According to an expert, this is how to get the most out of your Pilates training.
Olga Tamara has over 30 years experience as a personal trainer and fitness instructor. She was a classical dancer with the Australian Ballet Company from 1971 – 1976, and since then has turned to focus on Classical Pilates, owning her own Pilates studio, Authentic Pilates Studio, in Lilyfield, Sydney.
Bondi Beauty spoke to Olga about how to get get the most out of your Pilates training. Here’s what she had to say:
“There are so many studios and gyms that teach different styles of Pilates, and it can be confusing to know how to choose the right studio for you, so you get the most out of a workout session.
How to choose the best studio for your needs:
First, decide what it is you want to achieve and why you want to do Pilates.
To increase your strength and improve your flexibility?
To help with rehab during post op, rehab after injury or classes for pre / post-natal?
To compliment your existing training be it weight training or cardio activities?
To help you build a strong technique in your professional sport or dance?
What are the styles and which one is right for you?
Let’s start by identifying the different methods of Pilates
There are studios that follow Classical or Contemporary Pilates, that teach small group classes or private sessions Pilates on all different pieces of apparatus including the mat/floor work. These classes are fantastic for improving core strength, posture and flexibility.
Then you have Clinical Pilates (rehab focused) taught by physiotherapists plus studios that only provide reformer classes in large groups. These are aimed at those recovering from injury, or for those who have more specific health risks associated with physical exercise.
There is also “gym Pilates” and fast-paced fusion classes that tend to focus on the trending exercises of the time. These tend to focus on weight loss and toning.
Once you try the different methods of Pilates you will definitely notice the difference between the Classical, Contemporary, Clinical and other versions.
Whichever method you choose, make sure your instructor/s have been comprehensively trained which means having a minimum of 600hrs of teacher training under their belt. They need to know how to teach on all pieces of apparatus, and they need to know what they are teaching to accommodate your body’s specific needs and your particular fitness goals.
A good Pilates studio employs instructors who are well qualified and have been comprehensively trained with reputable training organisations. To ensure quality training, choose reputable studios and instructors who have been approved by the Pilates Alliance Australasia (PAA).
How often should you do Pilates?
For optimal benefit three times week is perfect, but once or twice a week will of course be a better option than none at all right?
Ask your instructor for some “take home” exercises. Try to make a set time for this practice as part of a daily so it doesn’t get swept under the carpet. Perhaps first thing in the morning or before dinner at night, whatever time can do, make it a ritual and stick to it. A basic mat routine will only take an extra 10mins of your day.
Group classes VS Private training:
Most of the general public find it hard to pay for personal Pilates training so opt for group classes. If you fall into this category I do recommend investing in a few private sessions to ensure you begin with proper technique. After than join a group session and if possible try to get one private session per month so that you can get some training tailored specifically to your individual needs.”
AUTHENTIC PILATES STUDIO in Lilyfield, NSW, offers superior tuition by highly skilled instructors using the highest quality Pilates equipment imported from New York. To book in for a private or group session click here (link) https://authenticpilatesstudio.com.au
