What is...?
1. What is Pilates?
- A system of exercise that targets the deep muscles of the abdomen and spine and strengthens the abdominals while protecting your lower back.
- Lengthens muscles as they are strengthened, resulting in long, lean STRONG muscles without the bulk.
- Works on improving alignment without gravity so that muscle imbalances are corrected and posture is improved.
- Though it has recently become popular, a young German named Joseph Pilates created this system during WWI, focusing mainly on rehabilitation.
2. What is GYROTONIC®?
- GYROTONIC® is a unique and fully integrated movement system developed by Julio Horvath featuring three-dimensional movements that promote all vital functions of the human body.
- The system works in all possible planes of movement, no just linear planes, and helps to balance muscle groups with its rhythmical nature of contracting and releasing opposing muscle groups.
- Muscles are trained to work as support for the skeleton, even if they are not in use during a specific movement, and the continual work of these smaller deeper muscles will generate better posture.
3. What is the difference between Pilates and GYROTONIC®?
- Pilates is more "control" focused; GYROTONIC® works on "releasing" within a controlled range
- Pilates is more 2 dimensional; GYROTONIC® is more three dimensional.
- Pilates requires more fine tuned control; GYROTONIC® requires more control through a larger range of motion.
- Here are some real life examples: Pilates would strengthen the PURE rotation of the golf swing to protect the spinal column and lumbar spine and GYROTONIC® focuses on the larger range of motion necessary for a successful and powerful golf swing.
- Dancers can benefit from both Pilates for alignment and GYROTONIC® for increasing range of motion. Modern dancers would especially benefit from GYROTONIC®.
4. Are these systems like yoga? How are they different?
- Both Pilates and GYROTONIC® are mind-body systems of exercise like yoga that focus on coordinating movement with the breath to create a more focused workout.
- However, yoga is done on a mat without equipment and you are constantly supporting your own body weight. The equipment used for both Pilates and GYROTONIC® allows you to stretch, strengthen and increase range of motion in supported positions.
- Depending on which method of yoga you practice, yoga tends to focus more on meditation than we do here.
- At Pilates on Fifth, we believe that yoga, Pilates and GYROTONIC® are all very complementary. We encourage you to experience the benefits of all three and discover what combination of the three is best for your body.
5. What is the difference between mat Pilates and equipment Pilates?
- Mat Pilates consists of exercises done on the floor (on a mat!) and can be done with or without small equipment (stretch bands, resistance circles, etc.) to add support or increase a challenge. Mat Pilates tends to be more challenging to the abdominals as you are moving your own body weight without support. For clients with lower back issues, we do not suggest attending a mat class without first taking a few private lessons.
- Equipment Pilates consists of over 700 exercises using a Reformer, Cadillac, Chair and Barrels. The equipment provides the support necessary to strengthen the abdominals and low back without the risk of injury to the lumbar region.
- Equipment work also allows for more work on the arms, legs, shoulder and hip joints than does mat work. Again, all equipment work is supported, so you are never jeopardizing the safety of your lower back.
- Mat work is an excellent workout and an excellent builder of core strength. Many clients find that their performance in mat classes improves after practicing on equipment.
What to Expect
Newcomers
6. How should I start?
- What we recommend and what you can afford can be two different things. But you are doing the right thing by getting started! Any start is more beneficial to your body than no start at all.
- We recommend starting with private lessons so one of our instructors can develop a workout regime for you designed to meet your needs. We offer small packages of privates - only three - to help start you on your healthful journey.
- You may continue with privates or try to join a duet to help bring the cost down. Investing in at least 10 privates would give you enough knowledge of the equipment to join the Mind-Body Gymnasium which allows you to use the equipment on your own. For safety reasons, we reserve the right to require additional lessons before membership is allowed. Please let your instructor know that this is your goal before you begin.
- Supplementing your equipment sessions or your Mind-Body Gymnasium membership with mat classes is always recommended to receive the benefits of feedback from an instructor and core strengthening.
