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What is STOTT PILATES?
What is the difference between the STOTT Method and other Pilates techniques?
What are the principles behind STOTT PILATES™?
Is STOTT PILATES like yoga?
Is Pilates considered a cardio workout?
How is STOTT PILATES different or better than weight training or other resistance exercise?
Will I grow by doing STOTT PILATES?
What kind of results can I expect to see from doing STOTT PILATES?
How long will I have to do the workout before I see results?
I have a bad back. Will I be able to do Pilates?
Will I get the same results with a mat workout as with a Reformer/equipment workout?
If I'm doing Pilates, should I still do my regular workout?
Is it safe to do Pilates during pregnancy?
Is STOTT PILATES associated with Pilates Inc. of New York?
Where are you located?
How can I contact you?
Who is eligible for a professional discount on equipment?
How can I find the Pilates studio nearest me?
Why are Pilates classes so expensive?
Why is Pilates equipment so expensive?
If I cannot afford/find a Pilates instructor in my area, is there another alternative?
How many videos are there?
What are the 50 video titles, the cost & the length?
Is equipment required in any of the videos?
What type of return policy do you offer on videos?
In STOTT PILATES videos, what is the difference from one level to the next?
How long will I have to do one workout video before I can move to the next level of difficulty?
If I am in good physical condition, can I start with the Intermediate or Advanced levels?
With so many videos to choose from, which one(s) should I get?
How often should I do the video?
Will I get the same results from doing the workout with a video as I would from going to an Instructor/Studio?
How do I become a STOTT PILATES Instructor?
What is the fastest way for me to become a Certified Instructor?
Do I have to go to your facility to train in STOTT PILATES?
What is STOTT PILATES?
Developed by former professional dancer Moira Merrithew, with input from sports medicine professionals, STOTT PILATES is a contemporary, anatomically based approach to Joseph Pilates' original exercise method. Its exercises safely deliver optimal strength, flexibility and endurance, without adding bulk. This stress-relieving method can be performed on a mat or using dedicated STOTT EQUIPMENT.
What is the difference between the STOTT Method and other Pilates techniques?
Unlike the original series of exercises, STOTT PILATES incorporates modern exercise principles, including contemporary thinking about spinal rehabilitation and performance enhancement. For example, unlike the original approach, which promotes a flat back, STOTT exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and rebalance the muscles around the joints. They also place more emphasis on scapular stabilization. As well, there are more preparatory exercises and modifications to make the method safer and more effective.
What are the principles behind STOTT PILATES™?
STOTT PILATES improves core strength and balances the muscles around the joints, improving the way your body functions, looks and feels.
It focuses specifically on:
Breathing
Pelvic placement
Rib-cage placement
Scapular movement
Head & cervical spine placement
Is STOTT PILATES like yoga?
In some respects Pilates conditioning is like yoga. Both are considered mind-body type methods of movement; both emphasize deep breathing and smooth, long movements that encourage your muscles to relax and lengthen. The difference is that while yoga requires moving from one static posture to the next without repetitions, Pilates flows through a series of movements that are more dynamic, systematic and anatomically based. The goal with STOTT PILATES exercises is to achieve optimal functional fitness.
Is Pilates considered a cardio workout?
Yes and No. When students of Pilates move into the advanced workouts, Pilates does
become cardio. Beginning student will experience muscle fatigue and slight heart
rate elevation, but not high enough levels to experience a cardio workout. Pilates
is an exercise that needs to be done in addition to cardio exercise.
How is STOTT PILATES different or better than weight training or other resistance exercise?
Pilates is three-dimensional (i.e. exercises can be performed using all movement planes)
Spring resistance more closely resembles muscular contraction
Emphasis on concentric/eccentric contraction for injury prevention
STOTT PILATES is customizable for special needs
In Pilates exercise, emphasis is placed on rebalancing muscles around the joints
Pilates corrects over-training and muscle imbalance that leads to injury
Pilates emphasizes balancing strength with flexibility (for injury prevention and more efficient movement)
STOTT PILATES leads to an improvement in posture and body awareness.
Will I grow by doing STOTT PILATES?
Much of Pilates exercise is mind-body conditioning which requires you to look within, focus on your breathing, and feel the subtle differences within your body. Many people come to a very meditative state while doing Pilates, and therefore will grow mentally and spiritually over time through this type of exercise. There are also incidences where by strengthening the abdominal muscles people have learned to maintain their stretch and thereby are measurably taller.
Physically, many people have been known to actually get taller by working out consistently. By emphasizing posture, you learn to stretch your spine through Pilates, and by strengthening the deep abdominals to support the rest of the body you learn to maintain your height effortlessly. The most impressive results are those reported by people who have slouched most of their lives and after a few months of practicing Pilates they are able to stand up much straighter, and are therefore measurably taller. However, even people having studied dance consistently for years before beginning a Pilates program, have noticed an increase in their heights over time.
