Upon my initial entry into a Pilates studio, I observed a group of ladies reclining on their sides, lifting and lowering their legs just a few inches, and I naively thought to myself, “This will be a breeze.” Alas, I was utterly mistaken. The moment my session commenced, it only took one exercise before my lower abdominal muscles were in throbbing agony like never before.
If I had not experienced Pilates firsthand, I might never have realized how severely I had underestimated it. Nevertheless, I would not be alone: Despite the increasing popularity of Pilates (as reported by the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association as the most sought-after gym activity for women, according to The New York Times), many individuals still regard it with skepticism from outside the studio.
In an effort to dispel myths, I consulted a couple of Pilates instructors regarding some of the most prevalent misconceptions among those curious about Pilates, and why these beliefs are unfounded.
Fallacy No. 1: Flexibility is a prerequisite for Pilates
When Joseph Pilates initially introduced his practice to the United States during the 1920s and ’30s, some of his earliest prominent clients were renowned dancers such as George Balanchine and Martha Graham. Even in contemporary times, numerous professional dancers are fervent followers of Pilates. Therefore, it is not uncommon to witness legs soaring skywards towards people’s ears in Pilates classes—but this does not imply that you must possess that range of motion to perform the exercises.
“Pilates is inclusive for everybody, regardless of age or body type,” affirms Bianca Melas, an Alo Moves Pilates instructor who recently formulated the platform’s 14-Day Power Pilates series. “Through consistent Pilates practice, you will enhance your flexibility”—in addition to your muscular strength and posture.
Nevertheless, Pilates is not strictly a stretching routine, contrary to a prevalent misconception. “Pilates is, fundamentally, a strength-training regimen, primarily concentrating on the core,” states Heather Anderson, proprietor of New York Pilates. The purpose of those legs ascending in the air is to test your core stability.
Experiment with this comprehensive Pilates workout to comprehend our point:
Fallacy No. 2: Pilates is exclusively for slender women
Surprising fact: When Joseph Pilates and his spouse Clara inaugurated their studio in New York City, 60 percent of the clientele consisted of men, according to the Pilates Foundation. Nonetheless, the stereotypical image of a Pilates enthusiast nowadays is more reminiscent of a ballerina than a bodybuilder, owing to the impact dancers have had on the discipline. This perception might dissuade men from giving it a shot, as Melas notes. It may also create the impression that Pilates is unattainable for individuals who do not possess the archetypal “dancer’s physique.”
On the contrary, Pilates can be customized to accommodate any physique, skill level, or capability. “It is, in fact, one of the most adaptable practices available,” explains Anderson. “We can adjust exercises for those who are out of shape, have injuries, or are elderly. Simultaneously, we can elevate the regimen for individuals who possess remarkable physical strength.”
Fallacy No. 3: The reformer apparatus is intimidating
Given the presence of numerous straps and springs attached to Pilates equipment, one could be forgiven for assuming that they are intended more for inflicting distress than fostering strength. Anderson acknowledges that many novices find them extremely daunting.
“I always find this reaction amusing because once you familiarize yourself with the reformer, it feels remarkably supportive, enjoyable, and it glides!” affirms Anderson. In various aspects, Pilates equipment like the reformer or cadillac are devised to aid you in executing exercises more effectively by offsetting a portion of your body weight. (Although, truth be told, the gliding motion on the reformer can deceptively challenge your core strength.)
Fallacy No. 4: Pilates is associated with yoga
Individuals unfamiliar with Pilates and yoga sometimes conflate the two disciplines. “Both are performed on the mat, entail low-impact movements, emphasize breath control, and primarily consist of bodyweight exercises,” notes Melas. Anderson adds that both also encompass a mind-body connection.
The disparity? Yoga is rooted in ancient Indian spiritual traditions. “Its fundamental objective is meditative even before it is considered a fitness regimen,” states Anderson. Pilates, conversely, is essentially a physical discipline. Melas elucidates that it revolves around “precise, targeted exercises focusing on the core, posture, body alignment, and overall physical strength.”
Both practices can complement your fitness routine, although each offers distinct advantages. To discern the disparity, the optimal approach is to lay down on a mat and sample both methodologies.
