STOTT PILATES® Frequently Asked Questions

STOTT PILATES is a contemporary approach to the original exercise method pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates. Co-founders Moira and Lindsay G. Merrithew, along with a team of physical therapists, sports medicine and fitness professionals, have spent more than a decade refining the STOTT PILATES method of exercise and equipment. This resulted in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and spinal rehabilitation, making it one of the safest and effective methods available. This clear and detailed approach forms the basis for STOTT PILATES training and certification programs. It?s used by rehab and prenatal clients, athletes, celebrities and everyone in between.

STOTT PILATES incorporates modern exercise principles, including contemporary thinking about spinal rehabilitation and athletic performance enhancement. For example, some approaches may promote a flat back, whereas STOTT PILATES exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and rebalance the muscles around the joints, placing more emphasis on scapular stabilization. As well, there are more preparatory exercises and modifications to cater to many different body types and abilities, making it applicable to everyday life.

longer, leaner muscles (less bulk, more freedom of movement)

improves postural problems

increases core strength, stability and peripheral mobility

helps prevent injury

enhances functional fitness, ease of movement

balances strength & flexibility

heightens body awareness

no-impact, easy on the joints

can be customized to suit everyone from rehab patients to elite athletes

complements other methods of exercise

improves performance in sports (golf, skiing, skating etc.)

improves balance, coordination & circulation

In some respects Pilates is like Yoga. Both are considered mind-body type methods of movement; both emphasize deep breathing and smooth, long movements that encourage the mind-body connection. The difference is that while Yoga requires moving from one static posture to the next, Pilates flows through a series of movements that are more dynamic, systematic and anatomically-based incorporating resistance equipment. The goal with STOTT PILATES exercise is to strengthen the postural muscles while achieving optimal functional fitness.

You can expect an increase in flexibility, mobility, balance, and body awareness, as well as a decrease in back pain or other general pains.

We recommend wearing athletic wear you feel comfortable moving in. We do require you wear socks, but shoes are not worn during pilates sessions. We recommend our male clients wear a tighter fitting short under their outer shorts or pants.

Inspire Health has Physical Therapists who are STOTT PILATES® certified instructors and work with you and your physician to develop an individualized, appropriate and effective pilates program for you. An experienced instructor will be able to modify the exercises to accommodate your limitations, continually challenge you within your range and monitor your improvements. Although you should always consult your physician before starting any fitness routine, a pilates workout is gentle and controlled with no sudden jarring actions. It is therefore more important that you work with a qualified instructor to ensure that you are doing the movements correctly. If you commit yourself to a consistent workout schedule you will certainly feel results.

Mat-based workouts are very convenient and can be done anywhere. Adding light equipment and the larger resistance equipment will place more emphasis on your outer limbs and add variety and intensity to your program.