FAQs
Do you work with beginners in pilates?
Yes, there is no prior knowledge of PIlates or even exercise to do Pilates. The foundation of every exercise in Pilates is the basics. The system is designed to support your movements with the springs. The apparatus’ are designed to guide your awareness of movements by controlling the springs. You build your core with guidance from the instructor. With every lesson you gain more stability and mobility in your joints, strength in your core and confidence in your life.
Do you offer at-home sessions?
Pilates Mat training and Soma Training/The ELDOA are available for at-home sessions. These programs is great because there is no equipment necessary and the focus is on strength and stretching target areas. This program is also available via Zoom.
If you have your own Pilates equipment, the entire Pilates system is available for at-home session.
I have an old injury, is it safe to practice?
There is an assessment on the first lesson to address injuries present or prior and are closely monitored throughout the program. We start with awareness of your core, posture analysis, gait training and range of motion of your limbs. In Pilates, specific exercises are taught to target compensation from old injuries, imbalances and general weakness. We call this pre-pilates, this is any exercise that is not pilates as pilates is a choreographed system that ranges beginner to super advanced.
The Soma Training/Eldoa program is also and excellent tool to address the above limitations and be able to progress in Pilates. This is another program completely and the taught separate from Pilates. You learn exercises that can be done at home to reinforce the muscles and stretch the fascia supporting the chain of muscles and the entire body. The Eldoa creates tension in the entire body allowing micro movements that create space at one articular joint. Most importantly, Eldoa relieves back pain.
In Pilates we use the springs to work the muscles in a synergic pattern allowing the movements to isometrically engage the core with the support from the springs. 99% of the work is on your back stabilizing your spine. As you learn coordination of your arms and legs you increase the blood circulation This eccentric contraction works the muscles at the same time elongating them. Pilates in three words: “Strength, Stretch with the control of your Mind” Romana Kryzanowska, my teacher. This is how you develop a strong core and mobility in your joints.
Do you offer massage therapy? How often should I get a massage?
Yes, Massage (Manual) Therapy is the magic bullet to supplement any exercise program. I became a licensed Massage Therapist to offer this to my clients and the general public. Massage promotes relaxation and restful sleep and improves circulation and tonicity of the muscular system. Medical massage targets those areas that are chronic or from recovery after rehab of an injury and before we are released to an exercise program with Doctor or Physical Therapist referral. I recommend once or twice a month or just a fix here and there.
What is Soma Training/The ELDOA?
“Micro movement manages macro function.”
— Guy Voyer
Soma training is a comprehensive conditioning system originally developed by renowned French osteopath by Guy Voyer. ELDOA is an exercise method within the Soma Training program. ELDOA is a French acronym translated into English as LOADS (Longitudinal Osteo-Articular Decoaptation Stretching) with the primary goals of being able to increase space in your body. These postural exercises “create space” in a given joint, increasing blood flow throughout the body and reducing inflammation, compression and pain. This also enables increased mobility, flexibility and stability.
You will learn to do these micro-movement postures yourself to reduce chronic pain, improve muscle tone and posture, and develop a stronger sense of well-being and physical awareness.
How do Pilates, Massage, and ELDOA work together?
Together they improve blood circulation, improve muscle timidity and mobilize the joints. All assist in moving the fluid through the connective tissue, the fascia chains through the body—linking these modalities allows you to feel whole, rejuvenated, and connected to your daily activities and well-being.
How often should I take lessons?
You will learn a program that is right for you and I recommend you take lessons two to three times a week in the beginning. Depending on your fitness level and schedule you will feel better immediately and improve your posture within 30 lessons. A good fitness program is a life commitment. The good news over time and as you progress you can do a lot of the work at home and come in for a refresher once a week.
Will I lose weight?
You will definitely gain confidence and good habits with a regular exercise program and good hydration. Weight management should be addressed by a licensed dietitian.
How long will it take to see results?
This depends on how you invest your time in your program. It is never one thing that changes our bodies but with a good regime you will feel better immediately and gain confidence to continue the path to good health.