I am new to your studio, what should I know prior to my first visit?

Welcome! We are happy that your path has led you to our wonderful studio!

9th & 9th Pilates is not a "drop-in" studio due to limited equipment and group sizes. Please pre-register to reserve your spot prior to arrival using our online system or by giving us a call.

We offer some parking behind the studio (off Windsor Street), please do not use the 3 parking spots behind the retail boutique next door during regular business hours. Street parking is rarely a problem. Upon entering the studio through the front or back doors, please leave your shoes on the mats provided. You will need to fill out a new student form, and print your name on the class sign-in sheet. There is ample storage (cubbies in Pilates room, shelving at the back of the Green Room) and coat hooks, and we have 2 restrooms. Please do not walk on the carpet with your shoes, and make sure you sign-in to avoid a "no-show" charge. Turn off your cell phones to help us maintain a distraction-free environment.  Read more about our Cancellation Policy under 'Classes & Pricing'.

I am completely new to pilates. What should I know about my first class, and how should I prepare?

There are many different styles of pilates, but to familiarize yourself with the STOTT Pilates method specifically, you should attend the Orientation to Reformerclass held every Tuesday at 7:15pm. Wear loose-fitting clothing, anything that allows you to move freely is ideal. You will take the class barefoot or with sticky socks (available for purchase at the studio). Please try to maintain a sense of quiet inside the studio, if you would like to catch up with friends, please do so in the lobby.  Out of courtesy to your fellow students and instructor, please plan to arrive for class on time.

I have an injury/chronic condition/am pregnant. Is Pilates right for me?

That depends. We are happy to discuss your class options with you on a case by case basis but please consult your physician before starting any new exercise program.

What is the STOTT PILATES® Method?

STOTT PILATES is a contemporary approach to the original exercise method pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates. Co-founders Moira
and Lindsay G. Merrithew, along with a team of physical therapists,  sports medicine and fitness professionals, have spent over two decades refining the STOTT PILATES method of exercise and equipment. This resulted in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and spinal rehabilitation, making it one of the safest and effective methods available. This clear and detailed approach forms the basis for STOTT PILATES training and certification programs. It's used by rehab and prenatal clients, athletes, celebrities and everyone in between.

What is the difference between the STOTT PILATES Method and other Pilates techniques?

STOTT PILATES incorporates modern exercise principles, including contemporary thinking about spinal rehabilitation and athletic performance enhancement. For example, some approaches may promote a flat back, whereas STOTT PILATES exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and re balance the muscles around the joints, placing more emphasis on scapular stabilization. As well, there are more preparatory exercises and modifications to cater to many different body types and abilities, making it applicable to everyday life.

What are the benefits of STOTT PILATES?

• longer, leaner muscles (less bulk, more freedom of movement)
• improves postural problems
• increases core strength, stability and peripheral mobility
• helps prevent injury
• enhances functional fitness, ease of movement
• balances strength & flexibility
• heightens body awareness
• no-impact, easy on the joints
• can be customized to suit everyone from rehab patients to elite athletes
• complements other methods of exercise
• improves performance in sports (golf, skiing, skating etc.)
• improves balance, coordination & circulation

What are the principles behind the STOTT PILATES Method?

STOTT PILATES exercise improves core strength and balances the muscles around the joints,
improving the way your body functions, looks and feels. The Five Basic Principles focus on:

Breathing

Pelvic placement

Rib cage placement

Scapular movement

Head & cervical spine placement

Is STOTT PILATES exercise like Yoga?

In some respects Pilates is like Yoga. Both are considered mind-body type methods of movement; both emphasize deep breathing and
smooth, long movements that encourage the mind-body connection. The difference is that while some styles of yoga require moving from one static posture to the next, Pilates flows through a series of movements that are more dynamic, systematic and anatomically-based incorporating resistance equipment. The goal with STOTT PILATES exercise is to strengthen the postural muscles while achieving optimal functional fitness.

Will I grow by doing STOTT PILATES?

Much of Pilates exercise 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. By strengthening the postural muscles people have learned to maintain good posture thereby appearing taller.

What kind of results can I expect from doing STOTT PILATES?

You can expect an increase in strength, flexibility, mobility, balance, and body awareness, as well as a decrease in back pain or 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 other factors 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. It is also important to work with a well trained Certified Instructor.

If I'm doing Pilates, should I still do my regular workout?

STOTT PILATES exercise is a musculo-skeletal conditioning program. It's ideal in combination with some kind of cardiovascular exercise (walking, running, aerobics, aqua fitness etc.), and a great complement to your weight training program.

How can STOTT PILATES be different 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 exercise is customizable for special needs.  In Pilates exercise, emphasis is placed on re balancing 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 exercise leads to an improvement in posture and body awareness.  Weight training and STOTT PILATES can be combined in your fitness program and are a great compliment to each other.