7. How often should I come?
- If you are just starting out, we recommend you come at least two times a week for the first month or two so that you and your body can learn the exercises. If you can only come once a week, you will still derive benefits; however, the "learning curve" will be a little longer as we may have to re-teach exercises from week to week.
- If you can only afford one equipment session a week, we strongly recommend that you supplement your session with one of our many mat classes in order to keep your body conditioned, or purchase a video to do at home.
- You can use the cardio equipment at any time during the life of your package for a small fee. Thus, we encourage you to add cardio to your package and come as often as you would like - even on the days you do not have a lesson scheduled - to keep your heart healthy.
8. Will I lose weight?
- Neither Pilates nor GYROTONIC® is intended to be a fast paced, cardiovascular activity. However, through our "in-house" experiments with heart rate monitors, we have determined that your heart rate will stay at a "low-impact" level throughout your workout.
- If weight loss is your goal, we strongly recommend taking advantage of the "Cardiolates™" options. Both your Pilates and GYROTONIC® sessions will increase lean muscle mass which is important for increasing your metabolism. The cardio will add the fat-burning component you need to shed the unwanted pounds, reveal the body you're sculpting underneath, and get the most out of your time here.
- We have 3 Cardiolates™ options:
- ½ hour private; ½ hour cardio
- ½ hour cardio before or after your 55 minute session OR anytime
- 1 hour Cardiolates™ long mat class
9. How long before I see results?
- Every body is different; therefore, every body responds differently to the workout. Some of our clients have noticed differences in their posture and the way they carry themselves in as few as three sessions. More significant changes take longer, however, we had a male client report he dropped two belt sizes in a month coming three times a week - and hadn't lost a pound!
- Please remember: you get out of your sessions what you put into them! Our clients who come - even as infrequently as once a week - and concentrate for the full hour and "give it their all," see more improvements than clients who come more regularly but don't make the effort when they are here.
10. Do I need to be in great shape to start?
- NO..the important thing is that you DO START! We have clients of all shapes and sizes and everyone derives benefits.
- We promise to help you meet your fitness goals safely and effectively and encourage you to give Pilates on Fifth a try.
11. I am older - can I still do Pilates or GYROTONIC®?
- Absolutely! Just keep moving safely! Both Pilates and GYROTONIC® safely increase range of motion which can be lost as you age.
- Our instructors are highly knowledgeable and very compassionate: whether your goal is to loosen up your shoulder joint so that you can reach to that top shelf, or to play with your grandchildren without lower back pain, we can help you safely achieve your goals.
12. I am pregnant - can I still do Pilates or GYROTONIC®?
- WITH DOCTOR'S PERMISSION! If you have been a client with us and become pregnant after starting, it is usually considered safe to continue what you have been doing. However, we do require you to check with your doctor as every pregnancy is different. We have had many pregnant clients who continue working out with us right up to delivery day, but you need to find out what is best for your body.
- It is not advised to start ANY new exercise system after becoming pregnant. Therefore, if you have just become pregnant and are thinking of starting Pilates or GYROTONIC®, we advise you to wait.
13. I have an injury - can I still come?
- Yes, with doctor's permission. Once your doctor has approved and/or you have been released from physical therapy, we will be happy to take you as a client.
- We will contact your doctor to make sure we understand your injury so that we can either avoid it completely OR choose exercises to help. Again, we do not diagnose; we use your doctor's advice to select exercises.
14. I am very fit and coordinated. Do I still need to take privates before joining a trio?
- Yes! Many of our clients are dancers or have done yoga in the past. For all new clients, we require a minimum of three private lessons before joining a group. This is done for your safety and for the benefit of the other group members. You will appreciate this rule when you are the "veteran" member of a group!
- If you are coming to us with prior Pilates or GYROTONIC® experience, we will waive this requirement if sufficient knowledge of the equipment and exercises is displayed. Again, for safety reasons, please honor this rule.
