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"One of the major results of Pilates (Contrology) is gaining
mastery of your mind over the complete control of your body." - Joseph Pilates
Ask Barbara......
Look
for your recent question with answer, in the larger font. Keep those questions coming!
You were educated in Stott Pilates. Why aren’t you certified
with them?
This
is a question that is important to make clear. Barbara continues to have a relationship with Stott Pilates,
although there are no ties to the Stott family of Pilates. Recently, Moira Merrithew, co-founder of Stott Pilates phoned Barbara at her studio. With Stott having
more than 16,000 instructors worldwide, Barbara was honored that Moira took the time out of her
day to call her. Moira again told Barbara that her staff continues to be there
for her. Barbara continues to educate with Stott as well as other educational workshops offered by
other organizations, while remaining on her own on Long Island, NY.
I'm a 21
college student who has recently become completely discouraged with the way my body looks. I've always wanted to take
a Pilates class but am afraid that it may be too advanced for me. I am not flexible although I would call myself athletic...I'm
just concerned if I would look dumb in your classes not being able to stretch to the extent the 55 yr old woman next to me
could. Do the classes go by experience? I've done some Pilates moves before, but believe me, nothing outstanding lol.
Just looking for some feedback. I'd love to join after Christmas if it sounds good. The classes
are for all levels, together in one class. I start each season from the Pilates beginning (essence, alignment and principles).
Each works at her own level, I may modify for the more individual experienced to challenge them more only. The
classes are non-competitive each with their own body type and experience. There is no need to feel someone is better
than you, since each body is unique. I maintain a friendly non-intimidating environment. Pilates is a great way
to not only change the body and posture, but to feel good about yourself with each new accomplishment. It's wonderful
learning, focus and more. As an instructor, I am not a diva, but rather passion in what I do. If you would
be interested in meeting me or speaking further, feel free to call.
Hi Barbara: I've been taking Pilates two times a week for the past month. I'm
having problems with the single leg circles due to my inflexibility. My hamstrings are really tight. Therefore, I can't
lift my leg to the ceiling. One instructor continues to ask me to do this exercise, and the other has me doing the exercise
with my legs at tabletop. What is your suggestion and/or advice? My Pilates book does not address problems of inflexibility.
Thanks! - Rebecca Allen
Hi Rebecca: I'd be happy to answer your question, glad you've found me and hope
my answer helps you. You just dropped into my mailbox, so its a quick response to you. Do the leg circles at tabletop
and hold down the opposing hip with your hand. Only allow the range of your open hip before your other hip lifts.
Try to extend your table top higher and higher with less of a 90 degree angle, reaching toes to the ceiling where there
is no discomfort. Hold your imprint, keep your ribs tucked and engage those abs! It takes quite some time to stretch
tight hamstrings, be careful not to overstretch. Although it won't pull when your doing the exercise, you can pull
afterwards at home. POP! Try some Pilates privates on the reformer. It will gently increase your range less
aggressively than in a class, with personal instruction. Happy Pilates and have fun! The
classes are for all levels, together in one class. I start each season from the Pilates beginning (essence, alignment
and principles). Each works at her own level, I may modify for the more individual experienced to challenge them more
only. The classes are non-competitive each with their own body type and experience. There is no need to feel
someone is better than you, since each body is unique. I maintain a friendly non-intimidating environment. Pilates
is a great way to not only change the body and posture, but to feel good about yourself with each new accomplishment.
It's wonderful learning, focus and more. As an instructor, I am not a diva, but rather passion in what I do. If
you would be interested in meeting me or speaking further, feel free to call. Hi Barbara: I've been taking Pilates two times a week for the past month.
I'm having problems with the single leg circles due to my inflexibility. My hamstrings are really tight. Therefore, I
can't lift my leg to the ceiling. One instructor continues to ask me to do this exercise, and the other has me doing the
exercise with my legs at tabletop. What is your suggestion and/or advice? My Pilates book does not address problems of inflexibility.
