A lot of the time, when people find out that I’m a Pilates instructor, I get some version of this: “Pilates? Oh yeah, isn’t that like yoga?”

The short answer to this question is…kind of. 

If you Google it, you’ll see that there are many ways to define and describe Pilates. I choose to explain it like this:

Pilates is an exercise method that utilizes a mind-body-spirit connection to improve strength, balance, and flexibility throughout the entire body — with a particular emphasis on the core. While Pilates can be done using only a mat, there are also several machines specifically designed for the method, including the Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, and Ladder Barrel.

Pilates requires you to engage your body AND your mind, using your mental energy to focus on the movements, so that you can perform the exercises correctly and with control. This idea of concentrating on correct form and movement, to get deeper into the workout, is what I believe separates Pilates from other exercise methods. It’s not about how many reps you can do or how much weight you can handle (in fact, some Pilates exercises get harder with a lighter spring). Pilates is about quality over quantity.

This is what makes Pilates a good choice for anyone, from the beginner that wants to start a regular exercise routine, to the athlete looking to rehab an injury, to the post-pregnancy woman who wants to get back in shape. There are numerous ways to add variations or modifications to an exercise, making it more or less challenging for a specific individual. The goal is to get you in tune with the deep core muscles of the body. Learning how to engage and strengthen these muscles is key to preventing future pain and injuries.

There are six principles of Pilates that, when employed, really take the workout to the next level. These principles are Breathing, Concentration, Control, Centering, Precision, and Flow. I’ll go into more detail about them later, but I bring these principles up because, coupled with the idea of a mind-body connection, they reinforce what Pilates is all about: mindful movement.

I encourage you to try a Pilates class to see how the method can benefit you. If you’re already a devotee, I challenge you to learn about the six principles and incorporate them into your workout. Questions? I’m happy to answer — and I would love for you to come workout with me!