Prices for Pilates classes at NYC BKpilates. Pilates exercises with a group of students

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about our Pilates studio and classes.

Why try Pilates?

Because it really does work! Pilates is an all-encompassing type of exercise that helps to build strength, improve flexibility, and develop better body awareness. The purposeful, controlled movements promote balance and good posture, and help relieve muscle tightness.

If you are someone who is just starting exercise or perhaps just wants to move more effectively, Pilates meets you wherever you are and helps you feel stronger, more balanced, and at one with your body.

Who can join Pilates classes?

Pilates is for every body. Whether you are new to movement, recovering from an injury, or have been practicing for several years, every class is designed to meet and accommodate your needs.

If you do have injuries or other conditions, keep your instructor informed. There are plenty of modifications available to keep you safe and comfortable. If you feel you could use more direction, private lessons are a great option.

What’s the difference between reformer Pilates and mat Pilates?

Building strength, flexibility, and body awareness are all things mat- and reformer-based Pilates exercises take care of. The addition of resistance with springs gives the reformer more variety and support, allowing you to move safer and more accurately.

Reformer-style exercises can be gentler on the joints while still providing a strong challenge. The equipment can enhance your stretches, increase your awareness of alignment during an exercise, and provide added resistance when you want it.

At BK Pilates, we work to ensure that our reformer classes offer a complete total-body workout that can be adjusted for all levels of ability, making it one of the best choices for anyone starting or advancing their practice.

Do I have to be flexible to do Pilates?

Not at all! In fact, Pilates meets you where you are and will progressively enhance your freedom of movement. Just bring a willingness to move and an open mind.

Is Pilates right for me?

Pilates is safe and adaptable for most people. Let your instructor know if you are pregnant, recovering from surgery, or have any spine or joint concerns, so we can provide you with any necessary modifications.

If there is still some uncertainty, a one-on-one private session can be a great option to help you determine what is appropriate for you and your body. And of course, it’s always good idea to consult with your doctor if you have any injuries or conditions before beginning any exercise program.

When will I start seeing results from Pilates?

Everyone is different. Most people start feeling something within a couple of weeks of regular practice. You may notice that you’re standing taller, your range of motion has improved, and you’re feeling stronger overall.

More visible results like muscle tone usually appear after two months. The key: regular practice and listening to your body.

Remember, Pilates is all about progress, not perfection.

Who can do Pilates?

Pilates is fit for any given fitness level-from beginner to more advanced. It is safe and extremely therapeutic for someone suffering from back pain or someone who is healing from an injury. The exercise program can be modified for the expectant mother so that she can keep her strength and flexibility. It is also good for elderly patients who suffer from balance, mobility issues, and the possibility of falling. Pilates aids runners and athletes in core strengthening, flexibility, and coordination, thus improving their performance in other sports.

How can Pilates transform my body?

Pilates strengthens the body, especially the core, while also increasing flexibility and balance. It teaches movement with more control and awareness to improve posture and lessen tension.

Over time, you’ll feel your body becoming more stable, your movements smoother, and your overall strength increasing. Pilates is not just about shaping your body, but feeling better in everyday functioning.

Will Pilates give me that toned, sculpted look?

Yes, Pilates builds lean muscle and strengthens muscles that we tend to forget we have. As it is all about control and precision, you become toned without becoming bulky. Think sculpted, not swollen. Your posture will improve, so you’ll stand taller and walk with confidence.

But it depends on where you’re starting. Pilates will do wonders for your strength, flexibility, and posture, but you may want to combine it with cardio or other exercise programs based on your goals.

In any case, Pilates lays the groundwork to keep everything working in tandem.

Will Pilates help me build strength?

Absolutely. Pilates is the tried and true method to build functional strength, allowing you to move better through daily activities. It strengthens the core and the smaller muscles that support the joints and spine in a balanced and sustainable way.

Is Pilates a real form of exercise?

In fact, it is a full-body workout that challenges and tones muscles, improves flexibility, and enhances your control with intent through conscious movements.

In some sessions you will sweat, and in others it will be a smooth and mindful flow. Either way, you know you are working hard and getting real results.

Does Pilates burn calories?

Pilates can definitely assist your weight loss journey, as it builds lean muscle, boosts metabolism, and allows for smooth freedom of movement while doing daily activities— all factors contributing to keeping you active for daily life.