Thanks! - Rebecca Allen
Hi Rebecca: I'd be happy to answer your question, glad you've found me and hope
my answer helps you. You just dropped into my mailbox, so its a quick response to you. Do the leg circles at tabletop
and hold down the opposing hip with your hand. Only allow the range of your open hip before your other hip lifts.
Try to extend your table top higher and higher with less of a 90 degree angle, reaching toes to the ceiling where there
is no discomfort. Hold your imprint, keep your ribs tucked and engage those abs! It takes quite some time to stretch
tight hamstrings, be careful not to overstretch. Although it won't pull when your doing the exercise, you can pull
afterwards at home. POP! Try some Pilates privates on the reformer. It will gently increase your range less
aggressively than in a class, with personal instruction. Happy Pilates and have fun!
What is Pilates? Pilates
is a Holistic form of exercise that works your body from the inside out. Working the deep abdominals that center the
movement out to all of the extremities, Pilates improves Posture, sculpts, tones and stretches the body. Requiring that
you focus on your movement, alignment and breath, pilates connects the body with the mind. And it's fun!
What do I look for in a Pilates Instructor? First, you want to know if they are a Certified
Instructor. More importantly, you want to know their level of education. Pilates is an in-depth education and
more than just a three hour workshop. Anyone can Certify today in on-line programs and obtain a "Certificate".
A good Pilates instructor is not only Certified, but has had at least 200 hours of Pilates education with a proven Pilates
Licensed Facility and a minimum of 6 months of observation, practic teaching and apprenticeship. Is the Certificate
of the Instructor you've been assigned displayed at the studio? Is the Certificate current? ASK
to see documentation!!
Barbara, are you Certified? Yes, Barbara is an IFTA Certified Fitness
Personal Trainer/Instructor. Barbara is fully educated in the "Stott Pilates Method", but does not hold her
certification with them. She has spent more than 700 hours of Pilates education, observation and apprenticeship.
She is a member of the ACSM Alliance of Fitness and Healthcare Professionals - American
College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), is a Cancer Exercise Specialist, educated in Injury and Special Populations, Certified
in CPR as well as educated in Injury and Special Populations. Barbara would be more than happy to
supply you with all of the documentation! And Forever Fit Pilates studio displays a current Certification!
Barbara is a highly sought-after Pilates Instructor. She's been offered employment with several large Pilates
Studios on Long Island and New York City, as well as a position as Pilates Director. She's been offered employment
with several large Franchised Gyms and small fitness Centers alike. She's also been offered employment at Fitness
Convention Trade Shows. The fitness field continues to seek her through referral and recommendations!
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I'm confused
as to the terms Anaerobic and Aerobic. What is the difference between these two terms of exercise? Great
Question! The following is the definition from Wikipedia. Anaerobic means "without oxygen", and refers
to the energy exchange in living tissue that is independent of oxygen. Anaerobic exercise is brief, high intensity activity
where anaerobic metabolism is taking place in muscles. During extended periods of exercise aerobic metabolism supplies the
bulk of the energy and the exercise is termed aerobic exercise. Examples
of anaerobic exercise include weight lifting, sprinting, and jumping; any exercise that consists of short exertion,
high-intensity movement, is an anaerobic exercise. Anaerobic exercise is typically used by athletes in non-endurance
sports to build power and by body builders to build muscle mass. Muscles that are trained under anaerobic conditions develop
biologically differently giving them greater performance in short duration-high intensity activities. Aerobic exercise, on the other
hand, includes lower intensity activities performed for longer periods of time. Activities like walking,
running, swimming, and cycling require a great deal of oxygen to generate the energy needed for prolonged exercise.
