Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of Pilates?
It would be easier to come up with a list of items where you WON’T see a benefit! Want to look taller and more confident? Check! Looking to gain a more toned physique and a slimmer waistline? Check! Increased mental focus, reduced stress from breath control, a more positive mental outlook from endorphin-release and (Alexis’s personal favorite) the ability to bend over and tie your shoes when you’re 90 are all among the many benefits you will receive from a regular Pilates practice.
Our clients typically tell us that they achieve enhanced balance, strength, coordination and flexibility each and every time they take a session.
When will I see a change?
As we say in Pilates, “In 10 sessions you will feel better, In 20 sessions you will look better, In 30 sessions you will have a whole new body!”
Though this is our Pilates guideline, it is up to you the client to determine how fast you will see the benefits of your regimen. The optimal Pilates practice is 2-3 times per week. If you are just starting out – don’t worry, your sessions will not be overwhelming and you will progress at precisely the right level for you. The same mindset is true for everyone from an advanced golfer to marathoner to professional athlete – if you keep up your 2-3 times per week Pilates schedule, we can guarantee that you will see results that help you in your field.
As Pilates said, “A few well designed movements properly performed in a balanced sequence, are worth hours of doing sloppy calisthenics.” Your 2-3 hours a week will be well worth the effort to see the exponential changes we can deliver.
When will I know everything and be done?
We receive this question all the time, especially after about 5-10 sessions. The beautiful answer is NEVER! There is always something new to learn, some detail to perfect, and challenging your workouts with variations. We don’t practice Pilates to be perfect, we practice until we can’t get it wrong.
I see a lot of Pilates studios and people advertising to be “certified.” What does this mean and how do I know if my teacher is legit?
There are several hallmarks of a good Pilates studio. You should look for a clean space with sufficient equipment and a vibe that fits your personality, schedules that fit your time and financial budget, a professional atmosphere and most importantly credentialed instructors. The instructors should all have current certifications from a national certifying body. It is a bonus if the instructor is also a member of the Pilates Method Alliance, which is the only third party certifying body (think of the Bar Exam but for Pilates). At Delta Pilates, we only employ instructors who have full certifications on all the pieces of equipment – this is an important differentiation that will take your practice from good to great.
Your studio should be able to tell you who is specialized in every avenue of Pilates training (pregnancy, weight management, advanced age, injuries, etc). As the consumer, you should always know what you’re getting for your money and at Delta Pilates, we only employ fully certified instructors who maintain their Continuing Education on a consistent, annual basis. This is how we can state we offer the highest level of instruction in the Valley.
What makes Delta Pilates different?
We pride ourselves on being unique. Our instructors are consistently working to build new and exciting skillsets. We have specializations in everything ranging from The MELT Method® self myofasical release techniques to Pink Ribbon Program® post-rehabilitative breast cancer program. We consistently innovate with new trainings and our instructors utilize the Pilates method in their own bodies every week. We also boast a phenomenal location just South of Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons that is close to shopping, healthy restaurants, and local businesses. Lastly, and most importantly, we take your voice very seriously. Your trainer takes your personal input as an integral part of your training regimen. Remember, you are in control at Delta Pilates!
What type of equipment will I use?
Delta Pilates uses the highest level of Peak Pilates equipment – and not just a few pieces! We have four reformers, four towers, two chairs, a Cadillac, ladder barrel, Ped-O-Pull, small barrels, spine correctors, foot corrector, toe gizmo, Magic Circles – all of the Classical equipment. We also have the Balanced Body CoreAlign to integrate the Classical work with a more contemporary piece. We have The MELT Method™ full line of balls, rollers and bands. We have more than enough equipment in the studio so that you never have to worry about coming in during a “busy” time and not having access to the equipment. Our instructors strive to visit the whole room with you on each session, meaning you won’t just use one piece – you will experience a truly Classical workout and use it all.
I am new to Pilates – what on earth is this about?
First of all welcome, you will love it here. After you read over the FAQs and the general information about Pilates, you will have a basic idea of the method. Your first session will be all about learning the basics – you will stay with those ideas for your first 5-10 sessions and then (depending on your goals and instructor input) you will keep moving through the program. Expect a vigorous hour that is tailored to you – if you have an injury or any special concerns you will share them with your instructor so s/he will be able to safely work you out. Our clients report feeling more energetic and ready to take on the day even after one session!
I’m a fitness veteran – been there, done that. What makes Pilates different than everything else I’ve tried?
First of all, Pilates is not a fad – this method has been around for a century and has proven results. Have you been jumping around from one fitness regimen to the next? As Pilates said, “I must be right. Never an aspirin. Never injured a day in my life. The whole country, the whole world, should be doing my exercises. They’d be happier.”
Do you love your current training but you’re looking for a complimentary add-on? It is one of Pilates main principles that the Classical system you will use in your lessons is designed to get you to your best body, best physique, and put the other pieces of your training regimen into place. If you think of your life like a puzzle and the fitness piece isn’t quite fitting, Pilates will help grease the edges and let the puzzle fall into place.