FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

QUESTIONS ABOUT PILATES

What are the benefits of pilates? 

Pilates is for everybody! Benefits of Pilates principles vary for each person. Here's what some of our clients experience:

  • Motivation to move and be active.

  • Improved posture, health and overall fitness.

  • Reach specific physical goals and challenge athletic ability

  • Safe exercise after rehab from an injury, surgery or illness.

  • Return your body to its potential of strength. 

  • Holistic exercise that challenges and builds mind and body awareness and connection.

  • Decrease stress or anxiety.

  • Reduced or resolved structural imbalances, aches, and pains.

  • Improved balance, coordination, and flexibility.

  • Feel confident, stronger, stretched, lengthened, and toned.

  • Exercising with friends or family regardless of age or fitness level.

  • Live a happier, more-fulfilling life.

It is never too late to start any form of exercise. Remember the investment you create now reaps numerous rewards in your future. 

Are there different types of Pilates?

Yes, there are two primary types of Pilates - classical and contemporary. Each is very effective when done properly. Classical Pilates is considered the 34 original movements that Pilates invented. Pilates was genius, but he was also quite structured, Even though his goal was to bring his movements to the masses, he originally named his practice “Contrology” and provided very few modifications to his movements.

That’s where contemporary Pilates comes in. It was in the 1960’s (after Pilates’ death) and into the 1980’s that the evolution of contemporary Pilates caused the practice to soar in popularity by weaving in modifications and modern science to make the practice accessible to more people.

How long will it take me to see results? 

To quote Joseph Pilates, the founder of Contrology (what we now call Pilates):

“In 10 sessions you will feel the difference,

in 20 you will see the difference,

and in 30 you'll have a whole new body.” 

After your very first class you may notice subtle shifts—feeling taller, more lengthened, calmer, and more connected to your body. With consistent practice, the results multiply: less stress, better sleep, improved posture, elevated mood, and a steady boost in confidence.

Pilates is not a quick fix or fad. Unlike fast-track options such as crash diets or weight loss shots, Pilates plants the seeds of strength and alignment for a lifetime. Each class is an investment in your future self—one that builds sustainable energy, resilience, and well-being that lasts.

For best results: Pair your Pilates practice with quality sleep, hydration, and nourishing food. These simple lifestyle choices help your body recover faster and unlock the full benefits of your commitment to health.

Why is pilates so expensive?

Pilates is similar to a personal training session at a gym. Your investment at Maine Pilates means you are receiving personalized feedback and modifications to best fit your body and health goals. We keep our class sizes small to maximize instructor advice and support. 

Your financial commitment covers our instructors to annually attend workshops and trainings to incorporate the latest health recommendations and evidence based research in your classes. Instructors plan each class to challenge you mentally and physically while counteracting unhealthy daily habits created from our work and personal lifestyles. Lesson planning can be from 1 - 2 hours to prepare for one class. 

There are numerous recorded resources available on YouTube or subscription services which are a great supplement to what you learn in class in front of an instructor. We hope that you apply the benefits of in person pilates learning to any movement you do from yoga to gym exercise to driving in your car. 

I’m pregnant. Is Pilates safe for me?

Yes! Please be sure to let your teacher know before beginning your practice. Ask us about our Prenatal + Postpartum class!

QUESTIONS ABOUT MAINE PILATES

How often should I take Reformer and Mat classes?

It depends on what you want to achieve—but here’s how to make Pilates work for you:

  • Maintain your current strength and mobility?
    Commit to 1 Reformer class and 1 Mat + Yin class each week. This is the baseline that keeps your core strong, joints mobile, and stress levels balanced.

  • Alleviate lower back pain or mobility issues?
    Start with 1–2 Strength in Aging classes per week. These classes are gentle yet powerful for rebuilding strength and confidence in safe movement.

  • Transform your health - mind, body, and soul?
    Commit to a 3–5 class weekly practice. The most impactful mix is 2–3 Reformer, 1–3 Mat or Barre classes, and 1 Restorative, Yin or Meditation class. This is where lasting results happen.

 Think of it this way:
1 class/week keeps you moving.
2 classes/week builds strength.
3+ classes/week transforms your body, mind, and life.

I'm new to Pilates, which class should I sign up for?

  • If you enjoy Yoga, Running, or Barre - start with our mat classes. 

  • If you enjoy Yoga, Running, or Barre - start with our Mat classes.

  • If you like CrossFit, rowing, swimming, or training in the gym - start with Intro to Reformer classes. 

  • If you are easing back into exercise and movement - begin with our Intro to Pilates Package.

  • If you have special considerations, injuries, limited mobility - try a Private Lesson Membership for one-on-one strength building.

  • If you do a bit of everything - try Mat and Reformer! 

Try our introduction package to the studio which includes (3) Intro to Reformer and (3) Mat/Yoga classes for $120.

Do I need to be flexible/fit to start Pilates?

Not at all. Pilates is for every body. Many clients start with limited mobility, injuries, or no fitness background. Each class can be modified to meet you where you are while safely building strength, flexibility, and confidence.

How can I prepare for class? 

To provide you with the safest and most effective experience, we require each new client to complete an online Health and History Waiver. Always update your instructor about any new or changing injuries. Come with an open mind. You will hear new terminology and learn new ways to perform classic exercises. Everyone has questions! Don't be afraid to ask. This is your opportunity to learn and apply into practice. Most importantly listen to your body. If you are feeling fatigued, take a break, listen, and resume when you are ready. This is a supportive and kind environment whether you are an experienced pilates practitioner or if it is your first class. Everybody is welcome and cherished. 

What should I wear & bring to class?

We are a shoeless studio. Our hardware floors require bare feet or grippy socks. Shoe storage is provided at the top of the stairs before you enter the studio. A cubby for your belongings is inside the studio. 

All equipment is provided. We have towels, mats, circles, bosu balls, knee pads, yoga straps, blocks, and more! Filtered water is provided if you would like to bring your own bottle. 

Bring your finest after-class outfit! Shower and toiletries provided so you can freshen up before your next activity. 

What can I expect in your classes? 

A pilates class is a structured and balanced workout that targets various muscle groups with low impact on joints and bones. Each class is designed to challenge your core, improve your balance, flexibility, and coordination resulting in increased strength. We encourage healthy form and alignment for your body through each exercise and movement. Instructors will cue auditory with light visual demonstration to be available for modifications and support. Touch assistance is provided with your permission.

I have taken Reformer classes before … why do I need to take Intro to Reformer?

To ensure your safety and progress, teacher approval is required before joining Reformer or Healthy Living classes. This approval is based on your ability to perform exercises in the Intro to Reformer class with good form, fairly easily, and without a lot of explanation. Typically, 4 to 10 Intro classes are required to learn and apply the foundational movements necessary for Reformer classes. Reformer classes offer a quicker pace ensuring a challenging and effective workout for individuals who have mastered the foundational movements of Intro to Reformer classes.

Wondering what class to join? Feel free to reach out to us before booking! We would be happy to direct you to a class that’s a good match for your skill level and goals.

What is your cancellation policy?

Please see our Studio Policies page.

Please Reach out if you have any questions that are unanswered.  

We look forward to meeting you and supporting your health goals!