But Pilates may not burn as many calories as some high-intensity cardio, so pairing it with walking, running, or some form of strength training would increase your results.

There are other benefits, too, like body awareness, which leads to good posture and form in other workout routines and everyday movements.

Can Pilates help improve athletic performance?

Certainly! Many athletes integrate Pilates in their training to enhance power, control, and recovery. Pilates builds core strength, stability, and mobility which enhances muscle imbalance, posture, and body awareness, increases efficiency, while reducing the chance of injury.

Can Pilates help with back pain?

It can help a little or a lot! Pilates strengthens the deep core muscles that support the spine, help with good posture, and provide more awareness in your movements, which can all lead to decreased pain.

Be sure to communicate with your instructor regarding your pain or any injuries. This way, the instructor can make sure you are safely guided and offer any modifications as needed.

Many people find Pilates helps over time to make them feel a little stronger, more balanced, and less sore.

What do I wear to Pilates?

Wear comfortable, form-fitting clothes that you can easily move in such as leggings, shorts, or athletic pants with a fitted top.

Grip socks are required for class for safety and stability on the equipment. If you do not have any, you can always purchase a pair at our studios.

Avoid loosely fitted clothing as they may catch on the springs or straps of the reformer. Also, no hair clips! They can break or cause injury, and may affect your alignment during exercises.

What should I bring to class?

Just yourself and some comfy workout attire! We provide all the necessary equipment.

And remember, grip socks are a must for class! If you don’t have any, we do sell them at the studio.

It’s a good idea to bring water to stay hydrated, and a hair tie if your locks are long.

What equipment is used in Pilates classes?

The center of focus in our classes is the reformer— a versatile machine with springs which add resistance or offer support. Besides the reformer, Pilates props such as boxes, arcs, blocks, balls, magic circles, and hand weights are used to diversify the exercises and target different sets of muscles. These tools help to make your workout more exciting, engaging, and adaptable.

How long will I stay sore after Pilates?

You can expect some soreness for about 24 to 48 hours following your first couple of Pilates sessions. This “good sore” indicates that your muscles are waking up to develop strength.

With more practice, your body adapts, and the soreness eventually lessens. But if the soreness lasts longer or becomes sharp, inform your instructor so they can adjust your workouts accordingly.

Remember, your body knows best. Always listen to it and allow yourself time to rest and recover.

Should I do Pilates if I feel sore from a previous workout?

Yes, you certainly can. Pilates is an excellent method to keep the body moving when it’s sore. The controlled, low-impact movements promote blood circulation and allow muscles to stretch gently. Just listen to your body— if something doesn’t feel good, let the instructor know so that they may provide modifications.

Is it necessary to stretch before Pilates?

Not really! Pilates exercises themselves are controlled movements that can warm and stretch your muscles in a safe way. Some people like to do some gentle movement or light stretching just to get their bodies going, but this is not necessary. Just come ready to move and focus!

Is Pilates considered active recovery?

Definitely! Pilates is a great option to keep the body moving during a recovery day. It’s gentle on the joints and emphasizes slow and controlled movements that enhance blood circulation to the muscles, assisting the healing process and relieving muscle stiffness.

How often can I do Pilates?

As often as you want! Pilates is gentle enough that you can do it several times a week, but effective enough that you’ll see results.

Start with two to three times a week to give you a solid base. You can then adapt the frequency depending on how your body feels and what your goals are.

When should I fit Pilates into my day?

Any time that suits you! Reformer Pilates pairs well with a busy lifestyle because the classes aren’t very long, and you don’t need to bring any equipment with you.

Whether it’s in the morning to energize you for the day, around noon as a break from work, or in the evening to chill and wind down, Pilates is all about feeling healthy and balanced.

The main thing is consistently choosing a time that your body, in the long run, will thank you!

How often do I need to be doing Pilates for weight loss?

The most important thing for weight loss is consistency. Ideally, this means a minimum of three Pilates workouts a week, and incorporating other exercises like cardio or strength training.

Pilates develops lean muscle and accelerates metabolism, assisting in weight management. The more you move, the better your results.

The key is staying focused on feeling strong, healthy, and confident, regardless of the scale.

Still have questions?

Our team is here to help. Contact us with any questions you may have.