15. Can I cancel my gym membership?
- YES! We have all the accommodations of a gym (strength training, cardiovascular training, flexibility training, dressing rooms and showers) in a warm and friendly environment. We do not have free weights, but if enough of you express your interest, we could probably be persuaded to get some.
- Just think, you pay for personal training at a gym and pay the $80 or more a month to belong to the gym. Because everything is "a la carte" here, you end up saving money as you only pay for what you use. Adding cardio to your 10 pack of privates is only $35 and to your 20 pack only $50, so either way, you are paying less.
16. Do you have showers?
- Yes! Newly installed, beautiful white-tiled showers to help make you clean and beautiful after your workout.
17. How can I track my progress?
- We now have body composition testing and metabolic rate testing. Body composition tracking will show you how your percentage of body fat and lean body mass has improved since you began. Pilates and GYROTONIC® increase lean body mass and cardio burns fat.
- The indirect calorimeter measures oxygen consumed and carbon dioxide produced to determine what your body uses most for energy: carbohydrates, proteins or fats. The sophisticated computer software then provides you with an analysis and nutrition and exercise recommendations according to your individual results.
18. Are your instructors certified?
- ABSOLUTELY. Our Pilates instructors are certified in STOTT PILATES® and/or the Pilates Academy International. GYROTONIC® instructors are certified by GYROTONIC® headquarters. All instructors must pass a difficult exam testing knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics and postural assessment.
- We also require our instructors to demonstrate excellent teaching skills and motivational skills.
19. Can I bring a friend to my Introductory Lesson?
- Yes, as long as you understand that the lesson cannot be as customized to YOUR individualized needs as it would be if you were working one on one.
The most optimal format is for you and your friend to take the discounted introductory 3-pack of privates each, and then start your duets together.
The most optimal format is for you and your friend to take the discounted introductory 3-pack of privates each, and then start your duets together.
Sessions
20. Will I use all the equipment in my session?
- If you wish your lesson to include both Pilates and GYROTONIC®, you must let the front desk know when you book your appointment. As GYROTONIC® is newer to our studio, not all of our instructors are certified in both.
- For a Pilates session, your instructor will choose exercises that are right for you - which may or may not mean that all equipment is utilized. If you have an interest in using a certain piece of equipment just to "try it out," please let your instructor know. There are exercises for everyone on every piece of equipment.
21. How long are the sessions?
- 55 minutes. If you would like to workout with an instructor for longer, you must schedule additional time in 30 minute increments.
22. How does the Mind-Body Gymnasium work?
- After learning exercises on all Pilates and/or GYROTONIC® equipment to develop an exercise regime right for you, you can use the equipment on your own, just as you would in a gym!
- Use our cardio equipment to burn fat after your muscle toning, body sculpting Pilates or GYROTONIC® workout.
- No more need for a gym membership! We have all you need to develop the long, lean body you've always wanted SAFELY!
- One time use fees, monthly memberships, 10 packs, and 20 packs are available.
- Please make an appointment so that we can accommodate you. Also, if you learn exercises on ALL pieces of equipment, we can accommodate you, even in busy hours.
23. Do you offer certification?
- We offer certification through the Pilates Academy International. Many of our instructors are certifying instructors for the PAI, and we conduct both weekday and weekend courses throughout the year. Please visit the certification page of our website for dates and times.
- GYROTONIC® certification is conducted periodically throughout the year by master trainers Sebastian Plettenberg and Chantal Deeble. Again, please refer to the certification page of our website for dates and times of upcoming courses.
Scheduling
24. Will I always have the same instructor?
- We do our best to honor requests, but due to our many clients and our heavy scheduling load, we can not always do so.
- We recommend you grow comfortable working with 2 to 3 different instructors and we will do our best to schedule you with them every time.