What kind of results can I expect to see from doing STOTT PILATES?
You can expect an increase in flexibility, mobility, balance, and body awareness, as well as a decrease in back pain/other general pains.
How long will I have to do the workout before I see results?
The average active person, doing 2-3 classes per week should see some results within 10-12 classes. This will vary depending on each individual and things such as the number of classes a person takes each week, whether they are private or group classes, whether they participate in other physical activities, and whether they have any existing injuries.
I have a bad back. Will I be able to do Pilates?
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. An experienced instructor will be able to modify the exercises to accommodate your limitations, continually challenge you within your range and monitor your improvements. If you commit yourself to a consistent workout schedule you will certainly feel results.
Will I get the same results with a mat workout as with a Reformer/equipment workout?
Mat-based workouts are very convenient and they can be done anywhere. However, a mat workout will provide no added resistance. A Reformer workout will add resistance to your routine and can correct muscular imbalances better than a mat routine would.
If I'm doing Pilates, should I still do my regular workout?
STOTT PILATES is a musculo-skeletal conditioning program. In combination with some kind of cardiovascular exercise (walking, running, aerobics, aqua fitness, etc.), it's all you need. For people who reach advanced levels, they can actually elevate their heart rate with STOTT Power workouts.
Is it safe to do Pilates during pregnancy?
The available information on pregnancy and exercise can be very confusing - even conflicting. STOTT tries to stay on top of the latest research regarding safety and pregnancy and covers this topic in the ISP (Injuries & Special Populations) segment of our Certification program.
No two women's bodies are the same, and this is especially true during pregnancy. There are workouts that are quite appropriate for some people during pregnancy and not for others. During a normal, healthy pregnancy, moderate exercise is safe for the fetus. Exercise is also said to prevent varicose veins, hemorrhoids and low back pain - not to mention boosting self-esteem. The guidelines stated by the American Council on Exercise are not as hard-and-fast as they used to be. However, research suggests that no new exercise routine should be started during your first trimester. As well, you should be careful of over-exerting the abdominal muscles. During the second trimester these muscles become stretched out, and some women experience diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles). With reduced support for the back, you also run the risk of injuring the lower back. Further, because of the increased amounts of relaxin and progesterone released in the body during pregnancy, the ligaments surrounding the joints become lax, which leaves them loose and vulnerable. For this reason, you should be careful not to over-stretch. It is important, though, to continue strengthening and rebalancing the muscles around the joints - still trying to center the body as it goes through many postural changes due to pregnancy.
Today many guidelines for pregnancy indicate that once you reach the second trimester you should not exercise in a supine position (lying on your back) as you may be cutting off oxygen to the fetus even if you yourself are not feeling dizzy. In general, we teach that it is better to be safe and not take any chances. In the second trimester we still do some Matwork courses but we make sure that the upper torso is raised as it is when using the "Spine Supporter". We then alternate the inclined position with sitting, kneeling and standing exercises done on Mat, Reformer and Cadillac. A great piece of the equipment for pregnancy is the Stability Chair, because it facilitates so many exercises in an upright position. Of course, drinking lots of water is always important, and be sure not to over-exert yourself. The beauty of this type of work is that it can be individualized for anyone's ability.
Is STOTT PILATES associated with Pilates Inc. of New York?
Moira Merrithew, the co-founder of our company, studied and certified under Romana Kryzanowska at the Pilates Studio in New York. She then went on to work with sports medicine professionals to further develop the technique to make it safer and more effective by incorporating modern biomechanical principles and spinal rehabilitation principles. STOTT has an affiliated STOTT PILATES CERTIFICATION CENTER in New York and also STOTT PILATES certified instructors in New York, but STOTT is not affiliated with Pilates Inc. in New York. The STOTT PILATES brand name stands for integrity in Pilates education and equipment - our slogan says it all: Intelligent Exercise. Profound Results.
The Pilates method has recently been the subject of a landmark decision in which United States District Court Judge Miriam Cedarbaum ruled that Pilates, like yoga and karate, is a type of exercise, not a trademark.
Where are you located?
STOTT PILATES STUDIO,
INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATION CENTER
& STOTT EQUIPMENT Headquarters
2200 Yonge Street (at Eglinton)
Suite 1402
Toronto, Ontario CANADA
M4S 2C6
STOTT is an international organization, with equipment & video distribution worldwide, and STOTT Licensees and Instructors around the world.
How can I contact you?
Please visit our web site at www.stottpilates.com
Who is eligible for a professional discount on equipment?
Professional dancers, fitness instructors, personal trainers and health professionals (such as physical therapists, chiropractors and massage therapists), are eligible for a 15% discount on STOTT EQUIPMENT. Discounts on videos are available on bulk purchases of 30 videos or more.
How can I find the Pilates studio nearest me?
Go to www.stottpilates.com and click on instructor finder database of STOTT-certified instructors across North America.
