How many times a week should I attend Pilates?
“In 10 sessions, you will feel the difference.
In 20, you will see the difference.
And in 30, you’ll be on your way to having a whole new body.”
That is a famous Joseph Hubertus Pilates quote that I feel is quite fitting for a question that I get asked a lot by potential or new clients: "How many times should I attend Pilates classes a week?"
I’ve read that back in Joe’s day, he wanted you to practice Pilates at least three times a week.
Three times a week sounds achievable until you remember that Sally’s soccer game on Tuesday night, that you have an early morning meeting on Wednesday and that you’ll be leaving early this weekend for a quick trip in the Black Hills.
Adulting can be hard, ya’ll. I get it.
So, I’ll be very practical in my answer to you: How often you come to class is simply up to you. In fact, I’d encourage you to consider what your commitments and priorities are.
I bet you’re thinking: “That’s not a very good sales pitch!” And, you’re right. It’s not; but, this is: I will tell you that good instruction is worth the time it takes to come to class; it's also worth the money it costs. An environment that is supportive, makes you feel welcomed, and helps you connect your mind to your body is also worth paying for. I totally understand that money doesn’t grow on trees (and, hell, if it did the Wyoming wind would likely blow all that tree money away). I also understand that time is not infinite.
Wait, there's more! Here are a few suggestions to help you decide how often you should attend a Pilates class based on the goals you have for yourself:
One Pilates session a week consistently is a great way to help educate yourself on your body, as well as help you recover from an injury. It can help with some stress management (or relief) and you can slowly start to see some help with flexibility and strength. It’s also a great way to give some much needed maintenance for your body. However, I’d also strongly encourage you to participate in other ways to move your body as well: walking, biking, running, swimming, weight lifting, yoga, stretching, dancing to music while cleaning, gardening, playing with your children outside, hiking, kayaking, etc.
Two Pilates sessions a week consistently helps you see faster improvements in balance, flexibility, joint and muscle mobility, pain reduction, stability and strength. It can help you improve more from injury or other movement restrictions you are dealing with. I also feel that the stress relief benefits improve drastically.
Three Pilates sessions per week consistently and you are seeing changes with posture, how clothes fit, and how you perform daily tasks and activities. You’ll notice significant improvements in endurance, flexibility, mobility and strength. And, you’ll see improved concentration on tasks as well as a greater reduction in anxiety and stress.
Please note that the word consistently is key here. Like everything else in life, you will see results if you are consistent.
Depending on the week, and what I’m choosing to focus on, I may suggest homework to clients during sessions. This could be a few moves from the mat to help you with other moves that are done on equipment. Or, it could be some stretches. But, if I don’t assign homework, ask me for some. Let me know if a move is more challenging than the other, and I can help you find ways to improve. And, this will help you do more if you are planning to come to class once a week.
Some months could be less busy than others. So, if you know that, consider taking a few extra classes during the months you know you have more time.
And, don’t be afraid to check out what’s on YouTube, or another class in town, or even buy a book with the classical mat Pilates order. I can even suggest a few YouTube Channels and books for you to try out; please ask me!
As a teacher, I have been told many times to commit to my own Pilates practice every day; even if it’s for 10 minutes. And, yes, I do believe that Pilates can be a daily activity that I can commit to (especially if it’s a 10 minute session on days that I’m busy). But, I understand real life. So, again, how often you should do Pilates is completely up to you.
Interested in attending a session? I have openings. Book now.
Want to learn more?
I'd love to hear from you! You are always welcome to text/call me at 307.363.0124 or email fjpilates@gmail.com to learn more about taking a Pilates class with me. I look forward to seeing you on the mat!
Pilates sessions are designed for all fitness levels at Felicia Jane Pilates and take place at 320 S. Gillette Avenue, Space 2B, in Gillette, Wyoming.
