Pilates is for just women

Myth. Pilates focuses on development of strength in the abdominal and back muscles and efficient movement of the body – benefits of which both men and women can enjoy. The popularity of Pilates with women may be due to the fact that Pilates can be adapted to suit people with a range of strength and fitness levels.

Pilates is easy

While Pilates can be adapted initially to suit beginners and develop the core muscles, Pilates can then be adapted progressively to suit a many levels of difficulty. The misconception that Pilates is easy may be due to exercises being completed slowly and with precision, which in actual fact is more difficult than fast repetitive movements.

Pilates derives from yoga

Myth. Joseph Pilates developed the Pilates method by studying all disciplines of body development, including yoga. Pilates and yoga complement each other, which would not be possible if Pilates is merely a derivative of yoga.

Pilates eliminates a fat stomach

While Pilates develops the superficial and core abdominal muscles, spot fat reduction is a myth. The proven method of reducing fat is to participate in an exercise program, with particular emphasis on aerobic exercise.