Depending on the type of benefit you
are looking for; anaerobic (build muscle mass and less endurance vs. aerobic, creating lean muscle mass and endurance,
you have those two choices of work. I'm sure this answers your question. If you'd like a more in-depth
answer, we always make ourselves available by phone. 516.798.2700
What is Cardio jumping on the reformer? Another great question! Jumping on the reformer is done in a supine (lying down)
position on the reformer, with feet on an attached footplate. Springs are set to either the lightest setting (more core)
or a heavier setting (more extremity). As you start to "jump off" the footplate, you glide back and forth,
creating a jumping movement. Your heart rate comes up anaerobically. Depending on your strength and stamina, you
are dropped to the lightest setting of springs. If your fitness level allows, the work becomes aerobic the more
the work can be sustained. A good 15 to 20 minutes with continual switching of leg and foot position will keep you in
the training zone, burning those fat calories. Wearing a heartrate monitor will varify your heartrate. Then we
bring you down slowly. Absolutely invigorating, mind-body, and intense!
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What is the difference between Yoga and Pilates? Yoga
requires that you hold still postures while Pilates is movement based which is intended for core strength, flexibility, balance
and body awareness. Additionally, Pilates requires deep abdominal engagement to support the spine and create core
centered movement which differs from Yoga.
I've been practicing Pilates at
a Pilates-only studio doing Matwork for quite some time now. I'm having difficulty getting a few of them.
You know, "internalizing" them. My teacher refuses to do the exercises that I'm having trouble with and
tells me, "A good Pilates Instructor should be able to cue you without having to show you, you need to internalize more..
Well, duh, she's not very good if that's true. I'm getting ready to look for another studio and found you.
Do you do any of the exercises on request in a class? - Andrea Hi
Andrea, I absolutely, positively perform any exercise that a client has trouble with. Some clients learn from visual,
some from verbal and some from tactile cueing. A good Pilates Instructor is experienced in all. 516.798.2700
How about a Blog or ENewsletter Barbara?! Unfortunately, we do not have the time to administer a Blog, but we are preparing for a monthly Enewsletter
to subscribe to. Stay tuned!
What a fantastic website!
I am considering educating in Pilates Instruction. Which Method would you recommend my educating in? It's not about my opinion, it's your decision. But, I do suggest you doing your homework.
The different various Methods all have something special to offer. Contact the main headquarters of all of the Methods,
ask questions and then you can make an educated decision. Prepare to travel to the recommended Facility of choice.
Further, beware of Pilates Studios and Owners, jumping on the "profit bandwagon", creating their own Method.
There are quite a few of them. Seek a Nationally Recognized Method (The Fitness Standard) with mileage of success.
Oh, and thank you so much for your compliment on the Website!!
I am new to Pilates. Can I get hurt in your classes? NO, the classes are kept small with no more than
5 clients per class. Barbara does not do the work with you but rather, instructs through constant cueing and correction.
You'll first be taught all of the basic principles to apply to your work to keep you free from injury. Then a short
warm-up to lengthen your muscles prior to the start of work.
Is the studio unisex? No, Forever Fit Pilates Studio is women only. Sorry guys!!
What
do I need to bring to the classes? Just yourself!!
What
do I wear to a session? We
work in any comfortable clothing that is not too baggy as to hinder movement. Sweat or Yoga type pants with a tee or
sport top is what most wear. You'll work in barefeet or socks, shoes and sneakers are removed. With no
support on the foot, Pilates will also challenge your balance with Pilates standing work!
How often should I do Pilates? Try to work out 2-4 times a week, taking a resting day inbetween. Do some Cardiovascular activity
on your resting days like walking, bicycling, swimming, etc. This kind of consistent practice will help you make
the mind-body connection and integrate the various basic principles. You should start seeing and feeling results in
about 10 to 15 sessions.
I have an injury that I am mending. Can I do Pilates? Yes, with a medical clearance in writing from your physician noting any contra-indications, Barbara
would be happy to train you in Private Sessions only, to focus on your specific needs. Pilates is a form of rehabilitation
and Barbara has been educated in Injury, Special Populations and Cancer Exercise.
What's better, mat
or equipment Pilates exercises? Great Question! It's not a matter of one being better
than another. The fundamental Pilates exercises can be performed on a Pilates mat alone, and great results can be achieved
through the exercises at all levels. Alternately, the various equipment pieces such as the Reformer, Cadillac and Chair offer
spring resistance and assistance that works the muscles in opposing (stretching and toning) movements to safely
sculpt, tone and stretch the muscles. The Arc barrel and Ladder barrel provide support that allows you to safely manipulate
your body to stretch and engage muscles that are often difficult to isolate.
