Yoga is an ancient discipline that was brought about by holy men in India, they used to meditate for hours to try and find higher power, coming out of meditation then look how animals stretched. Joseph Pilates was in a refugee camp in England after WW1 and was looking for ways to stay Fit. He started using his bed and its springs creating a system of movement (the creation of the Reformer!) Based on yoga, weight training and moving your body with control . Yoga being 1000s year old as Pilates is over 90 years old .

In the gym you lift weights and contract muscles, in pilates you lengthen the muscle by stretching it therefore we use resistance through length rather than through shortening the muscle. Its the definition of strength through length, getting that long lean look. In other words say your lifting weights pilates will help you gain more mobility and range. Pilates will help you whatever kind of sport you do increasing your functional movement. I think pilates as strength with the stretch. Not forgetting your mind to body connection and adding a touch of physio . Mr Joseph Pilates was a genius !!

No. Flexibility is a result not a prerequisite!

I recommend 2-3 times a week to see results, however ,once a week is better than nothing.

Comfortable clothes you can move in; something you would wear to a yoga class; gym clothes that don't slip, fall, lift, or flash. no sports shoes, either bare feet or socks . "Sticky socks" which have non-slip on the soles are great !

Well I'm not like "My body is my Temple" I love healthy food and I also love chocolate and wine ! I'm only human. I think everything in moderation especially at the weekends, after all I'm over 50 and well just trying to stay Fit !

So remember everything in moderation, have a healthy lifestyle and diet. Have a cheat day don't be too hard on yourself ! Mix up your fitness programs adding Pilates of course its for all ages and disciplines! Pilates will help you maximize your performance in other activities by improving body awareness and form.