Pilates for All Levels in Westwood at Sheppard Method Pilates

Pilates is a movement practice that benefits people of all ages and body types, as it emphasizes holistic health and wellness through core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. Whether you are experienced, totally new to Pilates, or even returning to the practice after some time, distinguishing between beginner and advanced Pilates is crucial for maximizing your results and providing a fulfilling experience.

At Sheppard Method Pilates in Westwood, we encourage you to find the right path in your Pilates journey when choosing the best Pilates class for you.

Want to learn more about our Sheppard Method Pilates? Contact Sheppard Method Pilates in Westwood to get started!

What is Beginner Pilates?

Beginner Pilates serves as the entry point for those new to the practice. Beginner Pilates in Westwood focuses on introducing fundamental concepts and exercises to build a strong foundation for a lasting practice. In beginner Pilates, the primary goals include:

  • Mastering the basics: Introducing essential Pilates movements is critical for developing strength (especially in the core) and flexibility, while also developing proper form. Learning proper body alignment to understand the mechanics of your body is necessary before progressing to more challenging exercises.
  • Introduction to equipment: While some beginner classes may incorporate Pilates equipment like the reformer, the focus remains on simpler exercises and settings and getting you used to arriving on the mat. Some equipment such as the Pilates ball or a yoga block can also help to provide modification options for a beginner.
  • Understanding breathing techniques: Breath control is a fundamental aspect of Pilates. As a beginner, you’ll learn how to coordinate your breathing with movement which enhances performance and promotes relaxation. Learning to breathe deeply and effectively can also improve oxygen flow, benefiting overall physical and mental well-being.
  • Building bodily awareness: Body awareness will help you recognize muscle engagement, maintain proper form, and learn how to activate core muscles effectively. This awareness not only enhances practice but also translates into better posture and movement in everyday life.

What is Advanced Pilates?

Once you’ve established a solid foundation, you may feel ready to progress to advanced Pilates classes. With Pilates, many levels of progression in beginner classes can help you work through intermediate levels before trying advanced Pilates classes in Westwood. At that point, you should have a solid grasp of Pilates fundamentals (core strength, proper movements, breathing techniques, body awareness) and the ability to maintain form even as you challenge yourself.

Advanced Pilates builds upon the skills and principles learned in beginner sessions, introducing more complex movements and variations that challenge strength and flexibility. When you are ready to progress into intermediate and advanced Pilates, you’ll find:

  • Increased complexity and challenge in your practice
  • Enhanced core engagement, especially in the deep core muscles
  • Utilization of more equipment such as the Reformer
  • Advanced classes such as Cadillac Pilates or hybrid classes
  • Deeper mind-body connection on and off the mat

Choosing the Right Class at Sheppard Method Pilates in Westwood

At Sheppard Method Pilates in Westwood, we emphasize personalized instruction tailored to your needs. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, our experienced instructors are committed to helping you navigate your Pilates journey, ensuring that you feel supported every step of the way. Join us at Sheppard Method Pilates in Westwood to find the class that suits you best. Embrace the journey and discover the transformative power of Pilates!

Call the Westwood Pilates instructors at Sheppard Method Pilates to sign up for Pilates classes today!