and Marty Halpert
Carole Johnson
Lee Kelly
Leslie Whitney
Pav Wilkinson
Kate Woods
And here is our result:
Barbara Bragdon
Suzanne Carter
Sue Duchesney
Tish Friend
Joyce and Marty Halpert
Carole Johnson
Lee Kelly
Leslie Whitney
Pav Wilkinson
Kate Woods
And here is our result:
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