The workout
A typical session at Geometry is 50-55 minutes combining equipment and mat work. Each student’s workout is customized to meet his or her individual needs and goals. Because of the personal focus, clients start at their own level and progress from that point. Our instructors are trained to develop a system of exercises tailored specifically for each client based on age, fitness goals, and the presence of any prior injuries. Early sessions focus on identifying imbalances and strengthening weak muscle groups.  As students progress our programs correct misalignment, and re-educate the body with better movement patterns. In order to really see and feel results, clients are encouraged to come to two to three sessions per week.

The talented staff at Geometry Pilates teach the pure, classical Pilates method of body conditioning. We are dedicated to the original teachings of Joseph Pilates, and all of our instructors have completed an extensive 600+hour training program in the classical Pilates method. The Instructor Training Program involves many hours of hands-on apprenticeship as well as written tests to demonstrate knowledge.

About Pilates: What it can do for you
Not only do Pilates exercises eliminate the need for tedious repetitions typical of so many other exercise routines, but they are inherently more effective because they work several muscle groups at the same time. The movements stretch one muscle group while strengthening another, and require a great deal of abdominal control. The result is a toned body, but without the unnecessary bulk or muscle damage created by strength training programs. Pilates is intelligent exercise that gives a better result for the effort and time invested.

At the Core of the Pilates Method: The Powerhouse
The core, or in Pilates terminology, the powerhouse, is comprised of the upper and lower abdominal muscles, the lower back and the buttocks. Conventional forms of exercise and athletic activities develop strength in the arms and legs, but largely ignore this area because these muscles are difficult to isolate and strengthen. This is the same set of muscles that support good posture and, if not used properly, will deteriorate with time. Pilates exercises are designed to stabilize the torso and work the muscles of the abdominals deeper, and more intensely. All movements are initiated from the powerhouse, which strengthens and support the body.  These muscles typically get overlooked in conventional weight bearing or aerobic exercise. By stabilizing the powerhouse, the arms and legs can move freely from a stable spine, increasing flexibility and strength at the same time.

History/ Why it works
Pilates is not a new phenomenon. Joseph Hubertus Pilates is the creator of The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning, first known as the “Art of Contrology”. He was born in Germany in 1880. He was a frail and sickly child, but through the intense study of boxing, gymnastics, yoga, and bodybuilding.  He was posing for anatomical charts by the age of 14.

At the outbreak of World War I, he was a performer and boxer in England. He was placed in a work camp along with other German nationals, where he taught and experimented his self study of mat work and other disciplines. He started implementing bedsprings attached to hospital beds to aid in patient’s rehabilitation and recovery process. He realized through movement the patient healed more quickly in their recovery.

After World War I he moved to America. On this trip to America, he met his wife, Clara. They opened up the Pilates Studio in New York City in 1926. Joseph Pilates died at the age of 87 years old, due to a case of pneumonia from smoke inhalation.

“Contrology develops the body uniformily, corrects wrong postures, restores physical vitality, invigorates the mind, and elevates the spirit.” -- Joseph Pilates

Why It Works
There are 6 major principles that help achieve a long sleek and pain free body.
Concentration - That all-important mind-body connection. Conscious control of movement enhances body awareness.
Control/Precision - It's not about intensity or multiple "reps," it's more about proper form for safe, effective results.
Centering -. A particular focus on the torso (abs, pelvic girdle, lower back, gluts) develops a strong core and enables the rest of the body to function efficiently. All action initiates from the trunk and flows outwards to the extremities.
Breath - Deep, coordinated, conscious diaphragmatic patterns of inhales and exhales initiate movement, help activate deep muscles and keep you focused.
Flow - Smooth, continuous motion rather than jarring repetitions.
Alignment - Proper alignment is key to good posture. You'll be aware of the position of your head and neck on the spine and pelvis, right down through the legs and toes.