Pilates Props
used in the Mat Classes such dyna-bands, Pilates circles and foam rollers also provide an element of variety and focus to a Pilates
regimen simulating many of the equipment exercises.
Why are personal training sessions with a Pilates instructor so expensive? Pilates instructors are highly trained professionals
who have invested hundreds of hours studying the technique. They learn over 500 exercises for both the mat and Pilates equipment.
They learn the philosophy and theory behind each movement, spend considerable time observing and mastering proper form and
sequences, and apprentice to fine tune their teaching skills. They learn more than just a series of moves, they learn how
to assess their students' posture, how to adapt exercises for various body conditions, and how to customize the best
Pilates program for each individual. This kind of specialized training, combined with the expenses of furnishing a studio,
commands a $65 to $100 per hour price range.
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I often hear that Pilates is considered a mind/body workout.
What does that mean? Pilates requires focus, concentration
and control with every movement to get the most from your work. Different from some workouts, Pilates requires you to
think about what you are doing connecting body with mind!
I
often have lower back pain. Can Pilates help? Yes,
in fact, studies have shown that Pilates can help ease and alleviate most back pain and pressure.
I already
have a yoga mat. Can I use this for doing Pilates at home? Definitely not! While yoga mats are great for traction
they are typically thin. You need a thicker mat offering traction, or a mat made specifically for Pilates
practice to protect your spine during exercises, especially in "Rolling Like A Ball and Open Leg Rocker"!
You can purchase one at many of the sports equipment stores, or even on-line. They typically range in price anywhere
from $29.99 to $69.99.
When
I look at someone doing Pilates, it doesn’t seem vigorous enough for me. Can Pilates give me a good workout? When most people start Pilates, there’s a lot of new information
to learn, so you probably won’t get an aerobic workout at the beginning. Pilates can be aerobic at the intermediate
and advanced levels when you become more familiar with the movement and breath and the pace inbetween exercises is picked
up. The work gets more intense! Adding resistance to your work with either Pilates Props or on the apparatus also
intensifies the work. This may appear easier than other forms of exercise, but you actually work harder and more deeply
into the muscles, increasing your heartrate. Be patient while your body adapts to something foreign.
My doctor told me I am at the start
of Osteoporosis. Can I do Pilates? Yes, Pilates work deters bone loss. It also deters muscle loss.
As we get older, we tend to lose both muscle and bone mass. It's important to reverse the process with exercise.
With an educated Pilates instructor, you are on your way!
Will I burn calories doing Pilates? Yes, in fact, as you learn, your work
will get more intense. The pace of the work will increase with no break between exercises. Also, into the
Intermediate and Advanced exercise level, your heartrate will increase thus, working into a fat burn. Think of that
fat burn zone similar to brisk walking or weight training. Additionally, our Cardio-Pilates classes are aimed at keeping
the heartrate up (remaining in the fat burn zone) while doing the Pilates exercises. Heartrate monitor required.
How many calories
will I burn? Depending on your height and body weight and how intensely you are engaging, you will average anywhere
from 350 calories to 450 calories per one hour session.
I've heard doing Pilates can make you grow taller. Is that true? Well, yes and no. With frequent Pilates practice your posture will improve and you will stand
more erect, thus looking as though you've grown taller!!
My neck and shoulders
always feel tight and tense. Can Pilates help? Definitely! Most of us carry
the stress of the day in our neck and shoulders causing muscle tension and tightness. Working all day at a desk,
some of us tend to hunch over. Carrying a purse or briefcase and other day-to- day activities are some
of the usual culprits. We shrug our shoulders up into the neck and ouch!! Pilates teaches you
to keep your shoulders down, back and out of your neck which eases the pressure. It also brings the body into balance
with the stretching and toning of that area. Frequent Pilates practice will alleviate it completely, you'll look
better and feel better!