Why are Pilates classes so expensive?
STOTT PILATES comprises more than 500 different mat and equipment-based exercise variations and our method is based on exercise science. Students not only learn how to train fit individuals but how to customize/modify programs for a broad range of people (from rehab patient to pro athlete).
Why is Pilates equipment so expensive?
As with everything in life, you get what you pay for. TV-promoted fitness equipment is rarely as good as the type of equipment you find in a fitness club. STOTT EQUIPMENT is commercial-quality studio equipment, designed and constructed for precision and to stand the test of time and multiple users.
If I cannot afford/find a Pilates instructor in my area, is there another alternative?
You can try our line of STOTT PILATES videos. The 30 video titles in the STOTT PILATES collection cover every "pilates-based" exercise. They will allow you to exercise in the comfort of your own home, or while on the road - the Fitness Circle* or Flex-Band allow you to add resistance to your workout and packs easily in a suitcase. Also, encourage your current club to start offering Pilates classes.
How many videos are there?
STOTT PILATES acclaimed series of videos the most comprehensive video library of its kind. Currently there are over 50 titles available. Watch for the launch of even more DVD titles in 2004.
What are the 50 video titles, the cost & the length?
STOTT PILATES VHS and DVD titles range from Essential Matwork* to Advanced Cadillac.
Is equipment required in any of the videos?
For some but not all of the titles, yes. Please see our video pages for details.
What type of return policy do you offer on videos?
All Fitness Circle resistance rings, Flex-Band exercisers, manuals, and clothing are subject to a 30-day return policy, exclusive of shipping charges. Videos and DVDs may be returned for a full refund, exclusive of shipping charges, provided they are returned in their original, unopened condition. Defective products will be replaced with the same item.
In STOTT PILATES videos, what is the difference from one level to the next?
The Essential level offers the most detail about the fundamental principles of the STOTT PILATES technique, plus important modifications/variations required to accommodate different physical needs and limitations, as well as modifications that will allow you to customize you workout to suit your needs.
In each successive level, more complex and more challenging exercises are introduced (with fewer modifications). This makes successive levels faster paced and more challenging.
How long will I have to do one workout video before I can move to the next level of difficulty?
This depends on several subjective factors: your own level of fitness, how quickly you grasp the concepts, how often you do the workout routine, and even how committed you are to continuing. As a general rule, when you can successfully complete the exercises at one level and feel that you are no longer being challenged, you are ready to move to the next level.
If I am in good physical condition, can I start with the Intermediate or Advanced levels?
If you are new to this particular kind of exercise or to exercise in general, we recommend that you start with the STOTT PILATES Essential Mat work video and work your way up. The Essential Mat work offers important information about the technique as well as modifications that will allow you to customize you workout to suit your needs.
If you are not new to mind-body type of exercises, feel your are in good physical condition or want a fast paced workout, but are new to Pilates, you may begin with one of the Power Workouts: the Power Matwork or Power Fitness Circle Workout videos.
With so many videos to choose from, which one(s) should I get?
The criteria that can be used to choose the video(s) should be based on your overall goals and ability: what areas do you want to work on, how committed will you be, and what physical condition you are in? Please review our videos page to make your selection.
How often should I do the video?
Ideally, you should do it at least 2 to 3 times per week, and up to 6 times a week. You should combine this exercise routine with a cardiovascular form of exercise done at least 3 times per week.
Will I get the same results from doing the workout with a video as I would from going to an Instructor/Studio?
STOTT PILATES workout videos are a great way to complement your gym workouts, and/or a great alternative if you can't get to a gym. Having monitored personal instruction is always great if the instructor is well trained.
How do I become a STOTT PILATES Instructor?
You can attend a Comprehensive or Intensive Certification course at the STOTT PILATES International Certification Center or at a licensed STOTT facility. Another option is to have your club/rehab facility host on-site STOTT Training and Certification programs. STOTT specializes in providing quality training, not crash courses; however, training is broken down into modules to make it more practical for people/organizations. This way, students are able to begin incorporating their knowledge of STOTT PILATES into their classes/practices right away.
What is the fastest way for me to become a Certified Instructor?
If you have the necessary pre-requisites (knowledge of functional anatomy, familiarity with the works of J.H Pilates & three years teaching experience) you may qualify for STOTT's Intensive programs: Mat Work (30hrs), Reformer (60 hrs) and Cadillac, Chair & Barrels (60 hrs). These courses are offered at the STOTT International Certification Center or on-site at your facility, and can be scheduled to suit the needs of an organization. If you do not meet the above-mentioned pre-requisites, you should enroll in the nine-month comprehensive program at the STOTT International Certification Center.
Do I have to go to your facility to train in STOTT PILATES?
No, you don't have to come to Toronto for training. We have a number of Licensed Training & Certification Centers throughout North America, England and South Africa.
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