At Corefirst, we get a lot of questions from those curious about Pilates, resistance training, and our training methods in general. Like any new fitness endeavor, trying something new can seem intimidating! The good news is, Corefirst puts approachability, clear direction, accessibility, and wellness at the forefront of both our product and fitness programs.

1. WHAT IS PILATES? In short, Pilates is a low-impact fitness practice that focuses on strengthening and conditioning the body to improve balance and harmony between the body and the mind. Pilates improves posture alignment through repeated strengthening movements and conscious breaths. While Pilates is known to target the core, it is more than just abs: Pilates connects the whole trunk. Strength and stability in the deep core, hips, knees, and back mean better posture, greater flexibility, greater mobility, and, therefore, longer life in general.

2. WHY SHOULD I TRY PILATES? Pilates offers numerous benefits both physical and mental which I’ve been supported by research it can improve posture flexibility general strength can assist in weight loss and it teaches techniques of healing and breathing through discomfort. Furthermore, it stabilizes the body by increasing strength in the core.

3. DOES SOMEONE HAVE FITNESS EXPERIENCE PRIOR TO STARTING PILATES? No way! Pilates is safe for anyone and does not require prior knowledge or experience in the practice. We have a vast array of clients with different backgrounds, ages, body types, genders, and goals. Our Corefirst programming works to meet you where you are and guide you toward your unique goal.

4. IS PILATES JUST FOR WOMEN? Being that Pilates is not high-impact regimen and does not include the use of heavy weights, it is often classified as a more feminine exercise, which is completely ridiculous. This preconceived notion is absolutely not true. Joseph Pilates developed Pilates as a physical training conditioning program. Since then fitness enthusiasts of all kinds (and of all sexes) have incorporated Pilates into their high impact training. Pilates continues to gain popularity and diversity because of how it strengthens the core, encourages conscious breathing, stabilizes and improves your balance, and it’s gentle on the joints.

5. IS MY BODY RIGHT FOR PILATES? WHAT IF I’M NOT FLEXIBLE OR FIT ALREADY? Absolutely yes! All bodies are suitable for Pilates. Pilates helps people of all ages including children, pregnant people, those in physical rehabilitation due to injuries or surgeries, and people of all shapes and sizes. While it helps to improve flexibility, there is no need to be super flexible in order to join, as Pilates will always meet you exactly where you are today. Within our Corefirst programming, our trainers make a conscious effort to consistently demonstrate modifications to make movements easier or more challenging to fit your daily goals and concerns.

6. WILL PILATES MAKE ME SWEAT? Although not typically labeled as a cardio exercise, I can’t help you sweat and build long, lean muscle. Each Pilates routine is different, and on the Corefirst first app we have a wide spectrum of various programs to meet your needs, ranging from the low-impact Stretch Program to the non-stop Burn program that will make you drip with sweat! 7. HOW MANY DAYS A WEEK DO I NEED TO TAKE A PILATES CLASS FOR IT TO WORK? Studies of showing that people benefit most from Pilates when it is practiced at least three sessions per week for a full 30 minutes per session. However, every session is that much closer to your goals. Also, well it’s good to focus on your physical goals, it’s also important to focus on how Pilates makes you feel. So whatever regiment feels best for you is what you should stick with. They don’t include that in the research! 8. WHAT MAKES COREFIRST PILATES DIFFERENT? Corefirst is a values-based company that prioritizes People, Purpose, Play, and Growth. It’s all about moving and LIVING from the core of who you are and we strive to elevate WHY we want to be healthy every day. In regards to our product, the Corefirst System has the world’s first-ever grip-free neoprene wraps that auto-adjusts to fit around your wrist, ankle, foot, and palm so you can let go and really focus on your core! The wraps are attached to commercial-grade resistance bands that have patented safety sleeves to keep you and the bands safe. Our bands have been tested by a third party to last 15X longer than standard bands on the market.

Additionally, we have high-quality programming with hundreds of exercises, workouts, and programs shot in gorgeous locations. More importantly, our content is coached by world-class instructors with decades of experience and certifications. It’s important to us that not only do our clients have a high-quality, well-researched, and expertly manufactured product, but also have access to thorough and professional guidance to assist in the success of their long-term goals.