Will I really lose inches in my waistline and thighs? Frequent Pilates practice will tone and lengthen your muscles thereby reducing muscle bulk.
You can even come down a pant size! Absolutely!! And, Pilates is not about becoming a "Skinny-Mini".
It's about your overall health, your sense of well-being and renewed vitality!!
Hi. I'm working with a Pilates Instructor and I've just
had my seventh session with my teacher. I can see, and do feel how I will benefit from Pilates, but I really don't
particularly care for her instruction and style. There are very few instructors near where I live. Any advice
on what to do? This is a very
delicate situation and Forever Fit Pilates studio will answer your question as frankly as possible. An Instructor/Trainer
and a client (you) should have a very special bond; that same bond you may have with your hair stylist or manicurist.
The client should always feel confident in the work they are doing and being taught by the instructor, the communication
lines should be wide open, and you should feel that your time is as important as your trainers'. If
you do not have this bond with your trainer you are presently working with, seek out a new one; even if it means adding to
your travel time. I
am a 66 year old woman and have never worked out other than walking 3 to 4 times per week. My doctor has been getting
after me to start doing some strengthening exercise. He also suggested a personal trainer. I've heard the
wonders of what Pilates can do for you. I have no injuries or illnesses other than High Blood Pressure. Can I
do Pilates at your studio? Absolutely! It's never too late to start Pilates work. Specific
exercises will be omitted where the HBP is contra-indicated. The Studio suggests private sessions to start, to
learn the basic Pilates principles and working you in all planes of movement to see where your strengths and weaknesses are.
Onced established and Barbara feels you are ready, you would be allowed to enter into a Mat Class. Hope to see you soon!
Cheers!!
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Hi Barbara, I've been training
in Pilates for more than 1 1/2 years at a large studio in NYC. I found your website and was really impressed with it.
My question to you is, although I continue to remain flexible and my range of motion has increased tremendously; I'm not
seeing a change in my appearance anymore. You say on your site that your clients can continually reach a "Higher
Level". How can you do that, if it's not happening with me? And hello to you Kathy. It sounds like you have reached a "plateau".
In Joe's teachings, there is a specific order to the exercises. Many instructors follow that order. In Barbara's
fitness experience both with clients and with her own body, we need to change what we are doing every three to five months.
The body plateaus with the same work over a period of time. Barbara's thought process on Pilates is a more contemporary
approach. By continually changing the exercises (there are more than 500 of them), working on all planes of movement,
the body will never plateau, you will continue to see Pilates benefits and you can continue to reach that "higher level"!
Speak with your Pilates instructor and see if she is willing to change up her repetoire.
Thanks for answering my question!! I'd like to come
to you for a session. Can you fit me in for an evening session? - Kathy Call the studio at 516-798-2700. We'll discuss your options!
Looking forward to speaking with you!
I've hurt my shoulder and the pain radiates down from the top
of the shoulder to right around the middle of my arm. I do quite a bit of weight training. Can Pilates help with
this injury? Barbara
knows the pain you are experiencing. Barbara injured herself causing the same pain doing "upright rows".
In Barbara's case, she injured muscles in her Rotator Cuff, causing "microscopic tears", or overworked
her shoulder. She rested it for over 9 months, with no relief of pain with her weight training and sleeping on her side
at night, often waking from the pain. Within 2-3 weeks of Pilates work on the apparatus, specifically the reformer,
the pain subsided. The stretching while toning of Pilates (working in opposition) rehabbed her shoulder. Find
a studio recommended near you! Good luck!
Good morning Barbara. i've put a question in to
you several times and have not heard a response back from you. Why aren't you answering my questions? Hi Tricia, I've tried to respond directly back to you, but
your email address may have a block on spam mail. Filters sometimes think certain emails are "mass mailings".
So that aside, I've not answered your question because it is a similiar question that has already been answered.
I respond to any questions that are fresh ones. Thanks for taking the time to ask! Return to the top

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