- All of our instructors bring their own unique background and experiences to their teaching of Pilates and GYROTONIC®. Thus, we encourage you to reap the benefits of the various points of view.
25. I'm going to be away. Can I put my card on hold?
- Of course you may. Please let the front desk know the dates you will be away, and we will put your card on hold for that time.
Subway Stops
We are located on the 22nd floor of 501 5th Avenue at the SE corner of 5th Ave/42nd St across from the NY Public Library.
Pilates on Fifth is located on the 22nd floor of 501 5th Avenue at the SE corner of 5th Ave/42nd St across from the NY Public Library.
From Port Authority/Times Square:
- Walk East on 42nd Street to 5th Avenue OR
- 7 train from Times Square to 5 Ave/42nd St (Bryant Park)
- Standing on the SW corner of 5th/42nd (library on your right) we are diagonally to your right across the street.
From Grand Central Terminal:
- Exit the South side of Grand Central
- Walk West on 42nd Street to 5th Avenue
- Turn left onto 5th Avenue OR
- 7 train from Grand Central to 5 Ave/42nd St (Bryant Park)
From Bryant Park (7 train stop):
- If you exit at 6th Ave/42nd St walk east to 5th Ave
- If you exit at 5th Ave/42nd St, turn right out of the subway exit and you?ll be at the SW corner of 5th Ave/42nd St
Introductory Special:
3 Private Sessions for $245!*
*Limited to first-time purchase only
| Trainer |
Master Trainer | |
| Privates | $92 | $98 |
| 5 Pack | $440 | $460 |
| 10 Pack | $840 | $885 |
| 20 Pack | $1,615 | $1,720 |
| Duets | ||
| Single | $61 | $65 |
| 5 Pack | $285 | $307 |
| 10 Pack | $550 | $592 |
| 20 Pack | $1,050 | $1,140 |
| Trios | ||
| Single | $50 | $52 |
| 5 Pack | $248 | $253 |
| 10 Pack | $447 | $468 |
| 20 Pack | $796 | $860 |
| Group Equipment Classes | ||
| Single | $40 | |
| 5 Pack | $175 | |
| 10 Pack | $300 | |
| 20 Pack | $560 | |
| Cardio | ||
| Single | $6 | |
| Per Month | $30 | |
| With 10 Pack Purchase** | $40 | |
| With 20 Pack Purchase** *Cardio good for duration of Package |
$60 | |
Introductory Special:
5 Mat Classes for $85!*
*Limited to first-time purchase only
| Mat | Equipment | |
| Single | $22 | $40 |
| 5 Pack | $104 | $175 |
| 10 Pack | $199 | $300 |
| 20 Pack | $345 | $560 |
| Unlimited Cardio & Mat Classes $245 | ||
| Unlimited Equipment & Mat Classes $275 | ||
Monthly membership: $245 (includes unlimited solo workouts, cardio and mat classes)
| Single Peak | $45 |
| Singe Off-Peak | $27 |
| 10 Session Peak | $410 |
| 10 Session Peak Off-Peak | $245 |
| 20 Session Peak | $710 |
| 20 Session Peak Off-Peak | $430 |
| Add Cardio to your packages!!! |
|
| Single | $6 |
| Per Month | $30 |
| With 10 Pack Purchase** | $40 |
| With 20 Pack Purchase** | $60 |
| *Cardio good for duration of Package | |
| Single Class | $27.50 |
| 5 Classes | $125 |
| 10 sessions | $225 |
| And remember, adding Cardio to your package is only $30/month!! Power Privates (solo workouts) Enjoy the following pricing options. Off-peak hours* only for equipment and cardio usage. Mat classes may be taken at any time. $245 for non-dancers and $220.50 for dancers (includes unlimited solo workouts, cardio and mat classes) Solo Workouts:
| |
Studio Hours
We do take instructor requests although we cannot guarantee you will be with the same instructor each time. To ensure that you get the same high quality work out each time, our instructors keep detailed records of each client in the client's file.
