About Victoria Pilates Inc.

Mission

Victoria Pilates Inc. endeavours to provide a beautiful, relaxed environment that respects all people, regardless of their fitness needs. We offer professional guidance and support toward achieving the level of fitness and strength that is appropriate for each individual. We believe in maximizing the enjoyment of life through the training of our bodies and our minds in the spirit of harmonious integration.

Client Testimonials

After years of physio appointments and recurring lower back problems I decided that I needed to try and find a better exercise program and break the cycle I was in. I felt I was in pretty good shape; I walked on average of 10 kilometers a week, occasionally rode my bike and ran around after two growing boys, but had accepted that in my mid 40’s back problems were normal.

I started a mat Pilates class at the local recreation center but re-injured my back. While at my physio she suggested I try Victoria Pilates and now over two years later I hate to miss a class

I started coming just once a week, but I found that wasn’t often enough to really get the most benefit from my program. So 18 months later, twice a week, I was really beginning to notice a difference in the stability of my lower back. I was making less and less physio appointments, plus I had noticed that I had developed muscles in my core area. After all my progress I was then rear ended while driving my car.

The accident occurred in January 2007. I had whiplash and soft tissue damage in my neck and shoulder area. Now 15 months later I am almost back to where I was before the accident. I still have some problems with my shoulders from the accident, but the last five months my lower back has been stable and my neck & shoulder area are improving monthly.

All the instructors at the studio have been instrumental in my recovery from the accident. Not only did they adjust my program to help with my recovery, including stretching to do at home, they offered emotional support and encouragement. Pilates is now a part of my lifestyle and I sure notice if I miss a class or two. I look forward to coming to class; I honestly don’t remember feeling that way about an exercise program before.

My first experience with Pilates was when I was five months pregnant with my first child. Pilates gave me strength in my pelvic floor, core, breathing practice, gentle stretching and overall physical conditioning. The instructors guided me and ensured all the exercises were safe.

I continued with my Pilates practice until a few weeks before the birth. I rejoined Pilates classes about 6 weeks post pregnancy and have continued my practice now 4 years later. Pre and post natal Pilates helped me strengthen my whole body, inside and out. I strongly recommend Pilates and truly believe it contributed to an amazing pregnancy experience.

Four years ago I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Two years ago I joined Victoria Pilates. The Pilates exercises have slowed the progression of my disease, it has strengthened my muscles, improved my posture and stability and has also taught me how to relax and how to breathe effectively. I am still intensively farming our small acreage and leading a normal, if slower paced, life thanks in no small measure to the professional and helpful staff at Victoria Pilates. They provide a personalized program geared to meet the needs of their clients and there is always trained staff on hand at a ratio of approximately one staff member for every three clients. I highly recommend Victoria Pilates for all individuals interested in leading a healthy lifestyle.

Questions & Answers

How do I get started?

Getting started with Pilates is easy! Whether you are interested in joining a class, starting your introductory private sessions, or are unsure of what is right for you. Call or e-mail us (see our Contact page) and we would be happy to discuss your goals with you and help you select the program that best suits your body.

If you are new to Pilates, you can start your private sessions at any time. We will work with you to book times that are convenient for you. After your private sessions, you can join an existing group class – you do not need to wait until the next session. You can join a group at any time, and the fee will be prorated for the classes that you attend.

What should I expect when I attend my 1^st private session?

Prior to attending your 1^st Pilates session, we ask that you fill out a health form and waiver. The forms can be picked up, e-mailed or faxed to you. These forms are then reviewed by your instructor prior to your 1^st meeting and discussed with you when you arrive.

What do I need to wear/bring to my Pilates class?

When attending any Pilates class, be sure to wear clothing that is comfortable and allows you to move easily. Men should wear exercise pants or shorts with a liner.  You may wish to bring a water bottle, and if you are attending a mat class, please bring your own mat if you have one. We do have mats at the studio to borrow if you forget to bring one.

Does Pilates help you lose weight?

Initially, practicing Pilates won’t burn the necessary amount of calories to promote weight loss. However, what Pilates will do is reshape and lengthen muscles to create a more streamlined, leaner appearance. People find that their clothes fit differently as Pilates tones such “trouble areas” as their mid section and hips. Pilates improves posture so people stand taller and therefore appear thinner. If you are looking to lose weight, a sound cardiovascular training program in addition to Pilates is a good bet” (Canadian Pilates Association).

How often should I do Pilates to be effective?

For optimum results, Pilates should be practiced 3 or 4 times a week. A minimum of 2 sessions a week is recommended. A combination of 2 Equipment and 1 Mat class per week are a compliment to a person’s ongoing lifestyle and would encompass all aspects of the Pilates regime.

I already do other sports and weight train. Should I still do Pilates?

Pilates is a great adjunct to many sports such as tennis, golf, rowing and running. Many professional athletes, from football players to skaters, use Pilates as a valuable cross training regimen to improve their skills and to prevent injury. Pilates has great benefit to weight trainers also. Conventional weight training tends to train larger msucles but can miss smaller stabilizing muscles. Over time this imbalance can lead to injury and tightness. Pilates makes sure that the entire body gets worked-out in a balanced fashion” (Canadian Pilates Association).

Why use springs for resistance?

The Reformers and other auxiliary equipment that Joseph Pilates developed work on a system of springs. The springs closely resemble the way the body’s muscles move in real life, developing tension while simultaneously lengthening. Use of the springs with exercise means no strain on the joint at the beginning of the range of motion and the benefit of a large amount of resistance at the end of the range of motion (Canadian Pilates Association).

How long does it take to see results from doing Pilates?

If you are practicing Pilates 3 times a week you should expect to see changes in roughly 4 to 6 weeks.

What happens if I miss a class?

We ask that you give us at least 24 hours advanced notice if you will be unable to attend a class. We will then find you a make-up class time within the current 8-week session. Missed private or group classes without advanced notice cannot be made up.

What if I have an injury?

If you are dealing with a chronic or ongoing condition you will need your doctor’s approval to start a Pilates program. Please contact the studio to book a short session to find out how Pilates can benefit your situation. Pilates is a form of movement exercise that can be modified for almost any body. At Victoria Pilates Inc., each client has their own personal program developed for their needs to ensure success.